Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island, not 30 miles northwest of Seattle, is a long squiggle of land enfolding coves, bays, old-growth forests and scenic small towns. A rambling drive or bike ride takes the visitor from the rainier southern end to the decidedly drier northern region. Coastal forests, meadows and farmlands support a diversity of wildflowers and birds. The options for activities are just as eclectic. Don't miss the view from the bridge at Deception Pass and keep a lookout for the many bald eagles that nest on Whidbey. At Ebey's Landing and Fort Casey, come for a bit of history or cliff and ocean views or maybe just a light hike along one of the ...

Whidbey Island, not 30 miles northwest of Seattle, is a long squiggle of land enfolding coves, bays, old-growth forests and scenic small towns. A rambling drive or bike ride takes the visitor from the rainier southern end to the decidedly drier northern region. Coastal forests, meadows and farmlands support a diversity of wildflowers and birds. The options for activities are just as eclectic. Don't miss the view from the bridge at Deception Pass and keep a lookout for the many bald eagles that nest on Whidbey. At Ebey's Landing and Fort Casey, come for a bit of history or cliff and ocean views or maybe just a light hike along one of the many trails. Flower lovers can lose themselves among the rhododendrons at Meerkerk Garden or the wild flowers along the roadside. Whether pitching a tent at one of the many campgrounds or partaking of the hospitality among the plethora of B&B's, there are accommodations for everyone. Gastronomes should check out the local wineries and farms and slurp up some Penn Cove mussels. Throughout the year, there's shopping, art and music to be found in the charming towns, including some very fun festivals. Although Whidbey is a world away from it all, access is easy from various points. Catch a ferry from Mukilteo near Everett, or drive right onto the island from the northern end.

About the Expert

Myra Ingmanson and Daniel C. Schechter worked together on various titles for Lonely Planet, particularly the Pacific Northwest and Mexico books. Together they coauthored chapters for Lonely Planet's Eastern Caribbean.