ntripntrip logo

Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip

5.0
(1 reviews)
Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip Gallery Image 1
Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip Gallery Image 2
Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip Gallery Image 3
Whidbey Island Deception Pass + Winter Birding Trip Gallery Image 4

Wrapped in epic landscapes, Deception Pass is a must-see. Whidbey Island, Anacortes, and the San Juan Islands surround this Northwestern gem! If you’ve been to the Seattle area before, this is your opportunity to dig a little deeper and experience another incredible destination in Washington.

In the summer, millions of visitors explore this stunning collection of jagged cliffs, ripping currents, and secret coastlines–making Deception Pass Washington’s most-visited State Park. With huge views of the the San Juan Islands, the Salish Sea, the Olympic Mountains, and Vancouver Island, it’s no wonder why this hidden highlight is so well-loved! While it’s a hot spot in the summer, we also love it in the winter. We have coffee and tea to ward off those crisp PNW mornings and a local lunch to maximize time in the park. Few places are more perfectly Northwestern!

SAMPLE ITINERARY

8:00A Depart

We can meet travelers at their hotel in Downtown Seattle or a centrally located meeting spot.

9:00A Birdwatch in Skagit Valley

Begin the day with visit to the Skagit Valley, a renowned winter birding destination for being home to the largest population of migratory snow geese and trumpeter swans that gather here from December-February in the tens of thousands.

Bring your binoculars and spend the morning searching for waterfowl, shore birds, eagles, raptors and more who congregate to take advantage of the mild winters of the Pacific Northwest.

11:00A Deception Pass

Deception Pass reveals a hidden pocket of rugged wilderness and unbelievable history. Take our time beachcombing the rocky shore and exploring forested trails that wind around with views of the Salish Sea, all the while keeping eyes peeled for marine wildlife.

1:00P Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a locall lunch in a covered picnic area at Deception Pass. If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk across the 180-foot-high bridge that spans the width of Deception Pass for an exhilarating experience and unbeatable views.

2:30P Whidbey Island

Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse history of Whidbey Island, with a visit to a 120+ year old military fort complete with bunkers and batteries and the idyllic Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Learn about the cultural importance of Greenbank Farms (once the largest producer of loganberries in the state) to the community. Indulge in a tasting of locally made loganberry wine*, pickup a homemade pie from Whidbey Pies*, or peruse the collection of art from local makers.. There is something for everyone at this spot. *Food and beverage purchases not included in the price of the tour.

5:30P Ferry Ride

Finish off an adventurous day with a peaceful ferry across the Puget Sound from Whidbey back to the mainland. In the winter months, this is timed well as you can enjoy watching the sunset behind the Olympic Mountains in the distance. We have a short drive before we reach the city.

6:30P Downtown Seattle Drop Off

Upon returning, we’ll drop travelers off where we found them.

About this activity

  • Free cancellation

    Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

  • Reserve now & pay later

    Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

  • Duration 10.5 hours

    Check availability to see starting times

  • Live tour guide

    English

  • Pickup included

    Hotel pickup is available at any downtown Seattle hotel, Airbnb, rental etc. If you are staying outside of downtown Seattle, you can meet at the local partner's office or the default hotel location: Sheraton Grand Hotel (1400 6th Ave, Seattle). Hotel pickup will take place between 7:30am-8:00am. Please arrive at the main entrance of your hotel 5 minutes beofre your scheduled pickup time. Our team will call you the day prior to your tour to confirm your exact meeting time at your hotel.

  • Small group

    Limited to 10 participants

Highlights

  • Visit world class birding destinations to watch wintering migratory birds.
  • Explore old growth trees, beautiful bluffs, and rugged shoreline.
  • Visit a historic military fort and historic lighthouse used actively until WWII.
  • Taste a bit of the local agrucultural activity of the island with a farm visit.
  • Watch out for deer, eagles, seals, otters, porpoises, whales and more

