How to Explore the Whidbey Island Scenic Byway in Washington

Visit the Whidbey Island Scenic Byway. It is the only designated Washington State Scenic Byway that is located on an island. It's easy to find Whidbey Island, but it is hard to leave because of all the wonders there are.Spend hours fishing. Stop by the South Whidbey State Park. Walk on the trails. They will take you through old growth Douglas-fir and big-leaf maple trees. Travel along rugged beaches. Spot the gray whales surfacing in the water.Explore some of the prettiest seaside towns cradled among beautiful beaches and landscapes of forests. Watch the ocean waterfalls that move through the canyon as the tide changes. Drive over the impressive suspension bridge that stretches over a fjord and connects Whidbey Island to the mainland of Washington. There is always something to discover at Whidbey Island. This isleway is 48 miles long and takes 1 to 2 hours to drive through. The ferry ride lasts about 20 minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Traveling vehicle
• Full tank of gas
• Extra water and oil for vehicle
• Emergency equipment
• First aid kit
• Food and snacks
• Drinks
• Camera

Instructions

1. Begin in Seattle. Take a ferry ride to the small beach town of Clinton. The Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way embarks on a tour of beach towns and ocean scenery. Stretch your legs after the ferry ride to the island. Go shopping in Clinton, the perfect place to gather traveling gear.

2. Discover the town of Langley, Washington. It is situated on a bluff overlooking the waters of Saratoga Passage and the Cascade Mountains. Visit the art galleries and antique shops that are just waiting to be explored along the streets of this artist village. Look for all the historic buildings and miniature parks.

3. Dig for clams. Watch the boaters and surfers along the shores of Freeland Park. Embrace “The Cottage,” located in Freeland, Full of charm and a welcome feeling, the pretty cottage invites you to forget the world outside of this island hideaway. There's a surprise at every turn here, and even a window seat for your magical daydreams. This cozy cottage is an island original. Take a trip to the Admiralty Inlet. Visit the Admiralty Lighthouse.

4. Find pieces of driftwood at Double Bluff Beach. Grab your camera. Double Bluff Beach offers great views of Seattle and Mt. Rainier. Discover the underground bunkers that are exploratory at Fort Casey State Park. This park area once guarded Puget Sound from invasion. View the Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca from here. Walk among the concrete platforms that mark gun locations at Fort Ebey, which once defended the coast during World War II.

5. Visit the home of the Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens and the Historic Greenbank Farm. The Rhododendron Gardens provide trails that wind through drifts of tulips and daffodils in the spring. Sample a loganberry pie or shop around the farmer's market.

6. Discover the underground bunkers that are exploratory at Fort Casey State Park. This park area once guarded Puget Sound from invasion. View the Admiralty Inlet and the Strait of Juan de Fuca from here. Walk among the concrete platforms that mark gun locations at Fort Ebey, which once defended the coast during World War II.

7. End your trip in a saltwater canyon at the island at Deception Pass State Park. Hike through the park. Take the ferry back to Seattle and go home or stay a few days at "The Cottage" or another place.

Tips & Warnings

• While you are "on the road" and happen to see a wild animal, do not get out of your vehicle. Enjoy the sights and sounds from your vehicle. The animals are not tame, and may attack you.

• Take plenty of water, both for you and your traveling vehicle.

• You may even want to take some extra oil and gas.