PARADISE SANDY WATERFRONT ON WHIDBEY ISLAND Once Upon A Tide
House in Whidbey Island, WA
10 guests · 3 bedrooms · 3 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Free cancellationFull refund if you change your mind
Includes essentialsGarden, Kitchen or Kitchenette, Air conditioner and more
About this house rental
NO BANK WATERFRONT HOME
(with CENTRAL AIR ULTRAVIOLET TREATMENT SYSTEM)
On top of our optimum level of sterilization, sanitation and disinfection, a CENTRAL AIR ULTRAVIOLET TREATMENT SYSTEM has been in place. All air circulation is fully sterilized by a Honeywell UV100 system installed in the central HVAC system. We want you and your family to stay SAFE and HEALTHY.
Get ready for your well deserved STAYCATION.
The sound of the waves, deep sandy waterfront and grassy front lawn, spacious deck and gorgeous home are just a few of the perks of ONCE UPON A TIDE beach house. Once you get off the ferry on Clinton, you will have the sigh of relief from the hustle and bustle of the city. This beautiful charming home is where you want to be to enjoy life in a home far away from home. One of the few sandy beaches on Puget Sound. Stroll on the beach, dig clams, go crabbing, fishing, build sand castles, watch the cruise ships go by or simply enjoy life in a stunning oasis. As you call it a day, the memory foam mattresses in all the rooms in this house will allow you to have a very restful and comfortable sleep.
As you go up a spiral stair case, it takes you to a huge master bedroom/loft adjoining a huge kids’ bunk room. There is an extra bedroom downstairs by the laundry and living room.
If you want to go on vacation with another family, there is another house behind it that sleeps about 4-5 (VRBO 4629474).
Enjoy winter storms or summer sunshine knowing the power will stay on with the back up generator. 15kw genset to keep the lights and heat on.
(with CENTRAL AIR ULTRAVIOLET TREATMENT SYSTEM)
On top of our optimum level of sterilization, sanitation and disinfection, a CENTRAL AIR ULTRAVIOLET TREATMENT SYSTEM has been in place. All air circulation is fully sterilized by a Honeywell UV100 system installed in the central HVAC system. We want you and your family to stay SAFE and HEALTHY.
Get ready for your well deserved STAYCATION.
The sound of the waves, deep sandy waterfront and grassy front lawn, spacious deck and gorgeous home are just a few of the perks of ONCE UPON A TIDE beach house. Once you get off the ferry on Clinton, you will have the sigh of relief from the hustle and bustle of the city. This beautiful charming home is where you want to be to enjoy life in a home far away from home. One of the few sandy beaches on Puget Sound. Stroll on the beach, dig clams, go crabbing, fishing, build sand castles, watch the cruise ships go by or simply enjoy life in a stunning oasis. As you call it a day, the memory foam mattresses in all the rooms in this house will allow you to have a very restful and comfortable sleep.
As you go up a spiral stair case, it takes you to a huge master bedroom/loft adjoining a huge kids’ bunk room. There is an extra bedroom downstairs by the laundry and living room.
If you want to go on vacation with another family, there is another house behind it that sleeps about 4-5 (VRBO 4629474).
Enjoy winter storms or summer sunshine knowing the power will stay on with the back up generator. 15kw genset to keep the lights and heat on.
Amenities
Air conditioner
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Wheelchair accessible
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Whidbey Island, WA
$$$$
Reviews
10.0
Despite the chill lovely time on the beach. Hope to return for years to come
10.0
Very spacious and well equipped house with a spectacular view of the Sound and sunsets. Table fire pit on the deck was a hit in the evening. Kitchen was great for preparing meals for our family of eight. Host was very accommodating and helpful with our final arrangements. Highly recommend this gem on the water!
10.0
Wonderful stay right on the beach. Excellent host
10.0
The house emphasizes the reason to be here. It’s all about the location and the beach. The kitchen and living room are large and modern. The kitchen has everything we needed.
