Whidbey Islander - Whidbey and Fidalgo Islander 2018

islander 2018

WHIDBEY & FIDALGO

FREE GUIDE PLAN YOUR GETAWAY TO BEAUTIFUL WHIDBEY

THE PREMIER VISITORS GUIDE TO WHIDBEY ISLAND AND SURROUNDING AREAS A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WHIDBEY NEWS-TIMES & SOUTH WHIDBEY RECORD

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L E A R N M O R E AT W H I D B E Y. C O M

WELCOME

to a little piece of paradise

W

hidbey Island is a magical place, unique in that it's accessible by scenic Deception Pass Bridge to the north and iconic state ferries to the south.

Just a quick drive from Whidbey is equally beautiful Fidalgo Island and Anacortes. The two islands are just a short drive from Seattle and other metropolitan areas, making them an ideal getaway for a day or a weekend.

Millions of visitors come to the islands every year, drinking in the scores of scenic vistas, grabbing the endless photo opportunities and enjoying the many great events held throughout the course of the year.

The Islander is the premier visitors guide for Whidbey and Fidalgo islands.

Published for nearly 30 years now, it is produced by the award-winning staff of Whidbey News Group. The Islander is found at visitor centers along the Interstate 5 corridor, from Canada to the Oregon border, as well as on state ferries.

Peruse your Islander, find great ideas for things to do and places to see, and start thinking about your next visit.

Send us your stories about your time on Whidbey. We'd like to share them with others. You can email them to me at kgraves@whidbeynewsgroup.com Enjoy your visit to our island paradise.

— Keven R. Graves, Executive Editor and Publisher

Explore it !

Drive off the mainland to...

islander contents 2018

WHIDBEY & FIDALGO

Clinton 6 Wildlife Watching

8

Langley 10 Arts & Entertainment 14 Bayview 19 Freeland 22

Island Spirits

26

Restaurant Maps 28-30 Agriculture 31

Greenbank 32 Parks 34 Coupeville 36 Recreation 38 Oak Harbor 41

Events Calendar

44

Off-Island: Anacortes 49 Off-Island: Camano 50 Off-Island: Port Townsend 52 Off-Island: Skagit 53 Cover Photo: The Olympics provide a majestic backdrop for the Oak Harbor Marina.

Photograph by Pam Headridge PUBLISHER & EXECUTIVE EDITOR Keven R. Graves ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Kimberlly Winjum EDITOR Jessie Stensland STORIES & PHOTOS Laura Guido, Jim Waller, Maria Matson & Patricia Guthrie SALES CONSULTANTS Nora Durand, Anni Powell, Jacy Anderson & Jocelyn Ialacci PRODUCTION MANAGER Jennifer Wilkins CREATIVE TEAM Erin Goodfellow and Gretchen Bundy ADMINISTRATIVE Kaitlyn Martinez

WA S H I N G T O N S T A T E, U S A

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Additional copies of the Islander can be obtained by contacting: WHIDBEY NEWS GROUP | 360-675-6611 P.O. Box 1200 | 107 S. Main Street, Suite E101, Coupeville, WA 98239 Copyright 2018, Sound Publishing, Inc.

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“ Don’t

settle for normal,

life is about new and different adventures, and creating unique unforgettable experiences from those adventures.”

ROCK CLIMBING AND RECREATIONAL TREE CLIMBING With longer days filled with sunshine, fresh air and the smell of sap, it brings new opportunity for adventures, picking up new hobbies or crossing things of your summer bucket list. Adventure Terra is just the place to start with your summer climbing activities when visiting Whidbey Island!!! Located right in the heart of Deception Pass State Park is where you will find Canopy Tree Climbing, giving you the opportunity to be a kid again and reach heights over 200ft.

While Adventure Terra also offers three different locations for rock climbing, Canopy Tree Climbing in Deception Pass is quickly rising to the top of everyone’s summer activities list when they visit Whidbey Island. The greatest thing is, there is no experience needed for rock climbing or canopy tree climbing, and the guides are super patient with taking their time to ensure that you, the climber, feel safe and comfortable in your gear, while also teaching you the proper ways to handle it. Whether you are 7 or 107, Adventure Terra will get you climbing!

Canopy tree climbing is a half day experience. You first start with a demonstration on how you will use your gear to climb, the safety rules to follow, and also how to best preserve the nature around you. Each person is tailor fitted to the gear they will use to ensure that they are getting up the tree the best way. Every instructor takes their time to make sure your gear is best for YOU. Then you’re ready to go!

Once you’re up, that’s when the fun begins, and you’re dancing in the tree branches! You are able to climb at your own pace, while enjoying breath taking

Adventure Terra Call us at 206-914-8613 or email to contact@adventureterra.com 4

Canopy climbing now offered at Deception Pass State Park

views of the Deception Pass Bridge and the Puget Sound, or you can schedule a sunset climb and capture the gorgeous pink and purple skies across the Pacific North West. It is truly an amazing experience! And don’t forget to take pictures! You’ll be part of 1% of the population doing this activity, so make sure you document the experience.

Don’t just take my word on it, book your canopy tree climbing or rock climbing adventure today! Climbing season runs from April to October every year.

You can make reservations online by going to www.adventureterra.com or calling 206-914-8613.

SAVE $50 when you use the code ISLANDER Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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Gateway to South Whidbey is bustling Clinton is the tip of the southern spear of Whidbey Island and entryway to the island’s beauty and bounty of arts and unique events.

Many who arrive in Clinton likely traveled by way of the Clinton-to-Mukilteo ferry, which provides safe passage across Possession Sound. The unincorporated area offers beaches, arts, restaurants and businesses, all within short driving distance.

Just off the ferry on Clinton Beach is the Fishing Pier-Dock Facility. It’s a day-use dock that allows people to tie up their boats, though there is no launch ramp. Another fishing pier is also located nearby and is a popular spot for crabbers using nets and pots.

The commercial core of Clinton is up the road from the ferry terminal. For those who are hungry from traveling, there are several options for dining: Cozy’s Roadhouse, Dairy Queen, Hong Kong Gardens and Island Nosh which offers a worldly mix of vegetarian food.

Clinton Foodmart, just off the road, provides everything from groceries, gift cards and pizza. Fresh-cut flowers, artisan goods, farm-fresh produce and culinary creations can also be found during the market season at the Clinton Community Hall.

Clinton is know for its community events: the Maxwelton July 4th Parade and Clinton Town Picnic.

The parade on July 4 draws thousands to the Maxwelton Beach area for a large showing of national pride, as well as a number of community-oriented games and activities following the parade.

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Visitors to Clinton often take the Clinton-to-Mukilteo ferry through Posession Sound. The Clinton Ferry Terminal provides entry to Whidbey Island.

The town picnic held in September features food, music, games, prizes and a large outdoor scrabble game.

Clinton’s outdoor farmers market is Thursday afternoon in July and August. The market features local artists, craftsmen, food, music and fun.

For those who enjoy some peace and quiet, Clinton has a few areas to check out. One of the most serene locales on Whidbey Island can be found at Deer Lake.

There’s a small boat ramp and dock used for both fishing and swimming on one end of the lake.

Possession Beach Waterfront Park is commonly utilized by anglers for boat launches during fishing season and Dorothy Cleveland Trail is also nearby. The trail offers plenty of views, as it spans three miles roundtrip.

The Whidbey Camano Land Trust also purchased land just north of the ferry terminal and east of the highway to be preserved.

The public can roam on 33 acres of forest

and wetlands, 26 acres of beach and tidelands and 2,000 feet of shoreline. Venture Out, a large nursery with a fountain and strolling paths, is also a pleasant place to sit awhile.

Blueschool Arts, an event venue and studio space, hosts many exhibits and events.

Just a few miles north of the ferry terminal is Ken’s Korner Shopping Plaza, which has supplies and services for residents and visitors.

There’s Patron Mexican Restaurant, a grocery store, hardware store, pharmacy, thrift shop, espresso stand, nail salon, liquor store and two favorite munching spots of locals, Whidbey Island Bagel Factory and Pickles Deli. CJ&Y Decadent Desserts, located near the bagel shop, can top off any meal.

If you’re needing a sip of spirits, Cadee Distillery is known for its bourbon whiskey and many other aged spirits. Driving off the ferry, you can’t miss its tasting room, marked with a big white barrel, Cadee, a Gaelic word meaning pure and clean.

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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Keep an eye out for wildlife, including whales and birds When it comes to wildlife watching, Whidbey Island is all about whales and birds.

Whales, in fact, are attracting a growing number of tourists to the island. Beginning in March and April, whale watching tours depart from North Whidbey and Langley.

Langley is home to a whale center, run by the Orca Network. It is a place to learn about whales and follow sightings.

Beginning in March, peaking in April and into May, the mighty gray whales are a common sight in waters in Possession Sound.

They can be seen feeding on the shrimp in the sand.

Orca sightings around Whidbey are less dependable and more spread out throughout the calendar. Southern Resident orcas that live in the waters off San Juan Island begin their southern migration to feed on salmon heading to Puget Sound rivers starting in the late summer.

Sightings from Whidbey are most common from the island’s west side in October and November. Resident orcas travel in larger schools.

Transient orcas appear in the waters around Whidbey more randomly with sightings not uncommon during the summer.

These marine mammal eaters travel in much smaller numbers.

It’s not uncommon to spot schools of 8

Cove in the central part of the island, Deer Lagoon in the south and Deception Pass and the Crescent Harbor marshes on North Whidbey. The marshes are located on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island near the Seaplane base.

Crockett Lake, located next to the Coupeville ferry terminal, is not only a top place to spot shorebirds at certain times of the year but is one of the best places to view raptors, including the bald eagle, northern harrier and red-tailed hawk.

The Deer Lagoon estuary, near Useless Bay, is less accessible to the public but is home to thousands of shorebirds, songbirds, raptors and waterfowl throughout the year.

The great blue heron, a large wading bird, can be seen all across Whidbey’s shorelines and marshes. The herons can be seen in flight at dusk heading back to their rookeries in trees. A large concentration is across the highway from Greenbank Farm.

Whidbey also is home to several owl species, woodpeckers and hummingbirds.

On North Whidbey, a lone six-point bull

Dall’s Porpoises or Harbor Porpoises around Whidbey waters as well, especially in Admiralty Inlet.

Humpback whales made a comeback in the Salish Sea a couple of years ago with more sightings than usual.

The island is also home to a wide range of bird species that can be viewed year-round, whereas the window for spotting a whale, particularly a gray, is much tighter.

Located in the Pacific Flyway, a north-south migration path for birds, Whidbey is a popular A majestic grey whale. Photo from Deception Pass Tours. destination for birders.

The island features five locations recognized as Important Bird Areas elk has taken up residence since the fall of 2012. Bruiser, the name Strawberry Point by the National Audubon Society.

Shorebirds are often the most sought residents affectionately call him, is believed after among bird watchers and Whidbey to have swum across Skagit Bay to reach the offers prime habitat for several species with island.

Black-tailed deer, meanwhile, are all over western sandpipers and dunlins among the most common. Many birders come in hopes the island and can be a hazard on the highof catching a rare sighting of a particular ways, especially at night.

A good place to see deer in large numbers shorebird along the migration path.

Whidbey’s prime bird spots with impor- during daytime hours is at Fort Casey State tant designation are Crockett Lake and Penn Park in Coupeville.

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

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One of many marina docks in the Village by the Sea.

Village full of diversity, celebration Dubbed the Village by the Sea, Langley lives up to its moniker in many ways — waterfront views, beaches and marina docks to stroll, charming shops, quaint downtown streets, even an annual parade to welcome the whales. It’s also an artists’ mecca filled with galleries, outdoor art and events celebrating the arts. Located about six miles

north of the Clinton ferry dock, Langley attracts many visitors year round because it’s easy to reach and once you get there, you can walk most everywhere. The incorporated city’s business district spans roughly 12 blocks between First and Third Streets and Park and Camano Avenues. Langley offers a wide array of shopping opportunities, from

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gift shops with island knickknacks to home decor and fine art galleries.

Those looking to indulge in spirits, Langley’s 2nd St. Wine Shop & Tasting Room and Ott and Murphy Wines offer a large selection of wines. Dining options include Prima Bistro, Village Pizzeria, the Braeburn Cafe, Spyhop Public House, Portico Latin Bistro and the newly opened seafood restaurant, Saltwater Fish & Oyster Bar. Coffee shops include Useless Bay Coffee Company, where many locals gather for breakfast, South Whidbey Commons and Sprinklz Ice Cream Parlor and Coffee Shop.

To satisfy a sweet tooth, there’s no better place than Sweet Mona’s Chocolate Boutique. The Star Store, Langley’s go-to store for almost everything, is divided into a food section, liquor store and a specialty clothing store that also has many Whidbey Island-themed gifts.

Community theater abounds in Langley with numerous theater groups, a performing arts center and the summer Island Shakespeare Festival.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 12

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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Its longtime fall event, DjangoFest Northwest, brings in thousands of musicians. One of Langley’s biggest attractions is the annual week-long Whidbey Island Fair, which is a throwback to quaint county fairs.

