Whidbey Island

Langley

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Whidbey Island

Lovely Whidbey Island is a popular weekend getaway from Seattle, and includes two historic towns, breathtaking State Parks, a lighthouse, earth sanctuary and rhododendron garden.  To get to Whidbey Island from Seattle, travel 40-minutes north to the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal, followed by a short ferry crossing to Clinton on the island.

Your Guide to driving up Whidbey Island

Below is an itinerary for driving 50-miles up Whidbey island, from Clinton to Deception Pass.

After arriving on Whidbey Island in Clinton, drive 10-minutes northwest to the charming town of Langley.  Langley is perched on a bluff with dramatic views of the Saratoga Passage and Cascades.  An enjoyable morning can be spent exploring book stores, boutiques and other shops along Langley's main street.

The Earth Sanctuary is a true gem, located 15-minutes southwest of Langley.  Visitors can enjoy secluded walking trails through pristine nature wetlands and woodlands.  A small entrance fee is required.

After traveling 15-minutes northwest, your next stop is Meerkerk Gardens, a superb rhododendron garden with lovely walking trails and lakes.  Another 5-minutes north up the island is Greenbank Farm.   Greenbank Farm is great for a sweet treat or glass of wine, and don't forget to try one of their legendary pies. There's also an art gallery and cafe. 

Another 20-minutes drive north takes you to the historic Seaport Town of Coupeville, situated in Penn Cove on Whidbey Island.  The historic red warehouse at the end of the Coupeville Wharf is the most prominent landmark.  Visitors usually start their exploration of Coupeville by taking a stroll along the wharf.  Coupeville was once a hub of activity for fresh supplies, and the first port of call for travelers visiting the island. 

There are also two beautiful State Parks within close proximity of Coupeville; Fort Ebey and Fort Casey.  Fort Ebey has 3-miles of dramatic saltwater coastline strewn with logs, and some of the best views of the Olympic Mountains. The Lavender Wind Farm is just a short drive north of Fort Ebey, and also capitalizes on these magnificent views. Fort Casey has one of the most impressive natural settings on Whidbey Island, with commanding views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  Visitors can also stop by the Fort Casey lighthouse.

After visiting Fort Casey and Fort Ebey, drive 30-minutes north to Deception Pass, WA's most popular State Park.  Deception Pass is a deep channel between Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands, famous for its treacherous currents.  Boat tours are available at Deception Pass.

This concludes your south-north driving tour up Whidbey Island.

Camping & Lodging

Camping is available at Fort Casey, Fort Ebey and Deception Pass. 

Langley and Coupeville are the most popular towns for B&B’s, hotels and vacation rentals on Whidbey Island.  Review the table below for options, including:

• Saratoga Inn
• Inn at Langley
• Boatyard Inn
• Carol Lees - B&B
• Eagles Nest Inn
• Anchorage Inn
• Eagle Aerie - spectacular cliff top views in remote location
• Coupe de Villa
• Fort Casey Inn
• Compass Rose B&B
• Coupeville Inn
• Lovejoy Inn
• Captain Whidbey Inn - rustic lodge