20+ Exciting Things to Do on Whidbey Island in 2024
Seeking an island escape without driving too far from the city?
With epic mountain views, saltwater beaches, and historic towns, Whidbey Island inspires awes from every angle. With nearly 170 square miles, it’s the largest island in Washington State!
Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, enjoy local coffee, or turn back the clock of history, there are endless activities and attractions on Whidbey Island.
Let’s Explore: Things to Do on Whidbey Island
Adventurer’s Guide to the Best Things to do on Whidbey Island
1. Snap a photo with the Deception Pass Bridge
Let’s start with getting to the island. Did you know that there’s only one bridge connecting Whidbey Island to the mainland?
In fact, given the importance of the 976-foot bridge it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Funnily enough, there’s even an island (Pass Island) between the two sections of bridge!
If you’re visiting from the North or East, I recommend checking out Deception Pass on your drive in.
You’ll see pull-offs along Highway 20 just before the bridge, but my favorite viewing spot is Pass Island. From the small parking lot you can read interpretative signs, look for Mt. Baker, & do a little hiking beneath the bridge. Please use extreme caution as this area steeply slopes down to the water. There is no beach access.
If you don’t mind heights (or wind), then you can stop at the Scenic Vista Parking lot and use the sidewalk to walk onto the bridge. Leave your hats in the car.
Be sure to bring a Discover Pass ($30 for annual access to Washington State Parks). If you don’t have one, you can purchase a day pass here.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a Discover Pass, try visiting our state parks on a Discover Pass Free Day. Upcoming dates: 4/22 Earth Day, 6/10 National Get Outdoors Day, 6/11 Free Fishing Day, 6/19 Juneteenth, 9/23 National Public Lands Day, 10/10 World Mental Health Day, 11/ 11 Veterans Day, 12/25 Autumn Day
2. Visit Washington’s Most Popular State Park
One of Whidbey Island’s many wonders is its state parks!
Thanks to the popularity of the bridge as well as abundant opportunities for camping, swimming, & sunset-chasing, Deception Pass State Park is the #1 most visited state park.
Watch the currents of the glossy waters churn as bald eagles fly overhead from the rocky shores on North Beach. Plus, get spectacular views of the bridge!
On a calm day, see surreal reflections on Cranberry Lake. Or, go for a paddle.
Feel like hiking? Explore the highest point on the island: Goose Rock Summit. Expect ~4.5 miles with ~500 feet of elevation gain.
Whether you stay for a few hours or days, keep this high on your list of Whidbey Island activities.
3. Sail Away With a Ferry Ride
For those of you visiting from the West or South, it may make more sense to take a ferry to get to Whidbey Island.
Regardless, I recommend riding a ferry at least once during your trip. It’s a quintessential Washington experience!
Your two options are the Port Townsend / Coupeville or Mukilteo / Clinton routes.
From Seattle or Tacoma, your best bet is the ~15-20 minute sailing from Mukilteo. Typically, this route is not busy enough to offer reservations. Since there’s sailings every half hour, you shouldn’t need to worry too much about timing.
4. Tour Admiralty Head Lighthouse at Fort Casey State Park
Given the distinct glacier-carved topography of the state and its position near the Pacific Ocean, we have lots of lighthouses!
Hands down, touring a 120-year-old lighthouse is one of the best things to do on Whidbey Island.
Between March and December, it’s open to the public. Check here for the schedule.
Closed? Don’t worry, it’s gorgeous from the outside!
Like Deception Pass State Park, you’ll need a Discover Pass or day pass.
5. Discover WWII History at Fort Casey Historical State Park
Of course, no trip to Fort Casey is complete without exploring the somewhat-spooky batteries and bunkers.
You can even see two massive guns aiming at Admiralty Inlet, designed to take down enemy ships as they entered Puget Sound.
This is a large fort with plenty of interpretative signs to help you learn the history.
Even in the winter, you’ll likely see kites flying on the grassy field next to the main parking lot.
It’s known for being windy, so dress accordingly!
If you’re planning on camping, consider the Fort Casey campground. It boasts waterfront sites, easy beach access, bathrooms with showers.
Note that it is adjacent to the Port Townsend ferry, so it’s not very private.
6. Stand Among the Last Old Growth Trees
Only a few of the ancient old growth trees that once covered the island are still standing today.
That’s why I’m including South Whidbey State Park on my guide on the best things to do on Whidbey Island.
The park is located between Greenbank and Freeland.
Driving along S Smugglers Cove Rd, the park may sneak up on you. Parking is available either on the side of the road or within the park.
We enjoyed hiking the Wilbert Trail to the 500-year-old Ancient Cedar. As signs say, please do not approach the tree.
At the time of our visit, we noticed signs of tree diseases such as large clearings with freshly cut trees and large blowovers.
We didn’t have phone service at the park, so be sure to research and save trails and driving directions ahead of time. In particular, it’s handy to have this trail map available.
7. Witness Nature Reclaiming an Abandoned Campground
Because of safety concerns following the discovery of tree diseases, the state park campground closed in 2015. Read about it here.
Interestingly, this creates a unique opportunity to see how Mother Nature is taking back the campground.
