5 Stunning beaches on Whidbey Island – The local experience

Your upcoming Island vacation is in reach. Now it’s time to plan for the beach!

You’ve booked your vacation rental, and it’s time for activity planning. Where will you go and what will you see? To help you get started on that to-do list, enjoy reading about some of our favorite beaches on the Island ‒ complete with helpful insider tips and what makes each of them so unique and inviting! 

Maxwelton

Maxwelton Beach in Clinton (officially named Dave Mackie Park) is the perfect spot for crabbing, clamming, swimming, having beach parties, and participating in the big July 4 parade! You’ll enjoy ample parking, a children’s play area, a baseball field, bathrooms, and BBQ stations. Looking to stay nearby? Mermaid Cottage by the Sea and Maxwelton Farm Guest House are lovely vacation homes within walking distance!

Double Bluff

Known as the sandiest beach on Whidbey, Double Bluff is an incredible spot for your whole family to land. Famous for skimboarding, fort building, climbing the steep bluff, and the perfect place to watch locals windsurf, this is a beach you could happily return to over and over again. Spend the day spotting shellfish, admiring views of Mt. Rainier, exploring diverse rocks, and letting your pup run free on the largest off-leash dog beach on Whidbey. Stay nearby in Freeland’s Sunny Side Island Retreat, a bright home just 3 minutes driving distance to Double Bluff! 

Eagle flying on beach-1

Bush Point

Salmon fishing, whale sightings, and stunning sunsets define the fishing boat ramp Bush Point in Freeland, which has adjoining public beach access. Be sure to bring your binoculars! Beachgoers often report sightings of resident orcas, sea lions, harbor seals, river otter, and much more. Explore the adorable Comfy Coastal Cottage nearby. This rental property is within walking distance of this spectacular destination! 

Ebey's Landing

Enjoy a relaxing beach day, scenic hike, or adventurous bike ride at Ebey’s Landing, which locals refer to as the crown jewel of Whidbey. Surf, paraglide, watch Alaska-bound cruise ships pass, and even harvest seaweed seasonally. Rich in military history, you’ll relish this 554-acre reserve filled with long beach trails, towering bluffs, and cliff-side hiking. Reserve our stunning Madrona Beach house with unobstructed views of Penn Cove just a 6-minute drive away! 

Joseph Whidbey

In search of the perfect sunset? You’ll find it at Joseph Whidbey State Park Beach. Enjoy west-facing views of Victoria, B.C., Lopez Island, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca from 3,100 feet of saltwater shoreline. The unique coastline includes trails, rocky grounds, and two large grass fields where nets can be placed so games can be played. Can’t get enough of this specific spot? West Beach Wonderland is within walking distance to Joseph Whidbey, so you can beachcomb in your pajamas and drink coffee perched on driftwood. Remember to visit nearby Bells Farm, a true local favorite! 

Plan your stay

If you’ve explored the spots above and are looking for more adventure, drive up the Island to explore North Beach at Deception Pass State Park. Offering an amazing view of the iconic bridge, you’ll love the sandy beach, which is perfect for salmon fishing from shore. Please note: a recreational license is required for fishing, shellfish, and seaweed harvesting at Washington State Parks, and you’ll also benefit from tracking high or low tides. Explore our vacation homes, pack your bags, and start discovering Whidbey’s unparalleled coastline for yourself. coastline for yourself.