3 Best Hotels in Whidbey Island, The Puget Sound Islands

Perched on a bluff above the beach, this concrete-and-wood Frank Lloyd Wright–inspired structure is just steps from the center of town and features elegant, contemporary guest rooms, all with soaking tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, balconies, and dramatic marine and mountain views. In-room highlights include open Jacuzzi tubs (all with views of Saratoga Passage) and flat-panel televisions. The Inn's restaurant (reservations essential), with its double-sided river-rock fireplace and full-view kitchen, is set above a pretty herb garden. In summer, it serves sumptuous multi-course dinners Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 6:30 (one seating only). If you have time, book an appointment at the spa. 

Steps from the shorefront of Penn Cove, this venerable historic lodge surrounded by old-growth firs was recently refreshed with a hip boutique hotel vibe (think Ace Hotel) while maintaining the rustic charm that's made it a favorite for decades. Accommodations in the lodge have pedestal sinks but share bathrooms and are furnished with antiques and modern amenities; quarters on the north side have views of Penn Cove. More luxurious Lagoon Rooms, in a separate cedar motel, overlook a quiet, marshy expanse. A cluster of four small, one-bedroom cabins have stone fireplaces, private baths, and patios. The on-site restaurant and tavern are popular with locals.

At the edge of Langley, this cedar-shake, Nantucket-style inn features cozy decor and fireplaces in every room and is just a short walk from the town's shops and restaurants. It overlooks the waters of Saratoga Passage and the stunning North Cascades. The inn's shared wraparound porch lends a neatly blended Euro–Northwest ambience. The carriage house, which has a deck as well as a bedroom with a king-size bed, a bathroom with a claw-foot tub, heated floors, full kitchen, and a sitting area with a sleep sofa, offers more privacy (at about double the cost of a regular room). Included in the price of all rooms are the vegetarian breakfast buffet and afternoon drinks and treats, DVDs and games, and use of a Tesla charging station. The inn doesn't allow children under age 12.