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Tyler M. Yates
Many hiking trails are found in the area, including the Pacific Northwest Trail in Coupeville.
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U.S. Forest Service - Pacific Northwest region
A pier in Coupeville at Penn Cove.
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Chas Redmond
The magnificent Deception Pass Bridge.
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U.S. Forest Service - Pacific Northwest region
Hikers at Ebey's Landing.
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Ashlyn Gehrett
A portion of Fort Ebey State Park on the west side of the island.
Words by Glenn Kohaly
Located in Island County, Washington, Whidbey Island is perhaps one of the most diverse and exciting areas to visit by water on the West Coast with its series of small villages connected by quiet, winding roads that meander along the area’s sparkling coastline, past expansive farmlands and through lush forests.
It’s conveniently located 50 km (31 miles) north of bustling Seattle and while you could drive the island’s 90 km (55 miles) length in about an hour, you would be missing the many charming communities including Oak Harbor, Langley, Coupeville, Freeland, Clinton, Greenbank and Bayview.
With its rural charm, Whidbey Island is big on attractions and a visit to many of the artisan communities will reveal lively entertainment and great dining in little hideaways or popular upscale restaurants, which serve up fresh seafood and menu items based on locally-sourced ingredients. Of special mention is the area’s coveted Penn Cove mussels.
For nature lovers, a great place to start exploring the island is the magnificent Deception Pass Bridge. It connects the island to the mainland and stretching across the swirling channel 55 metres (185 ft) below. Viewing areas on both ends of the bridge (with access to the bridge’s pedestrian pathway) allow great locations to view the bridge, scenery and common wildlife. In fact, it’s an ideal location for spotting resident bald eagles.
If you’re looking for more adventure, ask any local about their favourite hike. You’ll soon realize that this is very popular here and everyone has a favourite trail. Further, all the best beaches are known to be on the west side of the island and the Kettles Trail System at Fort Ebey State Park allows for excellent hiking along its bluffs. There’s stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and you can often spot local orcas, gray whales, seals, otters and of course, eagles.
Another exciting aspect of Whidbey Island is all the events. For instance, festivals are held throughout the year that celebrate an assortment of the area’s heritage and culture to include Shakespeare, sailing, wine and craft beers, and there are even hydroplane races, cycling races, kite flying shows, to name just a few.
If you plan your visit around Labour Day weekend, you’ll want to check out the Oak Harbor Music Festival in historic downtown Oak Harbor. Hosted along the waterfront, the event features two stages and every imaginable style of food truck – so it’s best to come hungry. There are also two beer/wine gardens and many exhibits of local crafts. Plus, more than 30 bands (free of charge) take the stage over the course of three days, covering all types of musical genres.
When travelling to Oak Harbor by boat, accessing the Oak Harbor Marina is easy. After entering the channel, navigate straight into the marina to locate its guest moorage area. The marina can accommodate boats up to 15 meters (50 feet) and larger boats are moored in other parts of the marina. Clean and friendly, it’s within walking distance to many stores, restaurants and bars if you feel like a night on the town.
In the event you need service or repairs, the Oak Harbor Marina offers it all. There’s Wi-Fi, loaner bikes, gas barbecues, a fire pit with firewood that are all available to use at no cost. The marina also hosts two prominent sailing events including the Whidbey Island Race Week and the San Juan 24 North American Championships. Additionally, the Oak Harbor Yacht Club is just steps away and is open to visiting yacht club members.
If you feel like a night away from your boat, the island has many accommodations, ranging from traditional hotels and motels, to beachside vacation homes and cozy bed and breakfasts – the choices are vast.
Whidbey Island is an ideal destination to visit anytime during the boating season. It offers the Quintessential “island time” where you can put your feet up and relax, enjoy an exciting event or the outdoors, and discover its series of attractions, which all combine to make the area one of the true gems of the Pacific Northwest.
For more information about your visit to Whidbey Island visit www.oakharborchamber.com and whidbeycamanoislands.com/island-county-tourism-committee