Whidbey Island, the largest island in Washington, offers many photogenic opportunities and sites of historical interest. Visit popular Deception Pass State Park, where State Route 20 crosses a high bridge, 180 feet over swirling saltwater currents. Tugboats shepherd huge log rafts through the strait of Deception Pass. Watch bird life such as Great Blue Heron and Bald Eagle. Admire lichen covered old growth trees on quiet walks. Indian Camas (or Indian hyacinth or Wild hyacinth, Camassia quamash) and other wildflowers bloom in spring and summer. Red and yellow bark of the Pacific Madrone or Madrona (Arbutus menziesii) tree peels into fascinating patterns, including one shaped like a human female breast. Visit Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, including: Admiralty Head Lighthouse (built 1890) in Fort Casey State Park and Crockett Blockhouse. In Meerkerk Gardens, admire a colorful concentration of hybrid rhododendron flowers blooming in late April.
Drive to Fidalgo Island on the north side of Deception Pass Bridge. At Anacortes, see oil refineries, oil tankers, boats, docks, and catch a ferry to the San Juan Islands. On a clear day, see the volcanic cone of Mount Baker rising in the North Cascades 40 miles to the east.