Why should I visit Whidbey Island?
Whidbey Island is easy to visit on the way to or from the San Juan Islands. This means you can easily come or go from the Anacortes ferry landing with a scenic detour through the forests and beautiful views along Whidbey Island. Be sure to check out the high bluffs and swift waters of Deception Pass as well as the adjoining beach and park. The enchanting towns on Whidbey Island offer fun shopping, great food, and comfortable accommodations.
Where is Whidbey Island?
The bridge over majestic Deception Pass links Fidalgo Island to Whidbey, the Anacortes ferry landing is on Fidalgo Island. Driving south along the length of Whidbey you eventually reach the ferry at Clinton which links to Mukilteo on the mainland, south of Everett.
What sort of Services and Amenities does Whidbey Island offer?
Because Whidbey is closer to the mainland and has a bridge it offers more conventional services than islands that only have ferry service. You’ll be able to find fast food chain restaurants and large stores but the Island still has a lot of natural beauty and small town charm. Like other nearby islands Whidbey tourism has a focus on outdoor adventure, local art and products, and relaxation away from the busyness of the mainland.
What can I do or see on Whidbey Island?
Running north south Whidbey Island includes several different ecosystems and microclimates. You will find different trees and plants than on the other nearby Islands. The small towns also have distinct personalities, which makes them particularly fun to explore.
- Browse through the many shops and galleries in Oak Harbor.
- Tour the many working farms scattered across the Island, pick your own berries in the summer or get farm fresh meat and eggs all year long.
- Local companies offer great kayaking or whale watching trips into the San Juan Islands or along Whidbey.
- Be sure to check out what festivals or events might be happening during your visit. The local communities have live music, farmers markets and other events all summer and occasionally throughout the year.