Whidbey Island

[the dufferz]

In my opinion whidbey island is one of washington's best kept secrets.

Located north of seattle, whidbey island is the largest island in the lower 48 states. Planted in the middle of the puget sound this island is around 40 miles long. This is the same distance as going from San Francisco to San Jose.

There are two ways onto the island. The south end is accessed from a ferry that crosses between Mukilteo (muck-ill-t-o) and Clinton (not named after the president). The north crossing is the bridge over Deception pass.

Eiither way is great, and I recommend that you do both and make a day out of the island.

Deception Pass.

The bridge over deception pass is a tourist attraction in itself. there are parking areas on both sides, and you can walk along the bridge. The waterway below is about 200 feet down. Bald eagles are known to fly around there.

Once on the island, the first place you come to is a not miss trip. Deception pass state park is to the right. You have to pay to camp, but you can go in for free. You will be in heavy woods. Follow the road to the beach. Once there you will immeidiately see why it's a must see. If the weather is good, walk the beach, heading to the right (north). Once around the curve you will find yourself looking up at the bridge. Jaw dropping beauty, plus a fun place to just enjoy the beach.

Don't be surprised if you see navy jet fighters flying overhead. Whidbey Island Navy station is just to the south of the park. Regular touch and go landings are a daily event.

Travel farther south and you will go through Oak harbor. The largest city on the island, nothing spectacular there, but there is a nice park.

Coupville

Further down the Island you can detour to the town of coupville. Quaint little town, some antique shops.

Fort Casey state park

Leaving coupeville, head straight south to Fort Casey state park for a total surprise. Once in the park, you drive past odd shaped mounds to the left, and see a road below. you come around a corner, then you are met with a large grassy area and a military fort stretching out beyond the grass.

Expect to spend a lot of time here, especially if you have kids.

Fort Casey is 1/3 of the "triangle of fire". Built around 1890, three "forts" were built to prevent enemy ships from entering the puget sound. The idea was that these ships would be pounded from three separate locations, thus forming a triangle of fire. These forts were abandoned once airplains showed up.

There are a couple of guns still in place, and lots of underground concrete caves to explore. Bring a flashlight!

The ferry terminal

Once you drag yourself away from there, drive down to the ferry terminal. If the tide is out, you are in luck! There is a rock jetty that protects the terminal. Walk out on the jetty and if you are young at heart climb down the the waters edge and you will see all sorts of great sealife!

You will also see something that you don't see everyday. Looking to the south, the shore is littered with driftwood for 2 1/2 miles! Huge stumps, small branches and everything inbetween.

South Whidbey

This part of the island will feel like its not an island. The population is more sparse and it has a homey country feel about it. You will end your trip (or begin if you choose) in Clinton. A very nice little town that is basically residential with a small business district.

Expect to spend a full day here, and if you move to the island, you will join many who see this as paradise. The only problem with paradise is the traffic, especially on a nice summers day.

Definately an E-ticket ride.

[MyAzi]

Oh Duff I love Whidbey!!! I have friends who have a summer place there and I can't wait for them to come!!!

[the dufferz]

Originally Posted by MyAzi

Oh Duff I love Whidbey!!! I have friends who have a summer place there and I can't wait for them to come!!!

Oak harbor does not do much for me, but the rest of the island is just spectacular! I love fort casey!