Did you know that just a short drive north sits the 4th largest and longest island in the continental U.S.? Beyond its size, Whidbey Island is also a place full of beautiful, sprawling beaches, amazing hikes with breathtaking views, and local communities that have more charm then you could imagine. If you hop in the car by 9:00 AM you can have a full day exploring the island's many trails, beaches, and towns. Let us take you through a sample day away from Seattle exploring the wonderful island that is Whidbey!
First stop,
La Conner, WA
This quaint town isn't actually on Whidbey Island, but it's on the way and we promise you'll enjoy the stop over. Get here in the morning and have brunch at Anelia's Kitchen and Stage. They have amazing Polish pancakes and their Bloody Mary Bar is a nice icing on the brunch cake! We love a place that let's you customize!
The masterpiece we made at Anelia's Kitchen and Stage
Walk off that big breakfast with a stroll down First Street. There are so many wonderful antique stores, art galleries, and local gift and craft shops to visit you could spend an entire afternoon here. If you are limited on time we recommend checking out a few of these extra special places.
Handmade La Conner is a wonderful store with a variety of goodies including our absolute favorite lotions and soaps! If you need a gift for someone, odds are you'll find something for them here, and most likely a thing or two for yourself as well!
We are always a sucker for local bookstores and La Conner has a great little gem: Seaport Books. Go in for a variety of PNW authors and books along with some of the popular fiction and children's offerings.
La Conner also has a great brewery! Stop in and try their wheat beer (our favorite) for a refreshing drink after your shopping or have a beer at one of the many riverfront restaurants and watch the boats drive by!
Alright, now onto Whidbey!
Deception Pass State Park
Hop back in the car and head north, through Anacortes and onto Whidbey Island. Your first stop is going to be Deception Pass State Park where the famous Deception Pass Bridge awaits you!
There are several spots to explore in the park. Rosario Beach is a great place for easy hikes along the water or playing on the beach. There are some spots for BBQing, which also feature nice, clean restrooms. If you have a kayak or paddle board it's easy to launch from here for a nice paddle.
Goose Rock is a nice 4 mile (round trip) hike, including some waterfront trails and rewarding views at the end. Everyone should also hop out and hike around Deception Pass Bridge. You'll want to get some photos or at least take in the sprawling structure! The many trails around it make it easy to see from every angle.
Ebey Landing
Ebey Landing will make you feel like you're in the middle of nowhere, which is precisely why we love to go. Once you park in the small parking lot off Ebey Landing Road you have two choices, stroll the beach or head over to the trail along the bluff.
The Bluff Trail is a steady climb and is good for most skill levels. As you walk farther and farther away from what little civilization is behind you, you get expansive views of the Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.
After you've had your fair share of exploring the beautiful state parks on Whidbey, head to Coupeville for some grub.
Coupeville, WA
Situated on Penn Cove, Coupeville is known for their wonderful Penn Cove Mussells. We love Front St. Grill for their amazing menu and stunning view of Penn Cove. Get their signature coconut green curry mussels over linguine for an authentic Coupeville dish! Toby's Tavern and Mosquito Fleet Chili are also casual (and great) spots for delicious local fare.
Wineries of Whidbey
If you prefer sipping wine more than hiking, Spoiled Dog Winery and Comforts of Whidbey are both amazing spots to check out near Langley, WA. They both close at 5:00 PM though, so you might want to also plan on dinner in Langley if you opt for this version of the day. Don't worry, there are a lot of delicious places to get mussels there too!
Clinton - Mukilteo Ferry
Now that the sun is starting to dip lower in the sky it's time to head south to catch the Clinton to Mukilteo ferry back to the mainland. If you still have some daylight left when you arrive in Mukilteo, the beautiful Mukilteo Light Station and Lighthouse Park is to the right of the ferry terminal as you dock and is a nice place to watch the sunset.
It's a lot to cram in, but we promise it will be a day to remember, rain or shine. Happy exploring!
