The northernmost city on Whidbey Island, Oak Harbor is the largest town on the island, with about 22,000 residents. With the building of Deception Pass Bridge in the 30’s, and the completion of the Naval Air Station in the 40’s, Oak Harbor has flourished into a town known for growth and prosperity. With so much diversity in terrain, each neighborhood is unique. The Westside offers tumultuous seas, high winds, and views of the Olympic Mountains. The Eastside has a great little downtown, a full-service harbor, and many amazing restaurants. There are many outdoor activities: boating, scuba diving, fishing, sightseeing, skydiving (pictured), hiking, sailing, camping, and much more.
In addition to the many outdoor activities Oak Harbor has to offer, there are lots of hiking trails. No matter what your fitness level, there is a trail for you. Below is a video from my series, 5 Best Places to Walk Near Oak Harbor. Check out my YouTube channel to see all the best trails this great town has to offer.
Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) – (360) 257-5641
Located in the Puget Sound of Washington State, NAS Whidbey Island is one of the Navy’s largest air stations and, among other things, serves as the Navy’s sole center of excellence for electronic combat warfare training. The base manages two primary aircraft training fields: Ault Field in Oak Harbor and the Outlying Landing Field (OLF) in Coupeville. The installation supports training activities for 21 home-based squadrons, as well as support to hundreds of transient military and civilian aircraft operations every year. This town loves its Navy personnel and families.
Oak Harbor School District (360) 279-5000
They offer award-winning schools, plus nationally-recognized academic and activity programs. Not sure which school your kids would go to? Check out the boundary map here. I’ve also talked a bit about finding the right neighborhood and how important it is when buying a home or renting.
Upcoming Events for 2018
November
11/23 State Parks FREE Day (An Autumn Free Friday)
11/22 Community Harvest Thanksgiving Dinner
The North Whidbey Community Harvest is an all-volunteer organization that provides a free Thanksgiving meal every year at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge. This will be the 13th year our organization has provided a Thanksgiving Day meal through the generosity of local individuals, businesses and organizations on North Whidbey Island. This day is truly a community event, intended to bring our citizens together for a day of sharing and caring.
11/24 Sip ‘n’ Shop On the Cove
Spend the day shopping and exploring historic Coupeville for your one of a kind holiday gifts, have lunch in one of our local eateries, stroll the Wharf, or visit our Museum.
When you have finished Shopping you can start the Sipping!!
From 4pm to 7pm – End your day tasting local beverages from Whidbey Island Vintners, Distillers and Breweries, while sampling delicious food from local restaurants and enjoying Live Music!
December
12/1 Winter Bazaar
12/1 Clinton Winter Market –
10 am – 4 pm – Clinton – Clinton Community Hall – More than 20 vendors and crafts people can provide you with that unique Christmas gift. Get photos with Santa between 11 am & 2 pm. At 6pm Saturday is the Clinton holiday tree lighting. Also open Sunday, December 2.
12/1 Holly Jolly Parade and Shop ‘n Stroll –
Noon – Langley – Annual parade followed by shopping specials
12/1 The Greening of Coupeville –
4:00 p.m. – Coupeville – Annual parade, tree lighting, and carols
12/1 Home For the Holidays –
4:00 p.m. – Oak Harbor – Visit from Santa, carols, tasty treats and more
12/1 Jingle Trail 5k Run & Walk
2019 Happenings – More to come so check back soon!
Kristen Stavros 