If you have kiddos, then you’re bound to hear “I’m bored” once the newness of summer vacation wears off! We’re lucky that our island is packed with fun things to do, and we even have some kid-friendly options that are conveniently free. Keep reading for things you can do with your little ones this summer on Whidbey Island, all without breaking the bank!

Library Time: Crafts, Storytime & Fun Events Just for Kids

Our libraries have SO MUCH more than “just books” (although those are great, too!). All of our libraries offer an eclectic calendar of free happenings each month, and there’s truly something for every age and interest. For example, the Oak Harbor Library has a recurring “Explore Summer” event that offers something different each time—kids can learn about the solar system, enjoy hands-on craft days, and so much more! Click here to see the entire calendar.

The Freeland Library, Coupeville Library, Clinton Library, and Langley Library all offer their own unique events, and you’ll find the same “Explore Summer” series happening here for kids as well. However, not all of the “Explore Summer” themes are the same, so it’s worth it to check out each of the libraries schedules to see what dates, times, and themes are best for you and your kiddos. You’ll also find a few different events depending on the library location, like craft sessions or “Reading with Rover” days where little ones can read to a four-legged friend.

Playground Paradise

Whidbey Island is home to a long list of impressive local parks and state parks, and a few of these parks have fantastic playgrounds that are must-visit spots if you have kids who need to burn off some energy. Bring a book and an iced coffee for yourself and relax in the wonderful summer warmth while your little ones play. You can find our complete list of Whidbey Island playground recommendations here.

Beach Bumming

When the temperature rises and everyone needs to cool off, pack a picnic (and an umbrella for shade!) and head to the beach. Double Bluff Beach in Freeland is a popular destination if you want to get in the water, and kids can bring their shovels and buckets and get to work on sandcastle creations (this beach has great sand for playing in!). It’s also an off-leash, dog-friendly beach, perfect if you’re bringing the *entire* family along. You’ll also find lots of opportunities for beachcombing at beaches like Monroe Landing in Oak Harbor and Ebey’s Landing in Coupeville.

Community Center Happenings

Community Centers can be an excellent place to find events for kids that are fun, educational, and cost effective (aka free!). For example, South Whidbey Community Center frequently hosts free events—a couple of their recent ones included a StoryDome gathering (kids could attend storytime in a portable planetarium for a unique, immersive experience) and Lego Tuesdays (kids get to play with legos with instructors). Check out their Facebook page for updates and find even more info on their main website.

Concerts in the Park

Every year, South Whidbey Parks & Rec hosts its popular “Concerts in the Park” series. The concerts typically bring out ~250 people each, and people will bring picnics (concerts happening around dinnertime), blankets, and lawn chairs and just kick back and relax to great music. It’s the perfect opportunity to get out and meet your neighbors while soaking in the summer sun!