Boatyard Inn

If you long to fall asleep at night to the sound of waves lapping, or want to wake to the sight of the sun rising over the snowcapped Cascades and spilling across Saratoga Passage, then the Boatyard Inn is just the place for the two of you.

Located in Langley Village on Whidbey Island, this traditional Northwest style two-story inn is reminiscent of an old cannery with its corrugated metal roofs, colorful siding and wood columns. But inside, the 1994 structure tells a far different story.

The ten studio suites, deluxe studios and loft suites are contemporary (think Eddie Bauer™ décor), oversized (from 600 to 1,000 square feet) with every convenience built-in. All have spacious living rooms with gas fireplace, queen bed, private bath, galley kitchen, and a romantic waterfront (or water view) deck. Sitting on the deck is like having front row seats to watching all the action in the shipping lanes of Saratoga Passage and the town's working waterfront.

Location, Location, Location

A stone's throw away you'll find a 30-foot marina, public boat ramp and fishing pier where seagulls circle with their characteristic cry. A short stroll in the other direction takes you into the heart of Langley Village. This haven of boutiques, galleries, and antique shops is full of unique finds, and the restaurants offer truly flavorful cuisine.

Sitting at an outside café table (surrounded by shopping bags), sipping on a glass of wine with the sun on Mardi's face, I can tell you firsthand that an afternoon in this idyllic setting is definitely the way to a woman's heart. And the salt air seems to add to the mix.

Heard it Through the Grapevine

Innkeeper Mynda Myres is a true local who grew up on Whidbey Island. She and her assistant, Faye Elliot, enjoy sharing the secrets of this seahorse-shaped island with you, including the best of what there is to see and do.

Mardi and I enjoy kayaking and beachcombing along the ten miles of sandy beach at Ebey's Landing. You can catch whale watching trips in town, and nearby Deception Pass is a great hiking spot. The local wineries invite you with wine tasting and if you feel adventurous you can rent a tandem bike to take you there.

The Best Time to Visit

While every season offers its own reasons why the Boatyard Inn is a compelling destination, we especially enjoy our mid-winter visits. Regardless of when we do visit, the hospitality of the innkeepers and their willingness to share their little part of the world adds to the total experience. The simple rhythm of the day (beginning with a continental breakfast enjoyed on our private deck) simply works its magic-as does the night.

There is nothing quite so romantic as watching the sight of a full moon rising up over the Cascades from the vantage point of your raised bed. That means twelve visits a year would be in order. (Full moons create wonderful low tides too for excellent beach combing!)

We love coming to Langley and from the secluded Boatyard, we can easily walk to the restaurants and galleries in town.