Oak Harbor, Washington
Oak Harbor is the largest city on Whidbey Island in Island County, Washington. Named for the Garry Oak trees which grace its skyline, the city is a beautiful waterfront community nestled on the shores of Puget Sound, enjoying one of the most scenic pastoral, forested, and maritime environments in the Northwest. Originally a small town with Irish and Dutch heritage, Oak Harbor saw rapid growth when the U.S. Naval Air Station was established in 1941. Since then, the city has grown from a town of 600 residents to a city of over 20,000. Yet despite its growing population, Oak Harbor has still preserved the culture, values, and charm of small-town living. The community has been striving to maintain the quaint downtown area as a focal point for both locals and visitors to shop, gather, enjoy the arts and outdoor activities, and appreciate the spectacular setting that is Oak Harbor.