Budget-Friendly Family Fun on Whidbey and Camano Islands
Traveling with children doesn’t have to break the bank, especially on Whidbey and Camano Islands, where natural beauty, small-town charm, and creative communities offer memorable experiences at little to no cost. With thoughtful planning, families can enjoy rich adventures while keeping budgets in check.
Start with the ferry ride to Whidbey Island, on either the Mukilteo/Clinton or Port Townsend/Coupeville routes, for a fun, inexpensive thrill for kids and a scenic kickoff to your trip, or travel across the famous Deception Pass Bridge on the north end of the island. Once there, explore Deception Pass State Park, where trails, tidepools, and beaches offer hours of free outdoor discovery. Younger children will love Fort Casey’s historic bunkers and lighthouse, while teens might enjoy the beach at Double Bluff or watching wildlife at Ebey’s Landing.
Camano Island is easily accessible; just drive on, and it is equally kid-friendly. Spend the day at Cama Beach State Park, where families can walk forest trails, play along the shore, or rent a kayak. Nearby, Camano Commons offers affordable kid favorites, including burgers and tacos, as well as homemade ice cream.
Picnicking is a great way to save on meals. Pick up fresh bread, fruit, and snacks from local markets like Greenbank Farm in Greenbank, Star Store in Langley or the Bayview Farmers Market (open Saturdays). And, on Camano Island, there’s the Camano Plaza IGA. And for a treat, look for family-friendly cafes such as Freeland Café in Freeland, Flower House Café in Langley, Sunshine Drip in Coupeville and the Camano Marketplace on Camano Island.
Plan your family adventure with Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism’s free guides – 24 Trails Off the Beaten Path and 24 Cultural and Heritage Adventures, available at Visitor Centers, accommodations and local libraries. With its laid-back pace and wealth of natural wonders, Whidbey and Camano make ideal budget getaways that leave room for wonder—and plenty of adventure.
Budget and Kid-Friendly Accommodations
Whidbey Island
Best Western Plus Oak Harbor Hotel & Conference Center
Address: 33175 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, WA
Website: BestWestern.com
Amenities: Outdoor pool, gym, free hot breakfast, free Wi‑Fi, business center, pet‑friendly, cribs available
Notes: Complimentary breakfast, pools, and spacious rooms with cribs
Coachman Inn & Suites
Address: 32959 SR 20, Oak Harbor, WA
Website: Coachmaninn.com
Amenities: Outdoor pool, two hot tubs, fitness center, free Wi‑Fi, continental breakfast
Notes: Great value for families
Candlewood Suites Oak Harbor (IHG)
Address: 33221 SR 20, Oak Harbor, WA
Website: CandlewoodSuites.com
Amenities: Studio suites with kitchenettes, fitness center, pantry, free Wi‑Fi
Notes: Ideal for families needing kitchen space and more extended stays
Acorn Motor Inn
Address: 31530 SR 20, Oak Harbor, WA
Website: Bookable via Expedia/Kayak
Amenities: Free breakfast, Wi‑Fi, vending machines
Notes: Reliable, basic haven for families on a tight budget
South Whidbey Canal‑Front Cottage (Short‑Term Rental)
Location: Clinton, Whidbey Island
Website: Airbnb or VRBO
Amenities: Indoor sauna, jacuzzi, community beach, kayaks, playground, full kitchen
Notes: Great value for families with older kids, pet-friendly
Camano Island
Camano Island Inn
Address: 1054 SW Camano Drive, Camano Island, WA
Website: CamanoIslandInn.com
Amenities: Private beach & garden, spa services, free Wi‑Fi, hot tub (select rooms), free parking
Notes: Comfortable waterfront retreat with family appeal and moderate pricing
Sea Mist Waterfront Inn
Address: Near Cama Beach State Park, Camano Island, WA
Website: Expedia, Kayak, or Airbnb
Amenities: Private beach access, complimentary breakfast, free Wi‑Fi
Notes: Simple, family-friendly waterfront lodging
Eagle Cliff Cottage (Short‑Term Rental)
Location: Camano Island
Website: Airbnb/VRBO
Amenities: Pet‑friendly, full kitchen, laundry
Notes: Cozy, flexible option for families with pets
Sundin Beach Cottage (Short‑Term Rental)
Location: Camano Island
Website: Expedia/Kayak
Amenities: Sofa beds, kitchen, proximity to children’s museum
Notes: Designed with families in mind—space and local attractions
