Things To Do Near Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve
With its breathtaking panoramas and wind-swept bluffs, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is an outdoor paradise. Spend your days hiking through the fields and exploring the beach; in the spring, you can spot gray whales from the bluffs as they migrate through the area. A wide selection of museums and historic sites transports you back in time, offering a fascinating glimpse at indigenous cultures and the turbulent life of an early settler.
Hiking Trails
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Bluff Trail
The Bluff Trail begins at the Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve parking lot and travels high above the water. From the trail, you'll enjoy beautiful views of the water and the surrounding farmland. The trail continues out of the reserve and runs above Perego's Lagoon, so you can create an out-and-back hike of any length to suit your available time. Alternatively, continue on to the Beach Trail to create a loop hike.
Location
Bluff Trail parking area
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy to moderate
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Beach Trail
The Beach Trail parallels the Bluff Trail. Instead of climbing up into the bluffs, it travels along the coast, offering easy access to the beautiful beaches. As you leave the reserve behind, keep an eye out for the calm waters of Perego's Lagoon. At the end of the lagoon, the Beach Trail meets the Bluff Trail, so you can return on the higher route.
Location
Bluff Trail parking area
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Ebey's Prairie Trail
Hike through the farmlands and down to the bluffs on the beautiful Ebey's Prairie Trail. The well-worn path is particularly lovely in the summer and fall when the fields are green and lush. About halfway to the water, you'll pass the Jacob and Sarah Ebey House — it's where the Ebey family lived when they arrived on Whidbey Island. From here, it's easy to imagine the isolation and raw beauty that the first European settlers experienced in the area.
Location
Prairie Overlook trailhead
Length
1.2 miles
Intensity
Easy to moderate
Sightseeing
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Ferry House
The Ferry House has been a fixture of Ebey's Landing since 1860. Travelers often stopped here for the night as they traveled around the island. Today, you can take a tour of the house and the grounds, which look much as they did in the mid-1800s. From the house, turn to admire the view of Admiralty Inlet; visitors have been enjoying ship-spotting here for more than 150 years.
Location
Bluff Trail parking area
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Fort Casey Historical State Park
Located on a point overlooking the Admiralty Head inlet, Fort Casey Historical State Park showcases the military history of Whidbey Island. In the late 1800s, the fort played an important role in defending the Puget Sound; today, you can check out the remaining guns and examine a bunker and battery. The park is also home to the picturesque Admiralty Head lighthouse and a beautiful campground.
Location
1280 Engle Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Fort Ebey State Park
Fort Ebey State Park offers a fascinating combination of history and outdoor adventure. Explore the underground battery, or hike and bike the 25-mile trail network on the cliffs. On windy days, keep an eye out for the brave paragliders that take off from the military parade grounds and fly over the water. If you're a surfer, bring a wetsuit and head down to the beach.
Location
400 Hill Valley Dr, Coupeville, WA 98239
Museums
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Island County Historical Museum
The Island County Historical Museum is one of the hidden gems on Whidbey Island. It's small and carefully curated, offering a fascinating collection of exhibits that document the history of the region. Check out vintage photos, learn about the local Native American cultures, and check out artifacts from indigenous people and European settlers.
Location
908 NW Alexander St, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Port Townsend Marine Science Center
If you're taking the ferry to Port Townsend, take an hour to visit the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. Popular with science enthusiasts and kids, this excellent museum showcases the unique undersea life in the Puget Sound area. One of the highlights is a fully articulated orca skeleton — it's one of only six in the entire U.S. While you're there, head over to the aquarium on the pier for a look at live sea creatures.
Location
532 Battery Way, Port Townsend, WA 98368
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Aqua Gifts
Located in the Little Red Hen Bakery, Aqua Gifts is a lovely spot to pick up one-of-a-kind items. From home decor to jewelry, this friendly spot offers something for every shopper.
Location
2 Front St NE, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Lavender Wind Farm
With its bright, airy interior, Lavender Wind offers a pleasant browsing experience. Pick up freshly baked scones and baked goods for your camping trip, or stock up on a locally made lavender product.
Location
2530 Darst Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Vail Wine Shop
Pick up reds and whites to stock your RV at the locally owned Vail Wine Shop. There's a tasting room on-site if you'd like to test the wines before you choose.
Location
22 Front St NW, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Toby's Tavern
Set in a historic building next to the water, Toby's Tavern exudes seaside charm. Stop in for lunch or dinner to enjoy steaks, locally caught seafood, and salads.
Location
8 Front St NE, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Front Street Grill
Ask for a table overlooking the water at Front Street Grill, an upscale-casual spot located a few miles from Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. With a seafood-heavy menu and exceptional cocktails, this is a great spot to spend the afternoon.
Location
20 Front St NW, Coupeville, WA 98239
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Ciao Food and Wine
Ciao Food and Wine serves fantastic wood-fired pizza and Italian classics in a relaxed setting. Start with a beer, and leave plenty of room for seafood pasta, hot sandwiches, and delicious desserts.
Location
701 N Main St, Coupeville, WA 98239