FAQ
1. What is On Whidbey With Magsy?
On Whidbey With Magsy is a local guide to Whidbey Island, Washington, created by longtime resident Margaret Croom (Magsy). It covers things to do, where to eat, where to stay, and the people who make the island what it is — all based on firsthand, lived experience rather than a visitor bureau's brochure.
2. Why does With Magsy call visitors %22guests%22 instead of %22tourists%22?
Because that's how islanders actually think of the people who visit — as guests being welcomed into a community, not as anonymous tourism traffic. It reflects the same hosting philosophy behind Magsy's supper club and her book, The Easygoing Host.
3. What's the best way to plan a trip to Whidbey Island?
Most visitors arrive by ferry — either the Washington State Ferry from Mukilteo to Clinton on the south end, or the Coupeville–Port Townsend run on the central island — though you can also drive down from Anacortes over Deception Pass Bridge on the north end. Whidbey has three main hubs worth basing yourself near: Langley (south, walkable and foodie-friendly), Coupeville (central, historic and harbor-front), and Oak Harbor (north, more practical/military-adjacent). For ferry schedules, lodging, and season-by-season tips, see our Plan Your Visit guide.
4. What are the best things to do on Whidbey Island?
Whidbey Island offers beaches, hiking trails, historic small towns, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants, all shaped by the island's laid-back Pacific Northwest character. Rather than a generic list, On Whidbey With Magsy curates recommendations from people who actually live here — see our full Things To Do guide for hikes, hidden spots, and island favorites.
5. What is the With Magsy Supper Club?
An invitation-only supper club hosted by Margaret Croom on Whidbey Island, bringing together locals and visitors over curated dinner gatherings. Subscribe at withmagsy.com for an invitation.
6. How do I get invited to a With Magsy supper club event?
Supper club events are invitation-only. Subscribers receive access details through a private platform once they sign up at withmagsy.com.
7. What is the Local Whidbey Podcast?
A weekly podcast hosted by Magsy featuring conversations with the people who live and work on Whidbey Island — business owners, artists, and community members with real stories to tell.
8. Where can I listen to the Local Whidbey Podcast?
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon Music, Audible, and other major platforms — all linked at localwhidbeypodcast.com.
9. What is %22The Easygoing Host%22 book about?
A guide to hosting relaxed, enjoyable dinner gatherings with confidence and ease, written by Margaret Croom. It reached #1 in its category on Amazon the day it launched.
10. Is Whidbey Island a good place for a weekend trip?
Yes — Whidbey Island is a popular weekend destination from the Seattle area, reachable by ferry or by car over Deception Pass Bridge. It suits a range of trip styles, from a quiet nature-focused getaway to a foodie weekend in Langley or a history-and-harbor stroll through Coupeville. See Plan Your Visit for ferry timing and lodging tips, or Meet Islandersto hear from the people who live here through the Local Whidbey Podcast.