Experience the Charm of Oak Harbor

New to Whidbey Island? There are a number of activities and outdoor experiences to keep you engaged during your stay.

by

Words by Steve Fennell 

With a population of approximately 24,000, Oak Harbor is the largest city on Whidbey Island and an excellent port to visit when navigating upper Puget Sound and through to the protected waters of Skagit Bay. This Washington State community is on the inside passage near the northern tip of Camano Island and provides a comfortable base for a few days to see the city and all of the local boating destinations.

There are several moorage options on Whidbey, but the City of Oak Harbor Marina is the only public game in town. Located between Seattle and the San Juan Islands, it has ample transient moorage with access to WiFi, shower and laundry facilities, and even convenient picnic tables along the guest slips. Ethanol-free unleaded gas and diesel at the fuel dock are extra convenient. 

You’ll also appreciate the complimentary usage of EZ Up shelters, fire pits, barbecues, bocce ball courts/equipment and loaner bikes, making it easier access to retailers, and restaurants downtown, which is approximately 1 km  (about .5 mi) away. 

Reservations are highly recommended as there are very few ‘drop-in’ slips available during peak cruising season. You can book a slip online by visiting www.dockwa.com and it’s requested that the first night of guest moorage be paid in advance (it’s also non-refundable).  

An alternative to the City of Oak Harbor Marina is the neighbouring Oak Harbor Yacht Club, which offers reciprocal moorage for members of approved clubs on its outer floats. If your boat needs some unexpected TLC (which sometimes happens during a trip), Mariner’s Haven boatyard is also in the harbour, which can complete all kinds of hull and engine repairs. 

The City of Oak Harbor

If it’s your first visit here, the Greater Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, located at 32630 State RT 20, is about a five-minute drive (or an easy 12-minute bike ride) from the marina where you can learn about Oak Harbor attractions, restaurants, accommodations and tour services. For more details on the variety of daily and weekly events visit the chamber’s website at www.oakharborchamber.com . It also has a comprehensive business directory. 

If you prefer self-guided tours, perhaps start at Historic Downtown Oak Harbor, which can be accessed via a bike, the Rock Taxi Cab, or the free bus service throughout Whidbey Island. For more information and routes go to www.islandtransit.org for more information and routes. 

When hunger strikes, try any one of the restaurants along Pioneer Way. Local favourites include Frasers Gourmet Hideaway on SE Dock St., which is known for its chops and seafood or try some southern BBQ at Orlando's on SE Bayshore Drive. More casual fare can be enjoyed at the Oak Harbor Cafe and Lounge on SE Pioneer Way or have a fresh bowl of clam chowder at Seabolt’s on Route 20.

After a great meal, check out Pioneer Way’s local clothiers, artisan stores, art galleries, and antique shops. Strolls along the nearby scenic waterfront are also popular. ON clear days, you can see the Cascade and the Olympic Mountains. Other parks worth visiting include:

  • Flintstone Park and City Beach

Close to downtown and the Oak Harbor Marina, this is where you can walk along its boardwalk and beach or admire a famous Puget Sound sunset early in the evening.

  • Joseph Whidbey State Park

A local favourite that’s about 12 to 15 minutes from the marina, Joseph Whidbey State Park faces the Strait of Juan De Fuca on the west side of the island. Hiking trails, a beach, and covered picnic areas with grills are a few of the appealing features. 

  • Windjammer Park

Within walking distance of the marina and close to SE Pioneer Way, Windjammer is children-friendly with a splash park, playground and basketball courts, while everyone can enjoy the walking trails, picnic areas, beach and swimming lagoon. Time your visit from May to September and to savour the local flavours at the Whidbey Island Farmers Market held every Sunday.  

Of course, the city hosts many events throughout the summer. For instance, there’s the Holland Happening Parade and Heritage Festival (April 29-30), Independence Day Celebration and Parade (July 1 - 4); Oak Harbor Music Festival (September 1-3); and Hydros for Heroes (September 9-10).

Explore More on the Waterways

Deception Pass State Park is one of the popular natural attractions in the region for recreational boaters and borders two islands, Whidbey and Fidalgo, with the Deception Pass Bridge connecting the two. 

It’s considered Washington State’s most popular park. The Seattle Times recently reported that it was ranked as the fifth most beautiful state park in the U.S. by the digital travel publication Travel Lens. 

This comes as no surprise given the marine and camping park is 1,673 ha (4,134 ac), has 23,469 m (77,000 ft) of saltwater shoreline, and a combined 10,332 m (33,900 ft) of freshwater shoreline across three lakes. Towering rock cliffs, old-growth forests and wildlife are just a few of the highlights.

Naturally, it’s a haven for boaters. You know when you’ve arrived by boat when you cruise under the iconic Deception Pass Bridge. Its campground and ample moorage space mean you can either stay in the area on land or in the comfort of your vessel’s cabin.  If you prefer the latter, you can tie off at one of the three 9 m (30 ft) floating docks. Daily and/or annual permits are available and for more information call (360) 902-8844. There are also five boat launches and permits to use are required as well. 

The area is also a haven for kayaking with its many routes, including the scenic passage between Burrows Island and Deception Pass. For the best experience, join a tour from a local outfitter. Fishing is another common pastime and always be cautious for anglers jigging and casting under the bridge when underway. If you want a break from the helm, you can explore more of the park on land with its numerous hiking trails. Mountain biking, birding, and spending downtime on its beaches are all enjoyable, too. 

Oak Harbor is just one of the destinations on Whidbey Island but it’s a special place where you can always cruise its meandering protected passages, enjoy insightful attractions and be welcomed by the local marina(s). To make the most of your Oak Harbor trip visit www.whidbeycamanoislands.com or www.oakharborchamber.com.