If you approach Whidbey Island from the north, you’ll have a special treat. Instead of waiting in line for the ferry, you’ll drive across the famous Despatch Pass Bridge, which connects Whidbey to Fidalgo Island and the mainland.
The elegantly arched bridge rises eighteen stories above the turbulent waters that rush across the passage below. When you enter the island, you’ll find yourself in Washington’s most popular state park, where hiking, camping, fishing, boating, climbing, and, of course, the bridge vie for visitor attention.
Ten minutes from this natural oasis, you’ll find Whidbey Island’s largest city, the bustling naval town of Oak Harbor.
Offering the largest hotels on the island and most options for traditional meeting spaces, you’ll have no trouble finding the right place for your group, whether you have ten people or three hundred.
From Oak Harbor to the nearby historic village of Coupeville, options on this side of the island range from the Best Western Hotel with banquet hall and conference center to Camp Casey, a former military camp with many historic buildings, beach access and incredible views of Admiralty Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
Whidbey is steeped in military history, and you can learn about it in many forms. Oak Harbor has the PBY Naval Air Museum, which details how the naval base became a vital part of the country’s efforts during World War II.
Let the experienced PBY volunteers bring history to life for you, or interact with the exhibits yourself by trying out different planes on the museum’s two flight simulators.
For another step back in time, take a twenty-minute scenic drive to Fort Casey, where you can view the artillery battery on the cliffside installed to protect the entrance to Puget Sound, or get closer to history with a tour of the Admiralty. Head Lighthouse.
North and Central Whidbey is the perfect place to escape to nature, as the area abounds with state parks and beautiful beaches with views in every direction. To combine outdoor recreation with a fascinating history lesson, why not visit the unique and beautiful Ebey Wharf? Here you can explore the intersection of today’s island farmers with the history of the area’s first settlers in a massive venture that is part national reserve, part private land. Gentle rolling pastures are surrounded by sweeping views of the beach, creating an effect that’s almost too idyllic to be believed, making this a popular spot among photographers!
If that’s not enough to keep you busy, you’ll also love the retail options in this part of the island. From small Coupeville boutiques to larger Oak Harbour outlets with gourmet restaurants and local cuisine. For some vintage entertainment, why not play a few sets at the Oak Bowl or see a movie at the Blue Fox Drive-In Theater?
Be sure to leave yourself plenty of time to explore this lively island community. You might be surprised at what you’ll find here!