Island Time in Oak Harbor

One of Washington State’s great getaways for transient boaters.

by

Words by Steve Fennell

South of the San Juan Islands, on the east side of Whidbey Island, the community of Oak Harbor is a special boating retreat. Located away from the busier boating traffic of the open Pacific, this shoreside community of approximately 22,000 is easily accessible by cruising into Skagit Bay and along an inside passage just across from Camano Island. With many opportunities to fish, go kayaking or relax in quiet anchorages, the local marinas and community’s attractions are just as appealing and will provide a well-rounded trip in the heart of Washington State.

Oak Harbor is aptly named after all of the Garry oaks that once dominated the area and about 150 still stand tall today in Smith Park, located just north of downtown. However, one of the first experiences you’ll encounter when visiting by boat is the City of Oak Harbor Marina, an ideal stopover for a few days after a lengthy cruise.

A full-service marina with more than 400 slips, this facility offers ample transient moorage and a handful of services including shower and laundry facilities, ethanol-free unleaded gas and diesel, ice, picnic tables along the guest docks, as well as Bocce Ball and petanque courts. But it’s the added amenities like the free use of barbecues, EZ ups, loaner bikes, and WiFi that will make your stay more comfortable. Go fishing for some coho or pink salmon and then enjoy a BBQ fish fry. Better yet, take a bike downtown to any one of the popular restaurants.

Another moorage option is the Oak Harbor Yacht Club. While private, it does offer reciprocal moorage for members of approved clubs and space is available on the outer float. Mariner’s Haven boatyard is also in the harbour in the event you need replacement parts or repairs.

Discover Oak Harbor

Trailering boaters have the advantage of conveniently exploring an area with the convenience of their tow vehicle. However, if you arrive by boat, transit service is available to many of the parks, downtown Oak Harbor and other commercial centres. This service is especially convenient if you’re doing grocery runs or extensive shopping (the municipal marina is about 20-minutes to shops and restaurants downtown Oak Harbor). Taxis and ride-share programs like Uber or Lyft are also available. Be sure to visit  www.islandtransit.org  for more information and routes. The Rock Taxi Cap is also popular for all of your travelling needs. 24/7. www.therocktaxi.com.

There are many choices of restaurants and shopping opportunities in Oak Harbor and you’ll want to start along Pioneer Way. With several options for every taste and budget (of course, seafood is very popular), try the Rustica Cafe Italian Restaurant and Bar, which serves farm-to-table menu items sourced from local ingredients, or Frasers Gourmet Hideaway with its fine dining atmosphere. Be sure to sample the freshly-caught scallops or the famous Penn Cove Mussels that are harvested fresh in Coupeville about 15 minutes away.

Most restaurants offer take-out if you prefer to dine on your boat. Following dinner, enjoy a summer evening’s stroll along Pioneer Way where you’ll find local clothiers, artisan stores, art galleries and more. Chances are high you’ll purchase something unique.

To get a true taste of the island, however, plan to visit The Whidbey Island Farmers Market at Windjammer Park, which was introduced in 2021. Selling fresh produce, dairy and meats,  it’s conveniently located 2.6 km (1.6 mi) from the Oak Harbor Marina and is open Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m, June to September (be sure to check for updates and hours for 2022). For a complete listing of the local and other Whidbey Island markets visit www.whidbeyfarmstands.com.

Browse the array of local goods and then take your children to cool off at the Shipwreck Shores Splash Park and Lagoon. Located right in Windjammer, this kid-friendly attraction includes a mock shipwreck and refreshing streams of water. www.oakharbor.org

Further outdoor adventure is in Fort Nugent Park, which consists of 16 ha (40 ac) of walking trails, wetland/natural areas, sports fields, a large playground and disc golf course. Another great natural attraction - about 8 km (5 mi) from the marina - is Joseph Whidbey State Park. It spans 83 ha (206 ac) and has .8 km (.5 mi) of saltwater shoreline with excellent views of Victoria, B.C., Lopez Island and the Strait of Juan de Fuca in Puget Sound.

While this is a day-use park only, camping is available at Fort Ebey State Park on the western side of Whidbey, which was constructed as a coastal defense fort during World War II. Some historic sites include concrete gun emplacements, underground rooms, and 40 km (25 mi) of walking and bike trails.

Back on the Water

Another State Park to explore is Deception Pass State Park, which is a scenic drive with a boat in tow and even more so when visiting by boat. Perfect for day trips from Oak Harbor, the park spans more than 1,650 ha (3,854 ac) across Fidalgo and Whidbey islands with Canoe Pass and Deception Pass bridges connecting the two.

With 24 km (15 mi) of saltwater shoreline and about 10 km (roughly 6 mi) of freshwater shoreline on three lakes with 600 m (1,980 ft)  of moorage, diving, fishing, and paddleboarding are very popular. Or, stay on land to enjoy mountain biking, hiking, birding, or leisurely walks along the beaches. If you’re an avid kayaker, check out the route between Burrows Island and Deception Pass, which is very scenic and where you can observe harbour porpoises. Marinas, anchorages and more can be found in the immediate area as well.

While the park is stunning, the waters surrounding Oak Harbor are exciting as well. Cruise at wide-open throttle or leisurely motor at your own pace through the many nearby inlets and passages, and then round out the day relaxing at your slip or taking in more of the attractions that can be enjoyed in this shoreside community.

Once you visit and experience the services from the marinas, local hospitality and slower-paced island lifestyle, it’ll be a prime destination to visit when you find yourself returning to the Puget Sound region.

For more information visit www.whidbeycamanoislands.com

Oak Harbor’s Rich Military History

Oak Harbor is not all about dining, shopping and enjoying outdoor activities. It has an insightful military history as well and can be discovered at The Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum (formerly the PBY Naval Air Museum) located downtown. This is where you can learn about the conflicts of the Naval Air Station during World War II through artifacts, memorabilia, interactive displays and a restored PBY Catalina 5A - one of the most significant warplanes (and search and rescue aircraft) of the war.

Oak Harbor Events at a Glance

While a number of local events are held throughout the summer, be sure to plan your trip around these popular spectacles including:

  • Sept 2-4

The 2022 Oak Harbor Music Festival

https://www.oakharborfestival.com

  • June 30 - July 4

July 4 Celebrations

https://www.oakharborchamber.com/

  • Aug 20-21

Hydros for Heroes

https://hydrosforheroes.com

  • June to September

Whidbey Island Farmers Market

Windjammer Park, Oak Harbor

Be sure to visit www.facebook.com/WIFM.OakHarbor for 2022 hours and dates.

For more details on events visit www.whidbeycamanoislands.com.