Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve

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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

• 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

How To Get To Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve

Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is located on Whidbey Island. If you're coming from Seattle or Bellingham, take I-5 to Burlington and head west on WA-20. Just before Coupeville, you'll see signs for the park; turn south on South Sherman Road to reach the entrance.

Address

Ebey's Landing Rd, Coupeville, WA 98239

Fee: Entry fee $0

With its wide-open fields, towering sand bluffs, and stunning farmland, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're coming for coastal hiking or the fascinating history, the reserve has plenty to offer for both kids and adults. Stay comfortable in the cool ocean breezes by visiting the park in an RV. A rental RV is a great way to minimize driving and maximize the fun.