Amour Vert Varden Silk Wrap Dress c/o | St. Agni Woven Slide Sandals | Cult Gaia Cupola Bag c/o Farfetch | Cole Haan Aviator Sunglasses | Sincerely Jules Scrunchie | Chan Lu Earrings (sold out, similar)
Just a short drive and ferry ride from the Seattle metro area sits beautiful Whidbey Island. I grew up on Whidbey and it's where I got married (at a vineyard!). It's also one of my favorite weekend destinations to drive off the mainland. The scenic beauty and tranquility of Whidbey island provide the perfect backdrop for a weekend of wine tasting.
On the largest island of Puget Sound's island gems find small family wineries and distilleries creating critically acclaimed and award winning wines and spirits nested in vineyards and farms with unpretentious hospitality. Wine tasting happy place!
I recently partnered with GoWhidbeyCamano for a weekend on Whidbey Island for the Savor Spring Food Wine and Spirits Tour. My husband S joined me and we had the best time wine tasting at the island's wineries and distilleries, staying at the beautiful Comforts of Whidbey Bed & Breakfast and enjoying the tranquility and beauty of Whidbey Island.
SATURDAY
Up bright and early, all packed and ready to go, S and I enjoyed a cup of coffee at home in Seattle before hitting the road for the drive to the ferry. An hour or so drive from our home in Seattle (depending on traffic) to the ferry dock in Mukilteo, we had just a short wait before the next ferry.
It was a beautiful day and we took a walk while we waited for the next ferry along the waterfront. I was tempted by the soft serve ice cream cones at Ivars, but it was still a bit too early. I made a note to get one on our return trip home.
With just a 15 minute ferry crossing, we raced upstairs once we'd boarded the ferry to grab a few local pastries and bagels (blazin bagels!), trail mix and another cup of coffee. With an afternoon of wine tasting about to commence, we wanted to make sure to have some food in our belly's and to not start drinking on an empty stomach.
We found a seat by the window and enjoyed our food and coffee as we sailed across Puget Sound for the Clinton Ferry Dock on Whidbey Island.
Upon arriving to Whidbey Island, we headed north on SR 525 (the main island road) before veering right on Coles Road towards Comforts of Whidbey, the bed and breakfast we would be staying at for the weekend and the location to check in for the food, wine and spirits tour.
Find the intimate luxury of a fine bed and breakfast meeting the romance of the vineyard at Comforts of Whidbey Bed & Breakfast. Overlooking the Saratoga Passage near Langley, there are six rooms above the winery and tasting room. Upon check-in, we headed upstairs to our room to find a stunning view of Puget Sound from our windows. Each room has a view of Puget Sound or the rolling pasture and vineyard.
Our king size bed was already beckoning, and we knew we would sleep beautifully that night after wine tasting (which we did!) Our private bathroom was the perfect spot to freshen up and the complimentary wifi was ideal for confirming our plans for the day. No TV, no alarm clocks, just a relaxing getaway. We were ready!
We decided to end our wine tasting tour at Comforts of Whidbey and headed out on the Wine & Spirits Trail to Spoiled Dog Winery to begin the tour. The tour also included Whidbey Island Distillery, Blooms Winery, Mutiny Bay Distillery and Holmes Harbor Cellars.
Each stop included both a wine or spirit tasting and bite of food to accompany, created by chefs and local island restaurants. The sun was shining and the rolling pastures, vineyards and gardens provided the perfect backdrop for a perfect day to savor, explore, experience and enjoy Whidbey Island.
Whidbey wineries and distilleries represent a full range of the Washington State varieties and regions including wines of the Puget Sound AVA, the state's 3rd oldest designated growing region.
After an afternoon of wine tasting, we were ready for dinner! We headed to Island Nosh to get our noodle on! Island Nosh serves fast and affordable ethnic noodle dishes. An island favorite for commuters coming home on the ferry, Island Nosh is a must-do for at least one island meal and I recommend dinner as the portions are huge.
Think Crab Mac N Cheese, Ramen with Braised Pork, Thai Yellow Curry and Spaetzle & Bratwurst. My personal favorite, the Whidbey Vegetable Bowl, is a vegetarian's delight. The Rice Krispy Bars with sea salt and brown butter are a must have, even if you have to take it to go. Island Nosh was the perfect spot for an island dinner and both of us, after ending our meals, were already looking forward to the next time we could get our noodle on.
