The Enchanted Doors of Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island is more than just the breathtaking backdrop for the 1998 film Practical Magic, starring Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock. This “practically magical” island offers miles of pristine beaches, parks, arts, live music, organic farms, wineries, breweries, and—most importantly—a vibrant, welcoming community.

One of Whidbey’s hidden treasures is its world-class cycling routes. Back in July of 2019, I experienced this firsthand. I was visiting friends for the Fourth of July and decided to embark on a solo bike ride around the southern part of the island. If you’ve ever cycled or driven Whidbey’s roads, you know how hilly and challenging they can be! It’s world class cycling, but I wasn’t fully prepared that day. After several hours in the heat, I ran out of food, was low on water, and started to lose my way trying to navigate back to Clinton.

After stumbling into a century-old Maxwelton Fourth of July parade, I accidentally found myself climbing Swede Hill—a daunting 10% grade! I was exhausted and on the verge of “bonking” (a cyclist’s term for running out of energy). After finally reaching Bailey Road and turning onto Cultus Bay Road, I spotted something that made me question my sanity: a red door standing alone in the middle of a field.

Was I imagining it? Upon telling my friends, they were sure I was delirious. But after a bit of Googling, we discovered it was real! That was my first encounter with one of the Doors of Whidbey. These whimsical, mysterious doors—often standing solo in fields or yards—have become an unexpected part of the island’s charm. My experience with the Red Door inspired me to seek out more of these hidden gems.
Here is an article about the infamous “Red Door”.

Now that I live on the island, spotting the doors has become one of my favorite pastimes. I’ve added several to my cycling routes, often passing at least four within 15 miles of my home. Some locals have no idea these doors exist, while others grin knowingly, proud to have seen the Red Door and perhaps a few others. Do you know where any other Doors of Whidbey are?
As a local real estate broker with Better Homes and Gardens McKenzie Realty in Bayview, I spend my days helping people find their perfect Home/Door, on this magical island. Our office even has its own Green Door! Stop by, and I’ll happily tell you more about what makes living on Whidbey Island so special—and where you might stumble upon more of these enchanting doors. Whether you’re looking for a home or just seeking the magic of the island, I’d love to share my local insights with you!