Over the years, we’ve hosted so many wonderful guests at Edenwild, and one of the most common questions I get is: “Where’s the best place to have lunch?” I usually run through the restaurants that are open, but I always throw in another option—picking up a few goodies from the grocery store and heading out for a picnic at one of our beautiful parks or beaches.
One guest in particular really made me appreciate this simple island pleasure. She was visiting with a group and decided to take my advice. It wasn’t until afterward that I found out she had once been the CEO of Rolls-Royce! She told me how much she and her friends enjoyed their picnic—sitting on the rocks at Shark Reef 📍, sipping wine, and watching the seals play in the surf.
It was a great reminder of why I love this little island so much. Even someone who spent a career around some of the world’s most luxurious things found joy in something as simple as a picnic by the sea. There’s a kind of magic here on Lopez—where slowing down, savoring the moment, and taking in the beauty around you is the real luxury.
Where to Get Picnic Supplies on Lopez Island
Lopez Island offers a variety of local shops where you can find the freshest ingredients for a perfect picnic. No picnic on Lopez Island is complete without a stop at Blossom Organic Grocery. This charming local market offers a selection of island-grown produce, artisan cheeses, jams, and delicious spreads, perfect for assembling a fresh and flavorful picnic.
For something truly special, head to Barn Owl Bakery, where you’ll find freshly baked pastries, Sicilian flatbread, cookies, and crackers, all made with their own island-grown wheat. Their barn store opens in the morning, so be sure to stop by early for the best selection of baked goods to complement your picnic feast.
If you’re looking to experience this simple pleasure yourself, here are a few of the best spots on Lopez Island to enjoy a picnic.
Best Picnic Spot on Lopez Island: Odlin Beach 📍
Odlin County Park is a great sandy beach option for your next Lopez Island picnic. There are tables and a grill right at the water’s edge. Check out YouTube influencer Outdoor Chef Life making a Dungeness crab dip at the grills at Odlin. Or, if you prefer, spread out a blanket and soak up the sun right on Odlin’s sandy beaches.
This family-friendly park also offers restrooms, camping areas, and easy shoreline access, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon by the water. Kids will love playing in the shallow waters, while adults can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding islands. Whether you’re enjoying a homemade sandwich or fresh local seafood, Odlin Beach provides an unforgettable picnic experience.
Watmough Bay: A Hidden Gem for a Peaceful Picnic 📍
For a more secluded and tranquil picnic experience, head to Watmough Bay. This sandy beach is tucked away at the southern tip of Lopez Island, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views. The bay is framed by towering cliffs and lush forests, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your picnic. The calm, clear waters make it a great spot to wade in and cool off on a warm day. Spread out a blanket on the soft sand and enjoy a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.
Watmough Bay is the perfect spot to escape the crowds and savor the simple beauty of Lopez Island.
Spencer Spit: A Classic Lopez Island Picnic Spot 📍
Spencer Spit State Park is another fantastic picnic destination on Lopez Island. This unique spot features a long sandspit that stretches into the water, offering panoramic views of Lopez Sound and the nearby islands. The beach is a mix of sand and driftwood, perfect for setting up a picnic with a view.There are picnic tables, fire pits, and even an old settler’s cabin that you can use if the weather turns.
Spencer Spit is perfect for families, with room for kids to explore and shallow waters for wading. Kayakers and boaters drift by, adding to the peaceful charm. Whether you’re sharing lunch or watching the sunset, it’s a classic Lopez Island picnic spot.
Public Shore Access at Weeks Point Way: A Harbor View Picnic 📍
For a picnic with a view of boats coming and going, the public shore access on Weeks Point Way is a fantastic choice. Located right at the mouth of Fisherman Bay Preserve, this spot offers a grassy knoll with a picnic table overlooking the water. If you prefer, you can also access the beach and enjoy your meal right by the shoreline.
Seals are almost always playing at the mouth of the bay, and if you’re lucky, you might even have a couple of resident bald eagles joining you for lunch—especially if they catch a fish nearby. It’s a peaceful, scenic spot where you can soak in the beauty of Lopez Island while watching the daily life of the harbor unfold before you.
Lopez Village Park: A Convenient Picnic in the Heart of the Village 📍
If you’re looking for a convenient picnic spot right in the heart of Lopez Village, Lopez Village Park is an excellent choice. This charming park features plenty of picnic tables, clean restrooms, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to enjoy lunch while still being close to the shops and attractions of the village.
A local favorite, the park is also home to the popular Taco Bout It food truck several days a week, serving up delicious tacos and other tasty bites. Whether you’re grabbing a meal from the truck or bringing your own picnic, this park provides a lovely, central location to enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe.
Penny Lane Trail: A Scenic Picnic Before You Head Home 📍
On the day you plan to leave Lopez Island, consider making the most of your time by enjoying a picnic along the Penny Lane Trail. Located just across from the ferry landing, this short but rewarding trail offers several scenic overlooks with picnic tables, where you can take in stunning eagle-eye views of the surrounding islands far below.
A perfect way to pass the time while waiting for your ferry, Penny Lane Trail allows you to enjoy one last tranquil moment on Lopez. Seals are often spotted in the waters below, and you might even have the company of a resident bald eagle keeping watch from a nearby tree. With its breathtaking vistas and peaceful setting, this spot is a fantastic way to savor the beauty of Lopez Island before heading back to the mainland.
Conclusion
No matter where you choose to have your picnic on Lopez Island, you’re sure to find a spot that perfectly suits your mood. Whether it’s a sandy beach, a quiet bay, or a scenic overlook, each of these locations offers a unique way to experience the island’s natural beauty. So pack a lunch, find the perfect spot, and take in the simple, peaceful charm of Lopez Island—one picnic at a time.