Our king size bed at Comforts of Whidbey was calling our names so we headed back for a restful nights sleep. As we parked our car and headed to our room, we made note to look up and take in the amazing night sky. Without the usual city light pollution we are so used to, we saw star upon star.
SUNDAY
After a beautiful and luxurious sleep, we awoke at Comforts of Whidbey to stunning views of the sun rising over the Saratoga Passage. After a coffee in our room, we headed downstairs to breakfast. With multiple hot and cold options, it was the perfect start to the day. Most delicious and enjoyed around a communal table with other guests, there was something for everyone. Mimosas with Comforts of Whidbey sparkling wine was an added treat!
After breakfast, we headed up to our room to pack. As much as we hated to say leave Comforts of Whidbey, we wanted to get in a couple more Whidbey adventures before departing the island. We bid adieu to the romance of the vineyard and headed north on the island.
Our first stop for the day was Double Bluff Beach, what I would consider, along with many others, the best beach at the south end of the island. The tidelands comprise most of the park, so low tide is the perfect time to visit.
The stunning Olympic Mountains can be seen to the West from the Northern portion of the park, and Seattle and Mount Rainier from the southern portions. Double Bluff Beach is the perfect location for beach walking, tide pool exploration, bird watching, picnicking and even swimming in summer!
Double Bluff is a designated off leash dog park, has picnic tables and at low tide, a beach you can walk on for miles. Stay tuned for a post coming soon featuring a day at Double Bluff Beach!
Next stop was Bayview Farm and Garden, a full service garden center, home store and cafe. It's the perfect spot to feel your cares melt away and gather inspiration, as you wander through the flowers, plants and trees.
The Flower House Cafe is oh-so-relaxing and the artisan coffee, homemade scones and brunch favorites are melt in your mouth. Think house made granola with yogurt and fruit, chia pudding bowl, avocado with cilantro pumpkin seed pesto toast, smoked salmon with whipped chevre toast, autumn salad, and more.
Our final stop was at Ken's Korner for bagels and coffee, before hitting the ferry line to head home to Seattle. For bagels, we headed to Whidbey Island Bagel Factory, a spot we ALWAYS go to when on island.
Serving authentic New York style bagels, boiled and baked, Whidbey Island Bagel Factory is the perfect spot to grab a bagel for breakfast or lunch before catching the ferry back home. Highly recommend the salt bagel toasted with cream cheese, my choice, always.
For coffee, we drove through Whidbey Coffee and both ordered Americano'ss. Sister coffee compnay to Victrola Coffee Roasters in Seattle, Whidbey Coffee started 29 years ago with an espresso cart. With 12 locations now throughout the Puget Sound Region, find multiple locations on Whidbey Island for grabbing a cappuccino, americano, or frozen Moka. Coffee needs covered!
With coffees and bagels in hand (in car) we joined the ferry line and were lucky to find just a short wait before catching the ferry back home. After a perfect weekend on Whidbey of wine tasting, island adventures and island tranquility, it was hard to leave. As always though, we knew we'd be back soon to savor, explore, experience and enjoy Whidbey Island.
Interested in enjoying a Whidbey Island wine tasting experience?
The Whidbey Island Vintners and Distillers Association offers events throughout the year, including the upcoming Autumn on Whidbey Art, Wine & Spirits Tour THIS WEEKEND, November 9-10, 2019 (see other upcoming events below)! The perfect opportunity to savor, explore, experience and enjoy all the wonders of Whidbey Island!
SAVE THE DATE!
Upcoming Whidbey Island Vintners & Distillers Events:
Autumn on Whidbey Art, Wine & Spirits Tour
November 9-10, 2019
Red Wine & Chocolate Tour
February 8-9 & 15-16, 2020
Savor Spring Food, Wine & Spirits Tour
May 16-17, 2020
Autumn on Whidbey Art, Wine & Spirits Tour
November 7-8, 2020
Read about another one of my weekend adventures on Whidbey Island HERE!
xoxo
WHERE TO STAY
Comforts of Whidbey Bed & Breakfast
Find the intimate luxury of a fine bed and breakfast meets the romance of the vineyard at Comforts of Whidbey Bed & Breakfast. We had the most incredible stay here for our wine tasting weekend on Whidbey Island. Overlooking the Saratoga Passage near Langley, there are six rooms above the winery and tasting room. Each room has a view of Puget Sound or the rolling pasture and vineyard. Find king sized beds, private bathrooms, comfy robes and WiFi with every room. No TV, no alarm clocks, just a relaxing getaway. Check in between 3pm-5pm for a complimentary flight of wine with cheese plate. The most amazing breakfast included with every room. All rooms are adults only, with no pets allowed.
