Langley (Washington) Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and tips for a memorable trip to Langley (Washington) - a charming small town located in the heart of Whidbey Island, Puget Sound.


Introduction to Langley (Washington)

Langley (Washington) is a picturesque small town located on Whidbey Island, in the heart of Puget Sound, Washington. Known as the “Village by the Sea,” Langley boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, natural beauty, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. This comprehensive tour guide highlights the must-visit attractions, best activities, and insider tips for a memorable trip to Langley (Washington).

List of Places to Visit in Langley (Washington)

Langley (Washington) offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. Below are the top places to visit in Langley (Washington):

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Langley Whale Center: Learn about the resident Orca and Gray whales of the Puget Sound at the Langley Whale Center.
  • South Whidbey Historical Society Museum: Explore the region’s history, from Native American culture to modern times, at the South Whidbey Historical Society Museum.
  • Callahan’s Firehouse Studio and Gallery: Admire Callahan’s incredible works of art at his studio and gallery housed in a vintage firehouse.
  • MUSEO Art Gallery: Check out the local art scene at MUSEO Art Gallery, which showcases contemporary art by local and regional artists.

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

  • Whidbey Island Scenic Isle Way: Drive or cycle down the Scenic Isle Way for incredible views of the Puget Sound, Whidbey Island, and the Cascade mountain range.
  • Seawall Park: A lovely waterfront park perfect for picnics, sunset watching, and beach combing with the family.
  • Deception Pass State Park: A bit off the Langley’s vicinity, this park offers unmissable and stunning views of the Cascade Mountains, the Puget Sound, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
  • Coupeville Historic Waterfront: Explore Coupeville’s historic waterfront for its rich history and excellent dining options.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Langley (Washington)

Langley (Washington) is a hiker and biker’s paradise. Take note of the following hiking and biking routes for a memorable outdoor adventure:

  • The Langley Loop: A 5-mile route that goes around the fringes of the town. It passes through South Whidbey State Park and the Maxwelton Valley.
  • Putney Woods Trail: This trail offers a moderate hike totaling 2.5 miles and is ideal for those seeking more active outdoor recreation, such as birdwatching, or mountain biking.

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

  • Whale Watching Tour: Take a whale tour from Langley and see the resident Orcas from close up and personal.
  • Wine Tasting: Tour the small wineries of Whidbey Island and satisfy your palate with a variety of wine options.
  • Art Walk: Enjoy the local art scene and participate in the monthly First Saturday Art Walk in Langley (Washington) and buy artisanal goods.
  • The Chocolate Flower Farm: Head to The Chocolate Flower Farm to stock up on sustainable and organic produce of beautiful fruit trees, herbs, and rare plants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Langley (Washington)

Take a week to explore all that Langley (Washington) has to offer with the following itinerary suggestions:

Day Activity
Day 1 Picnic at Seawall Park, wine tasting at Spoiled Dog Winery, and a walk along the Langley Loop.
Day 2 Whale watching tour, walking tour in South Whidbey State Park, and lunch at the Front Street Grill.
Day 3 Explore Callahan’s Firehouse Studio and Gallery, visit the Langley Whale Center, and enjoy dinner at Prima Bistro.
Day 4 Kayak rentals from Island County Beach Access (Freeland Park), explore Putney Woods Trail, and dinner at Cafe Langley.
Day 5 Visit the South Whidbey Historical Society Museum, walk around the Coupeville Historic Waterfront, and enjoy lunch at the Mosquito Fleet Chili Cookoff.
Day 6 Take a morning walk at Possession Beach Waterfront Park, attend a cooking class at Whidbey Island Kitchen Company, and enjoy dinner at the Inn at Langley.
Day 7 Floral tour at Chocolate Flower Farm and hike around Deception Pass State Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Langley (Washington)

Langley’s food and drink scene are not to be missed. Below are some recommendations for must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder at Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar: The Saltwater Fish House & Oyster Bar is known for their mouth-watering Seafood Chowder.
  • Biscuits and Gravy at Useless Bay Coffee Company: A delicious and hearty breakfast staple, especially on a rainy day.
  • Seared Ahi Tuna at Gayle’s Bakery: The Seared Ahi Tuna at Gayle’s Bakery is a fusion of French and Japanese cuisine with crispy fried wontons on top.