Description

Wrapped in epic landscapes, Deception Pass is a must-see. Whidbey Island, Anacortes, and the San Juan Islands surround this Northwestern gem! If you’ve been to the Seattle area before, this is your opportunity to dig a little deeper and experience another incredible destination in Washington. In the summer, millions of visitors explore this stunning collection of jagged cliffs, ripping currents, and secret coastlines–making Deception Pass Washington’s most-visited State Park. With huge views of the the San Juan Islands, the Salish Sea, the Olympic Mountains, and Vancouver Island, it’s no wonder why this hidden highlight is so well-loved! While it’s a hot spot in the summer, we also love it in the winter. We have coffee and tea to ward off those crisp PNW mornings and a local lunch to maximize time in the park. Few places are more perfectly Northwestern! SAMPLE ITINERARY 8:00A Depart We can meet travelers at their hotel in Downtown Seattle or a centrally located meeting spot. 9:00A Birdwatch in Skagit Valley Begin the day with visit to the Skagit Valley, a renowned winter birding destination for being home to the largest population of migratory snow geese and trumpeter swans that gather here from December-February in the tens of thousands. Bring your binoculars and spend the morning searching for waterfowl, shore birds, eagles, raptors and more who congregate to take advantage of the mild winters of the Pacific Northwest. 11:00A Deception Pass Deception Pass reveals a hidden pocket of rugged wilderness and unbelievable history. Take our time beachcombing the rocky shore and exploring forested trails that wind around with views of the Salish Sea, all the while keeping eyes peeled for marine wildlife. 1:00P Picnic Lunch Enjoy a locall lunch in a covered picnic area at Deception Pass. If you’re up for it, challenge yourself to walk across the 180-foot-high bridge that spans the width of Deception Pass for an exhilarating experience and unbeatable views. 2:30P Whidbey Island Spend the afternoon exploring the diverse history of Whidbey Island, with a visit to a 120+ year old military fort complete with bunkers and batteries and the idyllic Admiralty Head Lighthouse. Learn about the cultural importance of Greenbank Farms (once the largest producer of loganberries in the state) to the community. Indulge in a tasting of locally made loganberry wine*, pickup a homemade pie from Whidbey Pies*, or peruse the collection of art from local makers.. There is something for everyone at this spot. *Food and beverage purchases not included in the price of the tour. 5:30P Ferry Ride Finish off an adventurous day with a peaceful ferry across the Puget Sound from Whidbey back to the mainland. In the winter months, this is timed well as you can enjoy watching the sunset behind the Olympic Mountains in the distance. We have a short drive before we reach the city. 6:30P Downtown Seattle Drop Off Upon returning, we’ll drop travelers off where we found them.

Inclusions

  • Pickup and drop-off from downtown Seattle hotels or the Sheraton Grand Hotel
  • Lunch! Seasonal picnic from our local female-owned catering partner
  • Expert Naturalist guide
  • Transportation in a high-roof passenger van
  • Coffee or tea with a light morning snack
  • Assorted snacks and refreshments
  • All park entry fees

Traveler Ratings

See how travelers have rated this attraction. Check out the average rating and read what others have shared about their experiences

5.0 / 5

5 out of 5 stars

Based on 1 review

Review histogram

5

0%

4

0%

3

0%

2

0%

1

0%

Related Attractions

Explore similar attractions that other travelers have enjoyed. Discover more options to enhance your travel experience

From Seattle:Tulip Festival at Skagit Valley and La Conner - Image 1

From Seattle:Tulip Festival at Skagit Valley and La ConnerFrom Seattle:Tulip Festival at Skagit Valley and La Conner

0.0(0)
Bodies of WaterIslandsMountainsValleys

On this full-day excursion, explore the splendor of a mountain valley, an island, and the shoreline. This journey has something to suit every taste, from the expansive Valley views to the wild coastline and magnificent mountains. So take flight, exte...

$200

per adult

Private Whidbey Island & Deception Pass Tour - Image 2

Private Whidbey Island & Deception Pass TourPrivate Whidbey Island & Deception Pass Tour

5.0(1)
IslandsParksState Parks

From Supplier's website: We begin with a drive to the North end of Whidbey Island where you’ll have the opportunity to walk across the Deception Pass Bridge. Many ships and vessels have been torn to shreds attempting to enter Puget Sound through thi...

$274

per adult

Seattle Pike Place Market Food and Culture Tour With Samples - Image 1

Seattle Pike Place Market Food and Culture Tour With SamplesSeattle Pike Place Market Food and Culture Tour With Samples

5.0(400)
Tours

Spend your afternoon munching your way through Seattle’s food scene without wandering the city on this food and culture tour of Pike Place Market. Meet your guide at this historic farmers market and ready your tastebuds for samples from eight...

$68

per adult

Seattle Pike Place Market Seafood Tasting Tour - Image 2

Seattle Pike Place Market Seafood Tasting TourSeattle Pike Place Market Seafood Tasting Tour

5.0(167)
Tours

Seattle is known for its seafood. Sample a variety of seafood dishes for yourself, and explore the renowned Pike Place Market, on this small-group seafood tasting tour. Follow your chef guide around the market and learn about its history, whi...

