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Local Travels: Why Captain Whidbey Inn is a Go-To Getaway

June 24, 2019

Local Travels: Why Captain Whidbey Inn is a Go-To Getaway

CC / Captain Whidbey Inn

A 35 minute drive north of Seattle and roughly a 15 minute ferry ride from Mukilteo will land you on Whidbey Island. Forming the northern border of the Puget Sound it lies between the Olympic Peninsula and the I-5 corridor of western Washington. Perched on the west end of the island, along Penn Cove, just outside of Coupeville Washington is the historic Captain Whidbey Inn. Waterfront views, rustic charm and a refreshing craft cocktail menu make the inn ideal for glamping getaways sans the kiddos.

On your 45 minute drive from the Whidbey ferry dock to the inn you’re greeted by lush green countryside. Langley is only a few minutes from the ferry and home to Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar. We highly recommend stopping there to grab their incredibly gratifying lobster roll. Make it guilt free because rich as it may be there’s little room for emotions beyond satisfaction when sinking your teeth into this island delicacy.

saltwater logo
CC / Google Maps

“Captain Whidbey is the unofficial, official lodge of Ebey’s Landing National Historic Reserve.”

Although it’s recently been remodeled it still holds its natural appeal with its original post and log beam construction. Built in 1907 by Judge Lester Still, it was part of a recreational retreat plan. Madrona logs and stones found onsite were used to build the inn who’s frequent guests once included daily steamers from Everett and Seattle bringing passengers and supplies by way of the inns eastward facing dock.

relaxing view
CC / Captain Whidbey Inn

A wall full of windows pour natural light into the spacious dining room and complement the copper bar lined with fresh berries, citruses and herbs ready for muddling perfection. The inns new restaurant program by Chef Truglas and Erik Hakkinen strike a balance between french cuisine and American classic with ‘Crispy Duck Confit Cassoulet’ and ‘Bbq beer chicken.’ For dessert check out the ‘Flourless Chocolate Cake’ and ‘Madagascar Creme Brûlée.’

best table sets
CC / Captain Whidbey Inn
What makes Captain Whidbey Inn a local gem is its simplicity. As soon as you arrive on the property and walk inside the lobby, textile rugs, wooden furniture, and old black and white photos offer a feeling of familiarity while the waterfront views of Penn Cove draw up romance. Its car-friendly access and natural setting make it an easy “yes!” for lovers and friends.

old type house
CC / Captain Whidbey Inn

Close out your weekend with a hike up Ebey’s landing. Less than a 15 minute drive from the inn, this hike up the bluff and along the beach boasts epic, instagrammable views. All that’s left now is to pick a date and pack your bags. Remember to keep your agenda loose as this is a “go with the flow” kind of trip. Maybe we’ll see you there...

By Abiola Akanni

beach scenery
CC / Captain Whidbey Inn


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