Clinton (Washington) Travel Guide

Explore Clinton, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top tourist attractions, hiking and biking routes, best places to stay, must-try local dishes, and more!


Introduction to Clinton (Washington)

Located in Puget Sound within Whidbey Island in the beautiful Pacific Northwest region of the United States, Clinton is a small town packed with surprises. With an exceptional combination of historical landmarks, beautiful views, outdoor recreational opportunities, and friendly locals, Clinton offers a unique vacation adventure that is ideal for any traveler. Whether you’re looking to explore the rich cultural heritage of Puget Sound, indulge in outdoor adventure, or simply relax and rejuvenate, Clinton has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Clinton (Washington)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Island County Historical Museum: Dedicated to preserving the history of Whidbey Island and Island County, this museum features exhibits and artifacts that showcase the stories of Native American Tribes, early settlers, the military, and more.
  • Humphrey Museum: Built-in 1893, the Humphrey Museum showcases the life and times of one of the area’s most prominent families through the late 19th century to the early 20th century.
  • Whidbey Island Arts Council: This community-based organization supports the visual, literary, and performing arts and hosts various events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Clinton (Washington): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Double Bluff Beach: With its serene atmosphere and stunning ocean views, Double Bluff Beach is an excellent spot for a picnic, swimming, fishing, or nature hiking.
  • Deception Pass State Park: This popular state park offers 4,134 acres of scenic beauty and wildlife viewing, beachcombing and tidepooling, and a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and more.
  • Holmes Harbor: This scenic spot is an ideal location for bird watching, nature photography, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Clinton (Washington)

With its stunning natural scenery, Clinton offers excellent hiking and biking trails for visitors to explore. Some of the best routes include:

  • Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way: This 53-mile route spans across Whidbey Island, offering breathtaking sites and opportunities to visit popular attractions along the way, including lavender farms, wineries, and more.
  • Putney Woods Trail: This 5.5-mile trail is perfect for hiking and bird watching, offering stunning views of the forest and the Puget Sound.
  • Fort Ebey State Park Trails: This park features various trails through forests and wetlands, offering a unique experience for hiking, biking, and nature exploring.

Best Things to Do in Clinton (Washington): Activities and Tours

  • Go Whale Watching: Clinton is the ideal location to go whale watching where you can watch for the resident Orca pods and Humpback Whales in the Puget Sound.
  • Visit Local Wineries: Clinton is home to numerous wineries that offer fascinating tasting experiences, tours of their vineyards, and spectacular views of Mount Baker and Puget Sound.
  • Boat Tours: There are plenty of opportunities to explore Clinton through boat tours, where you can admire the surrounding islands and stunning water views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Clinton (Washington)

Day 1: Visit the Island County Historical Museum and explore its exhibits featuring the early history of Whidbey Island.

Day 2: Take a hike through the beautiful Putney Woods Trail and indulge in a picnic on the way while enjoying the breathtaking view of the forest.

Day 3: Spend a day whale watching, and view one of nature’s most magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, traveling across the Puget Sound.

Day 4: Visit the wineries unique to the area, and your day away with some of the Northwest’s finest local wines and vineyards. Don’t forget to purchase a bottle to take home!

Day 5: Spend your day exploring Deception Pass State Park, where you can indulge in recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking while enjoying the scenic beauty of the park’s surroundings.

Day 6: Take a boat tour of Clinton and absorb in the stunning views of the surrounding islands and water views of Puget Sound.

Day 7: Relax and rejuvenate with one of the island’s many spa treatments and take some time to reflect on your trip as you pack up and head back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Clinton (Washington)

Clinton has a thriving food and drink scene that will please everyone’s palate, whether you are a food enthusiast or simply looking for local cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Penn Cove Mussel Chowder: This classic dish features locally sourced mussel and offers an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
  • Wild Pacific Salmon: Clinton’s chefs take pride in their excellent seafood choices, and their salmon is exceptional, cooked to perfection with herbs, sauces, and smoked to bring out the true flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
  • Marionberry Pie: A classic NW dessert made from marion before baking into a pie. It’s a must-try for anyone visiting Clinton.

Local Beverages

  • Whidbey Island Distillery: This local distillery has garnered a reputation for producing delicious spirits with unique flavors that are a must-try.
  • Whidbey Island Brewery: This popular brewery serves seasonal beers and ales using locally grown grains and hops, showcasing the unique flavors of the Northwest.