The town throws a Welcome the Whales Parade and Festival in April because about a dozen migrating gray whales stop and feed in Saratoga Passage in the spring. You can learn all about them at the Langley Whale Center on Anthes Avenue; be on alert for the sound of a bell clanging in Whale Bell Park — it means whales are out there! Whale watching excursion boats make regular trips from Langley’s marina out to see grays, orcas and the occasional humpback. Community gatherings and celebrations held annually include Deck the Doors at Christmastime, Halloween trick-ortreating, Sea Float Scramble and the Holly Jolly Parade in early December. Langley is also known for its Mystery Weekend in late winter when people poke around town looking for clues to solve a fictional crime.

The Whidbey Queer Pride Festival and parade takes place in Langley in June. Memorial Day brings out cats and dogs and other critters for the Pawz Pet Parade and March is filled with lovers of Langley’s infamous bunnies.

Called Bunny Daze featuring “wascally wabbits,” Langley just won a state tourism award for best promotional event.

The bountiful bunnies are the result of an alleged escape from a 4-H event years ago from Island County Fairgrounds. That’s still the best place to spot them, just watch your step around all their burrowing holes. The Clyde Theatre, on First Street, has been showing

Central Asian Bazaar

Music for the Eyes

Fun for all ages in Langley. Welcome the Whales festival in April is enjoyable for children and adults alike.

movies the past 80 years and continues to bring in both independent and critically acclaimed movies. For kids and adults wanting to be kids, a unique space called the Machine Shop is open daily for fun.

It features 60 vintage pinball machines, funky neon art and a virtual reality booth that can send you into space, the sea or your favorite fantasy world. Watching the art of glass blowing is another family activity offered at Callahan’s FireHouse Studio, a renovated fire station. For a fee, it’s possible to make your own simmering memory of the Village by the Sea.

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

Books to delight the mind

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SHOP Serving 3 years - 12th grade islandchristianacademy.com 5373 Maxwelton Rd, Langley, WA Learn about the endangered Southern Resident Orcas, and the Gray Whales who feed off the waters of Saratoga Passage and Possession Sound.

Learn about the Great place for winter weekends, Transient Orcas bring your family and guests for and other marine a fun and educational outing. mammals who live in the Salish Sea

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Educational Displays and Videos Fun Gift Shop with unique gifts, books, DVD’s, jewelry, hats, t-shirts, toys For rainy days, check out our free lending library for books and DVD’s

Free Admission & Gift Shop Open Thursdays through Mondays 11 A.M. to 5 P.M., 105 Anthes Ave, Langley, WA • (360) 221-7505 langleywhalecenter@whidbey.com • Follow Langley Whale Center on Facebook Langley Whale Center is a project of Orca Network a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization

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2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

Beautiful grounds & picnic areas

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Island offers all types of fun throughout year Whidbey Island's social calendar is jam-packed throughout the year with events, festivals and other offerings sure to entertain any visitor. Guests are welcome and encouraged to come and partake in all of the fun.

FOURTH OF JULY

Go back in time when small towns everywhere wished the nation “Happy Birthday” with patriotic parades and old-fashioned fun. That’s the kind of Independence Day spirit to expect around Whidbey Island. And it’s not limited to one day. Oak Harbor sports one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations, lasting over four days, July 1-4, at Windjammer Park with a beach-side carnival, vendors and many food choices. A grand parade with some 100 entries winds its way through downtown on July 4. Be sure to plan to stay into the evening when fireworks shimmer off the water in a spectacular closure to the long weekend. At Freeland Park, Celebrate America takes place July 3. Organized by the staff and congregation of

South Whidbey Assembly of God Church, it features all kinds of games and activities for children, food vendors and a fireworks display at dusk.

JULY 12-SEPT. 2 ISLAND SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

The Bard is not hard to find on Whidbey, at least during the summer months. Founded in 2010, this open air Shakespeare stage features three productions running in repertory Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday July 12 through Sept. 2. The plays are performed outdoors in an old-world style tent and the casual atmospheres is family friendly. So’s the price — it’s free but donations keep it afloat via the Pass the Hat concept. Audiences put what they can or want to in the hat for each performance. The outdoor stage at Maxwelton Road is near Langley.

JULY 19-22 WHIDBEY ISLAND RACE WEEK

Colorful spinnakers, jibs and other sails surround Whidbey Island July 19-22 during the premier sailboat-racing regatta of the Pacific Northwest.

Racing and cruising sailboats can be seen from many vantage points around Oak Harbor, Penn Cove near Coupeville and from the shores of Saratoga Passage.

Thousands of sailors participate in this week-long event that’s anchored at Oak Harbor Yacht Club and Oak Harbor Marina. You don’t have to know port from starboard to join in the fun. Each day following sailboat racing, Whidbey Island Race Week presents a post-race party at the Oak Harbor Yacht Club, featuring live music, fun crew contests, daily race awards and food and beverage services.

JULY 19-22 WHIDBEY ISLAND FAIR

Farm animals, a carnival, games, music and other events are the annual attractions at the Whidbey Island Fair on the historic and picturesque Langley fairgrounds. It’s a throwback to county fairs of simpler days. Barnyard critters, weird vegetables and 4-H projects are among many exhibits. Crops, horticulture and floriculture are also spotlighted and all types of handiwork from clothing to canning, pies to photography are vying for prizes.

AUG. 11-12 COUPEVILLE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

The Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival is held each summer with Penn Cove as the quaint backdrop.

Come experience some of the finest arts and crafts with vendors from all over the country. In addition to the vendor booths the festival also features an art gallery and wine reception, a wine and beer garden, a hands-on children’s activity area, a food court and live entertainment. The Coupeville Festival Association is all about giving back to the local community. It is a 100 percent volunteer run organization and the money raised stays local through annual grants given to various community organizations and projects. Its goals are to enhance the community of Coupeville by distributing the non-operational proceeds of the annual Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival to projects that demonstrate: preservation and beautification of the historic community; promotion of quality handcrafts and the arts and cultural enrichment of the community’s residents.

AUG. 12 PIGFEST

Get high on the hog at the August 12 Oak Harbor Pigfest that features free barbecue pork, kids’ games, music and lots of family fun. In its 10th year, the annual event is Scott Fraser’s way to say ‘thanks’ to the community. Fraser is the chef and owner of Frasers Gourmet Hideaway, a fine-dining experience in Oak Harbor. A professionally-sanctioned barbecue competition is part of the Pigfest with more than two dozen cooks vying to be the tastiest, tangy crowd favorite. Be prepared to wait in line for that free meal as some 10,000 people come out.

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AUG. 30-Sept.2 OAK HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL

This free three-day event is becoming known as a great place to hang Labor Day weekend and take in a diverse gathering of bands and jams. Since it began in 2012, attendance has soared from year to year and topped 20,000 festival-goers last year, some who came by boat and tied up at Oak Harbor Marina. More than 30 bands perform with acts spanning just about every genre from country to rock ’n’ roll and electronica.

Bands from across the country are vying to be on the play list and be part of the music scene that takes over Oak Harbor’s downtown Pioneer Way.

SEPT. 15-16 WHIDBEY ISLAND KITE FESTIVAL

Whidbey’s winds whip without respite. So naturally, one of the premier kite competitions in the Pacific Northwest takes flight here at Camp Casey.

Set against the majestic backdrop of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound, the kite festival on Sept.

15-16 features impressive ground and air displays of color and imagination. The annual event features competitive kite flying, kite making and beginning sport kite lessons. The highlight of the weekend is the Whidbey Island Sport Kite Championships.

Competition takes place both Saturday and Sunday on the field at Camp Casey and Saturday night an indoor event takes place at the Coupeville High School Gym.

SEPT. 19-23 DJANGOFEST NORTHWEST

Celebrating more than 16 years of gypsy jazz, DjangoFest attracts performers from around the world and packs in the music lovers to Langley. One of the longest established Gypsy Jazz festivals in North America, it features performers at various venues, workshops and impromptu Djams that spring-up everywhere over five days of unforgettable guitar virtuosity, Sinatresque crooning and experimental offerings, such as ‘Gypsy meets Flamenco.’ The amazing sounds are complimented by Langley’s fresh seaside air and offerings of locally-produced wines, food and coffee.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS

Celebrate the holidays on Whidbey (Lighting of Langley, Greening of Coupeville, Oak Harbor’s Pioneer Way celebration) During November and December, all the island communities create their own special holiday ambiance. On Nov. 24, the annual Lighting of Langley features singing carols, sipping hot cider and cocoa, Santa and Whidbey’s own alpaca-reindeer. On Dec. 2, Langley’s Holly Jolly Holiday Parade takes place in the morning; the evening of Dec. 1, Oak Harbor’s marina and boats glow in the dark during the Lighted Boat Parade; also, Dec. 1, The Greening of Coupeville is jam-packed with activity. The morning’s Jingle Trail Run sees residents brave the cold for a rush of exercise adrenaline through Fort Casey and Camp Casey. Saratoga Orchestra offers a free concert at the high school in the afternoon and several churches hold holiday bazaars with special meals. In late afternoon, people gather downtown for the annual Greening of Coupeville Parade. Post parade, head to Cooke’s Corner Park for caroling and a tree lighting. Downtown businesses stay open for late-night shopping while boats from the Oak Harbor Yacht Club cruise through Penn Cove for the Lighted Boat Parade. From Dec. 26 to Dec. 31, Oak Harbor features Island Ice at Windjammer Park, with ice skating, hot cocoa and coffee. For New Year’s Eve, check out Oak Harbor’s annual Fireworks celebration, also at Windjammer Park.

JAN 5 SEA FLOAT SCRAMBLE

If you see hundreds of kids at Langley’s Seawall Park on Jan. 5 poking around trees and totem poles, you’ve stumbled upon the annual Sea Float Scramble.

Join in and try and find gleaming glass sea floats made and donated by artist Callahan McVay, who owns a glass-blowing studio set up in Langley’s old fire station. Called Callahan’s Firehouse, just a short walk from the scramble, it provides a front-row view of how the floats are made. The Sea Float Scramble event is 11:00 a.m. the first Saturday after the New Year weekend. Everyone, young and old, can join in the hunt for free and go home with their own glass treasure.

FEB. 23-24 LANGLEY MYSTERY WEEKEND

Every February someone commits a notorious crime in Langley and it takes a village to solve it.

Billed as the longest running Mystery Weekend in the United States, going on 34 years, young and old can sign-up for a fee and join in the who-dun-it fun. Clues are left everywhere around local Langley shops and stops. A cast of characters hang out on street corners, getting grilled by wannabe detectives looking for suspects. Sleuths successfully solving the dastardly deed may win prizes. Better than any TV prime time crime.

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DJANGO

Fest NW

2018

2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

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Each October a variety of community partners, with the Coupeville Chamber of Commerce at the helm, host a month of Halloween and harvest-related activities. Check out the corn maze during the day and the haunted corn maze at night on select days throughout the month. Visit Sherman Pioneer Farm’s pumpkin patch complete with trolly rides and a haunted barn. Stop by Front Street for the Great Pumpkin Race and Halloween Torchlight Parade.

Events vary from week-to-week and by appeal. Some events cater to children and families, while others appeal to adults. Check out www.hauntingofcoupeville.com for all of the dates and times as the event approaches. Happy Haunting!

e

OCTOBER HAUNTING OF COUPEVILLE

SEPT

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djangofestnw.com // WICAonline.org 360.221.8268 // 800.638.7631 Whidbey Island Center for the Arts 565 Camano Ave, Langley, WA

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MARCH 2-3 PENN COVE MUSSELFEST

“Bold, briny and blue,” world famous mussels are the centerpiece of the March 2-3 Coupeville festival.

There’s chowder tasting, mussel eating competitions, farm tours and activities for all ages featuring locallyflavored fun. Visitors to the festival, should start at the MusselFest Headquarters, located at the Coupeville Recreation Hall in the heart of historic downtown Coupeville. Here they can purchase tickets to the festival favorite Mussel Chowder Tasting Competition, which pits local restaurants against each other for the coveted Mussel Chowder prize. The competition sells out quickly, so organizers recommend that visitors buy their tickets before noon each day. The Waterfront Wine & Beer Garden provides locally crafted brews with nearby family outdoor dining. On Saturday, the Penn Cove Shellfish Mussels, Wine & Beer Garden entertains the crowds with live music, as well as fresh mussels and great beverages. Explore the complexity of Coupeville’s historic waterfront while sampling the blue fruits of the sea.

APRIL 25-28 HOLLAND HAPPENING

There’s much Dutch at Oak Harbor’s annual cel-

ebration of its farming pioneers who emigrated from Holland in the late 1800s. Tulips sprout up on all corners and wooden shoes, licorice and other Dutch treats and touches take over downtown during the four-day festival. A carnival, street fair, traditional dinner and Grand Parade are the main attractions. Saturday, a Town Crier kicks off the parade and broom-toting Street Sweepers tidy up the parade route, a tradition going back to small towns in Holland. More than 100 entries comprise the parade that always includes the finest local marching school bands and lots of tulip-toting children dressed in Dutch costumes who generously pass out the colorful national flower.