5219 View Road, Langley, Washington, 98260
www.comfortsofwhidbey.com
Inn at Langley
Dramatically perched overlooking the Saratoga Passage, every guest room features a view of the water and Cascade Mountains. An oversized jetted tub and wood burning fireplace in each room add to the luxury and retreat you immediately feel upon arrival. A perfect-for-a-sunset-walk beachfront, easy walk to the heart of Langley and amazing complimentary buffet breakfast are just the beginning of the Inn at Langley experience. Snacks and beverages, local movie and yoga passes and complimentary WiFi come with a stay at the Inn. The hotel spa has a full range of treatments, along with wellness retreats and programs. Read more about my stay at the Inn at Langley HERE!
400 1st Street, Langley, Washington, 98260
www.innatlangley.com
Dancing Fish Vineyard Farmhouse
The historic 1943 Vineyard Farmhouse located at Dancing Fish Vineyards is the perfect spot to stay for a wine tasting weekend on Whidbey Island. My husband and I stayed here our wedding weekend (yes, we got married at Dancing Fish!) and I can't wait to return soon! This charming, beautifully renovated 70-year old Vineyard House, complete with private courtyard, sits atop a gentle slope overlooking six private acres of rolling vineyards, apple orchard, pastures and perennial gardens. The winery is just steps away along paths and past terraced landscaping. The grounds and farmhouse are Italian inspired and wonderfully appointed, with extensive attention to detail, function and beauty. Find a gourmet kitchen, claw foot tub, living and family rooms with propane fireplaces, two private bedrooms and more. The house sleeps up to six people.
1953 Newman Road, Freeland, Washington, 98249
www.dancingfishvineyards.com/farmhouse
WHIDBEY ISLAND WINERIES & DISTILLERIES
Comforts of Whidbey Winery
Specializing in estate whites produced from their 4 acres of vines, Comforts of Whidbey Winery's grapes are hand tended, community harvested and represent the quality and flavor of Whidbey's unique terroir. Their reds are made from high quality Eastern Washington fruit. The 22 acre farm lies only minutes from the ferry on scenic back roads between Clinton and Langley. Overlooking beautiful Puget Sound, the winery, gathering area and B&B rooms provide breathtaking views in a retreat like setting.
5219 View Road, Langley, Washington, 98260
Directions: SR 525 to Surface Rd., go 1 mi., left on Bob Galbreath to View Rd
Hours: Thurs, Fri, Mon 1pm-5pm; Sat-Sun 11am-6pm or by appointment
www.comfortsofwhidbey.com
Spoiled Dog Winery
Extraordinary hand-crafted wines from the heart of Puget Sound. Using sustainable practices, Spoiled Dog Winery is committed to providing a selection of high quality fine wines sources from their estate vineyard (Pinot Noir) and the finest Washington & Oregon vineyards who share their earth-friendly growing practices. Enjoy their full range of fine wines including estate-grown and award winning (Double Gold) red and white wines only available at the winery. Sami and Brix, the Australian Shepherd Dogs who inspired the winery name, may greet you at the farm and winery.
5881 Maxwelton Road, Langley, Washington, 98260
Directions: SR 525 to Maxwelton Rd. Go south on Maxwelton 1/8 mile to 5881
Peak Hours (May-Sept): Wed-Fri 2pm-5pm; Sat & Sun 12noon-5pm
Off-Peak Hours (Oct - April): Sat & Sun 12noon-5pm
or by appointment
www.spoileddogwinery.com
Whidbey Island Distillery
Whidbey Island Distillery distills and produces fine spirits on their nine-acre property on beautiful Whidbey Island. Recognized for distilling and producing award-winning loganberry, raspberry, blackberry and boysenberry liqueurs, meticulously blended to guarantee that you will enjoy a vibrant burst of just-plucked berries with every sip. Also enjoy their "grain to bottle" rye whiskey, fondly named "Bunker Rye" after the building where it is brewed, distilled, aged and bottled.
3466 Craw Road, Langley, Washington, 98260
Directions: SR 525 to Coles Rd. South on Coles to Craw Rd, turn right to 3466.
Hours: Open Daily 11am-5pm
www.whidbeydistillery.com
Blooms Winery
Blooms Winery has been creating fine varietals and blends for over 15 years, consistently winning medals at local and national competitions. Premium grapes are sourced mainly from an estate vineyard in the Rattlesnake Hills, with local grapes in some blends. After 9 years at Bayview Corner, Blooms Winery opened a new Winery, Tasting Room and Bistro in Fall 2018 in Freeland. Fresh and local is the main ingredient for Chef Wayne's good wholesome food, well known on Whidbey.
