How to Get Here

Arriving on Lopez Island

Navigating Your Visit: Transportation Tips for Lopez Island

Most people arrive by Washington State Ferry. Lopez also has an airport and many public and private docks for boat passengers.

To get the most out of your visit to our island, it is best to have your transportation once you arrive, be it automobile, bicycle, or motorcycle. The closest shops, restaurants, or services are approximately 4 miles south of the ferry landing.

If you plan to stay on the three major islands, consider starting your trip on San Juan Island, going to Orcas, and finally to Lopez. Ferry fares for vehicles apply only to westbound travel. There is no charge for traveling eastbound with a vehicle.

BE AWARE: Lopez Island does not offer rental cars or public transportation. Make sure you have arranged your transportation needs in advance. See Ground Transportation below.

Marina Information

The San Juan Islands are a great place for boaters.  There are several parks with mooring buoys, commercial marinas, and private docks at many waterfront homes.  Be advised that even these facilities can all be packed on a busy weekend, especially the Fourth of July, so be sure to check and plan. Many people prefer to moor in Fisherman Bay so they can walk to the restaurants and shops in the village.

Parks with mooring buoys are Odlin County Park and Spencer Spit State Park.

Airport Information

Flying into Lopez is a great way to see the San Juan Islands from the air.  Private planes generally use the Lopez Airport.

Commercial Air travel service is available from

Kenmore Air
Kenmore flies seaplanes to all the major islands from Lake Union in Seattle and flies wheeled planes from Boeing Field in Everett.  Seaplanes land in Fisherman Bay on Lopez, and wheeled planes land at the Lopez Island Airport.

San Juan Airlines
San Juan Airlines flies in and out of the Lopez Island Airport

See the Port of Lopez website for more information on Lopez Island Airport.

Ground Transportation on Lopez Island

Taxi or Bus: There is no public transportation. Some accommodations provide pick-up and delivery service to the ferry landing. Be sure you have arranged for your transportation needs in advance. It’s a 4-mile walk from the ferry to town.

Bicycles: Several businesses rent bicycles. Some bike rental companies will arrange to have your bike at the ferry landing when you arrive.  Be sure to ask.

Cars and Scooters: The island has NO car or scooter rentals.

Kayaks and boats: There are several locations where you can rent kayaks. There are also boats available for touring and charters.