Downtown’s Pioneer Way is closed Saturday and Sunday to make room for the music, food, and a beer garden in the historic waterfront area.

MAY 4 PENN COVE WATER FESTIVAL

The mission of the Penn Cove Water Festival Association is to continue an annual revival of the historic Coupeville Water Festival by bringing families together to enjoy Native American canoe racing, entertainment, crafts and culture and by giving them a chance to learn about, appreciate and protect the environment. The one-day May 4 event features annual tribal canoe races, Native arts and crafts, demonstrations, storytelling, dance performances, artist

Seaside &

Sylvan 4 16

demonstrations, authentic Native foods, children's activities and exhibits and displays. Tribal canoe racers come from all over the region to compete in races from the Coupeville Boat Launch to the Coupeville Wharf. Spectators can view the races from viewpoints along Front Street and at the wharf. Vendors line Front Street selling Native items and food. Tribal performance demonstrate tribal music and dances for spectators.

MUSICAL EVENTS

The Saratoga Orchestra and Whidbey Island Community Orchestra each perform several live music concerts throughout the year. Many wineries feature weekly music and they are worth checking out for the latest offerings. Recommended are: Ott & Murphy Wines in downtown Langley which features an eclectic selection of musical acts; Blooms Winery on Bayview Road offers many folk and other artists; Dancing Fish near Freeland serves up bands and soloists in its beautiful airy barn.

The Machine Shop in Langley features live local music monthly. Meerkerk Gardens near Greenbank offers a scenic Bluegrass in the Gardens in mid August.

ARTS ON WHIDBEY

The Whidbey Art Trail is a self-guided visit to art spaces throughout the island.

Whidbey Working Artists Studio Tour provides a chance to chat with artists at their studio.

Front Street in downtown Coupeville, Pioneer Way in Oak Harbor, Greenbank Farm and downtown Freeland are excellent places to stroll and check out galleries and shops featuring local artists.

Additionally, Langley features First Saturday Art Walks, which are a nice way to stroll the two-block town in the evening and check out many local artists showcased at numerous galleries.

The Whidbey Island Woodworker’s Guild presents Woodpolooza in September in Langley. It shows off the talents of master craftsmen/women who make their living creating pieces that will beautifully endure for generations. Cabinetry, sculptures, finelycarved bowls, musical instruments, clocks and many other pieces are displayed.

THEATER AND DANCE

Whidbey Playhouse in Oak Harbor is the North End’s main performing arts venue, and produces about seven shows each year, including musicals and dramas. Langley is home to many live theater venues: the largest is Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, or WICA, the main theater on South Whidbey. It offers a wide variety of plays, live music, talks and many other events. Whidbey Island Children’s Theater provides opportunity for youth ages 4-19 to experience community, connection and creativity through theater programs. Whidbey Island Dance Theater is where many young dancers learn at its studio and perform in a number of seasonal productions. Outcast Productions, also in Langley, offers socially conscious, edgy and thought-provoking theatrical experiences.

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

EXPERIENCE To Anacortes

20

Galleries • Studios • Schools 20 Oak Harbor

Garry Oak Gallery 830 SE Pioneer Way, #101 | Oak Harbor (360) 240-0222 www.garryoakgallery.com

20

Coupeville

Whimsies Mosaics, Art, Gifts, Teas 830 SE Pioneer Way, #104 | Oak Harbor (360) 682-2468 www.westbeachmosaics.com

20

To Port

Townsend

525

Pacific Northwest Art School 15 NW Birch St } Coupeville (360) 678-3396 www.pacificnorthwestartschool.org

The Place To Go For Fun!!

A Paint Your Own Pottery Studio and Espresso Bar

Paint Your World 860 SE Pioneer Way, #102 | Oak Harbor (360) 679-4115 www.paintyourworld.net

Greenbank

Artworks Gallery 765 Wonn Road, #C | Greenbank (360) 222-3010 www.artworkswhidbey.com

Langley

525 Freeland

Bayview

525 Clinton

Casey's Crafts 14485 SR 525 | Bayview Center (360) 321-0577 www.caseyscrafts.com 2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

Rob Schouten Gallery 101 Anthes Avenue | Langley corner of First & Anthes (360)222-3070 robschoutengallery.com

17 3

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Nestled on the grounds of Bayview Farm and Garden, we believe in providing our community with nourishing food and drinks made with love. We celebrate the bounty of the ever-changing seasons, sourcing our ingredients as locally and organically as possible.

Open Daily 8-4pm Follow Us on Facebook & Instagram: @flowerhousecafe

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

Bayview worth taking a closer Custom Homes  Remodels  Commercial look Bayview may be easy to pass by with barely a glimpse for those traveling up and down Whidbey Island on the highway. Doing so, however, would mean missing out on one of Whidbey’s hidden and historical gems.

Bayview is home to one of the strongest farming and gardening communities on South Whidbey, as well as a hub of thriving businesses.

Changing art shows, gardens to stroll, wine tasting, live music, unique shops and a variety of food, beer, even doughnuts and coffee are all within Bayview Corner, the crown jewel of the area that is just off Highway 525 on Bayview Road.

The Taproom offers pints of beer, hard cider and food. Bloom’s Winery tasting room is almost always rocking to live music on weekends

Custom Homes  Remodels  Commercial Custom Homes  Remodels  Commercial Custom Homes  Remodels  Commercial Bayview is a small cozy community but packed with big offerings.

Custom Homes  Remodels  Commercial and most evenings. New business, Whidbey’s Doughnuts, ensconced in a cozy old-fashioned cafe, offers a delectable variety of breakfast, lunch and dozens of doughnuts and doughnut holes, some even gluten-free.

Bayview Farm and Garden, a 2 1/2-acre fullservice center, is a wonderful place for a short walk on paths winding in and around its beautiful arrangement of trees, shrubs, plants, grasses CONTINUED ON PAGE 20

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Langley, WA 98260 360-321-6414 2856 Howard Howard Rd. Rd. 2856 Howard2856 Rd.

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formerly Langley, WA 98260 formerly

formerly

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The Bayview Farmers Market runs every Saturday from the end of April through mid-October.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

and flowers. It’s known for its living tunnel of laburnum trees. Inside, find a gift department, tools, houseware, house plants, potato starters and more. It also operates Flower House Cafe, a charming place to set awhile inside or on its patio enjoying a cup of coffee, avocado toast or roasted squash frittata.

From May to October, the popular Bayview Farmers Market is open Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m Just look for the brightly colored flags.

Whidbey produce and locally made goods make up the bulk of booths and there’s always baked goods, food vendors and usually musicians playing a chord or two.

Within the courtyard of Bayview Corner is a

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pleasant oasis with a giant chess board, picnic tables, shady trees and antique bikes hanging from Bayview Bicycles. Businesses, such as Side Market, an artist co-op store, La Salon Bella, and Sojourn Studios for yoga and pilates, are tucked inside the 1924 building that was once a community mercantile and meeting place. Renovated nearly 20 years ago, it retains its original name, simply called the Cash Store. There’s also a historic community hall, schoolhouse and a renovated 1914 Sears, Roebuck kit home, all being used for various festivals, dances and events such as the annual Edible Book Fair where creative types turn their favorite book title into baked goods, veggie platters and other whimsical designs.

Whidbey Telecom, the South End’s most well known telecommunications company, is also not far from the Bayview Corner.

Just down the road is the Good Cheer Food Bank, and the food bank’s garden. The nonprofit is dedicated to creating a hunger-free community and also runs two thrift stores.

If you’re looking for an authentic farm to table meal, Orchard Kitchen is the real deal. Located just across from the Cash Store on a five-acre farm, its ever-changing array of “hyper seasonal” dinners are served in the converted house.

Reservations are a must.

Groceries, hardware, arts and crafts and other consumer goods are available off Highway 525 in a cluster of shops and gas station near Bayview Corner. The Goose grocery store, a co-op that gives grants to a variety of community projects, Sebo’s Do-It-Center and two dining options, Joe’s Wood Fired Pizza and Neil’s Clover Patch Cafe, beloved by community members for its breakfasts, can be found there.

Finally, for those who want to catch their own meals, there is Lone Lake located nearby. It is stocked annually with rainbow trout.

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Whidbey & Fidalgo > ISLANDER 2018

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2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

21 3

Busy hub offers things to see and activities to do This unincorporated area is home to Whidbey’s largest private employer and has a thriving commercial core. You have to go off the main highway just a bit to find Nichols Brothers Boat Builders sitting on the edge of Holmes Harbor. Started as a family business nearly 55 years ago, the company has built nearly 200 boats, including two “pocket” cruise ships for National Geographic, dozens of tug boats, fire boats for various cities, river boats for a DisneyWorld ride and the superstructure for six Washington State ferries.

A simple wooden fence surrounds its 15 acres where some 300 employees shape ships; the original Nichols family home now serves as a visitors’ viewing area.

With about 2,000 residents, Freeland is also dubbed “Bank Alley” in reference to how it evolved into South Whidbey’s de-facto financial center full of banks, title companies and insurance offices. It’s also home to one of two locations for the local telecommunications company, Whidbey Telecom.

The office is situated next to Wifire Cafe, where baristas crank out cups of joe and sandwiches.

Nichols Brothers Boat Builders in Holmes Harbor constructs all kinds of vessels.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

Located nine miles north of the Clinton ferry terminal and seven miles south of Greenbank on Highway 525, Freeland also offers visitors a few eating experiences ranging from down-home food at the local favorite, Bubba’s Burger and the Freeland Cafe.

There’s also Rocket Taco that cooks up traditional or unusual deluxe tacos with ingredients like chipotle-spiced sweet potatoes and anchoseasoned chicken; and also serves margaritas, beer and wine. Next door is Freeland Freeze, an ice cream shop open during the summer.

The centrally-located Freeland Plaza Shopping Center houses a grocery store, hardware store, pharmacy and jeweler for household needs. Across from Freeland’s post office is one of Whidbey’s largest cannabis product entrepreneurs called Island Herb. There’s also an antiques mall and a few other shops to poke around.

All kinds of artists live and create in Freeland but they’re not that easy to find. Sculptors, granite counter specialists, welders, painters and others work out of an old timber mill right in the center of Freeland. The artists co-op work space is called Freeland Studio and has a public sculpture

Providing housing and basic needs for the homeless and at-risk youth and young adults of Whidbey Island.

(360) 331-4575 www.ryanshouseforyouth.org

Explore the Possibilities

SHARON BOYLE REALTOR®, ABR, IMS, SRES, CNE

360-224-5266

sharonboyle@windermere.com

5531 Freeland Ave., Freeland • SharonBoyle.withwre.com Windermere Real Estate/South Whidbey

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

garden to view outside its warehouse doors.

Freeland also abounds in thrift stores that benefit non-profits, such as the Habitat for Humanity Store and the WAIF thrift store that benefits an animal shelter. Island Senior Resources also manages a huge two-story thrift store selling household items, clothes and many other treasures to benefit programs and services for the elderly.

If you’re looking to save some cash, the Freeland area has a plethora of outdoor activities to explore that are chock full of gorgeous views and scenic walks. Double Bluff Beach is a longtime favorite among locals looking to take advantage of the large stretch of sand, let their dog off their leash or dig for clams. The beach looks south toward Kitsap County, and if the skies are clear enough, Mount Rainier pokes its ice cream cone head out. Visitors can also get a feel of Whidbey’s heavily-wooded natural environment at South Whidbey State Park, which has old-growth forest and scenic vistas that look out to the Olympic Peninsula and Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Freeland Park, facing Holmes Harbor, has a CONTINUED ON PAGE 24

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Wild Birds Unlimited offering fresh & healthy bird food and well-designed bird feeders and houses Bird Feeders • Bird Food • Gifts Bird Baths • Chimes • Books Bird Houses • Binoculars

Sue Taves works on one of her sculptures at Freeland Studio, where many artists work in huge spaces of an old mill.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

5565 Van Barr Place Suite AB, Freeland

360-341-1404

Coldwell Banker Tara Properties

playground and picnic area.

For a leisurely stroll through nature trails, just south of Freeland on Highway 525, is the Earth Sanctuary, a nature reserve and Buddhist retreat center.

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nature, Freeland has a little bit of everything.

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freelandacehardware.com 24

Whidbey & Fidalgo › ISLANDER 2018

Whidbey Island Distilleries Association

Craftsmanship and ownership are at the heart of every bottle produced at Whidbey Island Distillery.

The highest rated spirits in the world are produced right here on Whidbey Island. Our Blackberry Liqueur has been awarded the prestigious Platinum Medal (98 points) by the Beverage Testing Institute.

Our logo is your assurance that every drop was crafted entirely onsite using the best ingredients sourced from the state of Washington.

Whidbey Island Distillery is more than a distillery— it's a destination. With 9 acres to roam, the distillery is a family-friendly venue where everyone is welcome.

• Open daily 11am – 5pm • Free tours and tastings • Rated #1 thing to do in Langley

by Tripadvisor©

Owned and run by the Stallman family, we make artisan whiskey and liqueurs from Washington sourced ingredients.

Each handmade small batch reflects the character of the grains, the aging process and the distiller's imprint. We are proud to produce the first aged whiskey on Whidbey Island, the salty sea breezes of Mutiny Bay and Holmes Harbor working their magic on the barrels.

