Lummi Island is geographically the northernmost blip on the San Juan archipelago, but because the eight-minute ferry ride here originates so far north of Anacortes, it is regarded as a haven of its own.

Lummi is a quiet island, home primarily to artists and weekenders.

Most of the island is private property with no public access, but you can ride the roads to a few public places around the island. Most notable among them is a checkerboard of land preserved by the Lummi Island Heritage Trust (360/758-7997). Largest among them is The Otto Farm, a 120-acre property that includes a 70-acre wildlife preserve located on Sunrise Road, between South Nugent Road and Seacrest Drive.

Readily accessible public beaches are scant on the island, with most only accessible by boat. The best bet for the boatless is a stretch of shoreline just north of the ferry terminal. Go north on Nugent Road until you reach a viewing platform and descend the adjacent stairs.

Lummi Island Events

The Lummi Stommish Water Festival in mid-June is held on the Lummi Reservation and features competitive war-canoe races over a five-mile course, with up to 11 people in a canoe. Other activities include arts and crafts sales, dancing, and a salmon bake. For details, call the tribal office at 360/734-8180.

Accommodations

Lodging on Lummi Island is limited. The most affordable choice among a handful of places is West Shore Farm B&B (2781 West Shore Dr., Lummi Island, 360/758-2600, $80 s or $90 d). The farm is a 21-acre spread with sweeping Georgia Strait views and private beach access. You’ll stay in one of two guest rooms with king-size beds and private baths within a handcrafted octagonal home here. Rates include a full breakfast, and the friendly owners welcome kids here.

Located on the west side of Lummi Island, The Willows Inn B&B (2579 W. Shore Dr., Lummi Island, 360/758-2620, www.willows-inn.com,) is a standout option in the area. Willows has four rooms in the inn ($125 d), a honeymoon cottage ($155 d), and a guest house ($290 for up to six people). All include a three-course breakfast, private baths, a hot tub, and tranquility, as no kids are allowed here. The honeymoon cottage provides additional privacy and a magnificent view of the [node:65023 link San Juans.

Food

Just south of the ferry dock, the Islander Store (360/758-2190, 6 a.m.–10:30 p.m. daily) sells beer, pop, ice cream, and other necessities of life. North of the dock is Beachstore Café (360/758-2233, 11 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Fri., 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Sat.–Sun.) with an eclectic choice of meals (including Sunday brunch in the summer), along with fresh baked breads and pastries.

Fresh crab, shrimp, and scallops are available at Leo’s Live Seafoods (Legoe Bay Rd., 360/758-7318).