Whidbey Island Adventures: White-Knuckles and Oceanfront Bliss
We took our Winnebago out on its next adventure—and let’s just say, we’re still getting our bearings (figuring out which button does what and remembering to latch all the cabinets). Thanks to all the great RV forums Juanita has joined on Facebook, we felt much better prepared for this outing. And we had a secret weapon this time: our e-bikes. Strapped securely to the back with our Thule bike rack, they turned out to be a total game-changer. Since we don’t yet have a tow vehicle (and let’s face it, moving a 30-foot RV just to go buy eggs isn’t ideal), the bikes became our go-to grocery getters, errand runners, and adventure machines.
Our destination? Cliffside RV Park on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Just a couple hours from home, but with one major catch: crossing the infamous Deception Pass Bridge.
If you’ve never driven across it, imagine this—an impossibly narrow bridge, jaw-dropping views of churning water hundreds of feet below, and oncoming semis that make you question your life choices. White-knuckle doesn’t begin to cover it. (Seriously, Google the photos. Then imagine doing it in a 30-foot rig.) Here is a bit about the history of this bridge!
This is where all of Brandon’s RV driver training paid off. He kept it steady, cool as a cucumber, even when a semi-truck whooshed past us mid-bridge, leaving just inches to spare. I may have forgotten to breathe until we made it across, but hey—that’s part of the adventure, right?
Once at Cliffside RV Park, all stress melted away. This place is phenomenal. The grounds are pristine, the flower gardens look like they belong in a magazine, and they’ve thought of everything: free games like cornhole, horseshoes, and giant chess; spotless facilities; and free laundry, showers, flowers, and more.
But the real star? Our site—#39—perched right on the ocean. From our pad we watched a fiery sunset melt into the horizon, fell asleep to waves crashing against the shore, and watched the fog roll over the evergreens in the morning. The park also has an accessible trail system that winds along the coastline, perfect for oceanfront strolls with bunnies darting across the path and a bald eagle soaring overhead.
Also, a huge shoutout to some new friends who taught us some new tips/tricks and gave Brandon a quick lesson in plumbing to fix a small leak under the water pump! We also swapped recipes and food off the grills while having some drinks and talking stories. Epic weekend with awesome people!
All this for just $60 per night—with full hookups, a concrete pad, and million-dollar views. Sounds too good to be true? Here’s the catch: Cliffside RV Park sits on a military base – Naval Air Station Whidbey Island – so reservations are only open to those with base privileges.
For us, though, it was pure RV magic—equal parts adrenaline (thanks, Deception Pass) and relaxation (thank you, oceanfront campsite). Whidbey Island, we’ll be back.
Wine of the Weekend: 2021 Christopher Creek Barbera
Sonoma County, CA
The 2021 Christopher Creek Barbera is a lively and expressive take on this classic Italian varietal, showcasing the vibrant fruit and food-friendly character that makes Barbera so beloved. In the glass, it pours a deep ruby red with purple highlights at the rim, hinting at its youthful energy. The aromatics are immediately inviting—bright red cherry, wild raspberry, and pomegranate leap forward, balanced by subtle notes of dried herbs, violet, and a touch of warm spice. True to Barbera’s style, this wine is medium-bodied with zippy acidity that keeps each sip fresh and mouthwatering. Flavors of cranberry, red plum, and tart cherry dominate up front, evolving into nuances of leather, baking spice, and a faint minerality. The oak is restrained, allowing the fruit to shine while adding a gentle vanilla and toasted edge. The tannins are smooth and approachable, making it easy to drink now but with enough backbone to pair beautifully at the table. Its bright acidity ensures it will age gracefully for another 3–5 years. The finish is lingering and clean, with a pleasant burst of cherry and a hint of mocha on the tail end. The 2021 Christopher Creek Barbera is a vibrant, versatile, and elegant wine that bridges Old World charm with California’s lush fruit character. It’s the kind of bottle that begs to be opened around a dinner table (or campfire) with good food and better company.
Pairing Suggestions
This Barbera is tailor-made for food. Try it with:
Tomato-based pasta dishes (spaghetti Bolognese, lasagna)
Grilled sausage or lamb chops
Mushroom risotto
A simple Margherita pizza
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