Come visit, taste, and meet the distiller behind Palouse Gold, Bayside, Sweet Lulu, Blueberry Liqueur, and Coffee Liqueur!

3466 Craw Rd., Langley Wa 98260 360-321-4715 or hello@whidbeydistillery.com www.whidbeydistillery.com

5490 Cameron Rd., Freeland, WA 98249 360-331-3797 www.mutinybaydistillery.com

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

Truly a craft distillery using local Washington barley. We are completely grain-to-glass and small batch with hands on cuts to ensure traditonal quality.

Cultus bay distillery's stills are designed by Bob Brunjes and made by Kathy Parks and Harry Sloan.

We are located on Cultus Bay. OUR TASTING ROOM and TOURS are educational, exciting and FREE. call us 360 579-5632 we are here!

Our products include: award winning te’ Absolvo vodka, Mortal gin, Poitin whiskey, and Mulligan xxx, a single malt triple-pot-stilled whiskey. We also produce bitters: ginseng, orange, lemon and ginger.

ASK for Cultus Bay distillery products. We are sold at all discerning Thurs-Mon 11am-5pm or by appointment stores and for Tasting & Tours restaurants.

8311 Sandy Hook Dr. , Clinton, WA 98236 360-579-5632 25

Wine and dine at any number of Whidbey Island's wineries. Photo by Eilleen Mellecker and Whidbey Island Vintners Association.

Island plentiful with craft brewers, distillers, vintners There’s plenty brewing, distilling and fermenting going on, creating beverages just waiting to be enjoyed among the panoramic vistas of water and farmland Whidbey Island is known for.

The island is home to a number of breweries, wineries and distilleries that typically craft their beverages in smaller batches and serve their product to local 26

businesses.

Some of the craft makers ship their goods off-island, but for the most part these alcoholic beverage connoisseurs keep their product only on Whidbey Island.

The extensive farmland and climate, particularly the South Whidbey microclimate, make for an ideal place to grow

certain types of grapes that can later be used in wines.

The wet and temperate climate is great for white varietals that originate from the cooler parts of France’s Loire Valley and Alsace, Germany.

But some wineries, including Spoiled Dog Winery off Maxwelton Road, have managed to grow pinot noir grapes when it was previously thought that Whidbey Island was too cold to grow red varietals.

Given the climate, Whidbey’s seven wineries are located on South Whidbey, while wine bars such as Vail or bayleaf in Coupeville and The Terrace Wine Bar and Rustica Cafe in Oak Harbor offer tastes farther north.

The wineries include: Spoiled Dog Winery, Comforts of Whidbey, Blooms Winery, Swede Hill Cellars, Whidbey Island Winery, Holmes Harbor Cellars and Dancing Fish Winery.

While Whidbey’s wine scene has been around for years, the brewery and distillery scenes are more recent developments.

Recently, new distilleries have sprouted up: Mutiny Bay Distillery in the Freeland area and Cultus Bay Distillery.

Both distilleries hone their own unique craft, with Mutiny Bay Distillery specializing in a variety of whiskeys and the crafters in Cultus Bay distilling a range of spirits, including a traditional poitin, or Irish moonshine.

Cadée Distillery in Clinton was started by a Scotsman who seeks to create a “different kind of American spirits company based on the long lost model of the classic Scotch Distillery and blending houses of the 16th Century,” according to its website.

Whidbey Island Distillery, located off Craw Road, was the island’s first distillery and is more established. The craftCONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

Owner Terry Boese pours one of the beers made in-house at Wicked Teuton Brewing Company.

CONTINUED FROM 26

ers have won awards for their spirits, including a platinum medal awarded by the Beverage Testing Institute for their Blackberry Liqueur. The platinum medal is the highest honor.

The island is also home to a number of breweries that craft their own sudsy delights. In Oak Harbor, the aviationthemed Flyers Restaurant and Brewery serves up a plethora of beer options in a brewpub that’s fitting for Oak Harbor, considering the close proximity of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Further south in Coupeville, Penn Cove Brewing Company is celebrating over a year of serving up brews in their cozy taproom.

Wicked Teuton Brewing Company, located at the back of Whidbey Island Home Brew Supply in Oak Harbor, serves the ideal end product from its home-brew recipe kits.

Double Bluff Brewing Company and Ogre Brewing call South Whidbey home.

Downtown Langley is home for Double Bluff Brewing Company, which has back patio seating and an indoor space in an industrial setting. Further south down Cultus Bay Road, next to Bailey’s Corner Store, the two friendly fellas who operate Ogre Brewing are making suds out of an old garage. The brewery opened last fall, and visitors are

able to sit in a designated area in front of the brewery. Visiting Ogre Brewing is like going over to a friend’s house and chatting over a few beers, except the beers are made in-house.

Tasting Room Est. 1986Hours 11 – 5pm closed Tues.

5237 Langley Rd Langley, WA 98260 360.221.2040 www.whidbeyislandwinery.com

2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

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THE BBQ JOINT

BASKIN ROBBINS

32760 State Route 20 | Oak Harbor 360-675-3103 www.baskinrobbins.com

DOMINO’S

3175 N Goldie Rd | Oak harbor 360-632-3600

CARIBBEAN LUNCH BOX

Southern BBQ, hospitality, & real sweet tea 601 NE MIdway Blvd | Oak Harbor 360-679-3500 • www.thebbqjoint.com

PIONEE

MORRIS RD.

EL CAZADOR

Mexican grill & cantina 32195 State Route 20 | Oak Harbor WELCH D. ER• Rwww.el-cazador.com 360-675-6114

D. RE R

525 .

RD

Never enough coffee. Never enough flowers.

BAKKE N RD. 2780 Marshview Avenue | Langley GREENBANK www.bayviewfarmandgarden.com CHRIS TIANSON RD.

COZY’S ROADHOUSE

Classic French inspired bistro 201 ½ First Street | Langley 360-221-4060 • www.primabistro.com

PRIMA BISTRO

11042 WA 525| Clinton 360-341-3940 • www.picklesdeliwhidbey.com

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WHIDBEY AVE. AVE.

CROSBY RD. CROSB

ER PIONE

20

WY.

B

R HA

R BO

BRAINERS RD.

THOMPSON RD.

MILLMAN RD.

.

RD

GOSS LAKE RD.

ANDREASON RD.

BR

KS OO

EWING RD.

SILLS RD.

MORTLAND DR.

ILL

.

525

LANGLEY

.

SPRINGWA TER LN.

DEER LAKE RD.

ELL RD CAMPB

.

CRESENT HARBOR

FRENCH RD.

RD

RD

EY

IL

BA

EH

ED

SW

BAYVIEW

D. LR

.

RD

HIL

G A

RA TO

SA

SLEEPER RD.

RD. STAD FRO

FAKKEMA RD. F

CASE RD.

SOUTH WHIDBEY

OLD ARN

FREELAND HR FIS

TO W N

AULT LT FIELD RD.

SCATCHET HEAD RD.

USELESS BAY AVE.

SPECIAL PULL OUT MAP - TAKE ME WITH YOU

M

BUSH PT. RD.

HO

BA Y

CLASSIC RD.

SW AN

FORT NUGENT RD.

COVE RD. PENN

20

.

D

R

CROSBY RD.

PO LNE LL RD.

HAPPY VALLEY RD.

N

EE

R

G

EWING RD.

PICKLES DELI

Locally grown and sourced homestyle cuisine 14485 State Route 525 | Langley 360-321-4120

NEIL’S CLOVER PATCH CAFE

8898 SR 525 | Clinton 360-341-3828 • islandnosh.com

ISLAND NOSH

“Since 1974” 1642 East Main Street | Freeland 360-331-9945 • www.whidbey.com/freelandcafe

FREELAND CAFE AND LOUNGE

5826 Kramer Rd | Langley 360-321-7799

EL CORRAL MEXICAN

112 Anthes Ave | Langley 360-341-2838 • www.dblfbrewing.com

DOUBLE BLUFF BREWING CO

8872 WA 525 | Clinton 360-341-2838 • www.cozysroadhouse.com

R

TOMCHUCK OMCHUCK LN. LN

525

Full menu all day, including breakfast!

PLANTATION ION DR. 197 Second Street | LangleyPLAN 360-221-3211 • www.braeburnlangley.com

LAGOON PT. RD.

THE BRAEBURN

R ESO

HASTIE LAKE RD.

ON UST HO

BAYVIEW FARM & GARDEN FLOWER HOUSE CAFE

20

Fine20 Dining, Steak and Seafood RACE RD. 1191 SE Fidalgo Avenue, #101 | Oak Harbor (360) 279-1231 • www.frasersgh.com

FRASERS GOURMET HIDEAWAY

O PATM

WANAMAKER RD.

PATMORE RD.

20

RD.

SILVER LAKE RD.

DE VRIES

D.

RD.

SILVER LAKE RD. SIL

American cuisine serving breakfast all day 705 SE Pioneer Way | Oak Harbor 360-240-0250

RIVERSIDE CAFE

Roadhouse

In Ken’s Korner • Suite 124 | Clinton 360-341-4302

WHIDBEY ISLAND BAGEL FACTORY

WHIDBEY DOUGHNUTS

5603 Bayview Road| Langley 360-321-4653 • www.whidbeydoughnuts.com

221 Second St, #9A | Langley 360-221-4959 http://UltraHouse.us

ULTRA HOUSE

317 Second Street | Langley 360-221-4494 • www.spyhoppub.com

SPYHOP PUBLIC HOUSE

113 First Street | Langley 360-221-5474 • www.saltwaterlangley.com

SALTWATER FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

715 SE Fidalgo Ave | Oak Harbor 360-341-4302

WHIDBEY ISLAND BAGEL FACTORY

885 SE Pioneer Way | Oak Harbor 360-679-8268 www.facebook.com/SweetRiceThaiCuisine

SWEET RICE THAI CUISINE & SPIRIT

OL NE

SEABOLT’S SMOKEHOUSE HAPPY

VALLEY LLEY RD. Fresh wild caught local seafood 31640 State Route 20, #3 | Oak Harbor 360-675-6485 • www.seabolts.com P

CLINTON

BOB GALB

®

Fresh thinking, healthy eating.

32650 State Route 20, #B104 | Oak Harbor 360-675-5111

.

VRIES RD THE PITADEPIT

NOE JOSE CAFE

Authentic Mexican & American Cuisine 830 SE Pioneer Way #106 | Oak Harbor 360-682-6119

Tea bar, cafe & yoga studio 710 SE Fidalgo Avenue | Oak Harbor 360-240-8888

LOTUS TEA BAR & STUDIO

Restaurant Guide

20

CASE RD.

FAKKEMA RD.

Delivery or carryout pizza, plus chicken wings & other sides.

270 SE Cabot Drive, #1 | Oak Harbor COUPEVILLE 360-679-4141 PARKER RD.

IC

OAK HARBOR

WHIDBEY AVE.

EN SC

DE

NORTH WHIDBEY

CROSBY RD.

MIDWAY BLVD.

KEYSTONE HILL RD.

EY

HEIGHTS RD.

GOLF COURSE RD. ENGLE RD.

MONROE LANDING RD.

DR. ATT A

R EG

CROSBY RD.

FORT CASEY RD.

DE VRIES RD.

H RD.

HELLER RD.

.

RESERVATION RD.

AULT FIELD RD.

GGL

SMU

EB

TON RD. ING

RR HA

ER'S C

ZYLSTRA RD.

OAK HARBO R RD.

RD STAD

RACE RD.

GRATEFUL ACRE PL.

GOLF COURSE RD.

SLEEPER RD.

.

OVE RD

BE AC H

W ES T

DAY RD.

MIDWA AY Y BLV VD.

GOLDIE RD.

FRO

EAST HARBOR RD.

WEST BE AC A

HELLER RD. AMBLE RD.

RD .

RD.

LU FF RD .

LONE LAKE RD.

ZYLSTRA RD.

STRAWBERRY PT. RD.

MONROE LANDING RD.

RD. OAK HARBOR

HEIGHTS RD.

DE GRAFF RD.

GOLDIE RD. WR D. BAY VIE

Y BAY

BAYVIEW RD.

MUTIN DOU BLE

MAXWELTON RD.

R. ATT AD RE G LUCY LN.

.

RD

COLES RD.

VE CO

W

'S ER GL UG SM

OON BAY YM RD .

MAX

RD.

ELT ON RD.

T

LANGLEY RD.

E

CULTUS BAY RD.

.

RD

RD .

R BO AR TH AS

E

.

RD

SA D. RD R

FA C

ST. E

GL EN

NORTH BLUFF RD.

GA TO RA .

RD

FO CRAW

SU R

MAIN

WILKINSON RD. HUMPHREY RD.

RD. TAYLOR

D. ATH R

HOLST RD.

DE VRIES RD.

RD. TAYLOR

RESERV RVA RVA ATION TION RD.

TAYLOR RD.

TAYLOR RD. TA RE

LD

O ARN

A WY.

RD.

HILL RD.

TERRY

NN COVE RD.

0

ZYLSTRA RD.

