A Perfect Day Trip

Looking for a perfect day trip that blends scenic beauty, small-town charm, outdoor adventures, and a healthy dose of local flavor? Look no further than Whidbey Island. Discover this hidden gem just north of Seattle that feels a world away.
From the moment your ferry glides across the water, or you cross the iconic Deception Pass Bridge, you’ll feel the shift – like you’ve stepped into a slower, sweeter rhythm of life.
Morning: Start with a Ferry Ride & Fresh Brew
There’s something magical about starting your day on a boat. Hop on the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry and enjoy stunning views of the Puget Sound, as you glide toward adventure. Once you land, swing by one of the island’s many cozy coffee shops. You’ll find Sunshine Drip, Cedar & Salt Coffee House, Beaver Tales Coffee LLC and so many more just in Coupeville.
Midday: Nature, Shops & Island Charm
Now that you’re caffeinated, it’s time to explore Coupeville! Nature lovers won’t want to miss a scenic bluff hike, or beach walk at Ebey’s Landing, or the Sculpture Forest on Parker Road. Want something a bit more laid-back? Stroll the charming streets of historic downtown Coupeville, where you’ll find an independent bookstore, antique shops, art galleries and more. At the end of the wharf, you’ll find Beaver Tales Coffee and Tea, Harbor Gifts, Penn Cove Outfitters, & Wharf Dog Paddle & Pantry. Don’t forget to look up and spot Rosie and friends once you’re inside.
Don’t leave without grabbing something to eat. There is something for everyone at one of the many eateries in town. You can find burgers, fish and chips, pizza, Mexican, Thai, and more. Choose from Toby’s Tavern, Front Street Grill, Osprey Fish Co., Molka Xete, Goldies, Phad Thai, Pizza Factory, and Oystercatcher.
Afternoon: Culture, History & Local Finds
Whidbey isn’t just about beaches and views — it’s rich with history and culture. Tour historic Fort Casey to explore the bunkers, and climb the lighthouse for panoramic views. If art is more of your thing, pop into one of the many local galleries or check out the rotating exhibits at the Pacific Northwest Art School in Coupeville.
If you happen to be visiting during one of the island’s many festivals or markets — lucky you! The community really comes alive with live music in the summertime with the Sound of Summer Concerts & Oak Harbor Music Fest. Or find fresh produce and handmade goods that show off the island’s creative soul at the Bayview Farmers Market, Coupeville’s Farmers Market, and Oak Harbor Farmers Market.
Evening: Sunset, Sips & Serenity
As your perfect Whidbey day winds down, find a spot to watch the sunset. We suggest heading to Deception Pass or West Beach. Grab a blanket and soak in the golden glow as the sun slips behind the Olympic Mountains and listen to the waves roll in. If a relaxing drink is more your style, settle in at a local winery or brewery for a glass of something delicious made right here on the island at Spoiled Dog, or Holmes Harbor Cellars.
Why Whidbey?
A day on Whidbey is more than just an escape — it’s a reset. It is a reminder that the best adventures don’t require boarding a plane or mapping out weeks of travel. Sometimes, all you need is a day, a ferry ride, and a little curiosity.
What are you waiting for? A perfect day trip is a short distance away. Your Whidbey Island day trip is calling. Come for the views, stay for the charm, and leave with your heart just a little fuller. Or fall in love and stay forever. If that’s the case, we can help make that happen. Let’s connect.
A Café in the Woods

