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Mackaye Harbor on Lopez Island offers a county-maintained boat ramp with access via the northeastern side of the bay. The site features a small dinghy dock where boaters can tie up for a quick visit or shoreline exploration, though be aware that the dinghy dock dries out at low water on the eastern end. This makes timing important for paddlers and smaller vessels, particularly during minus tides.
The ramp provides excellent access to the sheltered waters of Mackaye Harbor and the broader San Juan Islands area, making it a convenient launch point for kayakers and canoeists exploring this region. Note that some alternative nearby access points exist, including Norman Road boat ramp and beach access steps at Blackie Brady County Park, which may be worth considering depending on your paddling plans and tidal conditions.
The area has significant recreational and ecological value, located near San Juan Island National Historical Park and the San Juan Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Paddlers should be aware that San Juan County has been undertaking shoreline restoration work at Mackaye Harbor to improve spawning habitat for surf smelt and sand lance—important food fish for endangered Chinook salmon—so conditions may vary seasonally.