Island Transit connects Whidbey and Camano wineries to free bus stops

Island Transit expanded its fare-free bus network on Whidbey and Camano islands on Saturday, adding 38 new stops to serve visitors and locals. The update links major tourist attractions, local businesses, and public parks directly to the existing bus routes. The agency stated that the new stops are designed to make the islands more accessible without cars. The fare-free service remains a core feature of the system, encouraging riders to use the bus for both short trips and longer excursions.

The new stops include destinations such as Bell's Farm, West Beach, and Greenbank Farm on Whidbey Island. On Camano Island, the service now reaches Utsalady Point Park and other key locations. The agency highlighted several specific sites in its announcement, including the Admiralty Head Lighthouse, Fort Casey State Park, and the Admiralty Head Preserve. These additions aim to provide direct access to some of the islands' most visited landmarks and natural areas.

Wineries and distilleries are also included in the new route map. The Whidbey Island Winery and Ott & Hunter Tasting Room in Langley are now accessible by bus. The Blooms Winery in Wearing Safety Vests is listed as a stop, as is the Mutiny Bay Distillery in Freeland. The agency noted that these stops allow visitors to taste local wines and spirits while exploring the island's scenic beauty. The service supports local businesses by driving foot traffic to these establishments.

Accessibility is a major focus of the new stops. The agency listed ADA-accessible Clinton Beach Park and several barrier-free trails as part of the network. The Oak Harbor Waterfront Trail and Park are included, along with the Trillium Community Forest. On Camano, the West Camano Route stops near Utsalady Vista Point Park and Cama Beach State Park upon request. The agency encourages visitors with mobility needs to call 360.678.7771 for help planning their trips. The goal is to ensure that all visitors can enjoy the islands' natural and cultural sites.

The bus runs approximately every 30 to 60 minutes, according to the agency's schedule information. The service is free for all riders, requiring no fare or pass. The agency encourages visitors to check the Routes and Schedules page to plan their trips. The bus stops are located at the ferry terminals in Clinton and Coupeville, making it easy for visitors to transfer from the ferry to the bus. The agency noted that the buses are easy to spot from the docks.

For visitors arriving by car, the agency provided information on free parking locations near the ferry terminals. In Port Townsend, Jefferson Transit's Haines Place Park and Ride offers free daytime and pre-approved overnight parking. In Everett, the Everett Station at 3201 Smith Avenue provides free all-day and overnight parking. The agency noted that parking next to the Mukilteo Ferry Terminal is limited to four hours and metered. Visitors are advised to use the Park and Ride lots in Everett and Lynwood for free 24-hour parking with bus service to the ferry terminal.

The agency also provided information for boaters and cyclists. Boaters can dock at Oak Harbor Marina, Langley Marina, or Coupeville Wharf to connect with the bus. On Camano, the Camano Yacht Club and areas north of Dallman Road are accessible by bus. Cyclists can bring their bikes on most buses, which have bike racks for two to three bikes. The agency encourages visitors to use the bus as a convenient and environmentally friendly way to explore the islands.