A Café in the Woods
Literally tucked back in the woods of Langley at the end of a long and winding road is a little place you may not have heard of but is totally worth a visit! Mukilteo Coffee Roasters “Café in the Woods” is home to the “perfect cup of coffee”. If you are a coffee (and food) lover, this little café is a must visit!
View this post on Instagram
The café prides itself on the use of organic ingredients for all the items found on their menu, and coffee beans bought directly from the growers in Costa Rica. You will be delighted with the smell of freshly roasted coffee wafting in from the roasting room, and food cooked with fresh ingredients brought in by local farmers every day. Their café menu changes seasonally to keep the ingredients as fresh and local as possible, which makes it a great opportunity to try something new!
What Makes Them Unique:
The owners, Gary, and Beth Smith, at Mukilteo Coffee Roasters had a goal to “create the perfect cup of coffee” and many seem to agree that they have done just that! What makes them so unique is that they traveled to Costa Rica to meet the growers and taste the coffee before choosing which coffee they would use. Now their growers, a small family farm in Costa Rica, are considered part of the family and Gary and Beth visit frequently to experience the farm first hand. The café moved to its current location in 2003 and has been thriving ever since. Not only is their little café in Langley a huge success, Mukilteo coffees are shipped to consumers everywhere and served around the globe!
View this post on Instagram
The Café is open for breakfast and lunch from 8 am to 4 pm Monday through Saturday. You can visit their website [ https://mukilteocoffee.com/ ] to take a peek at their most current menu or order a bag of slow roasted coffee to brew right at home. We are sure your visit to the café will have you coming back for more!
Have you visited the Café in the Woods? Tell us all about your experience in the comments below!
You might also like:
#mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:100%;}
/* Add your own MailChimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block.
We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */
The Salty Mug

Looking for that extra special coffee?
You cannot beat this specialty salted caramel coffee drink, named “The Salty Mug” from… well The Salty Mug.
Take a stroll down the Coupeville Wharf and you will come upon a beautiful red barn nestled by the waves at the end. Inside you will find a gift shop, a restaurant and The Salty Mug coffee shop. Don’t forget to look up and see Rosie the Gray whale while inside as well as the Handsome Samson & Rudy!
Towards the back of the building you will discover a small entrance to a quaint coffee shop, The Salty Mug. Inside you will notice art hanging on the walls featuring local artists, fresh baked goodies lining the counters and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. There is cozy seating inside with glorious views out the windows looking across Penn Cove allowing you to enjoy the view even on the chilly days.
Ask owner David Howell (pictured) and his wife Pat what their suggested drink is and they will say, “the salty mug of course” they are not kidding. OH MY GOODNESS it is so good you will not want to try anything else.
Finally, escape from reality as you venture out the side doors onto their beautiful patio. It is here you get to see some of the most beautiful views on the island. Why not sit awhile and smell the crisp sea breeze and listen to the local wildlife splash in the water. Did I mention the view? Seriously, what is better than a warm cup of coffee while looking at the majestic snow capped mountains across the ocean?
For more about The Salty Mug click here.
Video on the History of the Coupeville Wharf:
Keep a watch out for other blogs:
Harbor Gift N’Kayak Rental
The cove Café
Looking for a Little Sunshine on a Cloudy Day?

Looking for a little sunshine on a cloudy day?
Stop by Sunshine drip in Coupeville, the one-stop shop that never disappoints. No matter what time of day, sit down for a steamy cup of coffee or a scrumptious meal. Then be inspired by their ever-changing décor, that is also for sale. Yep, you heard that right, it’s FOR SALE! This cozy little shop will give you the perfect excuse to spruce up that hall table that has been collecting dust for a while…. You know which one we are talking about. Perhaps you need a little inspiration for your new home, and don’t know where to start. Sunshine Drip offers a large selection of unique décor that will surely have you leaving with a bag full of new things. Your mind will be exploding with ideas!
Not only do they carry some of the coolest décor, they also feature one of a kind jewelry, accessories, skin care, candles, coffee mugs, and so much more! Many of the items they sell are hand crafted and locally made, making them great gifts for friends and family. Maybe you will even find a little something for yourself.
We love a place you can shop and eat all in one spot, and you won’t want to leave without at least grabbing a cup of coffee and some home-made baked goods! If you’re there for lunch, we recommend giving their Fruit and Greens salad a try! The house made blackberry vinaigrette dressing, fresh greens, fruits, and generous portion size make it a favorite. However, if salad is not your thing? Try their paninis, they are made with fresh oystercatcher bread and bursting with delicious flavor.
If you’ve ever paid a visit to Sunshine Drip let us know what your favorite menu item is! If you have yet to visit, you’re missing out! So, once you give it a try we’d love to hear all about it!
Check out their website here.