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Paragliding at Fort Ebey
Whidbey Island’s unique terrain offers some of the best opportunities for paragliding. One of the best places to go paragliding is Fort Ebey State Park. Follow along to discover why:
Scenic Beauty:
Fort Ebey State Park boasts stunning coastal views and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal backdrop for paragliding. You’ll soar above lush forests, rugged cliffs, and the sparkling waters of Puget Sound.
Topography:
The park’s topography, with its elevated bluffs and open fields, provides excellent launch sites for paragliders. Most paragliders prefer to take off from what was formerly called parade lawn on the the bluff. The natural terrain and prevailing winds create favorable conditions for safe and thrilling flights. Observers gather to watch the extraordinary sport.
Experienced Community:
Whidbey Island has an active paragliding community with experienced pilots who are familiar with the local conditions. This makes it an ideal place for both beginners and experienced paragliders to enjoy the sport.
Variety of Flights:
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing coastal glide or an adrenaline-pumping descent from the bluffs, Fort Ebey State Park offers a range of flight options to suit different skill levels and preferences.
Access to Amenities:
The park provides convenient access to amenities such as parking, restrooms, and picnic areas, enhancing the overall paragliding experience.
Wildlife Viewing:
As you glide through the skies, you may have the opportunity to spot local wildlife, including eagles, hawks, and other bird species, adding an extra layer of excitement to your flight. If you are interested in birdwatching too check out this article.
Community Support:
The paragliding community on Whidbey Island is known for its support and camaraderie. Local pilots are often willing to provide guidance and share their knowledge with newcomers.
It’s important to note that paragliding can be a physically demanding sport, and safety should always be a top priority. If you’re new to paragliding, consider taking lessons from a certified instructor to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Fort Ebey State Park’s combination of natural beauty and favorable flying conditions makes it a standout destination for paragliding enthusiasts on Whidbey Island. If Paragliding brought you to Whidbey Island and you like it so much you would like to call it home, connect with us.
Admiralty Light House History
Photo by: @pnwdeparture
If you’re sailing into Admiralty Inlet from the open ocean Point Wilson sits to the West of you and Admiralty Head to the East. This entrance to the vast inland waters of Puget Sound is marked by lighthouses on either side to alert ship traffic at night. Let’s review some of Admiralty Light House History. The original Admiralty Head lighthouse was built in 1861 and had similarities to a church. It was later rebuilt in 1903 and decommissioned in 1922. Today it remains an iconic historical part of Fort Casey State Park. When open, the interpretive center features a real Fresnel Lens along with a fantastic collection of historic photos and even a gift shop. A Spiral Staircase leads to the lookout where you can enjoy expansive views of Puget Sound, the Olympic mountains, and watch the ferry as it crosses to Port Townsend.
Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.
Navigating Paradise: On a Ferry Ride
Who says you can’t navigate paradise from the comfort of a ferry ride? Our experience when taking a ferry to or from Whidbey Island is that it offers a unique and picturesque experience that is packed with charm and several noteworthy advantages. Follow along to find out the top 10 reasons we suggest you take a ferry the next time you need to cross the water.
Scenic Beauty:
The Washington State Ferries treat passengers to breathtaking views of the Puget Sound, surrounding islands, and the majestic Olympic and Cascade mountain ranges. It’s a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Relaxation:
Our ferries offer a peaceful and leisurely mode of transportation. Not only do you not have to navigate the hustle and bustle or sit in stop-and-go traffic to get to your destination, but ferry passengers can unwind on deck, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, or simply gaze at the tranquil waters, creating a serene and enjoyable journey to your destination.
Convenience:
The ferry system is an integral part of the Pacific Northwest’s transportation network. It offers a convenient way to connect Whidbey Island to the mainland, making it accessible for both commuters and tourists.
Time to Unplug:
Depending on who you are, you will either love or hate, the absence of Wi-Fi on most ferries. However, this absence of connectivity encourages travelers to unplug from the digital world, promoting relaxation and providing an opportunity to disconnect, unwind, and take in the spectacular atmosphere surrounding you.
