Exploring Lopez Island
Leave the intervals, the watches, and all sense of urgency at home and enter island time.
I’ve lived in the Western part of Washington State all my life and I have never taken the time to explore MANY parts of the state I call home, but when I tell people I’ve never explored the San Juan Islands, I usually get a funny face. The ferry terminal to the Island’s is an easy hour drive from my house. Taking the island in by bike, we parked the car, loaded up some additional belongings onto the bikes (like a change of clothes, swim suit, and beach towel) and pedaled our way to the boarding area.
Being Sunday on Labor Day weekend, it turned out everyone else had the same idea to explore the islands by bike. The 45 minute ferry ride to Lopez Island winds through the beautiful Islands within the Salish Sea. We opted for a 9:30am ferry departure, which was really like 10:15 (delayed due to fog in the morning, a common theme here in the PNW). We were gifted with beautiful blue skies and brisk temps to embark on our journey into the San Juan Islands.
We explored and had a relaxing day as we soaked in the island experience.
Being a holiday weekend, everyone wanted to ride bikes on the islands! Here’s how we loaded our bikes onto the ferry.
The morning calmness of the Salish Sea among the San Juan Islands.
There is something so quaint about these small ferry terminals.
Once off the ferry we immediately rode to town for a stop at the bakery to stash some baked goodness into our pockets.
I always find a little joy in small town fire stations.
When exploring, be sure to check all the nooks and crannies.
We found a couple places with trails, but unfortunately bikes are not allowed on the trails.
Hiking, adults with children, and dogs on leashes only. No bikes, no camping, no fires!
Beach stop and snack stop #1. This was my favorite beach we stopped at. The clearest of waters, beautiful views of Mt. Baker and the calmness of the water was so serene.
We some how missed the road to Spencer Spit State Park, and it was a blessing because we rode by this amazing beach community of homes. Reminded me of my family home in Canada. I loved all the drift wood lining the beach.
I find it fascinating home owners property extends onto the beach and the tidelands. Can you imagine having your own private beach. How serene that would be to wake up to every morning with your coffee.
While the surrounding areas of the island are picture perfect beach or rock formations, the inland of the isle is filled with grassy pastures and farm land.
We arrived at Spencer Spit State Park to relax and watch the ferries cruise the island seas.
My loaded bike. I needed packs for snacks, and somewhere to stash my swimsuit and a change of clothes!
Once at the beach, air drying our clothes was a must!
Heading back into town for dinner before catching the ferry, changing back into sweaty bike clothes wasn’t an option in my books! :)
2020 ferry fashion.
Heading home. Bike stacking.
Good night islands.