$72

per adult

Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods E-Bike Tour - Image 3

Seattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods E-Bike TourSeattle's Waterways, Nature and Neighborhoods E-Bike Tour

5.0(71)
ToursBike Tours

Explore the city's unique waterways, nature, and neighborhoods on an e-bike with a local guide who grew up, taught, and has a livelihood in the city. Seattle is a wonderful city to bike, especially when you have the help on the hills with an ...

$90

per adult

Seattle Pike Place Coffee & Foodie Guided Tour With Samples - Image 4

Seattle Pike Place Coffee & Foodie Guided Tour With SamplesSeattle Pike Place Coffee & Foodie Guided Tour With Samples

5.0(65)
Tours

Treat your senses to a visit to one of Seattle’s most popular spots on this tour of Pike Place Market. Built over a century ago, it’s still a bustling gathering point for dining and shopping. Meet your guide at this fresh market and prepare f...

$59

per adult

Washington State Small-Group Full-Day Hiking Tour From Seattle - Image 5

Washington State Small-Group Full-Day Hiking Tour From SeattleWashington State Small-Group Full-Day Hiking Tour From Seattle

5.0(65)
ToursHiking & Camping Tours

Get up close and personal with the Pacific Northwest’s striking scenery, and explore beyond Seattle city limits, on this small-group tour. Set off in the morning from central Seattle, and head into nature: depending on your preferences and ex...

$175

per adult

Seattle Morning Tour of Pike Place Market with Breakfast - Image 6

Seattle Morning Tour of Pike Place Market with BreakfastSeattle Morning Tour of Pike Place Market with Breakfast

5.0(53)
ToursFood Tours

Make navigating through the delicious dishes of Pike Place Market easier without taking up too much of your day on a guided tour. This food tour takes place in the morning, giving you an opportunity to explore one of Seattle’s landmarks and s...

$82

per adult

Insider's Breakfast and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market - Image 7

Insider's Breakfast and Culture Tour of Pike Place MarketInsider's Breakfast and Culture Tour of Pike Place Market

5.0(51)
Tours

VOTED 10 BEST FOOD TOURS IN THE COUNTRY BY USA TODAY!Get ahead of peak crowds and join us for this special offering as we take you behind the scenes on an early-morning exploration of Pike Place Market. Our guides on this tour are deep...

$101

per adult

Welcome to Seattle Walking Tour with Monorail Ride - Image 8

Welcome to Seattle Walking Tour with Monorail RideWelcome to Seattle Walking Tour with Monorail Ride

5.0(50)
ToursWalking ToursMotorcycle Tours

This walking tour of Seattle is a great way to acquaint yourself with the city in just a few hours. Leave with a solid overview of the different neighborhoods, the city's history, and its major sites, even if you're short on time. Unlike othe...

$44

per adult

Lake Union BYOB Private Sightseeing Cruise - Image 1

Lake Union BYOB Private Sightseeing CruiseLake Union BYOB Private Sightseeing Cruise

5.0(57)
Bodies of Water

Step aboard a boat for a cruise on Lake Union. Traveling with only your private group means you'll get tons of personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. Take in sights of Lake Union's draw bridges, seaplanes, and scenic shorelin...

$289

per adult

Seattle Private Half-Day Two-Waterfall Experience - Image 2

Seattle Private Half-Day Two-Waterfall ExperienceSeattle Private Half-Day Two-Waterfall Experience

5.0(43)
Waterfalls

See two spectacular waterfalls in just half a day with this shared guided tour. After meeting your naturalist guide in central Seattle, head to Snoqualmie Falls and then hike to Twin Falls. Along the way, explore an ancient rainforest and lea...

$73

per adult

Olympic National Park Luxury Small-Group Day Tour with Lunch - Image 3

Olympic National Park Luxury Small-Group Day Tour with LunchOlympic National Park Luxury Small-Group Day Tour with Lunch

5.0(34)
National ParksBodies of WaterIslandsParks

The glacial mountains, lakes, and forests of the Olympic National Park lie just across the water from Seattle. On this full-day tour, travel in the comfort of a luxury Mercedes van and benefit from a more personalized experience on a small-gr...