The deck is perfect for dining, grilling, and just relaxing while we watched ospreys, seals, eagles, and even deer wander past.
It has decks on the second story that make excellent viewing areas for the spectacular sunsets.
We will be back.
2.0
Upon arrival at this property in June we discovered the owner had not sent us a code or keys to access the property. We tried to contact the owner, Chris, by phone and through VRBO with no success. We were very disappointed especially because my son was visiting from Ireland and our family was excited to relax together. The following day the owner called and apologized profusely—she had simply forgotten to send us the key code and she had been unavailable because she was at an event with her phone off. She refunded our money and offered to give us a free stay in the future. Mistakes happen and I was happy to accept her apology and offer for a future stay. I made a reservation in September for my birthday and invited girlfriends. We were excited for the upcoming trip but shortly before the trip was to occur I received a text in the middle of the night from Chris, the owner. She was very sorry but informed me that she wanted to cancel my September reservation because she had family that decided to visit and she wanted to let them stay at the Whidbey house. I have never complained about a property but the behavior of this property owner was more than just an understandable one-time mistake.
10.0
We found Once Upon a Tide completely by accident as we live in North Carolina, we’re completely unfamiliar with Whidbey Island, and started looking for a place very late in the season. How we ended up here is just short of miraculous to us. If you like being right on wide expanses of water with a background of majestic mountains, broad tidal flats, whale sightings, parades of curious seals, diving ospreys, stalking herons, living in the ultimate quietude of a dead end gravel road, with the blackest night sky for viewing the boundless heavens, then this is the place for you. A top tier kitchen and expansive indoor and outdoor eating areas make it perfect for family gatherings. The three bathrooms are extra large and pretty exquisite. Of the three bedrooms, the children’s bunk room is the most conventional, adaptable and also offers the most privacy and separation from the noises of the rest of the house. The master bedroom is basically the landing/hallway of the spiral stairway which goes down the very large kitchen/dinning/living room below. There are no walls or doors to separate you from the noise from below or from people using the stairs to access the bunk room. What is listed as the third bedroom is actually the laundry room of the house with a fold out bed in it. Despite the initial surprise of the unconventional bedroom layouts we all got quickly used to it and adapted accordingly. Besides, the attractiveness, ease, comfort, and convenience of the rest of the of house and property completely overshadowed the bedroom idiosyncrasies. The owners are wonderful. Very very responsive, helpful and considerate in all regards And, to the delight of our grandchildren, they have chickens! Who are very grateful for your kitchen scraps. We want to come back every year! Thank you Chris and family.
10.0
Lovely house to stay with family or close friends. Beach fun and beautiful sunsets
10.0
Amazing location
Our stay was amazing. Such a beautiful spot and everything was as advertised. The owner or manager went above and beyond when they located and shipped our phone, watch and iPad chargers to us after we accidentally left them behind. We are definitely comming back. Thanks!!!
10.0
Beautiful location & comfortable home
We spent a week here in the snow! The home was very comfortable and clean. Chris was an amazing host for us. This is a great family vacation home. It was beautiful in the winter with snow -- I would love to see it in the summer -- the beach was covered in snow while we were there -- so, we will just need to return in the summer!
10.0
Beachfront delight
Enjoyed the wonderful gourmet kitchen to cook and then gather family as we looked out at the beautiful Puget Sound steps away; thank you
10.0
Second time at Once Upon A Tide was Twice as Nice!
My only hesitation in sharing a second glowing review is that I'll never find an opening in the calendar to return to this wonderful home on beautiful Maxwelton Beach. Chris is a wonderful host, providing detailed information leading up to your stay. The home has everything you could possibly need or want to enjoy the long summer days at the beach. Thanks for another fantastic stay and memories to last a lifetime.
