Meerkerk Gardens
Tranquil gardens on Whidbey Island featuring stunning rhododendrons, woodland trails, and serene water views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak rhododendron bloom
Meerkerk Gardens
Best Time
Peak rhododendron bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tranquil gardens on Whidbey Island featuring stunning rhododendrons, woodland trails, and serene water views.
"Adorable over looked gem on Whidbey…so many trails, plants, flowers, trees and animals."
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Paths
The 'easy walking path' is compacted gravel, suitable for strollers and power chairs. Outlying trails can be rougher. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Many benches are available for a relaxing meal. :forkandknifewithplate:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rhododendron Displays
Display Gardens
Vibrant rhododendrons in a stunning array of colors line the pathways, creating a breathtaking spectacle.
Woodland Trails
Forested Areas
Explore 43 acres of old-growth forest with nature trails offering a peaceful escape and opportunities for light hiking.
Marine View Gazebo
Overlooking the Water
Enjoy beautiful water views from a charming gazebo, perfect for picnics or quiet contemplation.
Nursery & Sale Shed
Near Entrance
Take a piece of the garden home! Browse and purchase a variety of plants, including rhododendrons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time for Blooms
Admission & Membership
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Paths
The 'easy walking path' is compacted gravel, suitable for strollers and power chairs. Outlying trails can be rougher. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Many benches are available for a relaxing meal. :forkandknifewithplate:
🗺️ Detailed Maps Provided
Maps are available and very helpful for navigating the extensive gardens and trails. :world_map:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk with your furry friend. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Walking Paths
The 'easy walking path' is compacted gravel, suitable for strollers and power chairs. Outlying trails can be rougher. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Picnic Perfection
Bring a picnic to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery. Many benches are available for a relaxing meal. :forkandknifewithplate:
🗺️ Detailed Maps Provided
Maps are available and very helpful for navigating the extensive gardens and trails. :world_map:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Strolls
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk with your furry friend. :dog:
💰 Admission Donation
A donation is appreciated at the entrance. Consider it an investment in this beautiful gem. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Meerkerk Gardens is frequently described as an adorable, overlooked gem on Whidbey Island, praised for its immaculate and expansive grounds featuring a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees. Visitors highlight the peaceful atmosphere, beautiful water views from the gazebo, and the enjoyable walking trails suitable for different fitness levels. The on-site nursery is also a popular feature.
"Adorable over looked gem on Whidbey…so many trails, plants, flowers, trees and animals. Don’t forget to do the scavenger hunt!
Beautiful views of the water from a cute little gazebo.
A donation/admission is appreciated at the entrance"
Donya
"Gorgeous gardens with a nice mix of local and exotic flora. The "easy walking path" takes you in loops through the center. It's not paved but is fine, compacted gravel and should be smooth enough for large wheeled strollers and power chairs. There are multiple benches scattered throughout the area to sit and enjoy the views. The out-laying trails are rougher and may require you to step over a tree root or two. The marine view loop does descend quickly and one side has large, steep steps and the other has steep dirt path. My friend and I brought a picnic and enjoyed every minute of it! Definitely worth the $10 admission."
Annie Bardwell
"Beautiful gardens. Missed the Rhodies, but the garden was still fantastic! Peacefull, Clarity, Zen fulfilling. Well worth the $10. Immaculate huge gardens. Going to try to catch it next year when it Roadie season!"
Evelyn Niklason
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meerkerk Gardens is located on Whidbey Island in Greenbank, Washington. Visitors typically drive to the island via the Mukilteo-Clinton ferry or by driving north via I-5 and crossing the Deception Pass Bridge. Parking is available on-site.
Public transportation options to Whidbey Island are limited. Driving is the most common and convenient way to reach Meerkerk Gardens.
The most popular route is the Washington State Ferry from Mukilteo to Clinton. Alternatively, you can drive north on I-5 and cross the Deception Pass Bridge, which offers scenic views.
Yes, Meerkerk Gardens occasionally hosts guided tours and events, such as tree tours for groups. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for upcoming schedules.
