Updated February 27, 2023

Whidbey and Camano Islands are filled with small family farms. Some have been owned by the same family for more than 100 years and others are owned by young families just starting out on a great adventure.

And, even though these are working farms with real deadlines and all the other pressures of running a business, they’re pretty proud of what they do, and some are willing to take the time to share that pride with visitors.

In addition, there are some other farm experiences that can help you home in on the agricultural “vibe” of the islands.

Here are five ways you can dip your toes into island farm life.

EXPERIENCE # 1 – Farm Tours

A yellow tractor pulls a trolley through a pumpkin patch. — Families ride the trolley into the pumpkin patch.

Time permitting, several farms can offer free tours.

Kristoferson Farm | Camano Island – With a brand-new roadside stand, u-pick lavender grove, a concert and a two-day island-wide fall festival, what could make this farm more visitor-friendly? Oh yeah, zip-lining through the farm’s forest! Groups of 10-20 may arrange for a guided tour of the farm, which is perfect for classroom outings. https://kristofersonfarm.com/
Anada Farm | Camano Island – Open for visitors Saturday 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Tour the farm and meet the animals. There’s also a kids day camp and yoga on the farm. https://anandafarms.com/
Glendale Shepherd Farms | Whidbey Island – You’ll find award-winning cheeses here and meet the sheep that produce them. Visit the farm store Friday – Sunday between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check with the staff for a possible tour, or email in advance. https://www.glendaleshepherd.com/farm-visits
Western Sun Lavender Farm | Whidbey Island – Formerly Lavender Wind Farm, new owners have a handy way to book your visits online. Open mid-June to Mid-August
https://westernsunlavender.com/
Scenic Isle Farm | Whidbey Island – Among the area’s oldest, this farm opens for pumpkin-picking each October and features a trolley ride to the field. http://www.scenicislefarm.com/
Bell’s Farm | Whidbey Island – The well-stocked farm stand is always a great source of fresh things to eat. The farm is also a photographer’s favorite. https://www.bells-farm.com/
Organic Farm School | Whidbey Island – Each year a new group of students learn everything from soil to the business end of things. Contact the farm ahead of time for a tour. Yes, they accept new students each year. https://www.organicfarmschool.org
Spoiled Dog Winery | Whidbey Island – This photogenic vineyard is a great spot for picnics! Of course, there is always wine tasting with wine available for purchase. https://www.spoileddogwinery.com/

EXPERIENCE # 2 – Farm Stands & Stores

Small wooden building. — Kristoferson Farm Stand

In addition to the stands mentioned above, many other farms have stands. Some of them include:

Island Harvest Farm | Camano Island – Visit Website
The Farm Stand – Visit Website
Case Farm – Whidbey Island | Visit Website
Mutiny Bay Blues | Whidbey Island – Visit Website
Orchard Kitchen Farm Stand | Whidbey Island – Visit Website
Three Sisters Market | Whidbey Island — Visit Website
Whidbey Farm and Market | Whidbey Island – Visit Website

There are many more. Check here for a more complete list.

EXPERIENCE # 3 – Farmers Markets

A cluster of several dozen tents with cars parked around them. — A perfect day for shopping at the Bayview Farmers’ Market.

Held mostly, but not always, on weekends, farmers markets offer all kinds of fresh goodies. There are veggies, of course, but also fresh bread, flowers, and often food trucks are there, too!

Be sure to talk to the farmers at the stands. You’ll learn a lot about veggies, cooking, and the region!

Saturday

Bayview Farmers Market – Visit their website.
Coupeville Farmers Market – Visit their website.

Sunday

South Whidbey Tilth Market – Visit their website.

EXPERIENCE # 4 – Whidbey Island Grown Cooperative

Fresh carrots, broccoli, beans, and more are on a sunlit plate. — Just some of the bounty from Whidbey Island Grown.

Are you visiting Whidbey Island on a Friday afternoon? Whether you’re coming here for a few days or want a taste of Whidbey Island to take home, this is for you!

Experience the freshest goodies the island has to offer in one stop! Order online by 9 p.m. on Tuesday and pick up on Friday. No membership or subscription required. Pick-up in Oak Harbor, Coupeville, or Freeland. Check here for an ever-changing catalog of meat, seafood, and vegetables!

Shop local!