5511 Freeland Ave, Freeland, Washington, 98249
Directions: SR 525 to Freeland, north of the signal to Freeland Ave, to 5511
Winter Hours (Oct-May): Wine Tasting 11am-5pm Thursday through Monday; Lunch 11am-8pm, Thurs, Sat, Sun, & Mon, 11am-9pm Fri
Summer Hours: check website
www.bloomswinery.com
Mutiny Bay Distillery
Owned and run by the Stallman family, find artisan whiskies and liqueurs from Washington sourced ingredients. Each handmade small batch reflects the character of the grains, the aging process and the distiller's imprint. Introducing the first aged Whiskey on Whidbey, with the salty breezes of Mutiny Bay and Holmes Harbor working their magic on the barrels. Visit, taste and meet the father and son distillers behind whiskies Palouse Gold, Bayside and Sweet Lulu. The Blueberry Liqueur and Coffee Liqueur feature Whidbey Island ingredients!
5490 Cameron Road, Freeland, Washington, 98249
Directions: SR 525 to Cameron Road, go South on Cameron Road to 5490
Hours: Thursday to Monday 11am-5pm
www.mutinybaydistillery.com
Holmes Harbor Cellars
Holmes Harbor Cellars produces a diverse range of award winning varietal and blended wines exhibiting the classic hallmarks of fine wine quality: richness with elegance, concentration with finesse, complexity with harmony, and sophistication with approachability. Find intense, unique and extremlely high quality custom wines renowned for being exquisite, complex and bold. Limited production wines from Washington's elite vineyards please the most discerning palate.
4591 Honeymoon Bay Rd., Greenbank, Washington, 98249
Directions: SR 525 to Honeymoon Bay Rd 2 miles to 4591 on left
Hours: Wed-Sun 12pm-6pm
Winter Hours: Fri-Sun 12pm-6pm
or by appointment
www.holmesharborcellars.com
Dancing Fish Vineyards
A unique destination for everyone who enjoys luxury and beauty in a natural setting. Tucked within tall pines and in walking distance to Freeland, Dancing Fish offers a "five star" winery, hospitality and special event experience. Step up to the locally created, hand hewn redwood bar to savor any of the wines. Or sip beneath the artisan oyster chandelier.
1953 Newman Road, Freeland, Washington, 98249
Summer Tasting Room Hours (May - October): Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 11am-6pm; Friday 11am-8pm
Winter Hours (November - April): Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 12noon-5pm; Friday 12noon-8pm
www.dancingfishvineyards.com
WHERE TO EAT
Island Nosh
Get your noodle on! Island Nosh serves fast and affordable ethnic noodle dishes. An island favorite for commuters coming home on the ferry, Island Nosh is a must-do for at least one island meal and I recommend dinner as the portions are huge. Think Crab Mac N Cheese, Ramen with Braised Pork, Thai Yellow Curry and Spaetzle & Bratwurst. My personal favorite, the Whidbey Vegetable Bowl, is a vegetarian's delight. The Rice Krispy Bars with sea salt and brown butter are a must have, even if you have to take it to go.
8898 SR 525, Clinton, Washington 98236
Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 11am-8pm
Inn at Langley
Join Northwest award-winning Chef Matt Costello for his palette-expanding shared dining experience. The Chef and his team take the entire room through a creative multi-course meal featuring the best of local cuisine. The open kitchen gives diners a chance to watch the techniques Chef Costello uses to prepare his fantastic meals. Pair the courses with the fantastic selection of wines at the Inn for memorable evening. This is a Whidbey Island bucket list item. Read about my experience staying and dining at Inn at Langley HERE!
360 1st Street, Langley, Washington 98260
Orchard Kitchen
The Orchard Kitchen is an authentic farm to table experience. The intimate kitchen and dining area is right next to Ebb Tide Produce, a small farm owned by the restaurant and the source for many of Chef Vincent Natress' Culinary Designs. They offer one menu and one seating at community tables, with a menu posted in advance on their website or Facebook page. Some summer nights offer outside dining. In winter, the kitchen offers cooking classes. Read about my experience dining at Orchard Kitchen HERE!
5574 Bayview Road, Langley, Washington, 98260
Hours: Thursday - Sunday, seating at 7pm. Reservations required.