SW AN TO W N

FORT NUGENT RD.

.

RD

RD .

RD.

SPECIAL PULL OUT MAP - TAKE ME WITH YOU

CRESENT HARBOR

RD.

R WY.

THE BBQ JOINT

BASKIN ROBBINS

32760 State Route 20 | Oak Harbor 360-675-3103 www.baskinrobbins.com

DOMINO’S

3175 N Goldie Rd | Oak harbor 360-632-3600

CARIBBEAN LUNCH BOX

Southern BBQ, hospitality, & real sweet tea 601 NE MIdway Blvd | Oak Harbor 360-679-3500 • www.thebbqjoint.com

PIONEE

MORRIS RD.

EL CAZADOR

Mexican grill & cantina 32195 State Route 20 | Oak Harbor WELCH D. ER• Rwww.el-cazador.com 360-675-6114

D. RE R

525 .

RD

Never enough coffee. Never enough flowers.

BAKKE N RD. 2780 Marshview Avenue | Langley GREENBANK www.bayviewfarmandgarden.com CHRIS TIANSON RD.

COZY’S ROADHOUSE

Classic French inspired bistro 201 ½ First Street | Langley 360-221-4060 • www.primabistro.com

PRIMA BISTRO

11042 WA 525| Clinton 360-341-3940 • www.picklesdeliwhidbey.com

UT IN Y

NE

.

RD

SR NE JO

RD.

ST EA

DOW RD.

LANCASTER RD.

D.

.

RD

SC

IC EN

OAK HARBOR HARBO

WHIDBEY AVE. AVE.

CROSBY RD. CROSB

ER PIONE

20

WY.

B

R HA

R BO

BRAINERS RD.

THOMPSON RD.

MILLMAN RD.

.

RD

GOSS LAKE RD.

ANDREASON RD.

BR

KS OO

EWING RD.

SILLS RD.

MORTLAND DR.

ILL

.

525

LANGLEY

.

SPRINGWA TER LN.

DEER LAKE RD.

ELL RD CAMPB

.

CRESENT HARBOR

FRENCH RD.

RD

RD

EY

IL

BA

EH

ED

SW

BAYVIEW

D. LR

.

RD

HIL

G A

RA TO

SA

SLEEPER RD.

RD. STAD FRO

FAKKEMA RD. F

CASE RD.

SOUTH WHIDBEY

OLD ARN

FREELAND HR FIS

TO W N

AULT LT FIELD RD.

SCATCHET HEAD RD.

USELESS BAY AVE.

SPECIAL PULL OUT MAP - TAKE ME WITH YOU

M

BUSH PT. RD.

HO

BA Y

CLASSIC RD.

SW AN

FORT NUGENT RD.

COVE RD. PENN

20

.

D

R

CROSBY RD.

PO LNE LL RD.

HAPPY VALLEY RD.

N

EE

R

G

EWING RD.

PICKLES DELI

Locally grown and sourced homestyle cuisine 14485 State Route 525 | Langley 360-321-4120

NEIL’S CLOVER PATCH CAFE

8898 SR 525 | Clinton 360-341-3828 • islandnosh.com

ISLAND NOSH

“Since 1974” 1642 East Main Street | Freeland 360-331-9945 • www.whidbey.com/freelandcafe

FREELAND CAFE AND LOUNGE

5826 Kramer Rd | Langley 360-321-7799

EL CORRAL MEXICAN

112 Anthes Ave | Langley 360-341-2838 • www.dblfbrewing.com

DOUBLE BLUFF BREWING CO

8872 WA 525 | Clinton 360-341-2838 • www.cozysroadhouse.com

R

TOMCHUCK OMCHUCK LN. LN

525

Full menu all day, including breakfast!

PLANTATION ION DR. 197 Second Street | LangleyPLAN 360-221-3211 • www.braeburnlangley.com

LAGOON PT. RD.

THE BRAEBURN

R ESO

HASTIE LAKE RD.

ON UST HO

BAYVIEW FARM & GARDEN FLOWER HOUSE CAFE

20

Fine20 Dining, Steak and Seafood RACE RD. 1191 SE Fidalgo Avenue, #101 | Oak Harbor (360) 279-1231 • www.frasersgh.com

FRASERS GOURMET HIDEAWAY

O PATM

WANAMAKER RD.

PATMORE RD.

20

RD.

SILVER LAKE RD.

DE VRIES

D.

RD.

SILVER LAKE RD. SIL

American cuisine serving breakfast all day 705 SE Pioneer Way | Oak Harbor 360-240-0250

RIVERSIDE CAFE

Roadhouse

In Ken’s Korner • Suite 124 | Clinton 360-341-4302

WHIDBEY ISLAND BAGEL FACTORY

WHIDBEY DOUGHNUTS

5603 Bayview Road| Langley 360-321-4653 • www.whidbeydoughnuts.com

221 Second St, #9A | Langley 360-221-4959 http://UltraHouse.us

ULTRA HOUSE

317 Second Street | Langley 360-221-4494 • www.spyhoppub.com

SPYHOP PUBLIC HOUSE

113 First Street | Langley 360-221-5474 • www.saltwaterlangley.com

SALTWATER FISH HOUSE & OYSTER BAR

715 SE Fidalgo Ave | Oak Harbor 360-341-4302

WHIDBEY ISLAND BAGEL FACTORY

885 SE Pioneer Way | Oak Harbor 360-679-8268 www.facebook.com/SweetRiceThaiCuisine

SWEET RICE THAI CUISINE & SPIRIT

OL NE

SEABOLT’S SMOKEHOUSE HAPPY

VALLEY LLEY RD. Fresh wild caught local seafood 31640 State Route 20, #3 | Oak Harbor 360-675-6485 • www.seabolts.com P

CLINTON

BOB GALB

®

Fresh thinking, healthy eating.

32650 State Route 20, #B104 | Oak Harbor 360-675-5111

.

VRIES RD THE PITADEPIT

NOE JOSE CAFE

Authentic Mexican & American Cuisine 830 SE Pioneer Way #106 | Oak Harbor 360-682-6119

Tea bar, cafe & yoga studio 710 SE Fidalgo Avenue | Oak Harbor 360-240-8888

LOTUS TEA BAR & STUDIO

Restaurant Guide

20

CASE RD.

FAKKEMA RD.

Delivery or carryout pizza, plus chicken wings & other sides.

270 SE Cabot Drive, #1 | Oak Harbor COUPEVILLE 360-679-4141 PARKER RD.

IC

OAK HARBOR

WHIDBEY AVE.

EN SC

DE

NORTH WHIDBEY

CROSBY RD.

MIDWAY BLVD.

KEYSTONE HILL RD.

EY

HEIGHTS RD.

GOLF COURSE RD. ENGLE RD.

MONROE LANDING RD.

DR. ATT A

R EG

CROSBY RD.

FORT CASEY RD.

DE VRIES RD.

H RD.

HELLER RD.

.

RESERVATION RD.

AULT FIELD RD.

GGL

SMU

EB

TON RD. ING

RR HA

ER'S C

ZYLSTRA RD.

OAK HARBO R RD.

RD STAD

RACE RD.

GRATEFUL ACRE PL.

GOLF COURSE RD.

SLEEPER RD.

.

OVE RD

BE AC H

W ES T

DAY RD.

MIDWA AY Y BLV VD.

GOLDIE RD.

FRO

EAST HARBOR RD.

WEST BE AC A

HELLER RD. AMBLE RD.

RD .

RD.

LU FF RD .

LONE LAKE RD.

ZYLSTRA RD.

STRAWBERRY PT. RD.

MONROE LANDING RD.

RD. OAK HARBOR

HEIGHTS RD.

DE GRAFF RD.

GOLDIE RD. WR D. BAY VIE

Y BAY

BAYVIEW RD.

MUTIN DOU BLE

MAXWELTON RD.

R. ATT AD RE G LUCY LN.

.

RD

COLES RD.

VE CO

W

'S ER GL UG SM

OON BAY YM RD .

MAX

RD.

ELT ON RD.

T

LANGLEY RD.

E

CULTUS BAY RD.

.

RD

RD .

R BO AR TH AS

E

.

RD

SA D. RD R

FA C

ST. E

GL EN

NORTH BLUFF RD.

GA TO RA .

RD

FO CRAW

SU R

MAIN

WILKINSON RD. HUMPHREY RD.

RD. TAYLOR

D. ATH R

HOLST RD.

DE VRIES RD.

RD. TAYLOR

RESERV RVA RVA ATION TION RD.

TAYLOR RD.

TAYLOR RD. TA RE

TEE & NEE TEE & NEE CAFE CAFE

(Formerly Mosquito Fleet Chili)

Asian-American Cuisine

12 Front St NW | Coupeville 360-678-2900

Friendly Homey Atmosphere on the Water

12 Front St NW, Coupeville, WA

CAPTAIN WHIDBEY INN

(360) 678-2900

2072 W Captain Whidbey Inn Road | Coupeville 360-678-4097 • www.captainwhidbey.com

THE OYSTERCATCHER

901 Grace Street | Coupeville 360-678-0683 www.oystercatcherwhidbey.com

PIZZA FACTORY

WHIDBEY PIES CAFE 765 Wonn Road | Greenbank 360-678-1288 www.whidbeypies.com

107 S Main St, Ste B-101 | Coupeville 360-678-3200

GREENBANK PANTRY & DELI

25175 State Route 525 | Greenbank 360-222-3673 www.greenbankstore.com

Restaurant Guide Guemes Islands Ferry to

MOLKA XETE

25171 State Route 525 | Greenbank 956-295-0179 www.molka-xete.com

CENTRAL WHIDBEY PITA J'S

COCONUT KENNEY’S

Custom pita sandwiches and snacks to order 408 Commercial Avenue | Anacortes 360-293-4484

1005 Commercial Ave | Anacortes 360-899-4438 CAP SANTE VOLUNTEER PARK

20

20 COMMERCIAL AVE

CRANBERRY LAKE & PARK

REAL TEQUILA

"R" AVENUE

Ferry to San Juan Islands

"D" AVENUE

WASHINGTON PARK

2302 Commercial Ave | Anacortes 360-299-1060

20 ROS

ARIO

RD

Restaurant Guide Guemes Islands Ferry to

ANACORTES LAKE ERIE

30

THE SHRIMP SHACK

HEART LAKE

Home of the oysterburger!

6168 State Route 20 | Anacortes 360-293-2531 • www.shrimpshack.us 20 WHISTLE LAKE

To Whidbey Island

20

To Burlington & Mount Vernon

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

Whidbey Island offers rich bounty Over the years, farming on Whidbey Island has become smaller-scale and more diverse, yet it remains an important part of the island way of life.

As a result, wide swaths of land on the island remain undeveloped, offering beautiful views of farmland and beyond. Locals and visitors can take advantage of the island’s bounty by visiting farmers markets, roadside stands and local grocery stores.

The epicenter of farming on the island is Central Whidbey’s prairies, where agriculture is encouraged and protected by the establishment of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. The working rural landscape encompasses thousands of acres of rich and scenic farmland, much of which is privately owned but permanently protected from development.

Throughout the island, smaller farms and niche enterprises flourish. The island’s natural prairies, rich loam, marine air and a temperate climate make it a perfect place for growing vegetables and berries. The Greenbank Farm

WHIDBEY

FARMS & MARKETS ISLAND

3 Sisters Farm & Market

779 Holbrook Road, Coupeville Open 7 Days a Week - 9:00AM - 6:00PM 3 Sisters Market sells: 3 Sisters Family Farms 100% grass fed beef, all natural pork, all natural lamb, whole chickens, & cage free eggs. We also have a wide selection of Whidbey Island and WA made products. Local produce, pantry items, dairy products, baked goods, books, health, & beauty, wine, beer, cider, home decor & much more. We focus on local, sustainable, & unique to our area! www.3sistersbeef.com

Bell’s Farm

Bell’s Farm is family owned and operated since 1946. We operate a year round honesty farm stand open 7 days a week where we sell fresh vegetables, fruits, jams, baked goods, gifts, and a

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

once was home to more than 100 acres of loganberries, making it the largest grower of the raspberry-blackberry hybrid in the country at the time.

The mild climate, lack of pesky bugs and open spaces also makes the island a great place to raise animals. Cows, horses, pigs, chickens, ducks, turkeys, llamas, goats, sheep, bees and even bison call Whidbey home. Since it’s an island, a different kind of farmer harvests the water of Puget Sound. Penn Cove Shellfish grows and harvests Penn Cove mussels, clams and oysters.

Farmers and growers across the island have taken advantage of people’s renewed interest in locally grown food.

One of the best ways to get your hands on vegetables grown on Whidbey Island — and to eat with the season — is to go to one of the many farmers markets that run from spring to fall each year. Dozens of growers and farmers bring their best produce to the markets.

Many restaurants on the island incorpo-

grain dispenser so you can feed our sheep. Our farm is also an experience! Don’t forget to visit us on June 30th, 2018 for our second annual Strawberry Daze Festival, it’s fun for the whole family! bellsfarmandstorage@gmail.com Bell’s Farm, 892 West Beach Rd Coupeville, WA 98239 bells-farm.com

Hunter’s Moon Farm

We are a certified organic blueberry farm growing 3 varieties of late season blueberries, each with a very unique, distinctive flavor. Our mission is to grow food for your family that is both nutritionally dense and irresistibly delicious!

