CoupevilleEventsHomeLangleyOak HarborThings to Do on WhidbeyWhidbey Island April 28, 2025

Finding Community on Whidbey Island

Moving to Whidbey Island offers more than just a change of scenery, it’s an invitation to join a warm and welcoming community. Getting involved in local groups and activities is one of the best ways to meet people, stay active, and feel at home quickly.

Here are some great places to start:

Join a Run Club or Outdoor Group

Staying active is easy with Whidbey Island’s natural beauty and abundance of outdoor activities. Consider joining groups like the Whidbey Island Running Club or North Whidbey Hiking Enthusiasts, where you’ll not only get exercise but also connect with like-minded locals. Participating in group runs, hikes, or bike rides is a natural way to form friendships while exploring the island’s scenic landscapes.

Connect with Local Farmers Markets

Whidbey Island is known for its vibrant farmers markets, like the Bayview Farmers Market in Langley or the Coupeville Farmers Market. These markets offer more than fresh produce, they are community hubs with local artisans, farmers, and fellow residents. Grab a coffee, browse handmade crafts, and strike up conversations with friendly faces.

Explore Art and Craft Co-ops

If you have a passion for the arts, there is no doubt that you will love Whidbey Island’s creative community. Visit local co-ops like the Penn Cove Gallery in downtown Coupeville or the Whidbey Art Gallery downtown Langley, where you can meet local artists, attend workshops, or participate in art walks. Engaging in these creative spaces opens the door to new friendships and shared experiences.

Attend Festivals and Local Events

Whidbey Island’s calendar is packed with events that bring the community together. Don’t miss these annual favorites: the Whidbey Island Fair, Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival, or the Mystery Weekend in Langley. Attending these events is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture, meet your neighbors, and create lasting memories.

Get Involved in Community Groups

Whether you are passionate about gardening, music, or volunteering, it is likely that there is a local group to join. Look into organizations like Whidbey Island Grown Cooperative for agricultural enthusiasts, Island Shakespeare Festival for theater lovers, or volunteer opportunities with Good Cheer Food Bank or Habitat for Humanity. Getting involved is a direct path to building meaningful connections on the island.

Make Whidbey Feel Like Home

The key to settling into a new community is active participation. Whether you are hiking with new friends, attending a lively market, or volunteering at a local event, the connections you make will turn Whidbey Island from a new place into a true home.

Ready to make Whidbey Island your home? Let’s connect.

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Why Are There Tsunami Signs on Whidbey Island?

If you have spent any time on Whidbey Island, it is likely that you have noticed the tsunami evacuation signs posted along roads and beaches. These signs may raise questions for newcomers or visitors. Why does an island surrounded by serene waters have tsunami warnings? The answer lies in the region’s unique geography and seismic activity.

The Risk of Tsunamis on Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island is located in part of the geologically active area known as the Cascadia Subduction Zone. Roughly 600-miles of fault line runs from Northern California to British Columbia, where the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate meets the North American tectonic plate. When these plates shift or collide, they can trigger large earthquakes — and in some cases, tsunamis.

Tsunamis are massive ocean waves typically caused by undersea earthquakes or volcanic activity. While Whidbey Island is somewhat sheltered by its location in Puget Sound, a major earthquake along the Cascadia fault or from another undersea event could generate a tsunami that impacts the island’s coastal areas.

Why Are There Evacuation Routes?

The tsunami evacuation signs posted throughout Whidbey Island are part of a broader safety plan to help residents and visitors reach higher ground quickly in the event of a tsunami warning. Coastal towns like Langley, Coupeville, and Oak Harbor have low-lying areas that could be vulnerable to flooding if a tsunami were to occur.

The signs are strategically placed to direct people away from beaches, marinas, and waterfront areas toward safer locations on higher ground. Being aware of these routes and having a plan in case of an emergency is an important part of living in a coastal region. Island County does a great job of providing tsunami information including a high ground map that you can visit by clicking here.

How Likely Is a Tsunami on Whidbey Island?

The likelihood of a large tsunami hitting Whidbey Island is low, but not impossible. Scientists and geologists monitor the Cascadia Subduction Zone closely, and while large earthquakes are rare, they have occurred in the past. The most notable event was the 1700 Cascadia Earthquake, which triggered a tsunami that impacted coastal communities from Washington to Japan. You can read more about what that looked like on January 15, 2022 by clicking here.

While Whidbey Island may not face the same tsunami threats as coastal communities on the open ocean, it is still vulnerable to localized tsunamis caused by underwater landslides, known as “submarine landslides.” These could result from large earthquakes or other geological shifts in Puget Sound.

What Should You Do in the Event of a Tsunami Warning?

In the rare event of a tsunami warning on Whidbey Island, the most important thing to do is move to higher ground immediately. Familiarize yourself with the evacuation routes marked by the tsunami signs, and always follow guidance from local authorities and emergency services.

Here are a few tips to stay safe:

· If you feel strong shaking from an earthquake, don’t wait for an official warning — head to higher ground immediately.

· Know your evacuation routes and have a family emergency plan in place.

· Stay informed by signing up for local emergency alerts and having a battery-powered radio on hand.

Preparedness Brings Peace of Mind

While the thought of a tsunami can be unsettling, it is most important to remember that Whidbey Island’s local authorities and emergency response teams are well-prepared. The presence of tsunami signs and evacuation routes are simply a proactive measure to ensure everyone’s safety.

By staying informed and knowing what to do in an emergency, you can enjoy everything Whidbey Island has to offer with peace of mind. After all, living on this beautiful island means being prepared — and being part of a community that looks out for one another. Connect with us.