Freshwater Swimming Holes, A New Kind of Nightlife, and Eat Local Month on Whidbey and Camano Island
Just north of Seattle, Whidbey and Camano Islands offer a refreshingly different take on the summer season, such as paddling through glowing bioluminescent waters, stargazing from a bluff, and swimming in freshwater lakes. It’s a quieter kind of summer escape and one that’s deeply rooted in nature and community.
Playing in the Salish Sea
When the weather warms it’s time to explore the many waterways of the islands. From freshwater swimming holes like Cranberry Lake at Deception Pass or Goss Lake on the south end of the island to a variety of beaches fit for a dip, the islands have a myriad of options for cooling off. Those seeking to get out on the water can check out Wharf Dog Paddle and Pantry or Whidbey Island Kayaking for canoe, SUP, and kayak rentals and tours, or hop aboard Deception Pass Tours for whale watching and wildlife spotting. Book a private tour on a chartered catamaran for private full or half day tours of the Salish sea or set sail on the historic Schooner Suva for tours of Penn Cove.
Newly launched Camano Island Adventures provides delivery of sit-on-top kayaks and inflatable paddle boards directly to properties with waterfront or beach access on Camano. In addition, enjoy daily launches from Camano Island State Park. During the summer crabbing season (July 3rd – Labor Day), book the Crabbing Package, which includes one 8-hour rental, one crab pot, bait, crab measurer & buoy (which can be kept as a souvenir of your time on Camano).
Starry Skies & Sparkling Seas: A New Kind of Nightlife on Whidbey and Camano Islands
Forget crowded bars and neon lights—on Whidbey and Camano Islands, nightlife means trading in screens for starlight. Here, when the sun dips below the horizon, a different kind of energy awakens—one rooted in nature, silence, and awe. From forest bathing under moonlit trees to watching the stars emerge from a quiet bluff or glowing paddle strokes in bioluminescent waters, these islands offer a refreshingly tranquil take on after-hours adventure.
While most restaurants and shops wind down at dusk, the islands come alive in other ways. Sunset over the Sound is a nightly ritual for locals and visitors alike, best experienced from a secluded beach, a cozy cabin deck, or a wooded trail with a westward view. And for those craving a deeper connection to the night, here are five top spots for stargazing that offer unfiltered views of the cosmos:
1. Fort Casey State Park (Whidbey Island) By day, it’s known for its historic bunkers and coastal scenery—but after dark, Fort Casey becomes a favorite for stargazers. Wide-open fields and low light pollution make it ideal for viewing constellations and the Milky Way. Pro tip: Check local astronomy groups—telescopes and expert guides often set up public events here.
2. Fort Ebey State Park (Whidbey Island) Perched on a bluff above Puget Sound, Fort Ebey offers some of the darkest skies on Whidbey. Bring a blanket to the Bluff Trail and get ready for a sky full of stars—undimmed, uninterrupted, and unforgettable.
3. Greenbank Farm (Whidbey Island) This open, pastoral setting in central Whidbey offers peaceful, unobstructed views of the night sky. It’s not an official stargazing site, so be respectful of private property—but it’s a perfect spot for a spontaneous night under the stars.
4. Camano Island State Park (Camano Island) Tucked away from major development, this west-facing beach park is a stargazer’s haven. With the gentle lapping of the tide and the sky stretching overhead, it’s the perfect place to settle in for a celestial show.
5. Cama Beach State Park (Camano Island)
A quiet stretch of historic beachfront on Camano’s southwest side, Cama Beach is as peaceful as it is scenic. While cabins are currently closed, the beach and surrounding trails remain open for nighttime wanderings and sky watching.
And if you’re looking to literally glow after dark, try a bioluminescence kayaking tour with Whidbey Island Kayaking Company. Launching from the calm waters near Langley, this guided experience brings the water to life—each paddle stroke stirs microscopic plankton that emit a soft blue-green shimmer. It’s like paddling through stardust, a rare phenomenon that turns a quiet evening into something truly magical. Suitable for all skill levels, it’s a bucket-list-worthy way to explore the island after hours. On Whidbey and Camano, when the lights go out, the real show begins.
Where to Swim in Freshwater on Whidbey Island: Lakes Locals Love
While Whidbey Island is best known for its sweeping coastal views and salty sea breezes, it also offers a handful of hidden freshwater gems that are perfect for cooling off in the summer. Here are three of the best freshwater swimming holes on Whidbey Island.
Deer Lake (Clinton)
Best for: Families, float-jumpers, and those who like a little people-watching
Deer Lake is one of the first lakes on the south end to warm up each season, making it a favorite early-summer dip spot. The public access area in Clinton is small but inviting, with a float perfect for cannonballs and a dock that kids love to leap from.
Goss Lake (Langley)
Best for: Peaceful paddling, open water swims, and wildlife watching
If you're looking for tranquility, Goss Lake is your spot. Tucked away in Langley, this deep, clean lake is motor-free, meaning you’ll only hear the dip of paddles or the call of osprey overhead. The shady park area at the public access point slopes gently into the water—ideal for quick dips and family swims. With minimal facilities and no motors allowed, this is a serene spot for cooling off, floating quietly, or bird-watching in the early evening light.
Cranberry Lake (Oak Harbor)
Best for: Sandy beach days, big groups, and casual campers
Located within Deception Pass State Park, Cranberry Lake blends the beauty of Whidbey’s inland wilderness with the convenience of a developed swimming area. Its west side offers a sandy beach and an enclosed swim zone—ideal for young kids and those who want to splash without worry. Unlike some of the island’s quieter lakes, Cranberry has ample parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and plenty of space for groups to spread out. It’s a favorite for park campers who want warmer water than what they’ll find at the nearby saltwater beaches. And thanks to its surrounding reeds and coastal location, this lake is a magnet for birders, with both marine and inland species sharing the shoreline.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful solo swim or planning a day trip with kids in tow, Whidbey Island’s freshwater lakes are perfect for a plunge. Don’t forget your towel—and maybe your binoculars.
Why September is the Perfect Time to Visit: Celebrate Eat Local Month
If you’ve ever wanted to experience Whidbey Island at its most vibrant, September is the time to go. Each fall, the island celebrates Eat Local Month, a month-long tribute to local food, farms, makers, and community spirit. It's more than just a harvest festival—it's an immersive, delicious way to explore the heart of island life.
During Eat Local Month, visitors can tour working farms, sip craft cider under golden-leaved orchards, meet the artists behind handmade goods, and dine on farm-to-table meals that showcase the island’s bounty. Events range from family-friendly pumpkin patches and tastings to hands-on workshops, pop-up markets, and chef-led dinners.
Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or simply seeking a slower, more meaningful getaway, fall on Whidbey offers the perfect mix of scenic beauty and community connection. Come for the crisp air and fall colors—stay for the stories, flavors, and people who make this island truly special.
Just north of Seattle in the heart of the scenic Salish Sea, sit two of the most charming island destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Camano and Whidbey offer different experiences with each season. A colorful palette of locally owned shops and restaurants provides deep and delicious connections to the community and the land. Off-the-beaten path trails and beaches share sanctuary, solitude, and a deeper connection with the incredible marine and forest ecosystems that thrive within these communities. Rich history and a healthy dose of local color in all mediums are provided by the region’s many artists. Lodging options range from nationally renowned hotels with farm-to-table dining to secret spots ideal for a quiet retreat. For more information on amenities, lodging and a calendar of events visit www.whidbeycamanoislands.com. Connect on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook via @GoWhidbeyCamano.