Welcome to Lopez Island
Welcome to Lopez Island, the first ferry stop from Anacortes aboard the Washington State Ferries. Sailing time is approximately 45 minutes, so enjoy the ride as you wander past some of the smaller islands that make up this archipelago comprised of 175 named islands. Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, seals, otters and the occasional orca whale.
Lopez is the most rural of the three major islands, covering 29.5 square miles. The landscape blends woods with rolling farmlands and open spaces with shimmering vistas. Don’t be surprised if a passing motorist waves at you – it’s been a local custom for many years! There’s a genuine spirit of community here and a special feeling for life that pervades the population of 2,500. Lopez is home to many artists, craftspeople, musicians, farmers, fishermen, nature lovers, and eccentrics.
When planning a trip to Lopez, remember to dress casually. The weather typically is warm in the summer, with an average high temperature of 72, and wet in the winter, with highs in the 40’s-50’s. Average yearly rainfall is between 19-25 inches – about half of that in the neighboring Seattle area. We see an occasional snow shower in the winter but it never lasts long. Spring and Fall can be warm, cold, wet or dry…or just about anything in between! It’s best to layer clothing and always have a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt handy.
What’s there to do on Lopez? You can do as much or as little as you’d like. There are numerous public natural areas to enjoy or you can hunker down for some quality alone time. Shopping opportunities will satisfy most retail therapy needs and our restaurants offer a diverse sampling of fresh, local area foods. What To Do Here will give you a detailed list of options. Refer to our Directory for information on lodging, restaurants, shops, recreation activities, etc. There are also several Annual Events that happen throughout the year and should be considered as you plan your visit.
Accommodations on the Island consist of a motel, bed and breakfasts, inns, cottages and vacation home rentals. We also have a State and a County campground, both located on waterfront property as well as a private inland campground. If you are visiting in the summer season reserve rooms, restaurants and campsites well in advance.
We welcome you to Lopez and hope that you have a wonderful and relaxing visit. This is a very special place and all that Lopezians ask is for visitors to respect this beautiful ecologically fragile island. Please conserve water, recycle, leash your dogs, and respect private property and “No Trespassing” signs. Leave the environment as you found it so it can be enjoyed and appreciated for years to come. Thank you!
