Worth Leaving Town For: Lovely Langley

There's nothing quite like an inexpensive weekend getaway, especially when it's close enough to home that you don't have to spend lots of time getting there. Langley is a great option nearby, and it's a quick ferry ride and drive as long as you plan your crossing to avoid peak traffic.

The most important part of any trip is lodging, and I prefer Airbnb and VRBO to hotels because I like the privacy, amenities, and option to cook for myself. I've stayed in lots of vacation rentals, and my favorite so far is this amazing cabin at the end of a private drive.

Away from it all but not too far away // Tiffany Paine

Just because I like a quiet spot in the woods doesn't mean I want it to be rustic. This cabin has wifi, Apple TV and Netflix, a great shower, and laundry. The bedrooms are private and comfy, and there's lots of seating inside and out. The owner, Tiffany, keeps it spotless, and always turns on the gas fireplace shortly before you arrive. I love exploring different places and staying in as many different rentals as possible, but this cabin is such a great value and so nice.

It's the only one I've been to twice.

On your way into town, stop by Whidbey Island Winery for a few bottles of wine and a chance to meet Sangiovese, their useless cellar kitty. I'm not being mean, his official hashtag is #uselesscellarkitty.

Looking this good is a full-time job // Christopher Bragg

Although I like to cook at the cabin, I also think it's a great idea to eat out on the way in so you can relax when you arrive. Village Pizzeria keeps me coming back for their amazing food and this killer view.

Enjoy this view from inside or walk down to Seawall Park below // Village Pizzeria Facebook

Grab a pizza and salad to go if you're eager to get to the cabin and unwind, or stay a while with a caprese and big bowl of pasta. You know a meal's going to be great when even the bread plate is gorgeous.

It was almost a shame to eat it. That didn't stop us. // Christopher Bragg

Keep your parking spot! You can get anything else you need at The Star Store, which is less than a block away across the street. They have a great selection of groceries and a deli full of prepared dishes, so you can do as much or as little work as you like in the cabin's cozy kitchen.

There's no microwave, so plan to use the oven, stove and toaster oven // Tiffany Paine

In the morning, you can enjoy an easy hike around the Putney Woods and Metcalf Trust Trail system. It's well-maintained and marked, making it very easy to navigate using just a photo of the map on your phone.

Know exactly where you are with a quick pinch and zoom // Christopher Bragg

That moment in the morning when the sun starts streaming into the woods just can't be beat. Getting to watch the world emerge from darkness and come alive is the main reason I'm glad I'm a morning person.

If you need a romantic getaway, a fun weekend with friends, or a quiet place to relax on your own, you'll love Langley. It's a perfect Whidbey Island weekend getaway.