$289

per adult

Seattle Private Sightseeing Cruise - Image 4

Seattle Private Sightseeing CruiseSeattle Private Sightseeing Cruise

5.0(34)
Bodies of Water

Get out on the water, soak up the views, and bring your own beer or wine, on this private sightseeing cruise, with space for six passengers. Admire views of seaplanes, houseboats, and the scenic shoreline on Lake Union, along with famous sigh...

$59

per adult

Mount Rainier Park All-Inclusive Small Group Tour - Image 5

Mount Rainier Park All-Inclusive Small Group TourMount Rainier Park All-Inclusive Small Group Tour

4.9(92)
National ParksBodies of WaterForestsMountainsParksVolcanos

Discover Mt. Rainer National Park’s highlights on an all-inclusive, small-group full-day tour from Seattle. Explore wildflower meadows, alpine vistas, and waterfalls on foot as you enjoy magnificent views on a guided hike, or snowshoe trek, of Washin...

$306

per adult

From Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting - Image 6

From Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine TastingFrom Seattle: Snoqualmie Falls & Woodinville Wine Tasting

4.9(38)
Bodies of WaterCanyonsMountainsValleysWaterfalls

After being picked up from your accommodation in Seattle, start your tour with a short drive across Lake Washington and along a scenic highway. Make your first stop at one of Washington's most breathtaking attractions, the Snoqualmie Falls. Experienc...

$233

per adult

Best of Mount Rainier National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour - Image 7

Best of Mount Rainier National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group TourBest of Mount Rainier National Park from Seattle: All-Inclusive Small-Group Tour

4.9(739)
National ParksMountainsParksVolcanos

At 14,410 feet above sea level, beautiful and majestic Mt Rainier is an icon in the Washington landscape—an active volcano and the most glaciated peak in the United States, creating six major rivers. This day trip nature tour to hike a...

$337

per adult

Full-Day Small-Group Bainbridge Island Wine and History Tour - Image 8

Full-Day Small-Group Bainbridge Island Wine and History TourFull-Day Small-Group Bainbridge Island Wine and History Tour

5.0(14)
GardensIslands

Explore northwest island life on this all-inclusive history and wine tour of Bainbridge Island. After a scenic ferry ride, visit beautiful Bloedel Reserve, a 150-acre (61-hectare) arboretum and garden, and the Japanese American Exclusion Memo...

$299

per adult

Private Transfer from Whistler to SeaTac or Seattle Downtown - Image 1

Private Transfer from Whistler to SeaTac or Seattle DowntownPrivate Transfer from Whistler to SeaTac or Seattle Downtown

5.0(7)
Airport & ground transfers

Our Whistler cross border transfer services to Seattle are perfect for individuals on vacation or for corporate customers. Our vehicles are well-maintained and can handle the weather that can occur in the area. We also train our drivers to handle al...

$1586

per adult

Seattle Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to/from Downtown - Image 2

Seattle Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to/from DowntownSeattle Airport (SEA): Private Transfer to/from Downtown

4.6(271)
Airport & ground transfers

Select the number of passengers and the pickup date for the transfer. Then, book the airport transfer to or from Seattle. Wait for the driver at your hotel, or meet them at the airport. Get into a comfortable van or car, then sit back and relax in co...

$106

per adult

SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels - Image 3

SEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|HotelsSEA Airport Private Transfer to Seattle City|Hotels

4.4(35)
TransportationAirport & ground transfers

Reliable and convenient transportation to and from the Pickup location. Our professional drivers ensure a smooth journey, providing a stress-free experience for travelers. On-time pickups and drop-offs, comfortable vehicles, and excellent customer se...

$33

per adult

Seattle, WA to Victoria, BC High-Speed Passenger Ferry: ONE-WAY - Image 4

Seattle, WA to Victoria, BC High-Speed Passenger Ferry: ONE-WAYSeattle, WA to Victoria, BC High-Speed Passenger Ferry: ONE-WAY

3.9(57)
Ferries/Boats

For a fast, scenic ride between Seattle and Victoria, book this one-way ferry ride aboard the FRS Clipper, a high-speed catamaran. On board you’ll have access to duty-free shopping, since you’ll be going from the US to Canada. There’s ...

$126

per adult

Seattle City to SEA-TAC Airport Private Transfer - Image 5

Seattle City to SEA-TAC Airport Private TransferSeattle City to SEA-TAC Airport Private Transfer

4.0(1)
Airport & ground transfers

Take the stress out of traveling by booking your private transfer from your hotel or residence in Seattle to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Rate includes meet and greet, toll and parking charges, all taxes and VAT, gratuities, and one ...

