"Walk along a spit teeming with birdlife. Check out historical structures and admire saltwater views south across Lopez Sound and north across Swifts Bay. This hike is short, but you’ll
want to linger long on some of the finest beach in the San Juans."

--Craig Romano, Day Hiking the San Juans and Gulf Islands (The Mountaineers Books).

"A short hike to explore the tide pools and marshes around this interesting spit on the east side of Lopez Island. More known for its camping than hiking trails, Spencer Spit nevertheless makes a rewarding stop if you’re looking for a short walk on Lopez and the chance to explore along the shoreline around the spit, and among the driftwood along the mile-long sandy beach.

In total, you’ll find about 2 miles of trail here leading around the camping and picnic area up on the bluffs down to and along the beach. Clam digging and crabbing are popular along the spit, but check local regulations and red tide warnings first. Bird-watchers will find many interesting shorebirds that inhabit the area."

--Dave Wortmand, San Juan Islands: A Guide to Exploring the Great Outdoors (Falcon Guides).

"A child-fascinating sand spit encloses a saltwater lagoon in a state park on Lopez Island. Homesteaded at the beginning of the century, the spit houses a replica of the original cabin at its tip, inviting children to come and play in it.

Two mirages may disappoint them, however: No, the spit does not reach Frost Island (there is a deep, swift channel separating them), and no, they cannot play in the lagoon and marsh. These are fragile areas reserved for birds and other marine life. But abundant other activities present themselves to kids, and they will not want to leave Spencer Spit."

--Joan Burton, Best Hikes with Kids: Western Washington & the Cascades (The Mountaineers Books).

"Cast your cares to the salty breezes while venturing onto this wide beach of sand and polished stones. A delightful hike any time of year, Spencer Spit is a dynamic environment always in flux.

Amble along this protruding point in Lopez Sound watching for playful seals, probing shorebirds, surf-riding waterfowl, and majestic eagles hovering above. The hike is short, but you’ll want to linger long, for Spencer Spit is one of the finest beaches in the San Juans."

--Craig Romano, Day Hiking: North Cascades (The Mountaineers Books).