Getting Settled in the San Juans

If you’re thinking about making the San Juan Islands your next home, you should consider spending time on each of the major islands to get a feel for the tempo and vibe of our different communities.  The islands share many similarities and they also have some very unique qualities.

To learn more about Lopez your time would be well spent exploring this site.  It is intended to give visitors a feel for our community before they arrive, and to keep residents up to date on events happening here through-out the year, both recurring and one-of-a-kind.

Important Pages

Our member businesses are listed in our Directory.  Here you will find help with home building and repair, professional services, healthcare, and information on local shops, restaurants and activities.

Our Community Calendar will allow for an ‘at a glance’ look at local activities, along with in depth descriptions of the various events.  This site can be filtered for specific themes, such as “Art and Culture”, “Meetings”, “Recurring Events”.

Our Newsletter will send a bi-monthly summary of upcoming events directly to your inbox.  You can unsubscribe at any time.

Other Helpful Sites

Lopez Rocks – is a community web site that will give you quick access to information on Housing (in limited supply, but hope springs eternal); Jobs and Employment (again in limited supply but a good place to check); Organizations (an impressive list given that our population is about 2500); Town Hall (current issues being batted about-can get dark); and another Community Calendar.

Lopez Rants, Caves and Contemplations – a public group on Facebook where ‘people can exude joyous expressions and vent their venomous iterations (but it is actually administered and a certain degree of civility is expected).  If you’re seeking local knowledge on a topic, this is a good place to ask for assistance.

Buy Nothing Lopez Island – a closed Facebook group affiliated with the Buy Nothing Project, a worldwide network of hyperlocal gifting communities.  Things are offered and asked for, no money changes hands.  Your residency on Lopez may have to be confirmed before membership is approved.

Local Papers – There are 3 local papers.  Each has an on-line edition (most current), a Green On-line Edition (copy of the print version) and a home delivery, paper option.

Islands Weekly – primary focus is Lopez Island

Journal of the San Juans – primary focus is San Juan Island

Island Sounder – primary focus is Orcas Island