Here are some of our favorite ways to spend time on Whidbey Island—in no particular order. Click any heading to open that destination’s website. It is hard to narrow down the choices so be sure to check out our blog for more ideas!
Deception Pass State Park and Goose Rock Trail
Deception Pass bridge is the most visited tourist sight in Washington state and well worth the hour drive. Walk the bridge and get a thrill from the dizzying heights as you watch the turbulent waters below.
Next up, hike to the top of Goose Rock Trail, the highest point on Whidbey Island, and enjoy the amazing views. At the top of the trail are the balds, an area that has been scraped to the bedrock by receding glaciers at the end of the last ice age. It has taken thousands of years to build up enough topsoil on top of the rock to grow the plants in this meadow.
Bring your camera!
Jet Boat Tours & Whale Watching
Join Captain Brett and take a adventure ride on a seated, open deck boat with 360° unobstructed views. Pass through the swirling waters of Deception Pass, watch whales, and view sea mammals at Minor Island Aquatic Preserve
Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
This stunning reserve has the best of land and sea. Set in the middle of gorgeous working farmland and on the edge of the sea, you can follow thin trails on bluffs and walk along the beach. Bring your sunhat and jacket as you will be exposed to the elements.
Fort Casey
This historical military fort is fun for kids young and old. The site includes a lighthouse and beautiful views. Fort Tours and Lighthouse Tours are available.
A great place for picnics, kite flying and lots of open lawn for playing in.
The Town of Coupeville
This seaside town is the second oldest in Washington state. It features an iconic wharf with a public boardwalk and pier. The hundred-year-old buildings that once were stables and barbershops now host charming shops, galleries, and an assortment of delicious dining options.
Langley
The Village by the sea. Visit the Langley Whale Museum, Callahan’s Firehouse Studio Gallery, enjoy breakfast at The Braeburn, theaters, fine dining, waterfront dining, coffee, wine tasting, art studios, boutiques and Moonraker Books.
Langley has it all in seaside style.
Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries
Sip the afternoon away with visits to local wineries, distilleries and breweries. Each venue has its own personal style and some host live music events. Don’t want to drive? Check out Wandering Trail Tours.
South Whidbey Island State Park
Enjoy easy hikes in the woods and picnic spots that are great for families in this park with 4,500 feet of shoreline on Admiralty Inlet. Hike among the giants in 347 acres of old growth forest, including a 500-year-old cedar tree on the Wilbert Trail.
Putney Woods
A short drive from the house, Putney Woods is part of a three-park trail system with 600 acres of forest. Secondary forest is mixed with old growth trees to create a peaceful, restorative experience. Horses, bikes, and leashed dogs are welcome.
The trails wind around, so snap a picture of the trail map at the beginnning so you can keep your bearings. Parking and admission are free.
Meerkerk Gardens
Beauty is everywhere as you immerse yourself in this peaceful, woodland garden. Starring beautiful rhododendrons in the spring, two miles of nature trails and plenty of benches for contemplative rests.
Your four-legged friends are welcome. Open daily.
Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Enjoy the best of the Pacific Northwest and get on the water with kayaking or paddle boarding tours. Short tours, half day, night and bird-watching tours are available. They also have rentals that they can deliver to A Home On The Harbor.
July 4th on Holmes Harbor
The best of summer! Fireworks echo off the harbor all night. Sit back and relax as you watch it all from A Home On The Harbor.