Spend a day adventuring, exploring, and enjoying local cuisine
Central Whidbey is a scenic destination that offers historic landmarks, culinary genius, and phenomenal outdoor activities. The central part of the Island is best known for its waterfront town of Coupeville, founded in 1852 and the second oldest community in Washington state. Filled with seaside charm, historic buildings, and breathtaking views of the mountains, Central Whidbey is a marvelous place to explore.
Pastries at Sunshine Drip
Whether you choose to drive across Deception Pass or ferry from Mukilteo, your journey to Central Whidbey will be a visually stunning experience. Begin your day at Sunshine Drip, a Coupeville café that offers local, handcrafted food and beverages and a quaint gift shop. While sipping and nibbling your breakfast, meander through town exploring galleries and shops that sell locally made products such as food, wine, clothing, art, and gifts.
Hike at Ebey’s Landing
Next, drive just 5 minutes to Ebey’s Landing for a magnificent walk. Although there are various spectacular hikes on Whidbey, Ebey’s Landing is unparalleled. The 3.5-mile Bluff Loop Trail leads you through golden meadows and along cliffs high above a pebbled shoreline. You’ll want to pause periodically and bask in the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, wildlife, and glittering surf below.
Penn Cove: Views and mussels
It’s time to head back to town where you’ll enjoy waterfront dining, local mussels, and Penn Cove views at Front Street Bar and Grill. Coupeville is famous for producing and harvesting Penn Cove mussels, which are distributed to fine dining restaurants around the world. After lunch, cross the street for a hand-dipped ice cream cone from Kapaw's Iskreme, then wander to the historic Wharf where another adventure awaits.
Your late afternoon sailboat cruise on the 1925 Gatsby-era Suva gently lulls passengers back in time. Learn about the iconic schooner’s history, the origins of Coupeville, and the magic of Penn Cove. Sea wildlife abounds with dramatic views as their backdrop.
Sustainable dining at The Oystercatcher
Back at the Wharf, you hop off the boat and stroll to dinner at The Oystercatcher. Featuring locally sourced and sustainable farm-to-table dining, their dishes draw serious food lovers from near and far. Local bread, oysters on the half shell, and entrees such as Catch of the Day provide your culinary finale while the sun sets.
It’s finally time to make yourself at home in your beautifully appointed Tara Vacation Rental, and a glass of wine by the fire proves the perfect nightcap.
Plan your stay
Whidbey is an idyllic getaway, wherever you choose to stay on the Island. Explore our vacation rentals, secure your next retreat, and prepare to create memories that last a lifetime.