Where to Stay in Clinton (Washington): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Clinton has a range of options for accommodation, making it easy to find where to stay in Clinton for travelers of all budgets.

  • The Wild Iris Inn: Known for its exceptional views, cozy rooms, and delicious meals, this luxurious bed and breakfast is perfect for anyone looking for a romantic getaway.
  • The Inn at Langley: Located only a short distance from Clinton, Langley offers stunning views and communal living spaces within the hotel where guests can enjoy privacy while still being part of something special.
  • The Comforts of Whidbey Bed and Breakfast: This family-friendly bed and breakfast is acclaimed for its access to outdoor activities like canoeing, kayaking, and bird watching.

What to Buy in Clinton (Washington): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For people looking for souvenirs or memorable gifts, Clinton offers an excellent shopping experience for its visitors. Some popular local products include:

  • Handmade Lavender Products: Clinton is home to a few of Washington’s best-grown lavender products. Look for handmade soaps, dried flowers, lavender lotions, essential oils, and more.
  • Antiques: Clinton is well known for its antique shops, and you can find some of the most unique items to take home with you.
  • Handmade jewelry: local artisans and boutiques offer locally made sterling silver jewelry, precious stones, and pearls.

Local Culture and Customs of Clinton (Washington)

Clinton prides itself on its friendly communities and cultural history. The people from Clinton are known for being warm and welcoming to visitors, encouraging them to experience the culture and learn about the rich history of Whidbey Island.

Best Time to Visit Clinton (Washington)

The best time of year to visit Clinton is from May through October. During these months, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and whale watching.

Do’s and Don’ts of Clinton (Washington)

Do:

  • Be Respectful of the Locals and their Customs: Clinton is a friendly town that places high value on its cultural heritage and history; visitors should respect these values and traditions.
  • Bring Layers: Clinton can be chilly, even during the summer months, so it is important to pack layers to ensure you stay comfortable during your visit.

Don’t:

  • Litter: To preserve the beauty and natural surroundings of Clinton, visitors should be mindful of their trash and dispose of it properly.
  • Be Loud: Visitors should be aware of their voices and noise levels, particularly during the nighttime hours, to avoid disturbing others during their stay.

Safety and Health

Safety in Clinton (Washington)

Clinton is a very safe town; visitors should not worry about their safety. However, visitors should keep in mind that there’s a possibility of encountering wildlife while hiking or exploring the outdoors. It’s essential to be careful while in nature and to stay on designated trails.

Health in Clinton (Washington)

Clinton has numerous health clinics, ambulance services, and emergency rooms in the event of any medical emergencies. However, visitors should make sure to carry their health insurance cards or any necessary medical information.

Getting to Clinton (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Clinton is relatively easy, with various transportation options available.

Airports Near Clinton (Washington)

  • Seattle-Tacoma International Airport: This airport is the nearest airport to Clinton and is approximately 90 minutes’ drive away.

Bus Stations Near Clinton (Washington)

  • Greyhound Station: This station is located in Everett, which is approximately a 1-hour drive to Clinton.
  • Island Transit: This free bus system serves Whidbey and Camano Island and transports visitors to most popular local attractions.

Other Options

  • Drive: Clinton is accessible by car via highways and offers visitors the opportunity to go on a road trip to explore areas around the island.

How to Get Around in Clinton (Washington)

Renting a car is the easiest way to travel around Clinton and explore the surrounding areas. Biking and walking are also an excellent way to explore the town and enjoy the scenic views.

Where to Go Next from Clinton (Washington): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Port Townsend: Located on the Olympic Peninsula, Port Townsend is famous for its Victorian seaport and features historic downtown buildings, various shops, and restaurants.
  • Seattle: Known for its iconic Space Needle, Seattle offers visitors a range of entertainment options, including museums, theaters, and shopping districts.
  • Olympic National Park: A must-visit destination, Olympic National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features breathtaking coastlines, lush forests, and beautiful mountains.

Conclusion

Clinton is a charming town with a rich cultural history and endless opportunities to indulge in outdoor recreational activities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, foodie, or simply want to explore the local culture, Clinton has something for everyone. So, grab your hiking boots or your appetite and discover all that Clinton and the surrounding areas have to offer.

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