One of the many advantages to taking a Gray Whale watching excursion with Clipper Vacations is the two-hour stop in either Langley or Coupeville. These quaint, historic towns offer an incredible variety of things to see, try and explore!
Shops
If you love wine, cheese and bread, you can’t go wrong at bayleaf in Coupeville. They offer an incredible selection of artisan cheeses, and their helpful staff can help you select the perfect wine pairing.
If you’re interested in rustic and handmade items, swing by edit. in Langley. The shop offers a handful of items that are thoughtfully curated by owner David Price, which are selected for their usefulness and thoughtful design.
On sunny days, there’s no better place to be than Kapaw’s Iskreme in Coupeville. Tons of delicious flavors and generous scoop sizes; what could be better?
Restaurants
If spotting Gray Whales has left you famished, both Langley and Coupeville offer some fantastic places to eat! Front Street Grill in Coupeville offers a great menu, fresh mussels and an incredible view of Penn Cove.
Prima Bistro in Langley features French-inspired Northwest cuisine, fresh Penn Cove mussels and rooftop seating if weather permits.
Coffee
In need of a caffeine fix? Useless Bay Coffee Co. roasts all of their coffee in small batches on site an offers a variety of roasts, from the light House Breakfast Blend to the dark Smokey Saratoga.
In Coupeville, Coupeville Coffee & Bistro Coupeville Coffee & Bistro serves renowned Portland-based coffee roaster Stumptown Coffee and offers a variety of light lunch options.
Points of Interest
One of the more unique spots in Langley is Callahan’s Firehouse. Originally built to be Langley’s firehouse in 1939, the building has recently been converted into a glass-blowing studio for renowned local artist Callahan Campbell McVay. In addition to using the space to create his own art, McVay also offers glass-blowing experiences by appointment. While you likely won’t have time to make your own glass creation before the boat leaves, be sure to stop in to watch his art being made, and maybe even bring a piece home for yourself!
If you’re in Coupeville, make sure to check out the historic Coupeville Wharf. Originally built to house grain and other goods, it now houses a number of shops and restaurants. The wharf also features several exhibits about local marine life, including a Gray whale skeleton suspended from the ceiling!
With so many things to do in both Langley and Coupeville, watching the whales is only half the fun!
For a sneak peek at Gray Whale Watching from Seattle with Stop in Coupeville or Langley on Whidbey Island with Clipper Vacations, watch this video:
Feature Photo: Rick Lawler