Based on information submitted to the MLS GRID as of . All data is obtained from various sources and may not have been verified by the broker or MLS GRID. Supplied Open House Information is subject to change without notice. All information should be independently reviewed and verified for accuracy. Properties may or may not be listed by the office/agent presenting the information.
HISTORY
Whidbey Island has a deep and rich history that stretches back thousands of years, originally inhabited by Coast Salish tribes including the Lower Skagit, Swinomish, and Suquamish peoples. The island was later explored by Europeans in the late 1700s, most notably by Captain George Vancouver, who named the island after Lieutenant Joseph Whidbey in 1792. In the 19th century, Whidbey Island became a key site for early settlement in Washington Territory, with agriculture, logging, and maritime trade shaping its development. Today, its historic towns and military presence, particularly Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Oak Harbor, continue to influence the island's culture and economy.
INFORMATION & LOCATION
Whidbey Island is located in Island County, just north of Seattle, Washington. It is one of the longest islands in the contiguous United States, stretching about 55 miles from north to south. Surrounded by the Puget Sound, the island offers a mix of farmland, forest, coastline, and charming small towns. Whidbey is known for its slower pace of life, breathtaking natural beauty, and vibrant arts and food culture. It is a popular destination for both weekend visitors and full-time residents seeking a quieter, nature-rich lifestyle with easy access to the mainland.
CITIES ON WHIDBEY
Whidbey Island is home to several distinctive towns and communities, each with its own personality:
Oak Harbor: The island’s largest city and home to NAS Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor offers a strong military presence, family-friendly amenities, and waterfront views.
Coupeville: A charming, historic town located in the heart of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve, known for its preserved buildings, Penn Cove mussels, and scenic bluffs.
Langley: Often referred to as the “Village by the Sea,” Langley is an artsy, walkable town with galleries, boutique shops, and stunning views of Saratoga Passage.
Freeland, Greenbank, Clinton, and Bayview: Smaller communities that offer rural living, unique shops, and access to parks, beaches, and artisan goods.
FERRY INFORMATION
Whidbey Island is accessible by ferry and by bridge:
Mukilteo–Clinton Ferry: The most commonly used route, connecting the southern tip of the island (Clinton) to Mukilteo on the mainland. Ferries run frequently, and the crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Port Townsend–Coupeville Ferry: Operated by Washington State Ferries, this route connects the Olympic Peninsula to central Whidbey. Reservations are recommended for this scenic, less frequent route.
Deception Pass Bridge: Located at the north end of the island, this iconic bridge connects Whidbey to Fidalgo Island and the mainland via Highway 20.
EVENTS
Whidbey Island hosts a variety of beloved annual events that showcase its culture and community spirit:
Whidbey Island Fair (Langley): A classic summer fair with livestock shows, rides, music, and local crafts.
Mystery Weekend (Langley): A town-wide interactive mystery game that brings out amateur sleuths from all over.
Penn Cove MusselFest (Coupeville): Celebrating the region’s famous shellfish with tastings, chowder contests, and family fun.
Choochokam Arts Festival, DjangoFest Northwest, Farm Tours, and Holiday Markets are also popular throughout the year.
ACTIVITIES
Outdoor recreation and cultural experiences abound on Whidbey Island:
Hiking: Trails at Ebey’s Landing, South Whidbey State Park, and Deception Pass State Park offer stunning views and varied terrain.
Beaches & Wildlife: Explore tidepools, go birdwatching, or kayak along the coast. The island is a great place to spot eagles, seals, and even whales.
Arts & Shopping: Visit galleries in Langley and Coupeville, or browse local artisan markets.
Dining & Wineries: Enjoy fresh seafood (especially Penn Cove mussels), farm-to-table restaurants, and local wines and spirits.
History & Museums: Explore the Island County Historical Museum, Price Sculpture Forest, and Fort Casey State Park with its old gun batteries and lighthouse.
IN SUMMARY
Whidbey Island, Washington is a Pacific Northwest treasure—rich in history, surrounded by natural beauty, and filled with vibrant communities. Whether you're strolling a historic waterfront, exploring coastal trails, enjoying a ferry ride, or relaxing at a quiet beach, Whidbey offers a unique blend of culture, charm, and adventure. It’s a place where you can slow down, soak in the scenery, and experience island life just a short trip from the mainland.
2,644 people live in Whidbey Island, where the median age is 22.2 and the average individual income is $24,135. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Median Age
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Average individual Income
There's plenty to do around Whidbey Island, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.
Explore popular things to do in the area, including Slab City Sammies, The Book Rack, and Chrysalis Yoga Shala.
| Name | Category | Distance | Reviews |
Ratings by
Yelp
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dining | 1.28 miles | 20 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Shopping | 2.59 miles | 22 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Active | 3.52 miles | 8 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Active | 2.8 miles | 9 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.47 miles | 5 reviews | 5/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.55 miles | 7 reviews | 4.9/5 stars | |
| Beauty | 3.53 miles | 9 reviews | 4.8/5 stars | |
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
Whidbey Island has 80 households, with an average household size of 1.61. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Whidbey Island do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.
Total Population
Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.
Median Age
Men vs Women
Population by Age Group
0-9 Years
10-17 Years
18-24 Years
25-64 Years
65-74 Years
75+ Years
Education Level
Total Households
Average Household Size
Average individual Income
Households with Children
With Children:
Without Children:
Marital Status
Blue vs White Collar Workers
Blue Collar:
White Collar:
At Lapis Homes, we believe that great real estate outcomes are built on collaboration, trust, and expertise. Let’s work together to create a smooth, successful real estate experience that meets your goals and exceeds your expectations.