Wildlife Watching:
Keep an eye out for marine life during the journey. It’s common to spot seals, sea lions, dolphins, and various seabirds while crossing the Sound. If you get to snap a picture, don’t forget to tag us at @windermere_whidbey_island on Instagram.
Community Experience:
Passengers often strike up conversations and share stories while riding the ferries which fosters a sense of community. It’s a chance to connect with fellow travelers or engage with locals who cherish their island home. Such an opportunity for learning about the island if you are new here. If you are hoping to learn more about the island or looking for a place to live and aren’t currently working with a realtor, connect with us here so we can be your guide.
Adventure Starting Point:
For tourists, the ferry ride to Whidbey Island marks the beginning of an exciting adventure. It is the gateway to exploring the island’s charming towns, outdoor activities, and natural wonders.
Child-Friendly:
Ferries are child-friendly, so you don’t have to feel like you can’t go because you have kids. You can stay in your own vehicle if you choose to do so, however, many ferries offer play areas and tables for kids. In fact, the experiences of riding a ferry can offer opportunities to teach children about marine life and navigation.
Cafes and Dining:
Many ferries feature cafes or dining options where passengers can enjoy a meal or snack while taking in the views.
Sunsets and Sunrises:
This might just be one of our favorites. The early morning and evening ferry rides provide an opportunity to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water, creating magical moments for travelers. We highly suggest you experience a sunset or sunrise ferry ride at least once in your life time.
In essence, taking a ferry to or from Whidbey Island is not just a means of transportation; it’s an experience that adds to the overall allure of the island, combining convenience with a touch of adventure and a generous serving of natural beauty. Click here to check out the Washington State Ferries schedules and to book your next ride. If you have fallen in love with Whidbey and are considering staying connect with us here.
Weather in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Northwest, or PNW, is a region known for its varied and often unpredictable weather. Located in the northwest corner of the United States, the PNW is home to a diverse array of climates and landscapes, ranging from the rainy, temperate rainforests of the coast to the dry, high-desert regions of the interior.
One of the most distinctive features of the PNW weather is the rain. The region is home to some of the wettest parts of the country. Some areas receive over 100 inches of rain per year. While the rain can be a nuisance at times, it is also a vital part of the region’s ecosystem. The rain provides the water needed to sustain the lush forests and vegetation that thrive in the region.
In addition to the rain, the PNW is also prone to fog and mist, especially along the coast. These foggy conditions can last for days at a time, creating a unique and sometimes eerie atmosphere.
Weather on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island, located in the northwest corner of Washington state, is no stranger to the PNW’s unpredictable weather. Located in the Puget Sound, the island is influenced by both the maritime climate of the coast and the inland climate of the region. As a result, the weather on Whidbey Island can vary significantly from one day to the next. Sometimes a sunshining clear skies day gives way to rain and fog in a matter of hours.
One unique aspect of the weather on Whidbey Island is its location in the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains. The rain shadow effect occurs when moist air is forced up and over a mountain range. When this happens it causes it to cool and release its moisture in the form of rain or snow. As the air descends on the other side of the mountain range, it warms and becomes drier, creating a “rain shadow” region that receives less rainfall.
Due to its location on the leeward side of the Olympic Mountains, the areas of North and Central Whidbey Island experience this rain shadow effect, resulting in significantly less rainfall compared to other parts of the PNW. While the island still gets its fair share of rain and fog, it is generally drier and sunnier than the surrounding region. Less rainfalls makes it a popular destination for those seeking a respite from the rain.
Despite the often-variable weather, the PNW and Whidbey Island are beautiful and unique places to visit or call home. The diverse landscape and varied climate create opportunities for a wide range of recreational activities. Many people enjoy hiking and camping in the summer to skiing and snowboarding in the winter. So, whether you’re a seasoned resident or a first-time visitor, be prepared for a little bit of everything when it comes to the weather in the PNW and on Whidbey Island.
