If you’ve been hankering to visit a historical waterfront town in Washington, Whidbey Island’s Coupeville is the destination for you! For many years the Lower Skagit tribe inhabited the area, building three villages around Penn Cove. The largest of these communities they called bəc̓adᶻali, meaning “snake place.” Eventually, this became the location of modern Coupeville. Though the town was officially incorporated in 1910, its ongoing significance as a Coast Salish site means its real history goes back even further!
The stunning wharf dates back to the 1850s, when European farmers and fishermen settled along the idyllic waterfront.
Along the main street, modern Coupeville is bustling with quaint shops and restaurants. The buildings have been carefully preserved to maintain their character and historic quirks.
As with many island communities in Washington, life in Coupeville revolves around the water. The protected cove is what first attracted Coast Salish communities thousands of years ago. For much of the town's history, the water was the highway. Locals planned their travels around the tides and nearby currents.
Today, visitors can enjoy the waterfront on foot or by boat. Travelers can expect to see all sorts of wildlife. Bald eagles and herons speckle the shores and eagle-eyed individuals might spot the heads of seals surfacing in deeper water.
Nearby lodging is just as delightfully "Northwest" as Coupeville, with some local lodges dating back to 1907. Whidbey Island takes conservation seriously, and these historic buildings are also carefully maintained.
Coupeville is nestled in the heart of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve. With multi-generational farms still operating, stunning hikes, and some of the best camping you'll find in Washington, you won't be short on things to do.
One of my favorite things about Washington is its islands. Something about taking the ferry across the water makes it easy to leave real life and its problems behind. If you’re looking to explore a historical waterfront town in Washington, consider stopping at Coupeville. Its rich history, vibrant community, and whimsical beauty make it a fabulous all-season destination. The various local accommodations are all equally quaint, with options on shore and even on the water!
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