Sucia Island is one of the smaller San Juan Islands.  The Ferry won't take you out here so you'll  either have to have your own boat, rent one or know someone with one to get out here.  Somehow that adds to the romance of the trip for me! The whole island is a state marine park! We packed for a day of beach fun and set out.  There was so much to do that we could easily have spent a long weekend here.  Since we didn't have that much time we had to pack a bunch of excitement into one day.  Bonus-there is a nice outhouse just a short distance down the trail behind the beachside campsite on Shallow Bay. 

Beaches and Pirates!

On Sucia we found a fabulous beach in a calm cove (Shallow Bay) to set up our base of operations.  There are actually two campsites managed by the parks on that beach.  Unfortunately we were just there for the day.  The swimming, sun-soaking and sandcastle building were great here!   The history of Sucia Island includes some fun pirate lore.  There are some cool sandstone caves here that legend says the pirates would hide their treasure in. We found pieces of an old map that led us to some Pirate Booty!

Hiking

If the  afternoon gets a bit hot and you need a break from the beach and the water try out a hike to another cove on the island.  This was a sweet little trail just right for kids.  it climbs a bit at first but not for long.  We found a rocky beach on the other side.  The trail continues but we decided to head back.  There is actually quite a fabulous trail system on the island so you could easily spend a few days exploring here. 

Water Fun

We also got out a stand up paddleboard (SUP) and everyone had a chance to paddle around a bit. Bring your sea kayak too for some calm paddling.
Before You Go:  Getting out here is a pretty major ordeal.  The best (easiest) way to visit Sucia Island is as a day-tripper from one of the bigger San Juan Islands.  This involves getting a ferry reservation well in advance.  During peak seasons that can mean up to 4 months in advance! Choose a base camp on one of the Islands.  Our favorite place to stay is at the Harper Farmhouse on Orcas Island.  From your base you will need to decide how you will get to Sucia and how long you want to stay.  Many people moor their boats the the buoys in one of the various bays and then paddle in to the beach for the day.  Or consider getting dropped off to camp on the beach for a night or two.  Be sure to reserve your campsite well in advance.  Bring all the water toys and get ready for a great family vacation in a beautiful and protected spot.