When you fall in love with the island and want to stay let us help you find your dream home. Connect with us here.
Practical Magic
“The small town scenes were filmed in downtown Coupeville, Washington, a Victorian-era seaside port town located on the south side of Penn’s Cove on Whidbey Island.” – IMDB
But you knew that, right?
For being so big and loud, Hollywood’s visits to Whidbey are usually quiet and out of the way. Practical Magic went all out. Twenty-five years ago the film crews and the stars swept in, painted Coupeville white, and played pretend that it was a quaint seaside town – in New England. That’s Hollywood. It’s about time for another visit.
Let’s get the name-dropping out of the way:
Sandra Bullock, Nichole Kidman, Stockard Channing, Dianne Wiest, and some guys. Stars for sure, but pardon locals who also want to spot familiar stores and streets, parks and views.
Local Destinations:
Front Street dominates. The Wharf is in the background. Stores were temporarily redecorated. Much of it was different, but not out of place. Seafood, a farmers’ market, herbs and potions – though they played a different role. Very familiar.
As much as we may feel that they could’ve filmed the entire movie here, they also used places like the San Juans. The stellar house would be a natural tourist site, but it was a prop, torn down after they were done. Has anyone tried to rebuild it?
It is a comedy and a romance. It is also a fantasy, or at least has fantastic magic. It is also a thriller, just in time for Halloween.
You might have to watch it more than once:
Once for the story, once for the setting, and then maybe again. Some people make this a part of their Fall ritual movie night. By the way, the food and drink choices that pair with it are brownies and chocolate cake for breakfast and margaritas at midnight. (Jimmy Buffett fans may also appreciate the latter.)
Filmed on Whidbey:
Practical Magic is part of a long list of movies filmed here.
Some familiar names:
- Free Willy 2
- Snow Falling on Cedars
- The Ring
- Double Jeopardy
- The War of the Roses
- Oh yeah, and Top Gun: Maverick.
Smaller creations are made here, too:
Deception Pass Bridge and the hairpin turn at Ebey’s Landing frequently show up in ads. The ferries are iconic enough to be a proxy for all of Puget Sound.
The perfect location for filming:
While some visitors and locals can complain about overcast skies and dull weather, someone filming a scene can appreciate a lack of shadows. It is easier to stitch retakes into the rest of the film when something filmed in sunshine then has to match something filmed in the shade. Dull weather means less worry about wind and rain – at least compared to a lot of other regions. Not too hot or too cold, usually. We’ve also got talented people living here, great backdrops, and pleasant places for the stars and the crew to stay in.
It may be a twenty-five year old movie, but it skips technology (hey, they got magic!) and Coupeville is charming. Don’t be surprised that October may have a few more tourists visiting. There are some great costume opportunities. Let’s just hope the weather treats us all well.
“But there are some things I know for certain: always throw spilt salt over your left shoulder, keep rosemary by your garden gate, plant lavender for luck, and fall in love whenever you can.” – Sally Ownes, source:IMDB
And,
“There’s a little witch in all of us.” – Aunt Jet Ownens, source: IMDB
Links:
Ridge Trail At Ebey’s Landing
It’s great to start the Ridge Trail in Ebey’s Landing at Sunnyside Cemetery. See if you can find the two monuments that originally stood in the first Ebey Graveyard located on Ebey’s Prairie near Isaac and Rebecca Ebey’s home. You will discover a plethora of history about Whidbey Island here but don’t forget to stop and enjoy the view! The trail takes you past Jacob Ebey’s house and blockhouse on your journey towards the edge of the bluff. At the ‘T’ you can follow the trail left to the Ebey’s Landing Parking lot at the beach or head right for some impressive views along the bluff. It’s your choice to continue down the switchbacks to the lagoon below and you can follow the beach back OR turn around for an out and back.
Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.
Firefighting Island Style
Firefighters, we respect them. We get out of their way when they’re racing to a scene. We crowd around their trucks when they’re at a fair or a parade. We can tend to think that every firefighter is like every other firefighter, hanging out at a fire station while waiting for a call that demands immediate action. Yes, and no.
