Island Notes Island Notes

Camp Casey on Whidbey Island is a Stargazer’s Treat

The best stargazing locations are away from the city lights, where the dark sky offers millions of stars to view. Even though the weather is more predictable on the east side of the Cascade Mountains, the west side offers premier locations too. Camp Casey on Whidbey Island is one such premier location.

Sailboats on Penn Cove

Welcome to the Real Walton Island

In the movie “Lost and Found” two boys are sent for the summer to their uncle on a remote island – Walton Island.  They find adventure and a bit of danger as they hunt for a family treasure.  While Walton Island is fiction, the inspiration for that island is very real. It’s Whidbey Island.  The movie’s creator, Joseph Itaya, grew … Read More

Man walking barefoot with dog on Double Bluff Beach

Dog – Friendly Locations

Thinking of bringing your dog along with you visit? Here’s a list of the best things to do with your dog on Whidbey Island and Camano Island.

Art and Artists

The Whidbey Working Artists have their summer open studio tour showing their work, their place, and where the artist and the art are one.

A Real-Life Wonderland Door?

Imagine stumbling across a tiny door perched in a tree. It takes leaving this carefully crafted door behind to find its true purpose.

Foraging for Breakfast

Eating the plants that grow in the forest. Sound wild? Come with me as we eat Whidbey Island.

KIRO Radio – The Orchard Kitchen

All About Crab “Buy live crab…that’s the only way you know that it’s fresh,” says chef Vincent Natress.  It’s the first of many insights Natress offers KIRO’s Tina Noel in this interview that foodies will love.  Noel was one of a handful of people taking a cooking class to learn the ins and outs of how to dispatch, then prepare crab … Read More

Oak Harbor’s Military History Commands the Visitor’s Attention

Recently named best in the world by the U.S. Navy, Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) in Oak Harbor has a significant influence on this small but bustling town’s diverse population.
As many as 5,000 sailors are stationed here at time, and its a base that is often requested—and no wonder.

Hiking and Walking Oak Harbor

Oak Harbor offers visitors many opportunities to explore their travel interests, from fine dining and shopping to military history and whale watching. What Oak Harbor may not be known for —but should be— is hiking and walking. There are several options for every activity level, from avid hikers to family strolls, and dogs are welcome on treks.