Seattle life is pretty awesome but sometimes you just need a break from the Emerald City. How about a quick getaway from Seattle to Lopez Island to help you quickly relax and restore? Lopez Island is the place you go to for everything it’s not. You won’t find traffic or even a traffic light here. Life is just slower; making it a perfect place to connect with your loved ones in nature. You go to Lopez for quiet beach walks and epic hikes on coastal trails. The sleepy, seaside village of Lopez perfectly matches the experience. You will find cute hotels, great espresso and fun meals at the restaurants. So if you are looking for a stress free weekend getaway from Seattle, Lopez Island is a great choice.
Getting to your Seattle Getaway
Lopez is truly an island and the main way to get to its shores is by the Washington State Ferry. Yes, you can take your car and you will want it to explore the island. Plan on a 1 ½ hour travel time from Seattle to Anacortes which is where you will catch the ferry to Lopez Island. You can find ferry advice here. Once you are loaded onto the ferry it takes forty minutes to make it to the island. Once parked on the ferry, get out of your car and go upstairs to pick a good window seat, the ride to the island is one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world. Seattle will feel so far away.
Take a Hike Lopez Island Island
Make sure you pack footwear for hiking. None of the hiking trails on Lopez are extreme but during the wetter months they may have puddles. Wet trails are no reason not to hit the trails on Lopez by the way. The iconic PNW mist or drizzle makes the hiking here even more magical. You definitely will want to hit the trails at Shark Reef Preserve. This coastal hike begins by winding through an old growth forest which opens up onto a rocky coast line. It only takes 15 minutes to get to the water’s edge but you don’t want to rush back, in fact find a spot to sit so that you can soak in the view. Just off shore you will see a series of jagged micro-islands which are home to a colony of seals and sea lions. Most of these cute creatures will be basking on the rocks, make sure to keep an eye on the water. They are amazing underwater acrobats and the clear island waters let you watch these performers dance through the kelp beds.
Beach It
Your Seattle Getaway is incomplete without a trip to the beach and Lopez Island has so many to choose from. Want to be the only couple walking on a sandy shore? Go to Upright Channel beach for a romantic stroll. If you have kids in tow head to Odlin County Park’s Beach, plus you can park right at the water’s edge. This is a favorite for kiddos because the water is very shallow which is perfect for wading if they are brave enough to get in, the water is super cold! Everyone will enjoy Watmough beach on the far southern end of Lopez Island. You will find this beach in a protected cove framed by a Rock face one the one side and a coastal forest on the other side. On a clear day you can see the snow capped Mt. Baker in the distance from here. If you want to know more about things to do on your getaway click here.
Cozy up at a Boutique Hotel
Finding the perfect lodging option for your Seattle getaway is as important as picking the destination. If you are looking for a place to stay that matches the Lopez Island vibe you should check out The Edenwild Boutique Hotel which is right in Lopez village. Ok, obviously we are going to be just a little basis because Edenwild is our family business but we have crafted a guest experience based on what people are looking for when visiting Lopez Island and most of our guests come from Seattle for their getaway. Edenwild is a 10 room boutique hotel that gives you a very personal experience but with your privacy in mind. Many of our rooms feature fireplaces, soaking tubs and views of the water. It’s elegant, quaint and friendly just like Lopez Island.
If you are looking for a Getaway from Seattle that will leave you refreshed and restored then Lopez Island is your perfect escape. So pack your bags and head for the ferry. Peace and quiet is waiting for you on Lopez Island.