But what does firefighting look like on an island? Follow along as we discuss firefighting island style.
Firefighting Island Style
Whidbey is a mix of five fire districts. Three County districts (North, Central, and South), the City of Oak Harbor, and the Navy.
Oak Harbor is a city with paid firefighters and a place where a lot is going on in a small space. Trucks have to navigate a grid of streets and the traffic on them. Houses are close and that can mean fires are close, too, but so are fire hydrants. There are plenty of stereotypes that can apply. Spotted mascot optional.
In most parts of the country that might be enough, but the island is large enough and long enough that some other solutions are necessary. If the neighborhood is remote enough, they may have some creative solutions to fight fires in the interim after getting to safety and making that call to 911. An easy situation to imagine is a waterfront house that may require a fireboat. It takes time to collect the crew, launch the boat, and power their way to the site – tides, currents, and weather allowing. A lot can happen in the first few minutes of a fire. Any help can be appreciated – and incredibly valuable.
Rural areas also have to guard against brushfires and barn fires. Long roads mean accidents can happen far from the station. Even places that are accessible by a pickup may be too windy and twisty to maneuver in a firetruck, which eventually also has to turn around and get back to the station. Some fires may even be on boats, both in the marina and off-shore.
A Unique Mix
At the other end of the scale is the unique fire district that is the Navy’s. Airports have special requirements and tools, and military airports have to handle even more specialized situations because of what their planes can carry. The need for an immediate response is an understatement.
Fortunately, while there are various types of firefighting arrangements, when the need is there they all gather to help each other. City, base, and rural doesn’t matter as much as ‘where is the fire and how can we help?’
If you haven’t heard much about the variety, great! That means the crews are doing what they have to do to stay out of the headlines. In firefighting, boring can be good. Too exciting can be too much. This is firefighting island style.
Firefighting Crews
Whidbey has some other attributes worth remembering. Whidbey is a lot of small-town America wrapped around a city and a base. Most of it has fewer people because it is rural. That also means that firefighting crews can sometimes be understaffed. (Pay attention to the election initiatives to see their current situation.) While rural can be quaint, sometimes the small-town nature that leads to smaller firefighting crews becomes critically apparent. A few places have paid firefighters, but much of the island is served by a few stations with a few paid firefighters who rely heavily on backup volunteers. They have rules to follow, just like the rest of us. (In 2018, another fire department in WA was cited for violating the state’s version of OSHA’s two-in two-out requirement.) Of course, more paid firefighters mean they need more budget. Not an easy problem. Think about that. A few paid people; and other people who risk their lives for us for free. They deserve greater thanks than they receive. (Please, volunteer!)
Surprisingly the bulk of their workload comes from medical emergencies. Over 60% of their time is spent with Basic Life Support calls where they work side by side with the paramedics. In some places that is over 80%. They have to be ready for everything: motor vehicle accidents, rescues on land or on water, storm responses, traffic control, power outages, and downed lines. It isn’t just about fires and ambulances.
So much for sitting around the firehouse. These people are busy.
How you can help
Of course, there are ways to keep them less busy (and keep costs down). Much of this is variations of the messages we’ve heard since school: follow safety instructions, keep fresh batteries in smoke detectors, make sure any electrical work is done right, remove trash and other flammables. Some things are even simpler: don’t leave burning candles or fire unattended, don’t burn during burn bans, handle fireworks legally and safely. Keep fire extinguishers handy and up-to-date.
There are plenty of other precautions, but that’s part of being a responsible adult.
How this relates to homeowners on Whidbey
Understanding a place’s fire situation is also something to keep in mind when considering buying a house. What is the firefighters’ response time? Where’s the nearest hydrant or nearest firehouse (is it even staffed)? Is the house marked well enough for a crew to be able to find it in the dark, maybe during a storm? Your insurance company may have some ideas to add to the list.
