Jewel of the San Juan Archipelago
Often called "the friendly isle," Lopez Island is located two hours north of Seattle by car and a scenic 45-minute ferryboat ride from Anacortes. About the size of the island of Manhattan, Lopez has 2,300 year-round residents and encompasses 29 square miles.
Please enjoy this video about Lopez and the annual bicycling event that takes place here.
The September 2012 issue of Bicycling magazine features Lopez Island as "Washington's best ride" in an article about the 50 best bicycle rides in the United States.
Simple Pleasures
Home to many artists, craftspeople, musicians, farmers, fishermen, boaters and entrepreneurs, the island is known for its connected community, high quality of life and extraordinary natural beauty. Ease and simplicity are part of the island culture. Many islanders still leave their doors unlocked and prefer potlucks, picnics and barn dances to city life.
Lopez Village is the heart of the island. Here you'll find our library, bookstore, grocery stores, a bakery, coffee shops, galleries, museum, post office, bank, and a variety of lovely restaurants and overnight accommodations. The Saturday Market is a summertime favorite; and a year-round calendar of concerts, lectures, movies, plays, literary events, and art openings offers a lively cultural scene.
As a part of Washington State's "banana belt," Lopez Island has an average rainfall of just 19-25 inches a year. Winters are moderate, with little snowfall; and the crisp evenings and sun-bright days of summer are perfect for kayaking, sailing, hiking, fishing, swimming, beachcombing or simply relaxing with family and friends.
Click here to read the article, "Sampling the Laid-Back Pleasures of Lopez Island" in Seattle Times.(published 7/28/2012)
With its inviting pace, breathtaking beauty, involved community, excellent schools and highly educated residents, Lopez Island is a special place for families to visit or put down roots. To learn more, check out these links: