Whidbey Island Travel Information
Forests drop down to hidden coves, rocky beaches and steep cliffs at
Whidbey Island's edges. Connected to the Washington mainland by a
bridge spanning spectacular Deception Pass, this island is a popular
Puget Sound getaway for visitors up on the ferry from Seattle, or down
by road from the north. Despite the fact that the island is so easily
accessible, Whidbey Island is a worthwhile stop, crowds or no.
Walk the length of the Deception Pass Bridge for a feel of the area
-- watch tiny boats below to help put things in perspective. Kelp
beds ripple with the current around the rocky protrusions that protect
the coastline. Descend the stairs on the south end of the bridge for
access to a rocky beach and a good climb back to the road. There are
several short trails in the area that end in views out over the length
of the island and far out to sea. Deception Pass State Park is on the
far side of the bridge. Follow any of the trails radiating out of the
camping area for solitude and seagulls. In summer, the water often
sparkles at night with phosphorescence -- or catch the colors of
sunset from one of the promontories facing west over Puget
Sound. Whidbey Island is the longest island in America, though it
still doesn't take long to drive the highway to Whidbey's south tip.
Narrow and hilly, the smell of fresh salt air penetrates the nose
even when the sea has disappeared behind acres of forest. Stop in for
lunch at a restaurant overlooking the water, and enjoy the quiet crawl
of life here, a short jaunt from Seattle and an easy stop on the way
on to the Olympic Peninsula. Whidbey Island is 26 miles north of
Seattle as the ferry rides. The trip lasts about 20 minutes and boats
leave at regular intervals.
| 
