person surfing on sea during daytime
Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingSUPSea KayakingBeginner

Conditions

BayShelteredTidal

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Jackson Beach Park

Lopez Island, WA · Boat Ramp · Public

Jackson Beach Park is a public boat ramp on North Bay (San Juan Island) near Lopez Island, Washington. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, paddleboarding, sea kayaking. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Bay

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, SUP, Sea Kayaking

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Public launch on North Bay (San Juan Island) in Washington. Beginner-friendly bay paddling near Lopez Island.

Paddlers looking for protected waters in Washington can launch from Jackson Beach Park into North Bay (San Juan Island).

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Stand-up paddleboarding is popular here when winds are light, especially in the morning hours.

You can expect sheltered and tidal water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Located about 5 min from Lopez Island, Jackson Beach Park is a convenient option for Lopez Island-area paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm bay waters make Jackson Beach Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Check for any no-paddle zones or restricted areas near ports.
  • Time your paddle around slack tide for the easiest conditions.
  • Watch for boat traffic, especially in narrow channels and near marinas.
  • Explore the shoreline for hidden coves and calm side channels.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Jackson Beach Park?
Jackson Beach Park is a public boat ramp in Washington. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Jackson Beach Park?
Jackson Beach Park supports kayaking, stand up paddleboarding, sea kayaking. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Jackson Beach Park?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Jackson Beach Park?
The best time to paddle at Jackson Beach Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Jackson Beach Park?
Water conditions at Jackson Beach Park include sheltered, tidal.
Is Jackson Beach Park good for beginners?
Yes, Jackson Beach Park is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, sheltered water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.5195, -123.0130

Quick Facts

Region
Pacific Northwest
Getting There
~5 min from Lopez Island
Get Directions

48.5195, -123.0130

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