No, vehicles are not permitted inside the gardens. Parking is available at the entrance, and you can explore the grounds on foot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is by donation, with a suggested amount of $10 per person. This contribution helps maintain the beautiful gardens.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. You can pay your donation upon arrival. However, group tours may require prior arrangement.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Meerkerk Gardens website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Yes, Meerkerk Gardens offers an annual membership for $75, which includes unlimited visits and two free guest passes, making it a great option for frequent visitors.
Information on specific discounts for seniors or children is not widely advertised, but the donation-based admission is generally affordable for most visitors.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the stunning rhododendron displays, especially in late spring. The woodland trails offer a peaceful hike, and the marine view gazebo provides beautiful water vistas. 
The main 'easy walking path' is compacted gravel and generally suitable for large-wheeled strollers and power chairs. However, outlying trails can be rougher and may have steps or steep paths.
Yes, Meerkerk Gardens is dog-friendly! Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome to explore the grounds with their owners.
Yes, Meerkerk Gardens has a nursery and sale shed where you can purchase a variety of plants, including rhododendrons, to take home.
Visitors often report seeing various birds and other small wildlife within the gardens and surrounding woodlands.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within Meerkerk Gardens. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own picnics to enjoy on the grounds.
Absolutely! Meerkerk Gardens is a wonderful place for a picnic. There are many benches scattered throughout the gardens, and the gazebo offers a scenic spot.
The nearest towns with dining options are Greenbank, Coupeville, and Freeland, offering a range of cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned on bringing food for picnics. However, visitors are expected to be respectful of the gardens and dispose of any trash properly.
Refreshments are not typically sold on-site. It's recommended to bring your own water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The rhododendron displays are incredibly photogenic, especially when in full bloom. The gazebo with its water views and the diverse plant life throughout the gardens also offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. It's a beautiful place to capture nature's beauty.
While casual photography is welcome, professional photo shoots or drone usage might require special permission. It's best to inquire with the garden management if you plan on extensive professional work.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Absolutely! Many visitors take photos of the diverse flora to identify them later or share their discoveries. The gardens feature a mix of local and exotic plants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main paths are manageable, some of the more rugged trails might be challenging for very young children. The nursery and sale shed can be a fun stop to look at or even pick out a small plant to take home as a souvenir. The scavenger hunt mentioned by some visitors could also be a great way to engage kids.
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Hikers
+1While the main display gardens are easily navigable, the outlying trails offer a more rugged experience, with natural terrain and elevation changes. Be prepared with appropriate footwear if you plan to explore these areas. The detailed maps are essential for navigating the various trail systems and discovering hidden nooks.
📸 Photographers
+1 The gazebo with water views offers a picturesque backdrop, and the diverse plant life provides endless subjects for macro and landscape shots. Aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the best natural light. While casual photography is encouraged, it's wise to check with garden management regarding any specific guidelines for professional shoots or drone usage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Flora
+1Beyond the manicured display gardens, Meerkerk encompasses 43 acres of old-growth forest. These areas are crisscrossed with nature trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in a more natural, wilder environment. The contrast between the cultivated gardens and the serene woodlands provides a rich and varied experience for nature lovers and hikers.
Visitors often remark on the peaceful and zen-like atmosphere of the gardens, finding clarity and tranquility amidst the natural beauty. The presence of various birds and small wildlife adds to the immersive experience, making it a delightful destination for those seeking a connection with nature.
Navigating the Trails and Accessibility
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, outlying trails delve into the forested areas. These paths can be rougher, with natural terrain, tree roots, and occasional steep sections. The marine view loop, for instance, descends quickly and features steep steps on one side and a dirt path on the other, requiring more careful navigation.
While the gardens are generally welcoming, visitors with mobility concerns should be aware of the varying trail conditions. The detailed maps provided are invaluable for planning your route and understanding the terrain of different sections, ensuring you can make the most of your visit.
The Value of Membership and Visiting
When planning your visit, consider the peak rhododendron season, typically in late spring, for the most vibrant floral displays. However, the gardens offer beauty year-round, with different plants and foliage coming into their own during autumn and other seasons.
+1Many visitors appreciate the donation-based admission ($10 suggested), viewing it as a worthwhile contribution to maintaining this cherished local gem. The combination of natural beauty, diverse flora, and peaceful atmosphere makes Meerkerk Gardens a highly recommended destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit