Monroe Landing sits on the north shore of Penn Cove on Whidbey Island, within the boundaries of Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. While the specific origin of the name "Monroe Landing" remains unclear in historical records, this beach holds profound significance as the site of cokwol'a, the main winter village of the Skwdabs people, a subgroup of the Skagit tribe. Archaeological evidence from shell middens indicates continuous use of this location for over 4,000 years. The landing's most notable feature was a traditional longhouse that stood here until approximately 1910, making it the last such structure to exist on Whidbey Island. For millennia, the Skwdabs people gathered here during winter months for ceremonies, feasting, and community life, creating a cultural center that connected generations to this sheltered cove.
Today, Monroe Landing offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with both natural beauty and deep indigenous history. The beach features a boat ramp that provides water access for kayakers and small watercraft, making it a practical launch point for exploring Penn Cove's protected waters. Beachcombing along the shore reveals remnants of the massive shell middens that accumulated over thousands of years of clam harvesting, offering tangible connections to the site's long human history. An interpretive sign at the parking area educates visitors about the Skwdabs people who maintained berry patches, farmed camas bulbs, harvested horse clams, and hunted deer and ducks in this rich ecosystem. Swimming and sunbathing are possible during warmer months, though visitors should note that no lifeguards are on duty and facilities are limited. The beach's location within the national historical reserve means it remains relatively undeveloped, preserving its historical character and natural setting. Free parking is available, though the site lacks restrooms and other amenities, so plan accordingly for extended visits.
The nearest dining options are found in Oak Harbor, about 5 miles away, where visitors can enjoy diverse cuisine throughout the historic downtown area. Lewis and Main offers upscale American fare with dishes like pan-seared salmon with lemon beurre blanc and grilled ribeye steaks with truffle butter. Thai on Main serves authentic Southeast Asian cuisine including pad thai with tamarind sauce, green curry with coconut milk, and mango sticky rice desserts. For breakfast or casual dining, IHOP on Highway 2 provides familiar favorites like buttermilk pancakes with fresh berry compotes, chicken and waffles, and create-your-own omelettes with various fillings. Further east along the Sky Valley corridor in Sultan and Monroe, visitors will find Ixtapa Mexican Restaurant serving carne asada tacos with cilantro and onions, chile rellenos stuffed with cheese, and fresh guacamole prepared tableside. Bubba's Roadhouse in Sultan offers hearty American comfort food including bacon cheeseburgers with hand-cut fries, pulled pork sandwiches with coleslaw, and homemade milkshakes, making it a satisfying stop after a day exploring this historically significant beach.