Due to the risk of falling trees, I would not recommend visiting during a storm or high-wind-warning period.
8. Feel On Top of the World on the Bluff Trail
For a hike with awe around every corner, you must set out on the Bluff Trail at Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. Behold a balance of history, mountains, and sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet.
Choose your starting point at either the Prairie Overlook (where the historical sites are located) or the beachside lot where Ebey’s Landing Road becomes Hill Road.
We opted for the latter, but later drove up to the overlook to see the historical sites.
After a brisk climb up to the bluff, you’ll hike along the bluff line until descending to the beach near Perego’s Lagoon.
This way, you’ll complete a 3.6 mile loop. Along the way, see wind-swept trees, glassy lagoon water, & no shortage of thrills.
A few things to note:
- This trail is very exposed to wind and sun
- Most of the upper portion of the trail is very close to a steep-drop (consider this if you’re afraid of heights)
- Keep dogs on leash
- Discover Pass required
It’s worth packing binoculars and telephoto lenses, as many birds of prey are spotted here.
9. Visit the 2nd Oldest Town in Washington
While Whidbey Island has no shortage of charming towns, Coupeville stole our hearts.
Not only is it historic, but we kept coming back for the food, coffee, and sightseeing.
Probably the most memorable part is the red wharf, which dates back to 1905.
If you’re lucky and Mt. Baker is out, you’ll definitely want to stop to take a photo from the wharf.
10. Enjoy World-Class Mussels
Coupeville is located in Penn Cove, also known as the home of Penn Cove Shellfish – the oldest commercial mussel farm in the United States.
Because of this, you’ll find locally-sourced mussels on many menus across town.
We dined at The Front Street Grille, which offers wonderful waterfront views, seafood dishes, & 16 rotating beers on tap. View the menu here.
Save room for dessert!
Love mussels? Time your visit in line with the annual Penn Cove Mussel Festival.
11. Grab Coffee at The Cove
If you’re anything like me, your perfect morning starts by enjoying a cup of coffee with a view.
Located inside the wharf, The Cove is a beautifully designed, welcoming space that offers breakfast and drinks –including wines, beers, & ciders.
To our surprise, there’s a free whale exhibit inside the wharf (just before you enter The Cove). Standing beneath whale skeletons really puts their massive size into perspective!
Looking for more coffee shops in the Pacific Northwest? Follow me on Instagram for more favorites!
12. Find Your Next Read at the Kingfisher Bookstore
One (if not the best) way to learn the history of the places we visit is to check out local bookstores.
In Coupeville, the Kingfisher Bookstore on Main Street is known for its emphasis on Pacific Northwest authors and natural/human history books.
They’re open 7 days a week.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the beautiful collection of postcards, stickers, and bookmarks!
PS: As its namesake suggests, it’s common to see belted kingfishers year-round on the island.
13. Dive Deep at the Island County Historical Museum
Our list of Whidbey Island attractions has to include the museum at the heart of Coupeville.
It features exhibits sharing the stories of native peoples, European settlers, pioneers, and Chinese immigrants.
Plus, discover how Columbian Mammoth once roamed the area that is now Whidbey Island. Eager to learn more? Get a taste of the exhibit here.
14. Treat Yourself to a Casually Cool Bite at Sunshine Drip
Have you ever tried a cafe or coffee shop that quickly became the go-to during your stay?
For us, that was Sunshine Drip.
With a generous breakfast-meets-lunch-menu, delicious pastries, & tons of local goods (think candles, cards, & pantry foods) there’s no way I’d leave this coffee shop off of my itinerary of things to do on Whidbey Island.
Between Kyle and myself, we tried avocado toasts, breakfast bagel sandwiches, banana bread, smoothies, & lattes.
Seriously everything we tried was a 10/10!
Locals and visitors alike seem to love it. If you need a quick-bite, I’d order online ahead of time.
15. Explore the Intersection of Art & Nature at Price Sculpture Forest
For a one-in-a-million Whidbey Island activity, take a stroll through Price Sculpture Forest.
Completed in 2020, the park is a remarkable feat of conservation as well as community arts and environmental education.
The beginner and family-friendly trails total 0.6 miles.
Just beyond the “Wander in Wonder” wooden arch, you’ll find a map which connects you to a self-guided mobile tour (scan the QR code).
Displays are interactive, beautiful, and a tad mind-boggling.
Entrance is free. Donations welcomed.
16. Search for Seashells at Long Point
While you’re in the area exploring Price Sculpture Forest, swing by Long Point.
Nestled in a residential area, Long Point is a hidden gem. We were pleasantly surprised by the abundance of seashells, making the beach nearly white.
Plus, the views of the Cascade Mountains are epic!
To the West, look for the Coupeville wharf. Most visitors don’t see it from this perspective.
Please be courteous to the people who live in the neighborhood and treat the park with the care you would in your own neighborhood. Pack all trash out and follow speed limit signs.
17. Enjoy Whidbey Coffee
Last but not least on our list of Whidbey Island coffee shops is Whidbey Coffee.
With 4 locations on the island (and also some in the surrounding areas) it would be hard to miss this local roaster.
Conveniently, there’s a drive-thru in Mukilteo close to the ferry terminal. So, it’s a great stop for when you’re arriving or leaving the island!
Also, there’s 2 Oak Harbor locations. One boasts a rustic, cozy atmosphere and the other boasts waterfront views.
18. Catch Sunset at Joseph Whidbey State Park
While you’re near Oak Harbor, the easily accessible beach of Joseph Whidbey State Park is worth visiting.
This is one of the lesser known state parks on the island, so if you’re looking for solitude try this.
However, for this park and Deception Pass State Park in particular, expect to hear jets soaring overhead.
This is because the Navy’s Ault Field lies between the two parks.
Personally, I love watching the naval air jets. It can be a challenge to see them, even though you almost always hear them!
If you’d like to learn more about the past and present naval history, visit the Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum in Oak Harbor.
19. Get Lost on 25 Miles of Trails at Fort Ebey State Park
Whether you’re a hiker or mountain biker, Fort Ebey State Park’s trails allow plenty of space to get lost or find yourself– whatever feels right.
Besides lush forest, highlights include “kettles,” or depressions in the ground caused by glaciers, pink rhododendrons, and the base of an old water tower.
In the Northwest corner of the park, you can access the beach. We loved the sandy beaches, in-your-face views of the Olympic Mountains, and seeing the San Juan Islands in the distance.
There’s only a handful of parking spots at the beach, so during the summer you may prefer to hike down.
Take this map with you.
Between March and October, the campground is open for reservations.
20. Order Phad Thai from a Victorian Building
Looking for a quick-bite to take back to your Airbnb? Try Phad Thai in Coupeville. You can order online, and then pick up your meal from a cute Victorian-style home that was built in 1889.
My favorite menu item is the Pineapple Fried Rice. It’s made with yellow curry powder, jasmine rice, egg, carrots, cashews, onion, and pineapple. Bursting with flavor (and spice!)
Address: 602 N Main St, Coupeville, WA 98239
Browse the menu here.
21. Let Your Pups Play at Double Bluff Beach
Traveling with your furry friends? Then don’t miss the playful, scenic, and walkable Double Bluff Beach.
Known far and wide as an awesome dog-friendly beach, this is the spot to let your (well-socialized) dogs run.
Or, if you just feel like watching dogs play then this is the spot for you!
As it’s located on the eastern side of the island, it has perfect views of the shipping container ships headed to the Pacific Ocean from Tacoma and Seattle.
For a virtual geology tour of the park, click here.
Commonly Asked Questions: Things to do on Whidbey Island
How do I spend a day on Whidbey Island?
- Drive over the Deception Pass Bridge
- Visit Cranberry Lake & North Beach at Deception Pass State Park
- Be on top of the world on Fort Ebey’s Bluff
- See the free whale exhibit on the Coupeville Wharf
- Enjoy local seafood at Front Street Grill
- Grab a book about Whidbey Island from Kingfisher Bookstore
- Learn about local history at the Island County Historical Museum
- Delight in art & nature at Price Sculpture Forest
- Snap a photo with Admirality Head Lighthouse
- Explore WWII history at Fort Casey
- Stand beside old growth trees at South Whidbey State Park
- Grab coffee at Whidbey Coffee in Clinton
- Catch sunset while riding the Clinton – Mukilteo Ferry
What is Whidbey Island known for?
Whidbey Island is the largest island in Washington State. With scenic mountain, beach, & forest vistas, it is a paradise for nature lovers. Plus, its history runs deep. Given its position overlooking the entrance of Puget Sound, Whidbey Island has and continues to be a site of naval and military presence.
What is the cutest town in Whidbey Island?
Coupeville is not only the 2nd oldest town in Washington but also an incredibly cute town in Whidbey Island. Known for its iconic red wharf, local mussels, & seafaring history Coupeville needs to be on your Whidbey Island itinerary!
When is the best time to visit Whidbey Island?
Ferries and the Deception Pass Bridge make Whidbey Island accessible year-round. Summer sunsets are hard to beat, but visiting in late winter or early spring is a treat too. Then, the snow-capped Olympic and Cascade Mountains loom large and shine bright. And, you can beat the summer rush.
Can you see whales from Whidbey Island?
With its abundance of beaches on both sides of the island, you can absolutely see whales from the shores of Whidbey Island. Your best bet is to check Orca Network’s Facebook page for recent sightings. Don’t forget to bring binoculars!
Can you drive to Whidbey Island wihtout taking a ferry?
Yes, and you should (at least one way). Besides the ferries, you can drive over the stunning Deception Pass Bridge. It’s a landmark known far and wide in the Pacific Northwest, so don’t miss it!
Do you need a car to get around Whidbey Island?
Since Whidbey Island is the largest of Washington State’s islands, you do need a car to see everything that the area has to offer. This way, you won’t miss any beaches, hikes, or scenic drives.
Is Whidbey Island pretty?
Whidbey Island is a gem all year long. Between saltwater beaches with dramatic bluffs and charming towns full of history, there is beauty in every season. Even during winter, the snow-covered Olympic & Cascade mountains put on a show.
This post was all about the best things to do on Whidbey Island.
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