Spotlight on Whidbey Island
Where is Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island, part of Island County, is located about 30 miles north of Seattle in the Puget Sound. It is Washington’s largest island at approximately 40 miles long. The land comprises rugged terrain, beaches, hills, and farmland. Chief coastal towns are Oak Harbor (north), Coupeville (north), Clinton (south), and Langley (south).
Population of Whidbey Island
There are over 70,000 residents known as Whidbey Islanders. Locals distinguish themselves as either “Northenders” or “Southenders,” depending on the region they inhabit.
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The North-End
The north-end of the island is strongly influenced by the presence of Whidbey Island Naval Air Station, the largest base in the Pacific Northwest. Ault Field, main area of the base, is located about 3 miles north of Oak Harbor. Also located in the north-end is Deception Pass State Park, the most visited state park in Washington state. Located midway between Oak Harbor and Anacortes, it spans over 3,854 acres. This park, filled with mysterious coves, rugged cliffs, jaw-dropping sunsets, is home to Cranberry Lake. Deception Pass Bridge can be viewed from different vantage points. It connects Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands.
The South-End
The south-end of the island predominately relies on tourism, as well as small-scale farming, and the arts. There are two historical forts in the area worth visiting. Fort Ebey was built to be a defense fort during WWII. There are many trails to walk along and plenty of bunkers to explore. The second historical fort, Fort Casey, is part of a trio of forts that defended the Puget Sound known as the “Triangle of Fire.” It was constructed around the turn of the 20th century. Admiralty Head Lighthouse , built in 1903, can be visited. Sign up for tours or mill the gift shop inside. Another place worth checking out is Ebey’s Landing near Coupeville. Beautiful wetlands, prairie habitats, and a coastal bluff offer stunning views of the Olympic Peninsula and Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Fort Casey Admiralty Head Lighthouse
How to Get to Whidbey Island
There are a few ways to get to Whidbey Island. First, and the most likely commute from Seattle, is to take the Mukilteo Ferry. Only a 15 minute trip across the water, this ferry lands on the southern end of the island in the town of Clinton. Another option is traveling across Deception Pass Bridge from Fidalgo Island to Whidbey by North Cascade Hwy SR 20, West from Mt. Vernon. Lastly, if you happen to be coming from the Olympic Peninsula you can take a ferry from Port Townsend to Coupeville, which is adjacent to Fort Casey.
Deception Pass Bridge
Get More Info on Whidbey Island Market
For more information on Whidbey Island or Seattle markets, feel free to contact us. There are many Seattle real estate companies, but Ewing and Clark has been providing Seattle real estate service since 1900. We represent both buyers and sellers throughout the Greater Seattle area. We are here to share our expertise with you.
