Salmon Fishing: Pink Salmon should be running in Puget Sound during this time, and if you go to Fort Casey, Deception Pass, or Driftwood Park (Keystone), you may run into Luke trying to fill his daily quota.

Shellfishing: If fishing requires too much gear, you can always dig for clams with a shovel and bucket. Mussels can usually be found in the same area too. We have had some nice dinners cooking local clams and mussels we collected and cooking them with a nice local bottle of white wine.

Fort Casey Historical State Park: Step back in time and explore the old military batteries and bunkers. Juliet’s parents would go here to see Luke heading out on trips with the Nimitz. Luke is just hoping he can be standing here instead next time, watching others leave for deployment!

Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve: Hike the popular Bluff Loop Trail for dramatic views of the Olympic Mountains and explore the historic farmlands. We used to take walks from our house in Coupeville to these breathtaking views.

Deception Pass State Park: A must-see! Explore the famous bridge, enjoy sweeping views, and hike the many forest or bluff trails. You might even spot whales! Bowman Bay is a part of this park and a great place to bring a lunch and jump in the cold water if you are up for it!

Food: We are food people, and the PNW has so many options. A few favorite spots of ours include: Front Street Grill - Coupeville, Oystercatcher - Coupeville, Seabolts - Oak Harbor, Adrift - Anacortes, Greenbank Farm (Marion Berry Pie!) - Greenbank, Ultra House - Langley. There are so many more, so please check out the great restaurants all around!

Port Townsend: Port Townsend is a great place to visit from Coupeville. On Thursday afternoons, we would take a drive down to the Coupeville terminal and walk on the Port Townsend-bound ferry with dinner and a picnic blanket to check out Concerts on the Docks. The downtown area is amazing, and you can always stop by any of the restaurants nearby if you are still hungry or weren’t able to pack a dinner!

San Juan Islands: There are two islands that we would take a day or multi-day trip to and highly recommend you check out if you have a day to kill or even want to spend a couple of days. Ferries run from Anacortes, and this is truly a PNW experience.

San Juan Island / Friday Harbor: This island is a little more built up but has amazing whale watching places such as San Juan Island National Historical Park and Lime Kiln Point State Park. If you have time, check out Roche Harbor. It has great food and amazing views!

Orcas Island: A little more laid-back and easygoing is Orcas Island. Luke has been known to bike this island while making stops at Eastsound and Mt. Constitution. The Madrona Bar & Grill in Eastsound has some great chips and fish!

Bellingham: Take a drive up Chuckanut Drive (Highway 11) and stop at all the local shops on the way. If you want a good hike, you can always stop at Oyster Dome for a good leg burner.

Olympic National Park: Camping trips here in the summer are magical. You can relax in the hot springs, walk among giant trees in the Hoh Rain Forest, or walk along the Pacific Coast. Cape Flattery could be a good place to stop along the way around this park. Just make sure you call ahead of time to see if they are open; Luke forgot to do this for the 4-hour trip from Whidbey once…

North Cascades National Park: The views and water here will take your breath away. You could just drive up for a day to check out Diablo Lake, but a camping trip is worth it in the summer. Just bring your hiking shoes.

Victoria (B.C. Canada): Victoria is a drive, ferry ride, and border crossing away but worth it for a great time. We enjoyed staying at the Hotel Fairmont Empress and having a little high-noon tea! Butchart Gardens is one of Juliet’s favorite places as well. Overall, a great city worth checking out.

Whistler (B.C. Canada): Talk about an outdoor paradise. The drive to here is amazing, and the activities, food, and atmosphere are worth the trip. Juliet and Luke go skiing here in the winter, and while the slopes won’t have snow on them, you can always go mountain biking. Or you could just take the gondola up and be amazed by the views!

Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Views:

Price Sculpture Forest (Coupeville): A unique outdoor gallery where art enhances nature. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the forest discovering various sculptures.

Double Bluff Beach: A popular spot for beachcombing, picnics, and if you're into it, kiteboarding. It's also known as a great off-leash dog park.

Meerkerk Gardens: A beautiful botanical space near Greenbank, perfect for a peaceful stroll among rhododendrons.

Whale Watching: Depending on the season, you might spot gray whales or orcas passing through the straits. The Langley Whale Center is a good place to learn more.

Kayaking/Boating: Many opportunities to get out on the water, whether on Penn Cove or around the island.

Charming Towns & Local Culture:

Coupeville: Stroll through this historic waterfront town, shop in local boutiques, and dine on famous Penn Cove mussels. The iconic red Coupeville Wharf is a great photo opportunity. Visit the Island County Historical Museum for local history.

Langley: A quaint "village by the sea" known for its art galleries, bakeries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants. You might catch a live performance at the Whidbey Island Center for the Arts.

Oak Harbor: The largest city on Whidbey, offering a mix of history and amenities. Visit the Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum or explore Windjammer Park for waterfront walks.

Food & Drink:

Penn Cove Mussels: A local delicacy, available in many restaurants, especially in Coupeville.

Wineries & Distilleries: Whidbey Island boasts several local wineries (e.g., Dancing Fish Vineyards, Spoiled Dog Winery, Comforts of Whidbey Winery) and the Whidbey Island Distillery, offering tastings and tours.

Farmer's Markets: Check for local farmer's markets, especially in Langley (Bayview Market, South Whidbey Tilth Farmers Market), for fresh produce and local goods.

Diverse Dining: From fine dining to casual cafes, Whidbey offers a range of culinary experiences. Popular spots include The Captain Whidbey, Prima Bistro, and Saltwater Fish House & Oysterbar in Langley, or Frasers Gourmet Hideaway in Oak Harbor.

Tips for Guests:

Discover Pass: Many state parks require a Discover Pass for parking. Guests can purchase a day pass or annual pass.

Ferry Travel: If coming from the mainland south of Whidbey, they'll likely take the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry. Check ferry schedules and consider arriving early, especially on weekends, as lines can be long.

Driving the Scenic Byway: A scenic byway runs the length of the island, connecting Deception Pass to Clinton, offering a beautiful way to explore the various towns and sights.