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Freeland is located at the
base of Holmes Harbor, and is considered the commercial hub of South
Whidbey. You will find banks, groceries, videos, clothes, hardware,
lumber, beauty salons, spas, physicians, household goods, eateries, and
entertainment. You name it, Freeland is the place to go and get it.
This cozy unincorporated town is a thriving urban area!
In 2003 a new
development was finished for senior citizens. The Village of Maple Ridge is
located on the north side of town next to a brand new shopping complex,
China City, and the lumberyard. The largest thrift store on the
island is located on Woodard Road.
This town's industrial roots are Nichols Brothers Boat Builders, who build any type of
boat. Recently they built the largest paddlewheel boat that is
currently sailing up and down the Columbia River as well as a Navy prototype.
You don't have to look far to
find something fun to do in Freeland. The Port of Whidbey has 1,100 ft
of waterfront at Freeland Park. This public park is a great place to relax
with its "Lions" playground, boat launch and dock at the base of Holmes
Harbor near downtown. Holmes Harbor Golf Course is
located in Freeland with 18 holes open to the public. The newly
renovated Freeland Lanes is the only bowling alley on South Whidbey.
Island Athletic Center features an indoor swimming pool, complete fitness
center, and physical therapy area. In all the excitement building
Freeland up to what it is today, people took action to preserve the wide
open spaces there also. Friends of Freeland in 2001 purchased 18
acres of woods, wetlands, and residential property near downtown.
Double Bluff County Park, just south
of Freeland has a wonderful beach perfect for exploring, and an off-leash
area for dogs to romp. Just west of town is Mutiny Bay boat launch,
accessing Admiralty Inlet. South Whidbey State Park is
just past Bush Point with over 348 acres of camping, beachcombing, and
trails. A wonderful feature is the protected grove of old growth
forest on the east side of Smugglers Cove Road, opposite the entrance.
Dining in Freeland is mostly
casual, with Freeland Cafe and its home cooked meals, Harold's Pizza Bar,
Captains Harry's Fish Bar, Terra, The Beach Cabin, China City, and the
newest, The Beachfire Grill at Holmes Harbor Golf Course
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