Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
Whidbey and Camano Islands are great spots to get lost. Both islands are packed with beautiful hidden places and striking, unexpected views. One of the most relaxing things to do here is simply just driving around and exploring.
An island is a perfect place to go searching without a map because the handy thing is that it’s impossible to stay lost for long. You might follow a scenic road into an unfamiliar area and get turned around. You might start getting worried when you drive into one of the peaceful pockets of no cell reception and can’t connect to your maps. But never fear! It’s difficult to drive more than ten minutes in any direction here without coming to either a beach or the main road. Unless you cross a very noticeable bridge (one per island), it’s not as if you can accidentally venture somewhere else.
Amazing views, like this one of Ebey’s Reserve, are everywhere.
Long Islands
“So switch off your GPS and let curiosity guide you.”
So switch off your GPS and let curiosity guide you. Whidbey and Camano are both long and thin, so there are endless little winding roads through forests or farms, packed in on all sides with those stunning water and mountain views the Pacific Northwest is so well known for. It’s a good time to wander and keep our plans flexible. If the beach or trail you were headed for seems too crowded, simply jump in the car and move on to the next! Plenty to go around here.
This Way – That Way
Did you ever play This Way, That Way as a kid? Driving around with our parents, at every new crossroads, my siblings and I would take turns deciding right, left, or straight to see where we ended up. As a child who can’t drive and doesn’t get to make many decisions, there was a real sense of power in that. As an adult who usually has a plan for where they’re driving or a schedule to keep, you too can find power in throwing plans out and indulging in some childlike discovery. It can be difficult to drop the daily agenda and just putter around a bit, but it’s so delightful when you get the chance to!
To have a truly relaxing time with us, you’ll need a temporary island home. Whether you’d prefer that to be a tent in the woods or a private house on the beach, check out the many lodging options here, we’ve got something for everyone. You’ll find restaurants, cafes, and food carts in your wanderings, but for specific dining info, check here. Most places offer takeout options, so while exploring, you can search for the perfect picnic spot. Just a few things to watch out for, and you’ll be on your way.
Though neither island is very wide, both are surprisingly long. Keep in mind that it takes about half an hour to drive from one end of Camano Island to the other and just over an hour for Whidbey Island.
Private Roads and Dead Ends
Plenty of these around, but they are usually clearly marked. The same goes for private beach access.
RATHER HAVE A MAP?
The map is formatted to print on your home printer!
Deer and Other Wildlife
Whether it be on land, air, or sea, you’re bound to see some beautiful creatures when you visit these islands. Just look out for them on the roads! Deer crossing is a particularly common sight, so watch out, especially if you’re driving after dark.
Cycling
If you have the energy, this is another great way to explore the islands! It can be a popular place for cyclists, though, especially in the summer months, so watch those shoulders.
State Parks
For a relatively small county, we are very fortunate to be dotted with so many gorgeous state parks. Please be aware that you’ll need a Discover Pass to park, however, so go by Island Transit to avoid the cost. Discover Passes are valid at any WA State Park, and the fees do support preservation, so a worthwhile investment if you can swing it! A one-day pass will set you back $11.50 (per car, not person) or a whole year of statewide fun for just $35.
Islander Conversations
Both Whidbey and Camano have a fast-moving main road, but when you get out onto the smaller side roads, it’s a slower pace. So much so that you may come to a car that’s fully stopped near another car or a pedestrian, you may wonder if something’s wrong, but more than likely, they’ve just passed someone they know and stopped for a chat. They’ll get going again once they see you’ve come up behind them or wave you around if it’s an important conversation!