2. Whidbey Island
11196 WA-525, Clinton, WA 98236, map
Distance: 32.4 mi / 1 hr 22 min (map) – Includes Ferry Ride
Things You Can’t Miss: Deception Pass, Ebey’s Landing, Coupeville
Where to Eat: Seabolt’s Smokehouse, Ott & Hunter, Oystercatcher
Whidbey Island, the largest island in Puget Sound, has rugged coastlines, historic sites, and picturesque villages. Visit the famous Deception Pass State Park or Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, where pastoral landscapes meet the sea, or check out some lesser-known trails like Ala Spit, Earth Sanctuary, or Windjammer Park. You can also explore the charming town of Coupeville with its iconic wharf.
Everything We Did on Our Whidbey Island Day Trip
- Deception Pass State Park – North Beach has the best view of the bridge.
- Ala Spit County Park Trail – lesser known trail to avoid crowds at Deception Pass and Ebey’s Landing.
- The Farm Stand – sunflowers, pumpkin patches, ice cream, and more
- Oak Harbor Murals by Allgire Project
- Windjammer Park – hikes near the Oak Harbor waterfront
- Lunch at Seabolts Restaurant – we got fish and chips and clam chowder
- Coupeville Pier and town – look out for the hundreds of starfish under the pier.
- Ebey’s Landing Bluff Trail – if you have a national park passport, stop at the visitor center for a stamp.
- Fort Casey State Park – the best view of the forts over the water was from the lighthouse.
- Meerkerk Gardens – look for the puzzle monkey tree.
- Earth Sanctuary – combines ecology with art (pay online ahead of time).
- Ott & Hunter Wine Tasting in Langley – you can sit by the window for a nice view of the water.
- Explore downtown Langley
Local Tip: To avoid driving back and forth, start at the top of Whidbey Island (Deception Pass) and work your way down to Clinton Ferry Terminal.