San Juan Islands for Families on a Budget

Just a 45-minute ferry ride from Anacortes are the quiet coves and driftwood-strewn beaches of friendly Lopez Island. The flattest of the main islands, Lopez features quiet country roads that criss-cross family farms and peaceful pastureland; they seem made for riding — bicycles, that is. Got a whole family of pedal pushers? You can even walk your bikes onto the ferry in Anacortes and leave the family car behind, or rent them at Village Cycles. The island’s only settlement is tiny Lopez Village, comprising a few short streets lined with cafés and a grocery store. Most of the berry farms, public beaches and restaurants are scattered throughout the island.

Things to do on Lopez Island

Explore tide pools on the island’s west shore at Shark Reef Sanctuary. A 10-minute hike through beautiful woods leads to a rocky outcrop dotted with twisted madrone trees and the most incredible view of the Salish Sea. On a recent visit at low tide, we were serenaded by boisterous barking from the rocks just offshore as dozens of seals were sunning themselves, as seals do. My son Isaac enjoyed the wind on his face as he counted the seals through binoculars, and watched as pups competed for prime real estate on the rocks.

Rent kayaks or take a guided paddle around a sheltered bay with Lopez Island Sea Kayak, located on Fisherman Bay.

Lodging on Lopez Island

Lopez has just a few lodging options. Lopez Islander Resort is a no-frills place tailor-made for families on vacation, with basic rooms that look out to the marina and sheltered bay, perfect for a child’s first kayak paddle. There’s also an on-site restaurant with local fare like steamed clams and pan-fried oysters, and a swimming pool.

Families with tents will love both the forested and waterfront campsites at Spencer Spit State Park. Another find is Odlin County Park, located a mile from the ferry terminal and featuring waterfront campsites and beach access. Reserve ahead of time.

Restaurants on Lopez Island

Get your caffeine fix where the locals get theirs — at the funky shack known as Isabel’s Espresso (308 Lopez Rd.). You can take in the view while sipping your mocha (or hot chocolate for the kiddos) from a wraparound porch.

Haven Kitchen & Bar (9 Old Post Rd.) offers casual sophistication in the heart of Lopez Island. It serves locally grown, delicious food (with plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options) in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Kids will love the cozy patio and the Tater Tots!

When you need a sweet treat, next door is the Lopez Island Creamery, featuring all-natural gourmet ice cream. Pick up a pint, an ice cream sandwich or a chocolate dipped cone, then take your treats to the public beach access down the stairs at the end of the parking lot. (Pro tip: You can also visit the new Lopez Island Creamery factory store in Anacortes!)

Be sure to stop by the Lopez Farmers Market on Saturdays (10 a.m.–2 p.m., May–September in Lopez Village) to stock up on fixings for your picnic on the beach at Odlin County Park.

Next stop: Guemes Island