Our u pick season begins in August and goes through September. Check out our website to see where you can find our products sold near you! www.huntersmoonorganics.com 935 Bunch Lane, Oak Harbor, WA

Pronkin’ Pastures Alpaca Ranch

Tucked away on Puget Sound’s picturesque Whidbey Island lies a lovely little alpaca ranch.

Forty huacaya alpacas and two suri alpacas call Pronkin’ Pastures home.Open year round - but our hours vary seasonally. We offer FREE farm

Stop by Whidbey Island to sample fresh-caught seafood, including mussels, clams and oysters rate local vegetables and meats into their menus. Some notable examples include Frasers Gourmet Hideaway in Oak Harbor, the Oystercatcher in Coupeville, Gordon’s on Blueberry Hill in Freeland and the Inn at Langley.

visits one weekend per month! Learn about alpacas while touring our farm and seeing our friendly herd. Our charming shop is filled with a wonderful assortment of alpaca products and unique gifts including handspun and mill-spun yarns, and alpaca related clothing, accessories, and gifts! For current hours and offerings, please visit our website or contact us via phone or text. www.pronkinpastures.com phone/ text – 425-879-1165 2582 North Bluff Road, Greenbank, WA

Sherman’s Pioneer Farm

Sherman’s Pioneer Farm, 46 S. Ebey Rd. Coupeville. Located on Ebey’s National Historic Reserve. Farm Stand opening Memorial Weekend thru Halloween. Seasonal Produce; fresh Organically grown Vegetables and Fruits, including Local Farmers with jams, jellies, honey and baked goods and Honey Moon Bay Coffee and Whidbey Ice Cream, of course.

Enjoy looking for antiques and collectibles at Ben and Edie’s. Join the Art Walk and check out David Stern’s photos. The coffee pot is always on. Come relax and sit awhile. Park and walk or bike the Prairie; Many Summer and Fall events.

Check us out at ShermansPioneerFarm.com, Facebook and the Coupeville Chamber of Commerce.

31

Friends of the Greenbank Farm pose in front of the barn.

Greenbank: a picturesque location filled with art, amazing local food

South of Coupeville you’ll find the small unincorporated community of Greenbank.

Within this community is the unique publicly-owned historic Greenbank Farm that offers dining, retail and a variety of public rental and outdoor space.

The 151-acre former loganberry farm, which was purchased by the Port of Coupeville in 1997, provides space for a popular event center and provides a picturesque location for weddings, reunions and festivals.

Onsite is Whidbey Pies & Cafe, a lunch venue for locals looking for fresh fare and legendary pies. Visitors can also shop the nearby art galleries and sample treats at 32

Greenbank Cheese Specialty Food & Gifts.

If in the mood for a bit more of an adult libation, the wine shop offers tastings and even has the farm's standard loganberry wine available.

The farm is seeing some new life and vibrancy this year and may see some businesses and also new events. The nonprofit group Friends of Greenbank Farm formed this year and is busy planning ways to support the farm and bring renewed interest and events to the farm.

The farm also has an expansive area set aside for offleash dog walkers, and horses and alpacas have grazed on the pasture located next to the highway.

A short distance south of the farm on the highway sits the Greenbank Store & Grille, a community center that features a grocery store, coffee shop, restaurant and bar that will reopen late this year.

It also serves as a general gathering place and provides sometimes the only nightlife in the Greenbank area.

Just down the road a bit further is the popular Meerkerk Gardens, which features 50 acres of woodland gardens and forest preserve run as a nonprofit organization. The gardens are open to the public year-round, but rhododendron bloom season is April 1 to May 31.

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‚ ISLANDER 2018

Greenbank Farm Wine Shop Award Winning Whidbey Island & NW Wines, Ciders & Craft Beer  Loganberry Wine Organic and Biodynamic Selection Always Tasting 360-222-3797  gbfwine.com 765 Wonn Road, Greenbank, WA 98253

Delicious Food Made Fresh on Whidbey Island Baked daily, by the slice or whole to go.

Hearty seafood chowder, soups, salads and sandwiches using local ingredients whenever possible.

Serving espresso and select beers & wines.

www.whidbeypies.com

Greenbank Farm • www.seasideandsylvan.com Open Daily 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. • Closed Tuesdays Fine Art Originals Cards - Prints - Gifts Paintings - Photography - Jewelry - Glass Art 360-222-3010 • www.artworkswhidbey.com

Free Cheese Tasting Unique Gourmet Variety Gift Certificates • Souvenirs & Gifts Local Jams & Syrup • Picnic Foods (360) 222-3474 ~ Open daily year ‘round ~ www.facebook.com/GreenbankCheeseAndSpecialty

2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

33 3

Whidbey Island has plenty of parks and beaches to explore.

1 BAYVIEW FARM & GARDEN We’re honored to be ranked # 70 on a list of Top 100 independent garden centers in the US. Feel your cares melt away and your inspiration peak at Bayview Farm & Garden. Innovative since our inception, we carry only the highest quality, non-toxic products and the healthiest, most beautiful plants suited for western Washington gardens.

Stroll through our greenhouse which is bursting with beautiful hanging baskets, annuals for summer color, bright house plants, and the largest collection of succulents on the island. In the Garden Shop you’ll find a stunning selection of curated products for the home and a built in seed wall to fulfill all of your

2

1

GARDEN TOUR

4 34

garden dreams. Come and relax in the Flower House Cafe for a full breakfast, lunch or an artisan coffee and a house made scone. Also, don’t miss our famous Laburnum Arbor which blooms in the month of May! Bloom where you’re planted!

Bayview Farm and Garden 2780 Marshview Ave, Langley 360-321-6789 www.bayviewfarmandgarden.com Monday-Saturday | 9 am - 6 pm Sunday | 9 am - 5 pm Flower House Cafe Open daily 8 am - 4 pm

2 MEERKERK GARDENS The Meerkerks began hybridizing rhododendrons and collecting unique specimens of rhododendrons, flowering trees and conifers.

They planted the first five acres, known as the “Secret Garden” as a miniature arboretum.

Before Ann passed away in 1979, she bequeathed the Gardens to the Seattle Rhododendron Society to care for as a “peaceful woodland garden with an emphasis on rhododendrons and companion plants.”

Today Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens is an independent not-for-profit organization open to the public and managed by the Meerkerk Rhododendron Garden nonprofit which was established in 2002 .

The Meerkerk’s legacy of fifty three acres of inspirational woodland gardens and a forest preserve offer over 4 miles of trails to breathe in the serene beauty and nature.

Whidbey's parks offer spectacular beauty DECEPTION PASS STATE PARK, 10 miles north of Oak Harbor, is one of the most spectacular parks in the state of Washington. It encompasses the northern end of Whidbey Island and draws more than 1 million visitors a year, the highest attendance in the state’s park system.

Its three freshwater lakes, 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline, two docks and five boat ramps makes it a water-lover’s dream.

It also includes nearly 50 miles of trails — 38 for hiking, three for biking and six for horseback riding. One-point-six miles are CONTINUED ON PAGE 35

Whidbey & Fidalgo › ISLANDER 2018

CONTINUED FROM 34

ADA rated.

The park includes 300 camp sites, an interpretive center and 11 kitchen shelters.

Three miles west of Oak Harbor is the home of JOSEPH WHIDBEY STATE PARK, a day-use facility that offers birdwatching, beach combing and picnicking.

Five miles northwest of Coupeville is FORT EBEY STATE PARK, which, along with Fort Casey, was part of the WWII coastal defense system and houses several small battlements.

The park offers a vast trail system for hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as camping sites and paragliding opportunities.

You will find the island’s most interesting state park, FORT CASEY, in Central Whidbey. The former U.S. Army base opened in 1897 and was decommissioned after World War II. The park, which is five miles south of Coupeville, features old Army structures, battlements and a lighthouse.

Although Fort Casey’s original guns have been removed, two 10-inch and two threeinch guns were re-installed so visitors could picture what the fort looked like during its early years.

The park includes an interpretive center in the Admiralty Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse, decommissioned like the fort, was built in 1903 and remodeled several years later with 18-inch walls to handle the concussion of the fort’s cannons.

A marine park for scuba diving, two boat launches and RV and camping sites are other features of Fort Casey.

Seattle Pacific University also owns CAMP CASEY CONFERENCE CENTER, a private portion of what was once part of Fort Casey. The property has many historic buildings that once housed officers and enlisted men. The property is now used to offer outdoor education classes, camps and to host other public and private events. Trails along the bluff and shoreline do link Fort Casey and Camp Casey together so guests may find themselves on the private portion.

SOUTH WHIDBEY STATE PARK, a day-use park, is 15 miles south of Coupeville and is known for its spectacular views and old-growth timber.

Parks near the island’s three towns offer additional recreational opportunities.

Oak Harbor’s beachfront WINDJAMMER ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

Whidbey Island is for the dogs The OAK HARBOR DOG PARK is located just north of town at the end of Technical Drive off Goldie Road.

Also north of Oak Harbor is the CLOVER VALLEY DOG PARK at the corner of Oak Harbor and Ault Field roads.

Coupeville’s canine stop, PATMORE PIT, is south of Coupeville and is the island’s largest dog park with 40 acres. From PARK features swimming in a saltwater lagoon, hiking and picnicking. The park includes several play fields, basketball courts and sheltered kitchens.

RHODODENDRON PARK, a county park, is 1.5 miles south of Coupeville and offers ballfields, hiking trails, picnic areas and a sheltered barbecue area. Camping is available April 1 to Nov. 1.

A large wooden play structure for children to explore is the centerpiece of Langley’s SOUTH WHIDBEY COMMUNITY PARK. Visitors will also find tennis and basketball courts as well as play fields.

South Whidbey is also the home of SARATOGA WOODS. The park, just west of Langley, is a popular spot for hiking in the Department of Natural Resources and Metcalf Trust trail system.

Another jewel on the island is the privately owned MEERKERK GARDENS just

Highway 20, turn on Patmore Road, go past Keystone Hill Road and turn left on the drive leading to the parks maintenance facility.

Dogs and humans will find two miles of shoreline at DOUBLE BLUFF BEACH on Useless Bay. From Highway 525, go south to the end of Double Bluff Road.

MARGUERITE BRONS MEMORIAL PARK, a 13-acre park on South Whidbey,

is a half mile south on Bayview Road; and dog-friendly hiking trails can be found at the Greenbank Farms off Highway 525 on Wonn Road. south of Greenbank. It offers four miles of trails through 53 acres of woodland gardens.

These are just some of the parks that dot the length of Whidbey Island. Visit the Island County and Oak Harbor, Coupeville and Langley websites to access more information.

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Town preserves historic charm Stroll through the streets of Coupeville and you’ll find a community that cares about protecting its rural charm and historic character.

The town’s waterfront features a shopping district housed in buildings dating back to the late 1800s. Shoppers have a variety of unique stores to explore and, when they start to get hungry, they can dine on fresh Penn Cove mussels while looking out on the scenic shores and one of the country’s last standing wharfs.

The Coupeville Wharf, owned by the Port of Coupeville, is a community treasure and is often the center of many community events.

Each May spectators watch tribal canoe races from its docks during the Penn Cove Water Festival. During the annual Arts and Crafts festival in August, visitors stroll out and A Jenne Farm cow is enjoying a sunny day near Coupeville

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All Aboard The Historic Schooner

Dockside Tours on the Coupeville Wharf

(360) 678-5434 www.coupevillechamber.com

Leisurely weekend sails Private events by request

©Don Bush Photography

Reservations and information at www.schoonersuva.org or 360-320-4337

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Photo by Kathy Robinson

Rejuvenate, Refresh your Home & Garden with Lavender Plants and Home Decor!

EVENTS Aug 12, 13 Sept 15, 16 October Dec 1 Dec 1

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Arts Festival Kite Festival Haunting Jingle Trail 5K Run/Walk Greening Coupeville

Town Shop: 15 Coveland Street | Coupeville Shop Hours: 10am - 5pm Daily Farm: Open during summer season 360.544.4132 | www.lavenderwind.com Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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tour the sometimes visiting sailing ship Lady Washington. In March, lines stretch by the hundreds to venture out on tour boats during the Penn Cove MusselFest.

In between festivals, visitors can be found strolling out on the wharf’s aged planks to see if they can catch a rare glimpse of a visiting orca.

Coupeville’s historic buildings can be found well beyond its waterfront. Buildings are lovingly restored and cared for throughout town and Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. With the help of a community grant program, historic building owners can even get assistance in maintaining these historic gems.

Not only is the community working to protect its historic infrastructure, but it also works to protect its historic and rural landscape. Just outside of town limits is Ebey’s Prairie. Within the prairie is land that is still farmed by the same families who have farmed it for generations.

Coupeville embraces its agricultural community with a thriving Saturday farmers market, and many of the restaurants in town utilize the fresh locally grown ingredients.

Coupeville is home to many activities and workshops available to the public.

