Scenic Back Roads of Whidbey Island
BY Laura Hilton
Explore the wonders of Whidbey Island beyond the main highways that stretch from north to south. While these routes can lead you to some fantastic destinations, don’t limit yourself to the well-trodden path. There’s so much more to discover!
Instead of sticking to the highway, consider taking a leisurely drive along the coastline, where you can revel in the beauty of the sea. Or meander through the charming farmlands, immersing yourself in the tranquility of rural life. You might even stumble upon a hidden tasting room tucked away in one of the island’s lesser-known streets.
One of the advantages of being on an island is that it’s hard to wander too far without stumbling upon another beach or finding your way back to the highway. So, don’t be afraid to get a little lost and let serendipity guide you. Whidbey Island has plenty of stunning views and unique businesses waiting to be discovered in its charmingly named side streets.
Parks and Patriotism, Surrounded by Seas
(Non-SR 20 roads north of Ebey’s Reserve)
Loop: Oak Harbor to West Beach and Back
This 7.7-mile long drive from Oak Harbor takes you through farmland, to West Beach, and back. Be sure to get out and walk the beach and watch for wildlife. Even on a stormy day, this drive is a great way to get away.
Drive to Dugualla
State Park
Enjoy a picturesque drive through forests and famland on Sleeper Road. This 2.5-mile drive will take you to one of Whidbey Island’s lesser-known parks, Dugualla State Park, which has a great system of trails.
Ravishing Reserve Routes
(Non-SR 20 roads within Ebey’s Reserve)
A Tour Through the Heart of the Reserve
This 8-mile long drive takes you past one of the island’s many lakes–great for bird-watching–Fort Casey State Park, Admiralty Head Lighthouse, and hiking trails. Although this “detour” only adds three miles to your drive, it could take you days to get through all the things to see and do.
Prairie Walks and a Gallery in a Forest.
This drive takes you through a prairie and a woodland drive. There’s also a forest that doubles as an art gallery. Slightly more than three miles in length, the detour from the main road packs plenty for you to see and do.
Click the button for Camano Island drives.
Resounding Sound & Fertile Farmlands
(Roads south of 525 between Freeland and Clinton)
When arriving at Whidbey Island via ferry in Clinton, practically the first left turn onto Humphrey Road affords you gorgeous sweeping views of ferries traversing the Sound. Before you reach the southern tip of the island, you’ll encounter the legacy of past landslides, where certain roads meet in unexpected corners, and zig-zagging routes send you deep into the lush green woods.
A Backcountry Drive to Maxwelton Beach
This 7-mile long drive takes you through the rural farmland of South Whidbey. You’ll drive quiet back roads, including a view-worth drive down Swede Hill to Maxwelton Beach.
A Country Drive: Maxwelton to Bayview
If you have the urge to explore the backroads of our islands, you can’t do much better than this road between Maxwelton and Bayview. It’s a relaxing drive through farm country.
Salish Sights & Woodland Wanderings
(Roads north of SR 525 between Freeland and Clinton)
When starting from Langley, several backroad adventures present themselves. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and be sure to note the speed limit through the residential communities.
Through the Woods: Langley to Freeland
This route is for those who have some time to kill and are in need of a quiet drive. The tree-lined roadway winds along the north shore of South Whidbey before turning south to Freeland.
Rolling Hills and Wetlands: Newman Road
This back road to Freeland isn’t much longer than taking the highway but is rich with views of farms, rolling hills, wildlife, and wetlands. Watch out for artists and other businesses along the way.