If you live in rural Island County some additional services they might offer include: installing high visibility house address numbers; home safety surveys to reduce the risk of harm from fire, accident, or illness; smoke and carbon monoxide detector check; fire inspections for businesses; CPR training; child car seat safety checks.
Chief Helm says “In an emergency, we need to be as efficient as possible, and the partnership between homeowners and the fire department is critical. Maintaining reflective address signs and driveways that fire trucks can navigate down is very important. One of our biggest hurdles is locating the emergency in a hurry, and then navigating a driveway that may or may not be able to handle a 40,000lb, 11-foot tall truck. Many times, the storybook-style narrow wandering lane, sounds peaceful and relaxing, but can pose serious problems if our trucks cannot access your house. Please remember to maintain not only driveways but the surrounding vegetation and hanging branches that will damage a truck the size of ours. Together with your help, we make this Island a safer place to live and work. We are more than happy to visit your driveway and test fit our apparatus, as well as bring you a reflective address sign anytime.”
One of the most delightful rural traditions on Whidbey is the annual Santa Mobile where Central Whidbey Fire Department drives around different neighborhoods with Santa Claus on top of one of their Fire Engine for multiple nights in a row in December. They will put out a schedule and a map on their Facebook page in preparation every year. Kids love it! It’s also a fundraiser for collecting food and donations for the food pantry in Coupeville.
Fortunately, most folks pay attention to safety. It’s part of being a homeowner and a good neighbor. Do enough of those boring but necessary steps, and free up time to relax and enjoy the rest of island life. Just check for burn bans before stoking up a campfire.
If you have additional questions about firefighting island style your reliable Windermere real estate agent can help you get them answered. Don’t have an agent? Connect with us here.
6 Reasons to Attend Open Houses
Some people wonder whether or not they should attend open houses. We believe open houses can be incredibly advantageous for both buyers and sellers. Follow along for 6 reasons why you should be attending open houses whether you are planning to buy or sell.
Get an idea of how your home compares:
If you plan to sell your home, visiting open houses in your neighborhood can give you a good idea of how your home compares to your neighbors. By visiting several homes, you can gauge the pulse on the neighborhood’s market by watching what the homes sold for, how quickly they sold, and how they compared to yours. This information can prepare you for what you can expect your home to sell for and give you a to-do list of things to get done before you list your home. If you have not connected with a real estate professional and would like to, connect with us here so we can recommend some.
Get a clear idea of what you want in a home:
If you are preparing to buy a home, it is a good idea to have a wish list of things you want in a home when you buy. Download our Wishlist Form Here. Fill it out before visiting Open Houses, then fill it out again after you have visited a few. Compare how your desires changed. Attending several Open Houses can give you a clear idea of what you want in a home. Perhaps you thought 1100 sq feet was enough room for you, but after experiencing it in person, you decided 1500 was more realistic for your needs. Or vice versa. Maybe you wanted 2300 sq ft, but after spending time in homes that size, you realized 1900 would be a better fit. You might have strong opinions about specific floor plans, garage sizes, number of bedrooms, or heating options. Find open houses in your area by clicking here.
Get a realistic idea of how much you will spend on a home:
You might have your heart set on a specific neighborhood or features in a home. Attending several Open Houses gives you a realistic idea of how much you will spend on what you want. You might find that you cannot afford everything you want in a home. It is best to first connect with a lender to determine how much you can qualify for with your circumstances. If you need help finding a suitable lender, contact us for recommendations. If you cannot afford everything on your wish list, you either need to refine your wish list or keep saving. A trusted lender can also help you determine which type of loan best fits your needs and help you develop a financial plan. So, connect with a lender as early as possible. You can find a few local to Whidbey listed here.
