Captain Whidbey Inn

written by Cara Strickland
photography by Captain Whidbey Inn

With a quick ferry ride or a scenic drive over Deception Pass, you can forget how close you are to Seattle as you settle into the slower rhythms of island life on Whidbey. The Captain Whidbey has been a lot of things over the years. Built with wood and stone from the property in 1907, it was a private home, boarding house, post office, girl’s school and a general store. Now, it’s a thoughtfully reimagined historic inn with a high-end summer camp vibe, all with a lovely view of Penn Cove and easy driving distance to all the natural beauty and adventure that Whidbey has to offer.

ACCOMMODATIONS

There are thirty rooms, suites and cabins on the 6-acre property, each with its own style. The cabins are collaborations with Glasswing, Filson, We The Nomads and Edit Whidbey (all PNW designers), each perfect for a private retreat. The Lodge itself has rooms that might make you feel like a sea captain, with shared bathrooms among lodge guests. The Lagoon rooms each include ensuite bathrooms and a nod to Scandi-style with a view of the man-made lagoon.

Captain Whidbey’s cabin styled with Filson items.

DINING

You don’t have to be an overnight guest to experience the restaurant at Captain Whidbey (though reservations are recommended). You won’t be surprised to see a wide array of seafood options on the menu, paired with seasonal favorites such as Yakima Asparagus Tartine, and pickled vegetables of the moment, alongside house-baked crackers. Sit by the bar in the afternoon or evening for a cocktail, and enjoy the espresso bar (with grab and go breakfast items) in the general store. If you’re a guest of the lodge, a special cocktail phone will connect you straight with the bartender for a no-fuss nightcap.

The bar at the inn for an evening cocktail.

AMENITIES

Play lawn games, swim, or row boats in the lagoon, or sit around one of many fires inside or out (be sure to pick up a complimentary s’mores kit on Friday and Saturday nights). Relax in the library with a selection of books, do some gentle yoga, or take advantage of the wellness studio and sauna. Whether you’re interested in a whiskey flight with an educational component, wine tasting and charcuterie, or learning how to make a craft cocktail, each day offers different complimentary activities for guests.