If the daily grind has you yearning for a respite, hop on the Mukilteo Ferry and enjoy a day of island life. Nearby Whidbey Island has all the makings of a fantastic day trip, including delicious food, beautiful scenery, and engaging activities. The best part is that you will not need to plan in advance or purchase a plane ticket. Simply hop on the ferry and drive north through the island, stopping to enjoy memorable sites along the way. A day trip to Whidbey Island is so accessible you will be back to Snohomish County in time for dinner.
Langley
Start your island adventure in the adorable town of Langley, located a short distance from the ferry terminal. Grab an ice cream at Sprinklz and head down to the beach. Afterward, meander through town, enjoying the many seaside shops, public art, and cafés. Make your trip complete with a visit to the Langley Whale Center home of the Orca Network, a non-profit dedicated to the health and preservation of whales in the Pacific Northwest. This volunteer-run center features free educational exhibits that engage visitors with local marine life. After your visit, head back down to the beach to see if you can spot a gray whale, harbor porpoise, seal, or sea lion commonly found in the waters off Langley.
Greenbank Farm
Drive north and make a stop at Greenbank Farm. Once the largest loganberry farm in the United States, Greenbank Farm is now the site of an art gallery, a native plants garden, hiking trails, a market, and more. It is the perfect place to grab a bottle of wine and some local cheese to enjoy in the on-site native plants garden. For a taste of the islands, try the loganberry dessert wine paired with a slice of loganberry pie. Be sure not to miss the walking trails through the meadow. Head up the hill for an easy climb to enjoy a gorgeous vista of Puget Sound on both sides of the trail.
Fort Casey
Fort Casey will be sure to delight the kids, history buffs, and romantics. Don’t forget to bring a kite as this windy location is the prime spot for kite flying. On weekends, visitors can spot synchronized kite flying hobbyists who fly their kites in time to the music. Kids will love frolicking in the historical fort built in the late 1800s to protect the entrance of Puget Sound. A trip to Fort Casey would not be complete without visiting the lighthouse built in 1903. The lighthouse is a beautiful backdrop for the perfect island photo. Visit the interpretive center to learn more about the maritime history of Whidbey Island.
Ebeys’ Landing Trail
For spectacular views, a hike at Ebey’s Landing is a must-do. Located right outside Coupeville, this 5.2-mile trail offers hikers a walk along the beach up to the bluff overlooking Puget Sound. The whole family can enjoy this moderate hike. Leashed dogs are also welcome.
Coupeville
An island adventure would not be complete without a stroll along a seaside boardwalk. In Coupeville, you will find just the thing. Wander out onto the public dock and grab a scoop of ice cream or shop for trinkets to remember your day of island life. Visit the Island County Historical Museum to learn more about the history of this beautiful area.
Your island adventure will come to an end in the lovely seaside town of Anacortes. Before your journey home, check out the Shrimp Shack for a casual straight-from-the-sea dinner. Plan ahead for breakfast the next day and stop by The Store to choose from a selection of freshly baked muffins in a variety of seasonal favorites such as blueberry cobbler or peach cream.
Stocked up with treasures and memories, make your way back home via stunning Deception Pass to sleep in your own bed with that just-got-back-from-vacation feeling.