Part of Coupeville’s character is its smalltown charm and all of the outdoor recreational opportunities it provides. When heading

out to Ebey’s Landing for a sunset bluff hike, it’s not uncommon to run into your neighbor.

And in Coupeville, everyone’s your neighbor.

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2016 2016 2016 By land, sea or air, Whidbey offers variety of recreational opportunities WAYS TO THE WAVES Of course, Island County offers a multitude of possibilities for getting out on the water. Water lovers can rent kayaks on Whidbey at the historic Coupeville Wharf (Harbor Gift & Kayak Rental, 360-6783625) and tour the famous mussel rafts of Penn Cove Shellfish.

On the South End, Whidbey Island

Whidbey may seem sleepy and rural, but it can be a blast, a place where fun abounds. Fishing is among the many outdoor activity options.

Kayaking offers sea kayaking tours and kayak rentals. Call for an update on the company’s tour schedule. Located at the Langley Marina in the warmer months, the company

rents paddle board as well as kayaks. Visit www.whidbeyislandkayaking.com or call 360221-0229 for details.

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Langley is also home to whale watching opportunities. Gray Whale season is hot in the spring time, but you may also get lucky and spot a few Southern Resident orcas swimming around Whidbey’s shores.

Although rare, they are seen in Holmes Harbor, Penn Cove and Saratoga Passage.

Sailing lessons are another fun and affordable way to hit the water. Adult lessons in Pelicans — 12-foot-long dinghies — are offered through the South Whidbey Yacht Club on Lone Lake in South Whidbey. The classes are in June and space fills up quickly, so apply soon. Similar classes are available for kids in late June and July. Email instructor Bob Rogers at bobrodgers100@hotmail.com for program details or call the South Whidbey Parks and Recreation District at 360-2215484.

Also popular on the South End is skim boarding, thanks to sweeping tide flats in Useless Bay. Skim Skool for youth is taught in August, also available through the recreation district. Useless Bay does have a public park, however, and people can hit the sand anytime for free.

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Camaloch is in the Sunbelt of Western Washington and receives approximately half the annual rain as many of the surrounding areas.

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2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

The island offers kite surfing, diving, kayaking, salmon fishing and crabbing, whale watching, hiking, bird watching, hunting, paragliding and more.

For a quieter experience, Whidbey Island is home to hundreds of miles of trails, five state parks as well as bountiful county, municipal and community parks and beaches.

Some offer spectacular views of Puget Sound, others cool walks through lush and ancient forests. Several areas are home to old growth such as South Whidbey State Park's

500-year-old cedar.

Wildlife is abundant, and both islands are popular locations for bird watchers. Hit Crockett Lake on Central Whidbey for a diversity of birds, from ducks and shorebirds to large birds of prey, and Deer Lagoon on South Whidbey for song birds and other CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

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waterfowl.

For wildlife harvesters, Whidbey Island is a hunting and fishing hot spot as well.

Pheasant release sites are located in Bayview on South Whidbey; Ebey's Landing, Arnold Farm, and OLF Coupeville on Central Whidbey; and two areas at the Seaplane Base on North Whidbey are open seasonally.

Several public forests are open for deer hunting as well. As for fishing, locations such as Bush Point on the west side of the island and Deception Pass on the northern tip have been favorites of anglers for generations.

Another side of Whidbey Island’s recreation scene is AdventureTerra, an outdoor adventure climbing company that offers canopy tours at Deception Pass State Park.

Customers learn climbing basics and are left with memories that last a lifetime, according to the company’s website, www.adventureterra.com For additional details or to make a

reservation, email contact@adventureterra.com or call 206-914-8613.

UNDER THE SEA Puget Sound offers scuba divers some of the best dive sites in the nation and beyond.

The large tidal exchanges provide a wealth of nutrients that feed a diverse ecosystem of undersea creatures, from such oddities as sea cucumbers to slow-moving lingcod to frisky seals and otters. Perhaps the most popular for divers to encounter is the giant Pacific octopus, the largest octopus in the world.

Fortunately, Whidbey Island has some of the best dive sites around.

Keystone Underwater Park on Central Whidbey is one of the most popular shore dives around. It’s located along a rocky jetty near the Coupeville-to-Port Townsend ferry dock. It is teeming with life. There are schooling perch, tube snouts, crab, a cascading wall of anemones and — if you’re lucky — a wolf eel or octopus.

Other popular shore and boat dives include the Possession Point Ferry Wreck,

the Langley Tire Reef, Strawberry Point and Ebey’s Landing. There’s also Deception Pass, a legendary dive site where currents are strong and divers should use caution.

For equipment, lessons and good advice, visit Whidbey Island Dive Center in Oak Harbor. Check out www.whidbeydive.com or call 360-675-1112.

OTHER STUFF For those with their own watercraft, both islands have a legion of small boat ramps and public beach access points which can be found with a simple web search.

Public beaches are great clamming hotspots as well — Grasser's Lagoon on Central Whidbey attracts people from as far away as Bellingham. For a complete list, visit /wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/beaches/ MapArea/08.

Whidbey Island is also home to what some hail as Puget Sound's spot to surf.

Located at Fort Ebey State Park, the spot breaks best on a west, northwest swell.

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

The Oak Harbor Marina is fun to visit, whether or not you have a boat.

Oak Harbor is island's largest community

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

2018 ISLANDER >Whidbey & Fidalgo

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Oak Harbor is the closest thing Whidbey Island has to a metropolis, but it still manages to retain a small-town charm.

The city of 22,000 people offers visitors a perfect blend of urban services and smalltown charm.

It is the commercial center of the island and home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Don’t be surprised to see men and woman in uniform at local stores or military aircraft flying overhead.

The city on the north end of the island is perfectly situated for people who want to explore scenic Deception Pass State Park — the most popular state park — and the rest of the island. The city offers a range of lodging choices for people on a budget or those who want something a little more fancy.

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Visitors who forgot to pack something can probably find it in Oak Harbor. The city is the only place on the island that has big chain stores, such as Walmart, Walgreens and Big Five Sporting Goods. The city has three large grocery stores and a couple of Starbucks.

The city also has an historic downtown area filled with quaint shops as well as restaurants and a popular wine bar. The Pioneer Way area is within easy walking distance to Windjammer Park and a lengthy waterside walking trail.

The Oak Harbor Marina is popular with Puget Sound boaters and sailors. The unique, city-owned facility has 420 slips with 230 open and 122 covered permanent slips, ample guest moorage, limited side-tie moorage and 96 dry storage sheds. There’s a full range of services, including showers, a laundry room and even a playground.

More and more people are traveling to Oak Harbor to see the PBY-Naval Air Museum, where visitors can see a PBY-5A Catalina seaplane and a variety of static and interactive exhibits celebrating Navy history.

Restaurants range from fine dining to fast

Oak Harbor celebrates its Dutch heritage with Holland Happening.

food, and recreation opportunities abound.

The city has many parks, including the large, waterfront Windjammer Park and the sports fields and playground of Fort Nugent Park.

The Oak Harbor community is very active and hosts many events throughout the year.

In April, there’s Holland Happening, which celebrates the community’s Dutch residents.

There’s also the Old Fashioned Fourth of July celebration, the nationally known Race Week sailboat regatta, the Oak Harbor Music Festival and the Whidbey Marathon.

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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The Hydros for Heroes races in Oak Harbor are always a spectacular sight.

MAY

May 4: Trudy J. Sundberg Lecture Series Presents: Jill Tietjen, 7-9 p.m., co-author of the bestselling and award-winning book, Her Story: A Timeline of the Women Who Changed America. Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. www.wicaonline.org 11th Annual Block Party & Pig Roast

SUNDAY AUGUST 12, 2018 NOON - 5PM PIONEER WAY & HWY 20 Help put Oak Harbor Pigfest into the Guiness Book of World Records!

• Free Lunch Buffet • Professional BBQ Competitors • Live Music Stage • Arts & Crafts Vendors • Vaudeville Acts & Clowns • Kids Climbing Wall & Games • Pie Eating Contest PNWBA Sanctioned BBQ competition featuring teams from Canada, Washington, Oregon, Idaho & Montana.

www.OakHarborPigfest.com 44

May 5: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com May 6: Anchor Bill Plante in "Conversation on the State of American Politics,” 7:30-9:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. www.wicaonline.org May 12: Penn Cove Water Festival, downtown Coupeville. www.penncovewaterfesti val.com May 12: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all age May 18-20: Whidbey SailFest, Coupeville Wharf. A celebration of Whidbey Island’s maritime heritage. Three sailing ships will be the centerpieces for this nautical weekend. www.whidbeysailfest.com May 19-20: Savor Spring, www.whidbeyis landvintners.org May 26: Coupeville Memorial Day Parade, www.coupevillechamber.com

May 28: PAWZ by the Sea 5k/10k Run/Walk.

Langley. www.visitlangley.com

JUNE June: Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, Whidbey Playhouse, Oak Harbor. www.whidbeyplay house.com June 1: Whidbey Island Relay for Life, Oak Harbor. North Whidbey Middle School.

June 2: South Whidbey High School Art Show, 5-7 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. www.wicaonline.org June 2: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com June 8-23: When We Were Young and Unafraid, 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays. Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. www.wicaonline.org June 9: Spring Clean, www.oakharbormainstreet.com June 9: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

June 16: Whidbey Island Garden Tour. www.wigt.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 45

Whidbey & Fidalgo › ISLANDER 2018

Naval Air Station Whidbey Island holds an open house in June of each year.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44 June 16: Queer Pride Parade, Langley.

June 19: Camp Casey Open House, 12-4 p.m., Coupeville. Historic fort will be open to the public, including the swimming pool. www.gocampcasey.org June 23: NAS Whidbey Island Open House, 8-5 p.m.

June 29: Senator Bill Bradley in "Conversation on the State of American Politics,” 7:30-9:30 p.m., Whidbey Island Center for the Arts, Langley. www.wicaonline.org June 29: Coupeville Lions Garage Sale Preview, Coupeville Middle School. www. coupevillelions.org June 30: Bell’s Farm Strawberry Daze, 8 a.m.-5 p.m, Bell’s Farm, Coupeville.

JULY

June 30-July 1: Coupeville Lions Garage Sale, Coupeville Middle School. www. coupevillelions.org

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

June 30-July 4: Oak Harbor 4th of July Carnival, Windjammer Park, www.oakharborchamber.com July: Island Shakespeare Festival starts 2018 season in July. www.islandshakespearefest.org July 3: Celebrate America, all day in Freeland Park, culminating with a fireworks show at dusk.

July 4: 4th of July Carnival, 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Windjammer Park.

July 4: Maxwelton 4th of July Parade starts at 1 p.m. featuring an eclectic mix of participants followed by kids' games afterwords, with ice cream and pie.

July 19-22: Whidbey Island Fair, Langley.

July 27: Crab Cakes and Cocktails, 4-7 p.m., Flinstone Park, Oak Harbor. www.oakharbor chamber.com July 27-Aug. 5: Whidbey Island Music Festival, Oak Harbor. www.whidbeyislandmu sicfestival.org CONTINUED ON PAGE 46

July 19-22 • 2018

July 7: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com July 14: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

July 19-22: Whidbey Island Race Week, www.whidbeyislandraceweek.com

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The annual Welcome the Whales Parade and Festival in Langley is fun for all ages.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

AUGUST Aug. 4: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com Aug. 10: Chamber Golf Tournament, Whidbey Golf Club, Oak Harbor. www. oakharborchamber.com

Penn Cove Water Festival

Saturday May 4, 2019 11am-5pm

In Historical Coupeville, WA, USA Tribal Canoe Races, Music, Native Arts & Crafts, Dancing, Storytelling, Food, Youth Activities, Educational Exhibitors & The Native Spirit Art Show A Fun Festival for the entire Family (dogs included)! www.PennCoveWaterFestival.com

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Aug. 11-12: Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival. www.coupevillefestival.com Aug. 11: Race the Reserve, event-day registration opens 5:30 a.m., Coupeville Middle School. Races include a marathon, half marathon, marathon relay, 10k and 5k. www.RaceTheReserve.com Aug. 11: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

Aug. 31-Sept. 2: Oak Harbor Music Festival. www.oakharborfestival.com

SEPTEMBER Sept. 1-3: Woodpalooza, WICA, Langley.

