Originally published October 27, 2017 | Updated October 18, 2018
The Pacific Northwest can be a magical place in the wintertime. Sunset views of snow-dusted mountains to the east and west. The familiar smell of wood smoke lingering in the evening. Morning coastal fog lightly covering our cherished Elliott Bay. With friends and family around, the holiday season is the perfect time for a weekend getaway that is fun, convenient and doesn’t break the bank.
Hop aboard the San Juan Clipper for a quick trip from downtown Seattle across the water into the heart of Langley on Whidbey Island. A few steps into town and the abundant supply of quaint shops and ocean views promptly warm your soul. Each December, the town’s two main streets transform into a festive winter scene as part of a “Christmas by the Sea” experience. A tradition the city has kept over the years, and one best shared with friends and loved ones.
11:30 am – Cruise to Langley, Whidbey Island
The cozy cabin welcomes you as you climb aboard the high-speed San Juan Clipper catamaran at Pier 69 in downtown Seattle. Festivities begin right away as holiday tunes fill the air and jaw-dropping scenery glides by on the smooth 75-minute trip. Cozy up near a window to soak in wintery views of beautiful Bainbridge Island, then Kingston as you cruise toward Whidbey Island’s southern tip. Paired with a cup of delicious hot apple cider or spiked hot chocolate, the experience is truly hard to beat.
12:45 pm – Main Street Christmas Festivities
After docking in Langley’s sailboat-filled harbor, amble off the boat and stroll five minutes up to Langley’s main street to get the lay of the land. Visit on Dec. 1 and you’ll be treated to Langley’s annual Magic of Christmas festivities. Catch live music and carolers as well as a cheerful parade of Christmas characters. It’s the perfect opportunity for festive selfies or to brush up on the lyrics of your favorite Christmas carols!
1:30 pm – Brunch at Braeburn or Lunch at Spyhop
Craving a bite? The delicious brunch at the Braeburn can’t be overstated. Skip scouring the menu and savor their stuffed French toast with honey glazed apples. With sweet cinnamon and vanilla notes, it’s heaven on a plate. Looking for lunch? The mouth-watering hamburgers at the cozy pub, Spyhop, are a sure bet. Wash down lunch with a flight of sudsy pints (be sure to sample their Coho Kolsch, which is brewed onsite with fresh local hops) on Double Bluff Brewing’s heated patio.
2:30 pm – First & Second Street Stroll
Following lunch, pop across the street to the Langley Whale Center to discover more about the amazing animals that call our waters home. Get an up-close view of the region’s marine animals with gray whale baleen, a harbor porpoise skeleton, and pelts from harbor seals, sea lions and sea otters. Be sure to check out the maps of whale migration routes and the lists of recent whale sightings blanketing the walls.
Next, head over to First Street to explore some of Langley’s famous art galleries, jewelers and eclectic shops where you can pick up last-minute holiday gifts. Duck into edit for local housewares. Snag tasty truffles and caramels at Sweet Mona’s Chocolates (inside tip: peek into the shop’s window to see the chocolate-making process in action). Or pick up affordable and delicate handmade jewelry at the adorable Foamy Wader.
From there, make your way to Second Street, which is home to the especially unique Callahan’s Firehouse. Inside, watch as expert glassblowers twist and blow one-of-a-kind kitchen wares and artwork. Need a quick afternoon pick-me-up? Swing across the street to grab an espresso from local roasters, Useless Bay Coffee.
4:45 pm – Cruise Back to Seattle
Meander down the lighted path back to the boat, as you get ready to depart. Settle in and enjoy the ride as the San Juan Clipper makes its way around the tip of Discovery Park with the faint twinkling lights of Seattle slowly coming back into view. The newly renovated Space Needle among a towering vibrant skyline…if you’re looking for the perfect Christmas city scene, this is it.
6:00 pm – Grab Dinner in Downtown Seattle
After docking at the waterfront, make your way down cobbled streets lined with lighted trees toward Pike Place Market. The iconic landmark puts on a show of its own with lighted signs and string lights at its entrance. Come dinnertime, enjoy authentic Italian plates and views of Elliott Bay while trapeze dancers swing overhead at The Pink Door. Head to the neighboring Pioneer Square for nearly every type of cuisine imaginable, from French to Mexican. Burn off dinner while admiring the amazing light display in Occidental Park.
There’s no better time to celebrate Christmas spirit in the Northwest than with an escape cherished with family and friends. Experience the holidays in the cozy town of Langley this year and start a new tradition with a Christmas by the sea.
Feature Photo: Scott Meis