Whidbey Island is just a quick trip outside Seattle, and you’re instantly transported into a nature wonderland! Once you cross the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry, this island is full of farmstands, farmer’s markets, and wellness offerings - and we’re so excited to share a few of them with you today.
Your Whidbey Island Wellness Insiders:
Melody W.
Whidbey Island native Melody, a UW Foster Business School alum, discovered her passion for Pilates in San Diego in 2006. With 15 years of experience, she co-owns three Pilates studios on Whidbey Island, emphasizing a fluid and forgiving approach. Melody, a mother of two, previously managed three successful Pilates studios in Los Angeles and trained celebrities. She takes pride in sharing her unique Pilates method with her hometown community. Find her here @pilates_mermaid
Lilia K.
Lilia is the founder of Luv Collective, a creative entrepreneur, and a big fan of wellness and travel. Lilia grew up outside of Seattle and currently resides between Whidbey Island and Mexico City. After working in consulting and teaching yoga in NYC, Lilia started working on Luv Collective and growing this platform to a collective of wellness healers for private events all around the US. Find her here @lifebylilia.
Whidbey Island Travel Recommendations:
If it was someone’s FIRST time to Whidbey - what are your top 3 ‘must-see’ things?
“1. Ebey's Landing Historical Preserve has it all! Gorgeous trail, overlooking the beach, through the Madrona trees, and back on the beach to collect agates. You are almost guaranteed to spot some impressive wildlife. 2. Downtown Langley had me at the coffee shop, flower shop, book store. (Salty Sea coffee, Flying Bear Florist, Moonraker Books) 3. Deception Pass is one of the most beautiful spots in the Pacific Northwest! Drive or walk across the bridge for an epic view. The Deception Pass State Park is also a great place to camp, spend the day, or hike to the beach!” ~Melody
“Ebey’s Landing is a must visit - the views are incredible. I’d recommend stopping by Captain Whidbey for a drink on their patio (last time I was there I saw whales!!). Lastly, if you can swing it, get a reservation at Orchard Kitchen for a splurge farm-to-table restaurant and the food is delicious.” ~Lilia
Favorite restaurants or places to grab a drink?
The Greenbank Pantry located in Bayview Garden
“The Greenbank Pantry has the best sandwich on the island (maybe in the state). My favorite is the prosciutto mozz. The Flower House Cafe is a fan favorite for breakfast and lunch. Orchard Kitchen is an event you won't forget. Farm to Table dining in a beautiful setting with an intimate group. Saltwater Bistro is a must for tasty seafood. ~Melody
Ultra House Ramen located in Langley Village
“Savory is my favorite spot for a nice dinner, and I’m a big fan of Ultra House Ramen for a casual dinner on a cold day in downtown Langley. If you’re headed up the island to Deception Pass or Coupeville, stop by Greenbank Deli for a delish sandwich.” ~Lilia
“For drinks, go grab a drink at Skein and Tipple - Whidbey’s newest speakeasy. It’s so cute in there and you’d never expect such a high end cocktail bar right in Clinton like that. Penn Cove Brewing in Freeland is also a great spot for a drink (they usually have a foodstand parked there too!).
If you visit in the warmer months, I definitely recommend checking out the Bayview Farmer’s Market where you can find delicious pastries, organic veggies, and some great food stands.” ~Lilia
“Colton and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Oystercatcher in Coupeville. This is hands down our favorite date night spot. The atmosphere is just our speed and the food can't be beat. If you see us there, say hi!” ~Cassandra
If you were doing a staycation, where would you stay?
“I love the Captain Whidbey Inn. It's on Penn Cove so the surroundings and views are incredible and the cabins are so cozy, the bar has great food and cocktails. Perfect WFH setting.” ~Melody
“Captain Whidbey has a very cool vibe and aesthetic which is in Coupeville. Otherwise, there aren’t as many hotels on the option but lots of cute airbnbs! I’d try to stay near the beach or one of the lakes if you can find a good spot (Double Bluff is one of my fav beaches, and Goss Lake is the best lake!)” ~Lilia
Favorite fitness/yoga or wellness hotspots on the island?
“I'm biased, but Pilates Collective is my favorite :) Reformer Pilates with amazing instructors and daily class offerings! Kula Yoga in Clinton. Marci is wonderful.” ~Melody
“An all time favorite spot is Sugar Pill in Langley. SP is a wonderfully curated herb shop run by Whidbey local, Karyn. She is so thoughtful with her formulations and makes space for beautiful conversations around herbs, mushrooms and life :) Enjoy the airy apothecary vibes and overlook the sea.” ~Cassandra
“I’m also a fan of the Pilates Collective!! It’s an adorable studio with high-quality design and machines and all their teachers (like Melody featured here!) are incredible.” ~Lilia
Must-stop boutiques or stores?
“I always find something I love at Bayview Gardens- home goods, plants, and gifts. Bandbox Beauty is adorable and jam-packed with clean beauty products and Sara is so knowledgeable and fun.” ~Melody
“You can find us at the Bayview Farmers market every Saturday from 10-2pm! This is a must stop on your way into Whidbey. You will have the opportunity to meet locals and see all sorts of different crafts, arts, farms and eat great food!” ~Cassandra
“In Downtown Langley, my favorite spots whenever I need to buy a gift or small treat are Edit and this little flower/gift shop right on the main strip next to the bookstore!” ~Lilia
Favorite hikes or outdoor experiences?
“Check out the Price Sculpture Forest for an easy, fun hike with some rad large-scale sculptures to explore. Great to do with kids. Dancing Fish Vineyards is the best place on the island to drink wine outdoors Whidbey Island Kayaks is amazing if you want to get out on the water.” ~Melody
“Double Bluff Beach - the perfect beach walk and view.” ~Lilia
Where do you go when you want to be a little witchy?
Our home tehe. Over the past couple years, we have taken so much care in working with our land to make it feel like home. And in our comfortable home is where I can work with magic :) ~Cassandra
What’s your favorite way to unwind on Whidbey?
“I am so spoiled, we have a beautiful spot on Whidbey where the birds sing all day long. A nice walk in the forest and the sounds of the island is my favorite way to unwind.” ~Cassandra
Any other Whidbey recommendations?
“In the summer there are lots of U-cut flowers, farm stands and art markets like the one at Cultus Bay Gardens and Laura Hudson hosts art shows at her Meadow Barn.” ~Melody
“Take time to say hi! Whidbey is truly a community full of all different ages and demographics and we've all made our way to this beautiful island in cosmic ways. Our community is very welcoming and full of knowledge and fun ideas of things to do while you are here. I love hearing everyone's different recommendations of their favorite spots.” ~Cassandra
“In the summer, head to Downtown Langley and follow the signs for the “Dahlias” and you’ll end up at a magical dahlia flower farm. I love the honor system that all the farm stands have. There is something so wholesome and communal about the whole exchange.” ~Lilia
