When the temperatures soar in Seattle, a quick jaunt to Whidbey Island is in order. The Mukilteo ferry is only 30 miles from downtown high-rises, and the boat ride a brief 15 minutes. Beautiful beaches, farms and market-stands, charming shops and restaurants, hikes, history, and abundant natural beauty abound on Washington's largest island. Here is our guide to "must sees" on Whidbey:
Langley - This charming town offers restaurants, galleries, wine-tasting, unique shops, a small movie theater and beautiful accommodations to spend the weekend. Edit Mercantile, Langley's newest addition, carries an exquisite assortment of goods for home and lifestyle, from Opinel knives to hand-made sling shots. We also can't resist a visit to the Good Cheer Thrift Store for vintage books and other treasures and the patio at Double Bluff Brewery.
Bayview - Catch the Bayview Farmer's Market (Saturdays from 10 -2) for outstanding pies and baked goods, cheeses, jams and honey, and local produce. While there, visit Bayview Farm and Garden -- newly-remodeled and packed with beauty for both garden and home. Grab some avocado toast at their Flower House Cafe and then head to Double Bluff Beach to build driftwood forts, collect shells, explore tide pools and examine the geology of the cliffs. The beach is also an off-leash dog area (Whidbey loves dogs), so be sure to bring your four-legged pal on the trip.
Farms - Visitors will find u-pick farms and market stands all over the island, but Featherstone Farm in Clinton stands out from the pack. Visitors will find abundant fruits and veggies of all kinds at this stunning organic u-pick farm and produce stand.
Castle Park and the South Whidbey Sports Commons - Bring a frisbee or do cartwheels on the lush, manicured fields, A forest with running trails connects the two parks that feature a skate park, bike pump track, soccer fields, baseball diamonds, and playgrounds, something for everyone. Look for live music on the lawn in the summer..
Make a week or weekend of it and explore Deception Pass, Coupeville, Fort Casey and Ebey's Landing ... adventure awaits!
