Updated 3/14/23
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
For thousands of years, the Coast Salish peoples relied on the waters surrounding Whidbey and Camano Islands. Teeming with life, the Salish Sea provided food as well as transportation. Much later, European settlers would depend on the same things, although canoes eventually gave way to ferries. Though the two islands of our county haven’t been connected by ferry service since the construction of Deception Pass Bridge in the 1930s, it is still the embrace of the Salish Sea that ties our islands together.
Today, these waters are an essential part of life for islanders. Windjammer Park in Oak Harbor has many special features, including over 2000 feet of waterfront trail, perfect for pushing a stroller or wheelchair. The vast Fort Casey State Park stretches well over 400 acres and offers a dose of military history and stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Life’s a Beach
What day at the beach is complete without a picnic? You can simplify your day and support a local business by letting someone else pack it for you! Pick up coffee and sandwiches at Sunshine Drip in Coupeville or try a fresh noodle bowl from Clinton’s aptly named Island Nosh. For tasty additions to your picnic basket, stop by Greenbank Cheese Specialty Foods & Gifts. You’ll barely have to leave the water’s edge for a fresh and delicious takeout meal from Cama Beach Cafe.
Our furry family members may love the beach best of all, so to avoid bringing the beach home with you stop in at Critters & Co in Clinton. Or pick up a ball chucker at Island Pet in Oak Harbor, sure to tire Fido out. To make a weekend of it, check in with the Best Western in Oak Harbor or the Coupeville Inn, where they’ll be happy to host most pets.
Fishing for Salmon
Unlike those early residents of the islands, we may not need to pull our food from the waves, but there is nothing quite like freshly caught seafood nor the experience of “the hunt.” Several of the bigger lakes are stocked with trout, best caught in the Spring or Fall. For a fishing license and any gear you need, swing by Jim’s Hardware in Clinton or Ace Hardware in Freeland. Whidbey Island is famously one of North America’s best places to fish for salmon! For local tips and important conservation info, check out the online resources of The Fishin’ Club of Whidbey Island or the Whidbey Island Fly Fishing Club.
Favorite Beaches
-
Our Best Beach This Month – Iverson Spit and Livingston Bay
It’s a beach where the wildlife doesn’t see many humans, at least until we start coming out and taking hikes in the spring.
-
Our Best Beach This Month – Driftwood Park
The aptly named Driftwood Park on Whidbey Island offers a commanding view of the ocean and amazing driftwood sculptures.
-
Our Best Beach This Month – Fort Ebey State Park
Our Best Beach This Month is the beach at Fort Ebey State Park. The three-mile long shoreline is great for hiking, fishing, wildlife and scenery.
Shellfish
If it’s shellfish you’re after, visit the helpful Shellfish Resources page of the Island County website. There are many fantastic beaches on both Whidbey and Camano for clamming, but it’s important to know the limits and methods, as well as any possible contamination areas depending on the tides. There are lots of great places to drop in a crab pot too, but for a taste of yesteryear, go to the Center for Wooden Boats on Camano Island. There you can rent a boat and catch your dinner right off the same shore where families have long enjoyed this coastal resort. Secure yourself a cabin through Cama Beach State Park if you aren’t ready to go home yet.
Seafood Dining
If you love seafood but prefer it already caught and prepared, Seabolt’s Smokehouse in Oak Harbor has you covered, with fresh takeout and lovely gifts. Saltwater Seafood and Oyster House in Langley offers a delicious menu and water views. Enjoy some famous Penn Cove Mussels right on the shores of their namesake at the Captain Whidbey Inn. This historic landmark has been refreshed and updated while maintaining its pioneer character and continuing to bring locals together for events and fun.
On the Water
Kayakers the world over are drawn to our incredible shorelines. You can rent a kayak at Penn Cove Outfitters on the historic wharf in Coupeville. Whidbey Island Kayaking is based out of Bayview and offers rentals, instruction, and guided tours. They launch from several beaches around Clinton and Coupeville. If you’d like to get on the water but not under your own steam, there are wonderful boat tours available on both islands. Take a scenic cruise or go on a crabbing adventure with Boatsafloat 2 on Camano; explore the thrilling waters under the iconic bridge or go whale watching with Deception Pass Tours. For waterfront lodging, check out the Boatyard Inn next door to Langley Marina, with spectacular studios overlooking the Sound and southern tip of Camano.
Islanders treasure our nearness to the sea and are always looking for new ways to connect with our coastal environment. For more information about how you can protect this precious habitat we share, reach out to Sound Water Stewards, always looking to the future.