Counting the wavesβ¦
Counting the wavesβ¦
The spit at Spencer unfolds like a natural jetty, a narrow finger of beach that divides the bay into mirror-image coves. You'll crunch over small stones mixed with crushed shell, passing weathered logs the color of bone. At low tide, the sandbar widens into a causeway you can walk across to a wooded island, your boots squelching through patches of eelgrass while gulls wheel overhead. Children crouch over tide pools rimmed with orange sea stars and purple urchins, their fingers tracing the cold water. The campground sprawls across a grassy bluff above the beach, dotted with Madrona trees that peel their cinnamon bark in summer. Paths wind down through salal and wild rose to the shore, where the water stays shallow and calm enough for tentative swimmers even in July. The Olympic Mountains rise across the strait, their snowfields glowing pink at sunset while cormorants dry their wings on offshore rocks. This is Lopez Island stripped to its essentials: working boats puttering past on their way to fisheries, the smell of low tide, families claiming driftwood perches for picnics. You'll spot harbor seals bobbing like dark buoys near the spit's tip, and if you time it right, catch the lagoon at slack tide when it mirrors the sky in perfect stillness.
Places, rentals, tours and events within walking and driving distance of Spencer Spit State Park Beach.
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Swimming is possible at Spencer Spit State Park, but the water is typically cold year-round (50-55Β°F) and currents can be strong in the narrow passage between the spit and Frost Island. The beach is better suited for wading and beachcombing than serious swimming. Families should supervise children closely near the water. The shallow, protected lagoon area on the interior side of the spit offers calmer conditions for young children. There are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk and check tide conditions before entering the water.
Spencer Spit is enjoyable year-round, with each season offering different experiences. Summer (June-September) brings the warmest weather and longest days, ideal for camping and beach activities, though this is peak season. Spring and fall offer quieter visits with good weather for hiking and wildlife viewing, including migrating birds. Winter is peaceful for beachcombing and storm watching, but prepare for rain and cooler temperatures. Low tide periods, regardless of season, are best for exploring tide pools and the full length of the spit. Check tide tables before your visit.
Spencer Spit State Park is located on Lopez Island's east side, approximately 4 miles from Lopez Village. You must take a Washington State Ferry from Anacortes to Lopez Island (about 40 minutes). From the ferry landing, drive south on Ferry Road, then follow Fisherman Bay Road and turn left onto Baker View Road to the park entrance. The park offers ample parking near the beach and camping areas. A Discover Pass ($10 daily or $30 annual) is required for parking. During summer weekends, arrive early as parking can fill up by late morning.
Spencer Spit State Park has basic amenities including restrooms, picnic tables, and fresh water, but no food service. Bring all food and supplies with you. Lopez Village, about 4 miles away, has grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants for provisioning. The park offers 37 campsites (tent and RV) available March through October, plus walk-in sites and Cascadia Marine Trail campsites for kayakers. Reservations are recommended for summer camping. Nearby lodging options are limited to Lopez Village area bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals, and small inns.
Spencer Spit is a rare natural sand formation extending nearly a mile into the water toward Frost Island, creating a distinctive curved peninsula. This sandy feature, formed by glacial deposits and tidal action, is one of the longest natural sand spits in the San Juan Islands. At low tide, you can walk the entire length and explore tide pools and observe abundant marine life. The spit creates a protected lagoon on one side, popular for kayaking. It's an excellent spot for beachcombing, crabbing, clamming (with proper license), and observing harbor seals and migratory birds.
