Clinton

Clinton, a somewhat rural area and unincorporated segment of South Whidbey, is at the southernmost tip of the island. Other than a few concentrated areas of commerce along State Highway 525, the area consists mostly of trees, homes and farms.

But there are great places to discover. The Mukilteo-Clinton ferry is one of three ways to get on and off the island, the others being the Coupeville-to-Port Townsend Ferry and Deception Pass Bridge. It is because of this that Clinton is bustling with cars during the summer. That’s when events are rampant and vacationers are in town. There are several public beaches for visitors to enjoy upon arriving in Clinton.

There is Maxwelton Beach just a few miles north and is where the 100-plus-year-old Maxwelton Independence Day Parade is held every July 4. It also includes a baseball field and a sandy shore. Another nearby beach is Possession Point, a popular spot for boat launches and a small section of beach available to the public. The closest beach to the ferry is managed by the Port of South Whidbey and can be found right after exiting the vessel. Just up the road from the ferry, visitors will find a hub of businesses available to them.

There is Make Whidbey, where desires for coffee, pastries, wood goods, and children’s toys can be fulfilled. Next door is Cozy’s Roadhouse, a restaurant, and bar that also includes pool tables and daily specials. A new restaurant with noodle-based dishes, Island Nosh, also recently opened. It is located next door to Make Whidbey and Cadee Distillery.

There are also a plethora of options at the Ken’s Korner shopping center. If you need a quick bite, visit Clinton Foodmart, or stock up on groceries can be purchased at the Red Apple. In the same complex as the grocery store, you’ll also find a delicatessen, bagel shop Good Cheer Too thrift shop and Mexican food. Two private elementary/middle schools are also located in Clinton: Whidbey Island Waldorf School and Wellington Day School.