What To Do on Whidbey Island: A Local's Guide
Explore Whidbey Island's top attractions, including scenic state parks, quaint towns, and unique experiences.
Welcome to our “Like Local” series, where we collect local-approved recommendations for popular Kindred destinations. When you're home swapping, you get to explore local neighborhoods—with your host and fellow community members as your guides! This article is written by Kindred member Lilia from Whidbey Island.
Whidbey Island is in the Puget Sound north of Seattle, Washington. It takes about an hour to get there from Seattle, including a 15-minute ferry. Since I moved to Whidbey, I’ve explored a lot and have been asked constantly for recommendations. Here are my favorite spots on the island!
1. Deception Pass State Park, Whidbey Island, Washington State
Super popular state park. While you’re over here, check out the Shrimp Shack for lunch, or pack a beach picnic. You can park on the side of the road, or within the park if you have a Discover Pass.
2. Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve
You can either park right at the beach take a walk, or do the five-mile loop trail. Some of the most stunning views in Washington.
3. Captain Whidbey Inn
Come for drinks and food, and you’ll maybe even see some wildlife. I saw some whales while sitting here last summer.
4. Coupeville Waterfront
Fun fact: Coupeville is where the movie Practical Magic was filmed. You can even visit the magic store. It’s a cute town with some good restaurants and bakeries, including Oystercatcher and Red Hen Bakery.
5. Marbley
Sign up for an art class and make your own silk scarf in Coupeville. I love this water-marbling technique. Classes are about 60 minutes.
6. Price Sculpture Forest
A free half-mile walk that's full of unique sculpture art.
7. Greenbank Farm
Farm-to-table pies and coffee.
8. Greenbank Store
Delicious sandwiches.
9. Double Bluff Beach
The best beach walk on the island.
10. Orchard Kitchen
Farm-to-table fine dining. Reservations need to be made in advance and only available once or twice per week, but the experience is wonderful.
11. Whidbey Island - Washington State Ferries
Probably the most important part of your trip—the ferry! Make sure to check the ferry times from Mukilteo to Clinton. To avoid ferry traffic, don’t go on traffic hours or peak summer times.
12. The Machine SHOP
The arcade in Langley has fun neon lights everywhere.
Other favorites to check out when visiting Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island Distillery
Flower House Café
The Clyde Theatre
Penn Cove Brewing Co. and Freeland Brewery & Taproom
Seabiscuit Bakery & Co.
Whale tour via the Orca Whale Network
Savory Restaurant in Langley
Enjoy your trip!