Coupeville Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, accommodations, and transportation options in Coupeville, Washington with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Coupeville

Nestled in Whidbey Island, located in Puget Sound, Coupeville is a charming small town in Washington State that offers an array of attractions and outdoor activities. Known for its historic district and Victorian architecture, it also boasts stunning mountain views, waterfront parks, and excellent seafood. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or a nature-filled adventure, Coupeville has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Coupeville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Island County Historical Museum - Step back in time and discover the rich history of the Whidbey Island community. The museum showcases photographs, artifacts, and interactive exhibits that chronicle the area’s evolution.
  • Fort Casey State Park - A former military installation from the early 1900s, Fort Casey now serves as a state park. Explore the extensive network of tunnels and bunkers in the fortifications, or take in the stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound.

Natural Attractions of Coupeville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve - Comprising over 17,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the reserve offers miles of hiking trails through forests, prairies, and beaches. Home to a diverse range of wildlife, it’s the perfect place to indulge in bird watching or beachcombing.
  • Whidbey Island Distillery - Take a tour of Whidbey Island Distillery and sample their award-winning spirits. The distillery specializes in handcrafted whiskey, gin, and fruit liqueurs made from locally sourced ingredients.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coupeville

  • Kettles Trails - The Kettles Trail is a network of hiking and biking paths that meander through the rolling countryside of Whidbey Island. It offers spectacular views of the mountains, the bay, and the surrounding farmland.
  • Fort Ebey State Park Trail - This 5-mile trail winds through the forest and along the coastline of Fort Ebey State Park. With incredible views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Olympic Mountains, and the San Juan Islands, it’s a must-see for outdoor adventurers.

Best Things to Do in Coupeville: Activities and Tours

  • Art galleries and studios - Coupeville is home to several art galleries and studios featuring local artists. The Penn Cove Gallery has a broad range of artworks, including paintings, ceramics, and jewelry.
  • Penn Cove Mussel Festival - Held every March, the festival celebrates the island’s most famous harvest: mussels. Visitors can indulge in a variety of mussel dishes, cooking demonstrations, and live music.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coupeville

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the historic district of Coupeville
Day 2 Visit the Island County Historical Museum and Fort Casey State Park
Day 3 Hike the trails of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve
Day 4 Tour Whidbey Island Distillery and sample the local spirits
Day 5 Cycle along the Kettles Trails or go bird watching
Day 6 Check out local art galleries and studios
Day 7 Indulge in local seafood at one of Coupeville’s restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Coupeville

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mussels - Coupeville is known for its incredibly fresh local mussels. Visitors can find them on menus across the town, often served with a variety of herbs and spices.
  • Salmon - Whidbey Island is also home to an abundance of salmon. Try it grilled or baked, or in a local soup or stew.

Local Beverages

  • Wine - The climate of Whidbey Island is perfect for growing grapes, and as such, the area has a burgeoning wine industry. Visitors can take a tour of several vineyards and wineries in the region.
  • Beer - Several breweries and pubs in Coupeville offer a range of craft beers made on-site. Drop by Penn Cove Brewing Company to sample their hoppy ales and lagers.

Where to Stay in Coupeville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Captain Whidbey Inn - Built in 1907, this historic inn offers views of the bay and a cozy restaurant that serves local dishes.
  • Coachman Inn - The Coachman Inn is a budget-friendly option located near the heart of Coupeville, just a short walk from the Whidbey Playhouse.
  • The Blue Goose Inn - This elegantly restored Victorian mansion offers a range of luxurious suites and rooms.

What to Buy in Coupeville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Whidbey Island Lavender Farm - The island’s unique climate is perfect for growing lavender and other herbs. Visit Whidbey Island Lavender Farm to pick up handcrafted soaps, perfumes, and other lavender-centric products.
  • Front Street shops and restaurants - Take a stroll down Front Street in Coupeville to discover a range of unique boutiques, antique shops, and restaurants.

Local Culture and Customs of Coupeville

  • Respect the environment - Whidbey Island has an incredibly diverse ecosystem. When visiting, ensure that you respect it by following Leave No Trace principles and avoiding littering and disturbing local wildlife.
  • Outdoor Adventure is a Must - With an abundance of outdoor activities, be sure to take advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds Coupeville.

Best Time to Visit Coupeville

The best time to visit Coupeville is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warmest, and outdoor activities are at their peak. However, the fall (September-November) can also be a great time to visit, with the changing colors of the leaves and the slower pace of tourism.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coupeville

Do:

  • Do take time to explore the natural beauty of the island.
  • Do indulge in the fresh and delicious seafood local to Coupeville.

Don’t:

  • Don’t skip the local museums and historical attractions.
  • Don’t forget to check out the local arts and culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coupeville

Coupeville is a safe town with low crime rates. However, as with all travel, it’s essential to remain aware of your surroundings and belongings.

Health in Coupeville

The town has one medical center, Whidbey Health Medical Center, which can provide medical care for visitors in need.

Getting to Coupeville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coupeville

The closest major airport to Coupeville is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, located approximately 75 miles away. Alternatively, visitors can fly into the smaller Seattle Boeing Field King County International Airport, located about 60 miles from Coupeville.

Bus Stations Near Coupeville

Greyhound Lines operates a bus station in downtown Seattle with connections to other major cities throughout the United States. From Seattle, visitors can take a ferry to Whidbey Island and travel south to Coupeville.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car upon arrival at the airport or take private shuttle services from the airport to Coupeville.

How to Get Around in Coupeville

Visitors can easily get around Coupeville by bike, rental car, or walking. For those looking to explore beyond the town, renting a car is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Coupeville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Deception Pass State Park - A stunning park with incredible views of the Deception Pass bridge, several hiking trails, and beaches.
  • Anacortes - The gateway to the San Juan Islands, Anacortes is a charming town that’s worth a visit for its waterfront parks, whale watching tours, and local breweries.

Conclusion

Coupeville offers visitors a unique mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and fascinating history. With its charming downtown, abundance of locally owned businesses, and stunning scenery, it’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Pacific Northwest.

Old Grain Wharf, in the harbour of Coupeville, Whidbey Island, in the Central Whidbey Island Historic District, part of the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. Old Grain Wharf, in the harbour of Coupeville, Whidbey Island, in the Central Whidbey Island Historic District, part of the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. the beach at Fort Casey the beach at Fort Casey historic buildings in Coupeville historic buildings in Coupeville