Local Beverages

  • Spoiled Dog Winery: Sample delicious local wine while overlooking the stunning vineyards and enjoy a glass of your selected one.
  • Whidbey Island Distillery: Whidbey Island Distillery’s Apple Eau De Vie, Berry Liqueur is a sure favorite among many visitors.

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

Langley (Washington) has a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. Below are some of our top recommendations:

  • The Inn at Langley: A luxurious waterfront inn providing relaxing accommodation with a view of the water and mountains.
  • The Loft at Langley: This guesthouse has a range of spaces, making it an excellent option for couples and singles alike.
  • The Country Cottage of Langley: A cute and cozy bed and breakfast on an actual farm, providing a laid-back and peaceful vacation.

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

Make sure to check these products off your souvenir list while in Langley (Washington):

  • Langley and Whidbey Island-themed souvenirs: grab a souvenir from one of the shops selling Whidbey Island or Langley-themed items.
  • Antiques and art pieces: Langley is also known for its antique and art shops selling unique pieces.
  • Farm-to-table products: local farmer’s markets in the area sell an abundance of fresh produce, so grab some to take home with you!

Local Culture and Customs of Langley (Washington)

Langley (Washington)’s culture is shaped by its creative scene, exquisite dining scene, and the local people’s connection with nature. It has a laid-back atmosphere and emphasis on sustainability and locally-sourced produce.

Best Time to Visit Langley (Washington)

The best time to visit Langley (Washington) is during the summer months from June to September when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing.

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

Do:

  • Bring warm clothing: the region can get chilly at night, so carry warm clothes around with you.
  • Respect the wildlife: Living in harmony with nature is a core value in the region, so do not disturb local wildlife.
  • Try the local cuisine: Langley’s food and drink scene are not to be missed, so take your time to explore the culinary delights of the town.

Don’t:

  • Rely on public transportation: Langley isn’t very well-connected by public transportation, so research transportation options before arriving.
  • Overlook the importance of rain gear: The Pacific Northwest region is notorious for its rain, so ensure you pack appropriate rain gear.

Safety and Health

Safety in Langley (Washington)

Langley (Washington) is generally a safe town providing safety, utilizing, and observing traffic regulations when using the roads. However, lock cars and avoid leaving items unattended in public places, especially after dark.

Health in Langley (Washington)

In emergency medical situations, seek help at the urgent care facility or the local hospital emergency department. A few pharmacies are found in the city, and they are well equipped with the necessary medication.

Getting to Langley (Washington): Transportation Options and Logistics

To get to Langley (Washington), visitors can use the following transportation options:

Airports Near Langley (Washington)

The nearest airports to Langley (Washington) are Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and Paine Field Airport.

Bus Stations Near Langley (Washington)

The Island Transit offers free bus transportation in the area, making it convenient for visitors to get around.

Other Options

To explore Langley in comfort, bicycles and cars are available for rent by most local rental companies. Visitors can also book a shuttle or taxi for transportation.

How to Get Around in Langley (Washington)

The best way to get around Langley (Washington) is by renting a car or bike or by using rideshare services such as Uber or Lyft. For those wishing to explore on foot, Langley is also a very walkable town.

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

Other must-visit destinations near Langley (Washington) include:

  • Seattle: Visiting Seattle, with its iconic Space Needle, countless coffee shops, and a bustling nightlife scene, is a must-visit when you’re in Washington.
  • Seattle Premium Outlets: A shopping escapade that offers designer brands and excellent discounts.
  • Whidbey Island Ferry: Take a ferry ride to other nearby towns, such as Kingston, Port Townsend or San Juan Island, for great day trips.

Conclusion

Langley (Washington) packs a lot of culture, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure for a small town. Explore the local art scene, try its iconic dishes, walk around the scenic town, or venture outside the city to enjoy the best of the Pacific Northwest. Hopefully, this guide has provided you with the information and inspiration to plan your next trip to Langley (Washington) - an unforgettable destination in the heart of the Puget Sound!

Downtown Langley Downtown Langley The Olympic Club building in Langley is listed on the National Register of Historic Places The Olympic Club building in Langley is listed on the National Register of Historic Places