10.0
Teen dream
We stayed with our kids (20 & 16) and their friends. This place was perfect! The kids had their own giant room with a deck, foosball and darts with access to the beach. After a tough year with Covid it was so wonderful to spend time with everyone and see them laughing and playing. The kitchen was awesome. Loved the big tables for gathering. I would definitely stay here again!
10.0
Perfect!
Very Nice Property and Hosts! Orca Viewing off the rear deck is priceless!
10.0
Stunning!
We highly recommend “Once upon a Tide”. We have come to Whidbey Island for short getaways from the city for years and have stayed in many places. “Once upon a tide” beats them all with a spectacular view of the Olympic Mountains, a long sandy beach for early morning and sunset walks, and a spacious lot with enough lawn area for ball games. We saw and heard many bald eagles with their young ones; there were deer, herons, and even a shy coyote.
The house itself is cozy and inviting. Rentals are often impersonal, minimized for potential damage and maximized for the number of beds. This house is a clearly a family home and their happy spirit lingers everywhere. The kitchen is better equipped than my own with a large cooking range and oven, an extra griddle for pancakes, all possible coffee equipment, and lots of utensils, silverware, plates, cookie sheets, a kitchen aid, cutting boards…if you look carefully enough you will find everything you will ever need. We loved the big dining table that had room for all of us to enjoy meals together.
As promised the beds/mattresses were fabulous; there were big comfy hammocks and beach chairs available on the large deck, in addition to a beach fire pit. Our kids fell in love with the large grey beanbag-like couch in the living area (Not squishy! Truly comfortable even for adults!) Perfect!
The house works best for one large family (like ours) or 2-3 families knowing each other well because the bedrooms offer limited privacy. The master bedroom is located on the spiral staircase landing – although the space is generous and has fabulous views, a fire place, a truly impressive master bathroom and closet, it has no doors and everyone accessing the bunk bed room has to walk through there (unless they use the outside deck stair case). We loved the large sunny room with the three bunk beds, foosball table and dart board – it is really pretty and offers amazing ocean views. The “third” bedroom offers privacy but also houses the washer and dryer. We wish the bedroom layout was explained more clearly to set the right expectations. It worked well for us after the initial surprise.
In any other way, communication with the hosts was seamless; the neighbors were super friendly. We made great memories.
Overall, a really great, indeed stunningly beautiful place! We hope to come back with some more time to spend and our crab cages and kayaks.
10.0
A wonderful escape to the beach!
My family (wife, and children aged 2 and 7) had a wonderful time staying here. Easy check-in process, every kitchen amenity, and amazing beach access right out the front doors. Chris and Jacqueline are fantastic hopes and I look forward to staying with them in the future as they open their availability.
5.0
We only stayed for a couple of nights but this was a perfect location to spend time as a family and take in the natural wonder of the island. Other than hanging out on the beach collecting shells, building a fire and playing yard games with sunset, the kids enjoyed their huge bunk bed room and fuseball, and the kitchen was great for throwing together a few meals. (Pickles is a great deli btw!!!!)I had a few questions about the property, some of which I missed in the opening instructions text, And the property manager was not only helpful and quick to respond, but also exceedingly kind.
10.0
Beautiful Whidbey
We only stayed for a couple of nights but this was a perfect location to spend time as a family and take in the natural wonder of the island. Other than hanging out on the beach collecting shells, building a fire and playing yard games with sunset, the kids enjoyed their huge bunk bed room and fuseball, and the kitchen was great for throwing together a few meals. (Pickles is a great deli btw!!!!)
I had a few questions about the property, some of which I missed in the opening instructions text, And the property manager was not only helpful and quick to respond, but also exceedingly kind.
10.0
Wonderful house in great, quiet location
We had a very nice extended weekend stay at this house on the south end of Whidbey Island. The house was very clean on our arrival. The kitchen is very spacious and well outfitted with many appliances and dishes. It's probably the nicest kitchen in any house rental we've been in. The beds were comfortable. We all enjoyed playing foosball. The spiral staircase was easy to navigate for our family, but it might be challenging for young children or elderly. The neighborhood is quiet and the beach is wonderful for walks, with many beautiful rocks. We had a very peaceful stay appreciated the responsive communications with the owner.
