Welcome to Lopez Island, the first ferry stop from Anacortes on the Washington State Ferries. The sailing time is just 45 minutes – enough time to enjoy the scenic ride past some of the outer islands. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles and the occasional orca whale or other marine life enroute to Lopez.
Lopez is known as the friendliest of the San Juan Islands. There is a genuine spirit of community and a special feeling for life that pervades the population of 2200. Waving to passing motorists is a local custom, often catching the visitor off-guard. The landscape, covering 29.5 square miles, blends woods with pastoral farmlands and shimmering vistas.
It is the most popular of the islands for bicycling, with relatively flat terrain, fewer cars and roads that traverse the landscape. Lopez is home to many artists, craftspeople, musicians, farmers, fishermen, nature lovers, and eccentrics.
Lopez Village is the about 4 miles from the ferry landing and is the commercial “hub” of the island. On your way to the Village you will pass Lopez Island Vineyards, the County’s oldest winery producing organically grown grapes and fine wines. The Village, or “Town”, is home to several art galleries, restaurants, a variety of shops, and a fully stocked grocery store. You will also find the Historical Museum, Thrift Shop, Community Center, Post Office, Bank, Medical Clinic, Library, Skate Park and Chamber of Commerce Office. The Village Park offers public restrooms, shower, and picnic tables. The center of the Island is marked by Lopez School and the local hardware and lumber store. If you continue to the south end, Islandale will fill your essential needs with a convenience store and gas station.
Our weather is moderate with an average of 23 inches of rainfall a year – half of Seattle’s annual amount. The highest temperature ever recorded was 93 degrees in July 1990. Average highs in the summer months are in the mid-seventies. Winter lows are generally in the 30’s to 40’s with an occasional cold blast from the north that brings a few inches of snow and temperatures below freezing. If snow does occur it rarely last more than a few days before temperatures rise, bringing rainfall. Our wettest months are usually November and December with January and February close behind.
What’s there to do on Lopez? The answer is as much or as little as you wish to do. Walk along the beaches and trails of the State and County Parks, go fishing, boating, kayaking, biking, sit and observe the ever present wildlife…or just lounge and read a book. Relax and enjoy the slow, casual pace of life! Here are some more ideas:
| In Lopez Village: | |||
| - Browse the shops and galleries in this walking village | |||
| - From May thru September, enjoy the eclectic choice of wares from the many local vendors at the Farmers Market | |||
| - Buy yourself a treat at Holly Bs Bakery and sit on the deck and take in the local flavor | |||
| - Follow the trail of the Weeks Wetland Preserve and enjoy the tranquility of Fisherman Bay and its wildlife | |||
| - Look back in history exploring the exhibits at the Historical Society Museum or the restored Port Stanley Schoolhouse | |||
| -- Hunt for treasures and bargains at the Thrift Shop or visit "Neils Mall" at the Transfer station for free used household items and clothing | |||
| Around the Island: | |||
| - Rent a bike or bring your own for exploring the rolling countryside and open farmland of the island | |||
| - Explore the many tide pools at Shark Reef Park after walking in on the beautiful wooded trail | |||
| - Plan on taking home a few polished rocks of assorted colors and sizes from your visit to Agate Beach | |||
| - Visit picturesque Center Church and the Lopez Cemetery | |||
| - Kayak in protected Fisherman Bay or explore the more dramatic shoreline of the island | |||
| Stop at Lopez Winery for a taste of the award-winning wines | |||
| - Attend a performance or a movie at the Lopez Center for Community and the Arts | |||
| Click on the Event Calendar link at the top of this page for details on scheduled activities | |||
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