Hey, folks — Alina here. 👋 We’re all feeling a little stir crazy, right? Not just me? Okay, good.
Lately, my temperature has been high with cabin fever, so I did as I do and booked a last-minute trip out to Whidbey Island. Even with some intense fog and a tsunami warning (yikes), the trip was a breath of fresh air — and I didn’t even need to board a plane.
So, if you’re feeling the itch to take a little trip out to Whidbey, too — here’s how to plan a weekend (or just a day) full of fun.
☕ Fuel up
Ulysses Coffee in downtown Langley is a perfect pre-shopping stop, but don’t overlook local chain Whidbey Coffee, either — the iced cappuccino with a pump of caramel was perfectly refreshing without being too sweet.
🍜 Getting hungry?
Don’t miss Ultra House — no, really — it’s kinda hidden in the back of a courtyard. This noodle restaurant is a huge delight with its playfully designed dining room, colorful display of Asian candies and snacks, and totally delicious menu. Go for the gyoza dumplings to start, the spicy miso ramen for your main, and the ice cream mochi to finish (one of each flavor, please).
Or if you’re looking for something a little lighter for breakfast or lunch, you don’t want to miss Flower House + Cafe. This adorable and completely instagrammable spot serves drool-worthy chia pudding bowls and pastrami sandwiches, along with a stellar wine, beer + cider list.
🛍️ Get your shop on
Downtown Langley is full of cute, little shops. Check out Moonraker Bookstore, Good Cheer Thrift Store, or Artisan Crafted Home for some souvenirs.
Coupeville can also satisfy your seaside shopping fantasies with spots like Kingfisher Bookstore for your next read or the Laughing Admiral for some good gag gifts or vinyl records.
🥾 The great outdoors
Price Sculpture Forest is bound to be a hit with the kids. | Photo by Jann Pulfer Ledbetter
If the kids are with you, or you just like a little sense of wonder with your walks, trek out to Price Sculpture Forest. The a 0.6-mile set of two forest loops is peppered with tons of artwork that turn your stroll into a game of I-Spy.
But you’re also on an island, so check out that beach, too. There’s public access at Boy and Dog Park + Ebey’s Landing’s Bluff Trail has dramatic scenery.
📽️ Museums and indoor activities
Is it raining? No worries. Check out Island County Historical Museum if you’re in Coupeville or watch a movie at the Clyde Theatre in Langley.
Pro tips
- The ferries to Bainbridge Island and Friday Harbor beg for the walk-on experience, but it’s a good idea to bring your car for the trip to Whidbey. The island is home to a few towns and each one has its own offerings. There’s a public transit system, but it’ll be a lot easier to get from spot to spot with your own vehicle.
- When you leave, drive up the north end of the island and cross over Deception Pass for a scenic route back to the mainland. Bring your Discover Pass so you can check out the beach.
