The 45-mile-long, largely rural island is reached by ferry from Mukilteo near Everett to Clinton on the south end of Whidbey, or by ferry from Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula that docks at the Keystone Spit on the island's west side. Visitors also can reach the island by crossing Deception Pass Bridge near Anacortes.

The largest town on the island is Oak Harbor on the north end, which is largely supported by the nearby Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Langley is the closest town to Clinton and the ferry terminal. Langley is largely known for its small shops, galleries and eateries.

Fort Casey and Fort Ebey State Parks both are huge tourist draws. Fort Casey, built in the early 20th century, is the most dramatic, with two massive artillery pieces in place. Both parks offer campgrounds and waterfront day use. The former lighthouse at Fort Casey is now a museum. Nearby, Coupeville specializes in antique shops, Victorian bed-and-breakfasts and features the Island County Historical Museum.

Nine miles north of Oak Harbor, Deception Pass State Park is one of the state's busiest. Campers are urged to make reservations far in advance for summer weekends. The Deception Pass Bridge is a tourist destination in itself. The high, arched steel structure that spans the narrow, churning waterway far below, literally is bolted to the sides of the narrow waterway's rocky cliffs. Reservations: 888-226-7688 (Washington State Parks) or online at

Visitors Guide

Whidbey (and Camano) Island information:; 888-747-7777