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Free Travel Guide

Winter on the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way

Your road trip adventure along the Cascade Loop will take you to the Whidbey Scenic Isle Way, a recognized byway in its own right! And one of the great things about this portion of the Loop is the weather is always temperate, so the recreation opportunities are virtually the same no matter what time of year.

That being said, some of the reasons to visit Whidbey island, and its sister island, Camano, during the winter include events like NW Glass Fest in February, and Penn Cove Musselfest in March, and the knowledge that fewer folks will be sharing the amazing activities, views and open spaces with you during the winter months.

Book a flight to Seattle-Tacoma International in Seattle, jump in your rental, and start making memories when you travel the Cascade Loop!

Start at the top: Deception Pass State Park

On the west side of the Cascade Loop, many state parks are open year round for camping and exploring – like the top of Whidbey Island’s Deception Pass, as well as Camano Island State Park, and Cama Beach Historical State Park.

As you travel south across the Deception Pass bridge from Fidalgo Island, you will witness one of the most photographed areas of Washington State. The road and bridge are narrow, so be very cautious, but use one of the pullouts to get dramatic views! Watch for the bald eagle pair that frequent the nearby tree tops!

Military Roots

The first community you visit heading south is Oak Harbor, a military community that is proud of its heritage! You may see more American flags here than on any other stretch of the Loop! You may also hear, and potentially see jets blazing across the island sky. Plan to visit the Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum, and see a PBY Catalina amphibious aircraft.

Fort Casey Historical State Park near Coupeville is another glimpse at the military history of the island. Part of the “Triangle of Fire” this fort was built in the late 1800’s to defend the entrance to the Puget Sound. Stay in the officers’ housing at Fort Casey Inn (built before World War I), or camp in the state park. Explore the bunkers and see 10-inch disappearing guns (they don’t disappear anymore!)

Garden Delights

Meerkerk Gardens displays amazing blossoms from spring through fall – but even in winter you can enjoy the beautiful foliage along the trails, very likely spot some wildlife, and occasionally tread through a bit of snow!

Bayview Farm and Garden offers seasonal indoor and outdoor plants, as well as home décor all year. The Flower House Café is a great spot for breakfast and lunch, with a great selection of beverages, including wine, cider and beer.

Art Trail

Price Sculpture Forest and the Oak Harbor Art Trail are just a few examples of amazing art found in all corners of the island. Check out the Whidbey Art Trail to find artists and galleries to visit during your stay.

Price Sculpture Forest is not just art, but trails through the forest near Coupeville, and it is open every day from 8am until dark in winter (7pm the rest of the year). They have a free self‐guided tour that encompasses the entire Sculpture Forest, through your mobile device.

Did we say seafood?

One of the best things about visiting Whidbey Island is the amazing assortment of seafood at every turn! From oysters at Saltwater Fish House in Langley to world-famous Penn Cove Mussels found in every restaurant in Coupeville, you know your meal will be fresh!