Sept. 1: Military Appreciation Public Picnic. www.oakharbornavyleague.org Sept. 1: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com

Aug. 12: Oak Harbor Pigfest, www.oakhar borpigfest.com

Sept. 8: Greenbank Farm Second

Aug. 17-19: DockStock, South Whidbey Harbor in Langley. www.visitlangley.com

Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

Aug. 18: Tour de Whidbey, www.whidbeybi cycleclub.org

Sept. 15: Whidbey Island Kite Festival,

Aug. 25-26: Whidbey Working Artists Studio Tour, various studios island-wide, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. www.whidbeyworkingartists.com Aug. 26: Soup Box Derby, First Street in Langley. www.visitlangley.com

Camp Casey, Coupeville. www.gocampcasey.org Sept. 15-16: Hydros for Heroes, Bayshore Drive, Oak Harbor. www.hydrosforheroes. com CONTINUED ON PAGE 47

Whidbey & Fidalgo › ISLANDER 2018

Fly a kite, throw a Frisbee or walk your dog in one of Whidbey's parks CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46 Sept. 19-23: DjangoFest, WICA and downtown Langley. www.visitlangley.com Sept. 22: Octoberfest, www.oakharbormain street.com Sept. 22: Bird in the Hand Festival, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bayview Farm and Garden, Langley. Free, family event to hold and closely examine stuffed preserved bird specimens. Children’s activities, live raptors and more. www.whidbeyaudubon.org Sept. 29: OH-Mazing Race, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., starts and ends at Oak Harbor Chamber of Commerce. www.oakharborchamber.com

OCTOBER

October: Haunting of Coupeville, all month

Don't miss the annual Holland Happening festival, a celebration of Oak Harbor's dutch roots. long. www.hauntingofcoupeville.com Oct. 6: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com

Nov. 10: 19th Annual Nordic Fest, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., South Whidbey High School.

Enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Scandinavia. www.daughtersofnorway.org

Oct. 13: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

Oct. 31: No Tricks, Safe Treats, www.oakhar bormainstreet.com

Nov. 10: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

Oct. 31: Spooktacular Langley, www.visit langley.com

Nov. 11: Veterans’s Day Program, 11 a.m., Oak Harbor High School Performing Arts Center. Sponsored by the Oak Harbor Area Council of the Navy League of the United States. www.oakharborchamber.com

NOVEMBER Nov. 3: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com Nov. 10-11: Autumn on Whidbey, www. whidbeyislandvintners.org

Nov. 11: Veterans Day Parade, www.oakhar bormainstreet.com

Nov. 24: Sip n’ Shop on the Cove, Coupeville. wwwwcoupevillechamber.com CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

IslanddWORSHIP

Weekend Masses Saturday Vigil Sunday Daily Masses Mon, Tue, Thr, Fri Wednesday

5:00 pm 8 am & 10:30 am 8:15 am 10:30 am

ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

Father Rick Spicer, Pastor 360-221-5383 804 Third Street, Langley 47 3

refreshments, music, periodic art demonstrations and fun for all ages.

Dec. 22: Green Ticket Cash Giveaway, Oak Harbor. www.oakharbormainstreet.com Dec. 22: A Very Merry $1,000 Giveaway, Langley. www.visitlangley.com Dec. 23: Red Ticket Drawing, Coupeville. www.coupevillehistoricwaterfront.com Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Windjammer Park, Oak Harbor. www.oakhar borchamber.com

Keep an eye out in 2019 for: January: Sea Float Scramble, Langley February: Langley Mystery Weekend Coupeville Chocolate Walk March: Penn Cove Musselfest April: Holland Happening

Enjoy the food and the company at the Oak Harbor Pigfest CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47 Nov. 24: Lighting of Langley. www.visitlang ley.com Nov. 25: Gingerbread Workshop, www. coupevillehistoricwaterfront.com

DECEMBER Dec. 1: Home for the Holidays, www.oakhar bormainstreet.com

48

Dec. 1: Greening of Coupeville, www.coupe villechamber.com Dec. 1: Lighted Boat Parade, Oak Harbor. www.oakharborchamber.com Dec. 1: Holly Jolly Holiday Parade and Shop & Stroll, Langley. www.visitlangley.com Dec. 1: First Saturday Art Walk, Langley. www.visitlangley.com Dec. 8: Greenbank Farm Second Saturdays, Check out art galleries and shops. Light

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Whidbey & Fidalgo › ISLANDER 2018

Seaside city on Fidalgo Island Just across the scenic Deception Pass Bridge from Whidbey Island lies Fidalgo Island, which has Anacortes as its one and only city.

The city of 16,000 people has a strong connection to Whidbey Island as many people who work on Whidbey live in Anacortes and vice versa. It’s also the gateway to the San Juan Islands, one of the most popular and beautiful tourist destinations for boaters on the West Coast.

Anacortes itself is also a destination spot for boaters and those traveling on wheels.

The city has strongly connected to the water. It was once home to a thriving fishing industry, beginning in the 19th century, and at one point had 11 canneries.

Today, Anacortes has two ferry terminals and three marinas. Popular tourist attractions include tour boats that allow people to get up-close views of orcas, gray whales and other sea life.

Kayaking is also popular, as is fishing, crabbing, clamming and more. Local businesses offer kayak tours and fishing charters.

The city has a bustling downtown. Shoppers can explore art galleries galore, as well as antique shops, books stores, quirky businesses and several unique stores. Many fine restaurants are serving up seafood, Mexican cuisine, cafes, pub food and much more. At night the street is hopping with people enjoying live music and camaraderie at busy taverns.

Anacortes has many opportunities for people who love the outdoors. The Community Forest Lands covers nearly 2,800 acres with-

Welcome to historic downtown Anacortes.

in the city and is crisscrossed with trails that travel through trees and past lakes.

Washington Park is a 220-acre park that offers camping, a boat launch, picnic areas and a paved loop trail. Other parks and trails offer access to the water, playground equipment and open space.

Anacortes hosts events each year that swell the city’s population. Among them are Anacortes Arts and Crafts Festival, the annual boat show and the Waterfront Festival. The city is the destination of the Oyster Run, a motorcycle rally that fills the streets with hundreds upon hundreds of ‘cycles.

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49

Island offers chance for adventure, exploration Camano Island is the perfect place for a quiet, weekend getaway for those craving an island experience. Located just off Interstate 5, Camano offers a variety of quiet, yet interactive places to visit.

Camano Island history started with Native Americans who fished, clammed and picked berries on the hillsides. The island takes its name from an early Spanish explorer, and in the 1700s Europeans mapped and named many places in the area. The Douglas firs became very desirable for shipbuilding, and by the 1800s Camano Island was a bustling community with mills,

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Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism

Two youths play on the beach, enjoying the beauty of the island. homes and schools, and with tall ships taking cargo from the deep waters at the north end of the island, according to the Camano Chamber of Commerce.

Today, Camano offers visitors an authentic

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Warm Beach Senior Community provides quality housing and supportive services in a serene, natural setting.

• Park-like campus with walking trails • Swimming pool and exercise room • 24-hour security • Eagle’s View Restaurant • Chapel worship services

• Outpatient Therapy • Manor Mart Grocery Store • Activites for body, mind and spirit • Greater Stanwood area offers clinics, shopping, grocers & pharmacies

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island experience. Don’t expect shops and gimmicks aimed at tourists, but real people, real products and real passion for island living.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 51

848 N. Sunrise Boulevard Camano Island 360-631-5432

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Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

A beautiful view of Mt. Baker from Barnum Point.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 50

LAP OF LUXURY If you’re looking for fine dining and a unique stay, Camano Inn offers beautiful rooms with a view and spa services as well as a full restaurant.

There are several bed and breakfasts and other rental properties on the island. Many of them offer breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage.

ART INSPIRED Satisfy your craving for arts and culture by visiting one of many artist studios located all over the island. Each year in February, Camano hosts The Great Northwest Glass Quest, where plastic “clueballs” are hidden at host businesses

Whidbey and Camano Islands Tourism

and in community sites around the StanwoodCamano area. Find a “clueball” and return it to the location identified inside for an authentic limited edition glass treasure.

GREAT OUTDOORS Camano is home to a unique zip-lining company that offers daily canopy tours. At Cama Beach, rent a cabin and explore the park’s many amenities including the center for wooden boats. Rent a wooden boat and a crab pot, and have some adventure while trying to catch dinner. There are several county parks and Camano State Park, which offers beach access, hiking trails and outdoor recreational space.

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CAMANO ISLAND Camano Island Bud Hut is your local pot shop, with a great cannabis selection and friendly staff. Located off Route 532, we are easily accessible from Stanwood.

1137 SR 532, Camano Island (360) 629-3480 www.budhut.net/camano-island Hours: Mon-Thu, 8am-9pm Fri-Sat, 8am-10pm Sun, 9am-7pm This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product.

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51 3

A Victorian hub of shops and sights Port Townsend is known for its beautiful scenery, shopping centers and for its Victorian-style buildings from the late 19th Century. The city is one of three Victorian Seaports in the United States. The biggest draws to Port Townsend include a thriving arts community, a sight-filled downtown and a Victorian seaport heritage.

Port Townsend’s Historic District is a U.S. National Historic Landmark District. Port Townsend was founded in 1851 and now has a population of about 9,3000.

Stop by do some shopping, eat or enjoy some of the local activities.

There are shops uptown and downtown, full of unique gifts and artist’s creations.

Artists of all trades find a place to celebrate their art in Port Townsend, including writers, actors, musicians, painters and sculptors.

The Jewel of Port Townsend is a stop for those looking for gifts for others or treasures for themselves, with it’s offering of art, jew-

elry, antiques and collectables. The store is just one of many of the shopping options offered in Port Townsend.

Museums in Port Townsend offer the area’s military history and educational displays.

There’s the Puget Sound Coast Artillery Museum, Fort Flagler State Park Military Museum, Commanding Officer’s Quarters Museum, the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, Quilcene Historical Museum and more.

Food is tasty and fresh here, with local farms and growers bringing in some of the best produce. Restaurants include The Old Whiskey Mill, Ichikawa Shushi Bar, Key City Fish, Bayview Restaurant and Silverwater Cafe. The town also has numerous sweet shops, including Elevated Ice Cream Candy shop and Port Townsend Chocolates.

Perhaps you’d like to spend the night.

There are many Bed and Breakfast Inns EST. 1982

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throughout the city. Other accommodations include the Manresa Castle Hotel, a centuryold castle with a beautiful view, restaurant and gardens. The Bishop Victorian Hotel is located in the Historic Disrict, near a hub of shops, restaurants and activities. Also near Historic District is the Palace Hotel, a Romaneque style hotel with fourteen-foot ceilings.

The Fort Worden State Park is found in Port Townsend, a 434-acre military fort from the 19th century. Inside the state park, Centrum hosts a number of public performances and art workshops. Shows include musical festivals and writers’ conferences.

The town is great for those looking to get some physical activity into their lives, with a range of biking and hiking trails throughout. Kayaks are available to rent from May to September, perfect for exploring the beautiful waters surrounding Port Townsend.

Wynwoods gallery & bead studio Full service Bead Store

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Knitting, Fine Fibers, Roving, Buttons & Crochet Supplies 940 Water St, Port Townsend 360-385-4844 •divayarn.com

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

Skagit County offers tulip festival and much more

Visitors to Skagit County will never be bored, with the broad range of stops, shops and sights the county has to offer.

The cities of Skagit County are Anacortes, Burlington, Mount Vernon and SedroWoolley. The county also includes the towns of Concrete, Hamilton, La Conner and Lyman.

In spring, it’s all about the tulips. The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is a must-see, typically running in April for two weeks each year as millions of the flowers bloom in Skagit Valley’s fields.

Flowers are a major draw to Skagit County.

Although smaller than the annual Tulip Festival, the La Conner Daffodil Festival offers their own sights in March for those searching for flowery beauty.

Take a tour through The San Juan Islands in

search of orcas with a whale watching tour out of Anacortes. Orcas are an important symbol of the Pacific Northwest and a sighting gives a glimpse into what Skagit Valley is all about.

Food choices are abundant in Skagit Valley, an agricultural community where farmers markets and “farm-to-table” offerings are plentiful.

Some top picks are Anthony’s Restaurant in Anacortes, the Trumpeter Public House in Mount Vernon and Skagit’s Own Fish Market in Burlington. For those looking for drinks, Skagit County is well-known for its offering of wine cellars, microbreweries and distilleries.

In Mount Vernon, there’s the Farmstrong Brewing Co., the Deception Distillery in Anacortes and the Eagle Haven Windery in Sedro-Woolley.

If in search of art or collectables, there’s the

Scott Milo gallery in Anacortes, the La Conner Quilt & Textile Museum, and several places in Mount Vernon including the Red Door Antique Mall.

Places to stay in Skagit Valley include the Majestic Inn in Anacortes, Candlewood Suites in Burlington and the Skagit Hotel in Bow. Those looking for fun outdoor activities won’t be disappointed. There are multiple state parks throughout Skagit Count, offering picturesque views and camping grounds.

Anacortes is a top kayacking spot.

Skagit Guided Adventures offers small group nature tours and day hikes around Skagit Valley, including a Skagit Farm-toTable Tour, Anacortes Wild Side Eco Tour, Skagit Valley Geese and Swans Tour and Skagit Birding Eco Tour.

The Oyster Dome offers a hike to be conquered for those who enjoy walking outdoors.

The hike may be steep, but the view from the top is its own reward.

The Tommy Thompson Trail in Anacortes is another well-known hike, with it’s 3.3 miles of scenic trail from downtown Anacortes to March’s Point.

Hands-On Exhibits

Parties & Field Trips

Preschool Program

School Break Camps

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Admission $6.25 per person

Monday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm

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ISLANDER 2018 › Whidbey & Fidalgo

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53

LOCAL

TRAVEL GUIDE

54

Plan your adventure on Whidbey Island

Whidbey & Fidalgo ‹ ISLANDER 2018

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