In June of 1792, Captain Vancouver explored a remarkable coastal land with breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and moderate climate. During these explorations, a thin passageway was discovered, identifying this enchanted place as an island. Vancouver named the island after Joseph Whidbey who found the thin passageway now called Deception Pass.
Nestled in Puget Sound between the Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges of the Pacific Northwest, Whidbey Island is the longest island in the continental U.S. It is here you will find extraordinary beauty commingled with gourmet dining, unique art galleries and gifts, antiques, wineries, watchable wildlife, sustainable villages and hamlets, historical sites, recreational adventures for all seasons, and so much more.
Whidbey Island's Route 525/20 is the only designated Washington State Scenic Byway on an island. It's called the "Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way." It's easy to get to Whidbey Island, but difficult to leave. So pack your bags and bring a sense of adventure-come discover the wonders of Whidbey Island.
Great Blue HeronsA familiar sight along the Puget Sound shoreline, great blue herons stand more than four feet tall with a six-foot-wide wingspan. Heron can stand motionless for long periods of time waiting for the right moment to strike their prey. They nest in groups called rookeries and nests may be re-used for decades. |
Gray WhalesAlong with the arrival of spring comes the passage of gray whales through Puget Sound. From six to ten Grays return most years to southeastern Whidbey Island for several months, some of them stay all summer. Thanks to their near-shore migration route, we can often observe the gray spy-hopping, lobtailing and breaching. |