10.0
Beautiful home and amazing location!
We greatly enjoyed our family stay! This beautiful home was a perfect island getaway! Everyone slept well on the comfortable beds and had a great time cooking together in the well supplied kitchen! The view is unbeatable and the shore endless exploration!
10.0
Great beach house
My family spent a wonderful 4 days in December. House was beautiful and extremely clean! Hosts were very accommodating and helpful. We throughly enjoyed our time there! My only "ding" would be regarding temp difference upstairs and downstairs- it was very cold (full disclosure it only seemed to bother me and no one else in the family) and we never could figure out how to work the fireplaces. Definitely loved and recommend!
10.0
Beautiful Getaway
We had a wonderful time staying here - great property and amazing hosts! Being right on the water was a must and the sandy, walkable beaches made our stay. This was a perfect (and clean!) family home and the kids room was perfect for our three. Overall, just a fantastic property and the hosts were extremely communicative and available. Can't wait to come back!
10.0
Better than we imagined!
The house and views are even more beautiful in person! It was the perfect weekend getaway to relax and a great location for us to explore the island. The house was very clean and checking in and out was a breeze. We would definitely enjoy staying here again.
10.0
Nice location on a sandy walkable beach.
Easily island stay just a few minutes from the ferry.
5.0
What a lovely break!!This beach home was perfect for us. The back yard was an indescribable playground. Our sons built mini forts with driftwood, dug holes and buried each other in the sand. We had wine on the balcony and cooked for our friends. It was definitely a blessing!!!My husband cooked meat and potato pies in the well supplied kitchen. The coffee was terrific!!!Thank you for opening your home for others to enjoy!!
10.0
Perfect getaway
What a lovely break!!
This beach home was perfect for us. The back yard was an indescribable playground. Our sons built mini forts with driftwood, dug holes and buried each other in the sand. We had wine on the balcony and cooked for our friends. It was definitely a blessing!!!
My husband cooked meat and potato pies in the well supplied kitchen.
The coffee was terrific!!!
Thank you for opening your home for others to enjoy!!
10.0
Great location and lovely home
This is a great vacation home. The location is perfect and the deck is spacious. They provide every electronic appliance imaginable. The "kids" room even has a foosball set! We're grandparents and enjoyed the house as much as our son and his family with 4 & 6 year olds.
Sue E
Sequim Wa
10.0
Great location and house
Beautiful location on Mexwelton beach, clean well-equipped home with comfortable beds and plenty of room for kids. The host was very nice. Can’t say enough about this location.
10.0
Amazing Property!
We rented this property for our extended family members who were in town for our daughter's wedding on Whidbey. The house is beautiful; and the location is peaceful and serene with a spectacular view. The owners were very easy to communicate with and answered all my questions promptly. I recommend this property to anyone visiting Whidbey looking for beachfront property or to anyone living on Whidbey looking for extra lodging for their visitors.
10.0
Great property!
This property was great for our large group. There is an awesome outdoor space and it is in a great location. Most of the beds are in a bunk room, so be aware of that, but it was fun for our group!
10.0
Beautiful location in Clinton
Fantastic location with Sandy beach in Clinton. It suits my big family well, we have stayed here multiple times. Chris is always a pleasure to talk to when any problems arise. Highly recommend.
10.0
Delightful beachfront home with modern decor
Everything we needed for the two of us (a family could easily enjoy, with a second bedroom and twin beds). Clean and neat (no shoes request is perfect when coming in from sandy beach). Views and beachcombing go without saying; sunsets gorgeous. House details: clean and well supplied kitchen and Keurig coffee maker; soft luxurious sheets, duvet comforter, and towels. Love love love the Master Bath corner windows, soaking tub, and craftsman tiled shower. Gas fireplace very handy in October chill, and large screen TV great for our movie nights. Window views from every beach-facing wall breathtaking. Note the round spiral staircase up to bedrooms would not work for limited mobility, but there is an outdoor staircase up to the deck entrance. Second bath on main floor and laundry room were spacious and handy! Many thanks to owner Chris; we enjoyed our stay immensely.
