Winter Travel Bargains: Whidbey & Camano Islands

Whidbey and Camano Islands in Washington State is a perfect destination for those wanting to get away from it all. The weather varies, but the scenic backdrop makes it the perfect setting for a restful holiday. Plus, during the off season, deals abound -- whether you're traveling with a romantic partner, girlfriends or family.
 
HOW TO GET THERE: Situated in northwest of Seattle, getting to Whidbey and Camano Islands is easy, be it by boat, ferry, or plane. Those crossing by ferry can catch one every half-hour. Otherwise, you can fly and Kenmore Air has planes leaving Boeing field and landing at Wes Lupien Airport in Oak Harbor, with complimentary shuttle service from Sea-Tac Airport to Boeing and vice versa. There is also the Langley municipal marina, which does not take reservations: The harbormaster can be contacted at (360) 221-2611. Other marinas are Coupeville and Oak Harbor (for more information, log on to www.whidbey.com or call (360) 679-BOAT). For ground transportation, there is the Sea-Tac shuttle. It will transport you to every part of Whidbey Island, including Clinton, Langley, Freeland, Greenbank, Coupeville, Oak Harbor, and NAS, as well as directly to the Seattle Tacoma Airport.

WHERE TO STAY:  Whidbey Island is a popular summer destination, especially for those coming from Seattle and Vancouver, Canada, but off-season holiday specials abound.  Marty's Place at Strawbridge Farm in Langley (877-814-0503) is offering a free extra night free when you book a stay of one week or longer. Score a 20 percent rate reduction at the Blue Goose Inn (360-678-4284) in Coupeville by booking at least two nights midweek. Also, the Inn at Barnum Point on Camano (800-910-2256) is offering a 30 percent discount through December 30th if you stay for two nights Sunday through Thursday. And Soaring Eagle Lodge (206-200-5851, www.SoaringEagleLodgeWhidbey.com), is currently offering a few specials including their romantic getaway package.

WHAT TO DO: The charming islands are known for their arts and crafts fairs. There are quite a few seasonal events, which are perfect for a sunny, rainy (or snowy) day and a great place to buy holiday gifts! The Camano Island Coffee will have its 7th annual "Holiday Gift Shop" until Christmas Day and showcase 40-odd local artisans. Check out the locally designed Alpaca clothes and locally grown coffees, jellies and jams, and baked goods. There are several Christmas Fairs that are one day only, including the Old Fashioned Holiday Bazaar in Oak Harbor's First Reformed Church and the Holiday Open House Arts and Crafts Fair at Hummingbird Farm Nursery and Gardens. The Island's website features detailed and up-to-date events information:  www.whidbeycamanoislands.com.

WHERE TO EAT: The South Whidbey Island's B&B Inns Tour & Tastes lets you sample foods and wine from ten B&Bs and six restaurants for just $20 a head. Plus you can visit the historic inns and take home a keepsake. (Check the Islands' official website for more details.) For yummy, fresh dinners Gordon's on Blueberry Hill has locally caught fish, locally grown greens, and locally raised livestock to eat and a view of the Saratoga Passage. If you want to spring for one fancy meal, where it doesn't matter what you wear, try the Inn at Langley. The five-star chef Matt Costello prepares delectable gourmet, seasonal meals, local wines and several courses. Come hungry and contact the Inn at Langley or the Langley Chamber of Commerce (360-221-6765).