Whidbey Scenic Isle Way
Located entirely on a single island and a mere hour from downtown Seattle, this byway is as accessible as it is leisurely; twenty minutes of the journey includes a relaxing Washington State ferry ride. The transformation from mainland to island is not just physical—it is also psychological. The pace of life slows, traffic jams are non-existent; tension vanishes.
Welcome to “island time.” You’ll find art studios and galleries tucked in among small boutiques, coffee shops, wineries and microbreweries. Take a walk on a sandy beach or watch whales from the shore. The salt air, friendly people and local fare allow you to renew yourself for whatever life tosses your way next.
CLICK TO EXPLORE ON MAP to find more things to do, places to stay and eat along this route.
1. Clinton
Discovering Clinton takes you on an adventure through rural back roads with surprises and beauty around every corner. This vibrant historical community has been around since the early 1800’s and has always been a travel destination.
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2. Langley
Perched on a bluff on Whidbey Island, overlooking the waters of Saratoga Passage and the Cascade Mountains, Langley’s quiet streets are lined with historic buildings, book stores, antique shops, clothing boutiques, cafes and restaurants. Walk the streets of Langley, Whidbey Island’s “Village by the Sea,” and you will know what it’s like to escape from ordinary life.
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3. Meerkerk Gardens
Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, a nonprofit garden open to the public, encompasses 10 acres of display and educational gardens enveloped by forty-three acres of woodland preserve with 4+ miles of nature trails.
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4. Fort Casey State Park
Fort Casey State Park is a 467-acre marine camping park with a lighthouse and sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. A coast artillery post features two 10-inch and two 3-inch historic guns on display. The park features 10,810 feet of saltwater shoreline on Puget Sound (Admiralty Inlet), and includes Keystone Spit, a two-mile-plus stretch of land separating Admiralty Inlet and Crocket Lake.
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5. Coupeville
Coupeville is Washington State's second-oldest community and much of downtown harkens back to an era of more than a century ago. Hundred year old buildings tht were once livery stables and barber shops are now wine tasting rooms and bookstores. There are also restaurants and small shops all along Front Street.
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6. Oak Harbor
Nestled at the water’s edge, Oak Harbor is a vibrant community packed with activity for families of all ages. The unparalleled beauty of Deception Pass boasts expansive views and unforgettable sunsets and serves as a fitting backdrop to the myriad of outdoor adventures that await.
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7. Deception Pass Bridge & State Park
Deception Pass State Park spans the gap between Whidbey Island and Fildalgo Island. At 4,134 acres, the park has many different spots that are almost parks all by themselves. Crossing onto Whidbey Island over Deception Pass Bridge is one of the region's spectacular driving moments. It's a thrill whether it's your first drive or your thousandth time across.
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