Imagine your life inside the home:
A recent study determined that roughly half of all home buyers experience buyer’s remorse when purchasing their home. Can you imagine feeling buyer’s remorse after making the biggest purchase of your life? You can avoid this by doing your research ahead of time. Attend Open Houses and refine your wish list till you know precisely what you want and need in a home. Visit several different-sized homes to have a realistic idea of what each square footage looks and feels like. Consider the different layouts and which ones feel most comfortable to you. When you are confident you know exactly what you want in a home, you can quickly and confidently make that decision. Therefore you can communicate effectively to your agent exactly what you are looking for in a home. A good agent will help you finetune your wants and needs and make sure you don’t buy something you don’t truly love. Don’t have an agent? Connect with us and we will pair you with a great one. When you find the perfect home you will know it is the right one for you and will feel confident in the purchase because you have done your research.
Get familiar with the neighborhood:
If your children have grown up and gone off to college, you might not like having a noisy community park up against your property. On the other hand, if you have small children, don’t wait till you have moved in to discover your kids are the only ones on the block. While visiting open houses in the neighborhood, ask the realtors about the neighborhood. Some good questions to ask are:
a. Is there an HOA?
b. What kind of amenities does the neighborhood have to offer?
c. Is there a school nearby?
Find an agent that is a good fit for you:
Whether buying or selling, attending open houses can also allow you to get to know agents in your area for when you are ready. If you don’t already have an agent and would prefer to connect with one, email us here: WhidbeyCommunications@Windermere.com.
We strongly urge you to check out homes in various price points, locations, and styles during this time. You might surprise yourself with what you imagined liking versus what you discover you want and don’t want.
Attending several Open Houses before you get serious about buying might be one of the best pieces of advice. Once you know you are serious about buying and what you are looking for, or if you prefer a more personal experience tour homes that meet your wish list criteria with your Realtor. Don’t have a Realtor? Let us connect you with one. Call us at 360.675.5953.
Click here to find our interactive Open House list for your area. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to connect with us.
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Boating Around Whidbey
It has been well over 200 years since the waters around Whidbey saw its first sailboat with the explorers of the late 18th century. Just like Captain Vancouver in 1792 people still have the urge to explore this amazing inland waterway from the deck of a boat. Strong currents encourage many to forego sailing in favor of motoring quickly from point A to B. Others like the challenge and quieter method of utilizing the plentiful wind-power. Whichever way floats your boat make sure you get out on the water before the season is over!
Check out the rest of Whidbey’s beautiful destinations from this series here.
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Best Ice Cream Spots on Whidbey Island
Whidbey Island, is home to some of the best ice cream spots in the region. Whether you are a resident or just visiting for a weekend getaway, add these ice cream shops to your must-try list.
Whidbey Island Ice Cream Company
The Whidbey Island Ice Cream Company is located in Freeland and has been open since 2008. Their one goal? “To bring joy to our community through the deliciousness of ice cream.” All their ice cream is locally made. Check out their website here before you go.
Kapaws Iskreme
Find Kapaws in the heart of Coupeville. This ice cream spot is only open during the sunny times of the year. Tour the town of Coupeville and stop by this ice cream shop for anything from single-scoops, waffle cones, and cake cones! Bring the eager kids who love combining all the different flavors – a must-stop spring/summer ice cream location. Check out their Facebook here before you go!
The Farm Stand
The Farm Stand ice cream on Whidbey Island is a locally made treat using the freshest ingredients from the surrounding area. With a variety of flavors to choose from, each scoop is a unique and delicious experience. Enjoyed at the Farm Stand or taken to go, this ice cream accurately represents Whidbey Island’s bountiful offerings. Learn more about the Farm Stand here before you head out.
Whidbey Farm & Market
Whidbey Farm & Market ice cream is made with the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to provide the best possible flavor and quality. With a wide range of flavors, they are dedicated to creating a memorable experience with every scoop. Whether enjoyed at the farm or taken to go, Whidbey Farm & Market ice cream is a treat like no other. Check out their website here.
Popsies
Grab a cone from this unique dedicated candy store on pioneer street in Oak Harbor while you walk the strip and browse the other local shops downtown. Check out their website here.
No matter which ice cream spot you choose, you’re sure to find a delicious treat on Whidbey Island. These ice cream shops are the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day and experience a fun outing with friends and family. Share your adventures with us at @windermere_whidbey_Island on Instagram.