$127

per adult

From Seattle: Private Transport to Portland by SUV - Image 6

From Seattle: Private Transport to Portland by SUVFrom Seattle: Private Transport to Portland by SUV

0.0(0)
Transportation

Let us serve as your on-demand transportation company between Portland and Seattle. We offer a dependable service in the convenience of a large SUV that can accommodate you and up to four other people. Locations for pickup and delivery are varied and...

$343

per adult

From Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & Homes - Image 7

From Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & HomesFrom Seattle Airport - Transfer to Hotel & Homes

0.0(0)
TransportationAirport & ground transfers

Barbil Tours provides our clients with the highest level of comfort. We’ll make the most of your trips by providing you with exceptional transfer services. Pre-book your airport transfers so you can dive straight into all the sparkle of the city. Hav...

$236

per adult

From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport - Image 8

From Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to AirportFrom Seattle Hotels - Hotel Transfer to Airport

0.0(0)
TransportationAirport & ground transfers

We will provide our clients with the highest level of comfort. We’ll make the most of your trips by providing you with exceptional transfer services. We can pick you from anywhere in the greater Seattle metropolitan area including Redmond, Bothell, E...

$156

per adult

Sky View Observatory: Standard Admission - Image 1

Sky View Observatory: Standard AdmissionSky View Observatory: Standard Admission

4.8(20)
Observatories/Planetariums

Seattle is a pretty chilled out place as far as American cities go, perhaps thanks to the level-headed locals and its mountainous surroundings. Gain a full appreciation of the city when you see it from the 73rd floor of the Columbia Center. A tick...

$32

per adult

Seattle Art Museum Admission Ticket - Image 2

Seattle Art Museum Admission TicketSeattle Art Museum Admission Ticket

4.7(48)
MuseumsArt Museums

Purchase your ticket in advance and walk right into the Seattle Art Museum, located one block from Pike Place Market and the bustling waterfront. Take in the global art collection spanning centuries and mediums from paintings, photographs, sculptures...

$27

per adult

National Nordic Museum: Entry Ticket - Image 3

National Nordic Museum: Entry TicketNational Nordic Museum: Entry Ticket

5.0(4)
Museums

Linger in the East Garden, home to the oldest working Finnish Sauna on display in North America. Trace the paths of the Labyrinth on the South Terrace, and navigate the light-filled Fjord Hall on the first floor, which showcases both temporary exhibi...

$20

per adult

Seattle Center Monorail - Image 4

Seattle Center MonorailSeattle Center Monorail

4.6(579)
Museums

Seattle Center Monorail provides a fast, direct connection between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center. The Monorail's downtown Westlake Station is on the third floor of Westlake Center Mall near Pike Place Market, the Seattle Convention Cent...

$4

per adult

All Day VIP Pass to Original Selfie Museum Seattle - Image 5

All Day VIP Pass to Original Selfie Museum SeattleAll Day VIP Pass to Original Selfie Museum Seattle

4.7(6)
Museums

The most instagrammable space in the nation with over 30 installations and all necessary equipment to create amazing pictures and priceless memories.

$29

per adult

Seattle Sky View Observatory tickets - Image 6

Seattle Sky View Observatory ticketsSeattle Sky View Observatory tickets

5.0(1)
Observatories/Planetariums

Sky View Observatory is the tallest public observatory in the Pacific Northwest and the perfect place to begin any Seattle experience. Guests ascend 73 floors in 70 seconds in an immersive elevator ride that whisks them to the Observatory, wh...

$24

per adult

Seattle Center Monorail: Transport Ticket - Image 7

Seattle Center Monorail: Transport TicketSeattle Center Monorail: Transport Ticket

5.0(1)
Museums

Seattle Center Monorail provides a fast, direct connection between downtown Seattle and the Seattle Center. The Monorail's downtown Westlake Station is on the third floor of Westlake Center Mall near Pike Place Market, the Seattle Convention Cent...

$4

per adult

Sky View Observatory: Classic Access - Image 8

Sky View Observatory: Classic AccessSky View Observatory: Classic Access

4.5(2)
Observatories/Planetariums

Seattle is a pretty chilled-out place as far as American cities go, maybe thanks to the level-headed locals and its mountainous surroundings. Wow your eyeballs even more with a look at the spectacular city from the 73rd floor of the Columbia ...

$33

per adult