Whidbey Pies & Cafe
A little 12 table cafe nestled in Greenbank Farm. Full lunch menu with craft beer and local wines, and the most amazing pie! Outside seating in summer months in the garden. The menu changes with the season and features local ingredients whenever possible. Get the Loganberry pie, aka the flagship pie, a tart raspberry-blackberry hybrid. Yum!
765 Wonn Road, Greenbank, Washington, 98253
Hours: 11am-4pm Thursday-Monday
Prima Bistro
Prima Bistro, located in downtown Langley, offers cuisine with a French flair and intimate and stylish dining. The perfect spot to end the day after wine tasting. In summer find outdoor dining on a deck overlooking First Street.
201 1/2 1st Street, Langley, Washington 98260
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11:30am-8:30pm; Friday and Saturday 11:30am-9:30pm
Whidbey Island Bagel Factory
Serving authentic New York style bagels, boiled and baked, the Whidbey Island Bagel Factory is the perfect spot to grab a bagel for breakfast or lunch before catching the ferry back home. A variety of bagel sandwiches available for breakfast and lunch. Casual, friendly and fast. Highly recommend the salt bagel toasted with cream cheese.
11042 WA-525, Clinton, Washington, 98236
Hours: Daily 7am-3pm
Rocket Taco
Street-food style Mexican bites. Inspired by the wonderful street food of Mexico with its fresh ingredients and hot-off-the-griddle hand made tortillas, find authentic Mexican favorites as well as some twists featuring international fillings.
1594 Main Street, Freeland, Washington, 98249
Hours: Sun, Tues-Thurs 11:30am-8pm; Fri-Sat 11:30am-8pm, Closed Mondays (Winter)
Whidbey Coffee
Sister coffee compnay to Victrola Coffee Roasters in Seattle, Whidbey Coffee started 29 years ago with an espresso cart. With 12 locations now throughout the Puget Sound Region, find multiple locations on Whidbey Island for grabbing a cappuccino, americano, or frozen Moka. Coffee needs covered!
Clinton Drive-Thru
4141 E SR 525, Clinton, Washington, 98236
Hours: Sun 7am-6pm, Sat 6am-6pm, Mon-Fri 5:30am-6pm
Freeland Drive-Thru
1609 E Main Street, Freeland, Washington 98249
Hours: Sat/Sun 6am-6pm, Mon-Fri 5:30am-6pm
GETTING AROUND
Car
You will most likely want to have a car while on the island. Whidbey Island is ~55 miles long, with most vineyards, distilleries and other places of note to visit including places to stay and eat at on scenic back roads. You can drive on the island via one of two ferries from the mainland or cross over via the Deception Pass Bridge.
Other options for transportation include:
South Whidbey Taxi
southwhidbeytaxi.com
360.678.6666
reservations recommended
Whidbey Executive Transportation
whidbeylimousines.com
360.679.4003
Island Transit
There is a free public bus run by Island Transit, but there is very limited service only serving main hubs. Buses run the length of Whidbey Island daily, except Sunday, from the Clinton ferry dock to Greenbank, Coupeville, Oak Harbor and Deception Pass. Other routes reach the Keystone ferry and Langley on weekdays. No service on major holidays. Service is hourly and free, yes FREE!
HOW TO GET THERE
Whidbey Island is in the heart of Puget Sound and an easy trip from the Seattle-Tacoma area and Vancouver. Depending on traffic, the Clinton-Mukilteo Ferry to Whidbey Island is about an hour drive north from the Sea-Tac Airport and located in Mukilteo, Washington.
The ferry between Clinton on Whidbey Island and Mukilteo on the mainland runs from 5:30am until after midnight. Two boats sail the route, providing service every half hour and the crossing is ~15 minutes. You can walk or drive on the ferry.
You can also drive around and cross Deception Pass Bridge from Anacortes to arrive on the north end of the island. A third alternative is the Coupeville - Port Townsend Keystone ferry located mid-island. Whidbey Island is approximately 55 miles long.
Disclosure: Thank you Go Whidbey Camano for partnering on this post and graciously providing tickets to the Savor Spring Food Wine and Spirits Tour, and hosting our stay at Comforts of Whidbey and dinner at Island Nosh. Affiliate links are occasionally used throughout this site, which means I might make a small commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. Items gifted and sent for editorial consideration are marked c/o. Thank you for supporting Story of My Dress!
What a fun outing! Whidbey is wonderful and you shared many great options for enjoying it even more.
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