Lummi Island

As friendly as it GETS
Recreation, beautiful scenery, and little shops abound ... and so does waving

You’re going to need to practice driving with only your right hand on the wheel before you go to Lummi Island. Why? Because you’re going to be awfully busy waving back to every pedestrian, runner and bicyclist waving at you as you drive by. This is one friendly place.

The island, the most northeasterly of the San Juan Islands, is also the most easily accessed. Visitors need only take a six-minute ferry ride aboard the Whatcom Chief from the mainland and there you are! What lies before you is a heavily wooded and serene 20 mile network of roads that will open up a new world for them. Rolling hills and tree-lined lanes make the island a pleasure to drive or walk. Rounding a corner could open up a sea vista with fishing boats in the distance or the picturesque Tree Frog Farm with its majestic trees.

There are no campgrounds, no state parks, no RV parks but there are a few charming bed and breakfasts that will fit the bill nicely. The island has long attracted artists and artisans who typically hold an island open house tour three times a year.

• The ‘typical’ WaterSide adventures apply to Lummi Island. Take a day to hike around the north end of the island, stopping in at a roadside restaurant for a light salad of organic greens or just a latte. Launch a kayak and explore the many state beaches accessible only by sea. On the southeast end of the island is the Lummi Island recreation site. This is a designated beach camp site that is part of the state’s Cascadia Marine Trail.
• Birdwatchers will need to clean their binoculars. Well over 150 species of birds have been spotted here including Great Blue Heron, Steller’s Jay, kingfishers and a variety of woodpeckers and owls – to name just a few.
• On your way to and from Lummi Island, stop at the new Silver Reef Casino. Built by the Lummi Indian Nation, the casino offers non-stop fun and games and restaurants.

Getting there...
By car: Traveling north or south on I-5, take exit 260 (the Lummi Indian Reservation exit, Slater Road). Turn left at Silver Reef Casino/Haxton Way, and follow signs to ferry.