Lopez Island is the first stop for Washington State ferries between the San Juan Islands. The islands are located in the northwestern corner of the state along the international border between the US and Canada. The island is 15 miles long and eight miles wide. Lopez Island is located approximately 50 miles west of Victoria, British Columbia, and 100 miles north of Seattle, Washington.
You won’t find many cars on Lopez Island, however if you have a disability and have a place card and/or license plate you will get preferential treatment on the ferry. It may take some preparation ahead of time, but it will be worth the planning, this is a must-see destination and experience to enjoy. There are vineyards, farmlands and parks; then for water sports there’s whale watching, fishing, clamming and crabbing, oh yeah don’t forget kayaking.
The ferry system is in the process of improving and reevaluating its service for disabled passengers. Although still a “work in progress”, they strive to provide opportunities for people with disabilities to conveniently access and use the ferry system. You can call ahead if that makes you more comfortable, but getting to the ferry terminal early will work just as well and just let them know what your requirements are.
Lopez Village, the main town, is just four miles from the ferry landing. Here, everything from art galleries and shops to restaurants and bakeries are within walking distance of each other. Lopez Island has many natural attractions, along with clam and crab fishing.
Spencer Spit State Park is worth a visit and Shark Reef Sanctuary has 45 acres of day trails and scenic coastal views; hundreds of seals hang out on the large rocks offshore. Even if you can’t access these areas, the island’s variety of birds and wildlife can be spotted almost everywhere, they’re plentiful, and don’t forget your binoculars. Hummel Lake has accessible restrooms and the rest of the area is accessible with assistance, it is a gravel landscape.
The only handicap accessible hotel on the island is Edenwild, it has a ramp at the back door and one room is handicap accessible which is room no. #3. This is a non-smoking facility and pets are not allowed; Children under the age of 12 are also discouraged, there is a smoking area in the garden section of the property. This is basically bed and breakfast accommodation and is themed like a county inn. It is located about five miles from the ferry dock.
Visiting the other three San Juan Islands by ferry from Lopez Island is also easy and can be an enjoyable way to see the communities of all of the San Juan Islands. While you’re visiting the other islands and interested in a wildlife and whale watching tour, San Juan Excursions has a handicap accessible boat and they sail from Friday Harbor so you can enjoy it along with your ferry trips to the other islands, unfortunately Isla López does not have this accommodation, but it will give you a good excuse to visit the other islands and the opportunity to explore. Making all of these arrangements can seem a bit daunting, that’s where a travel agent who travels with disabilities could be of help, and there’s no reason you should miss out on the fun of vacationing and traveling to exciting new places, so be sure to that call today. Happy Holidays!
Recent Comments