8.0
Great Place for large families
We were lucky to find Chris's place at the last minute for a shared vacation with our friends from North Carolina. The 1st floor common area is the best we've stayed in.
It is comfortable for everyone to eat, for meal prep and to chill by the fire. We enjoyed the hammocks on the deck, watching the osprey and eagles every morning. The upstairs bunk room for the kids is huge, and all 4 were able to sleep. The upstairs bedroom is exposed to the noise of the downstairs via the spiral stair case and is accessed by the kids bunk room. The downstairs bedroom shares the room with the washer/dryer.
10.0
One of our favorite rentals ever. Great beach.
This was one of our family's favorite VRBO rentals ever. The beach was fantastic. We all wished we had been able to stay much longer. The kitchen and living room were great gathering places. Lots of sleeping accommodations and bathrooms. Our wish list was that the beautiful tub was hooked up. I would stay again.
8.0
Nice spacious house on the beach
This is a nice place to spend a beach getaway. The house is modern and reasonably well stocked. The beach is unobstructed and easily accessible.The website photos are accurate. Our group of 8 was comfortably accommodated. Convenient to the Clinton ferry dock. The owners were easy to communicate with. Nothing negative to say, but here are a few points to be aware of: you'll need to climb a steep, narrow circular staircase to get upstairs (this would be tough for elderly folks); you must walk through the master bedroom to get to the second bedroom (this could be a privacy issue for some); the neighbors' houses are very close by on both sides (this is typical on Whidbey beaches) and there may be noise from them (we had to listen to their music for a couple of hours one afternoon). None of these things were a problem for us. We had a very nice stay in this pleasant house, and would be happy to return.
10.0
Very nice location.
Perfect beach location with a sunset deck overlooking the Sound and sunsets.
10.0
Beautiful, relaxing getaway
Loved having the water just outside the backyard. Hanging out in the kitchen and deck watching kids play and cruise ships sail by. The owners have recently updated the house and are very accommodating. They also have another house on the back of property on vrbo so more friends can join us next time.
10.0
Our Favorite Whidbey Getaway
This beach home is amazing! We have stayed here multiple times, and have never been disappointed. The spacious kitchen is the epicenter of the downstairs living space. We cooked the crab and clams we would get that day and served them on the deck while enjoying breathtaking sunset views. A full beach-living experience. The upstairs bedrooms have more than enough beds for the whole family. The house is right on the beach where we have enjoyed long beach walks at low tide or kayaking when the tide is higher. We highly recommend this beautiful home for your next Whidbey vacation. I know we will go back!
FAQs
How much does this house cost compared to others in Whidbey Island?
The average price for a rental in Whidbey Island is $358 per night. This rental is $784 above the average.
Is parking included with this house?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at PARADISE SANDY WATERFRONT ON WHIDBEY ISLAND Once Upon A Tide . For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this house?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this house. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is PARADISE SANDY WATERFRONT ON WHIDBEY ISLAND Once Upon A Tide pet friendly?
Unfortunately, this house is not pet-friendly. Try searching again and filter for "Pets Allowed"
What amenities are available at PARADISE SANDY WATERFRONT ON WHIDBEY ISLAND Once Upon A Tide ?
We found 12 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, fireplace, and parking.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Whidbey Island
Explore all rentals in Whidbey IslandWhidbey Island travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Best East Coast Beaches and Getaway Locations You Can’t Miss
Budget Travel
7 Most Affordable Snowbird Destinations for 2025
Guides
Top Activities to Try in Panama City Beach, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Oahu and Honolulu