Waterside – 2022 edition

waterside.

FREE

Visit the best of coastal Washington and British Columbia

exploring the Salish Sea

A special publication of The Northern Light

We’ve Got That We’ve Got That

SILVERREEFCASINO.COM SILVERREEFCASINO.COM I-5 · EXIT 260 Management reserves260 all rights.

I-5 · EXIT Management reserves all rights.

GOLFLOOMIS.COM GOLFLOOMIS.COM

Soak in the sunshine and explore all that the Northwest has to offer! Experience breathtaking views and book your camping, RV site, cabin getaway, or yurt today.

Get Out and Camp! (888) 986-0326 Ask how you can camp all year long with our Thousand Trails Camping Pass!

Our Thousand Trails Camping Pass is offered by MHC Thousand Trails Limited Partnership, Two North Riverside Plaza, Suite 800, Chicago, IL 60606. This advertising is being used for the purpose of soliciting sales of resort campground memberships. This document has been filed with the Department of Licensing, State of Washington as required by Washington Law. Value, quality or conditions stated and performance on promises are the responsibility of the operator, not the Department. The filing does not mean the Department has approved the merits or qualifications of any registration, advertising, or any gift or item of value as part of any promotional plan.

Subject to availability. Reservations required. Rates do not include taxes. Electric not included for stays of 30 days or longer. Must be a current Thousand Trails member or purchase a camping pass membership in connection with stays of 30 days or more at Thousand Trails properties. Amenities vary by resort. Please contact the property manager for details.

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best biking trails whale facts rec rentals farmers markets rick steves transportation whatcom water trail museums events competitive events tides crossing the border centennial disc golf swim spots

north of the border, british columbia.

good to know.

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south of the border, washington.

IF IT ISN’T ONE THING, IT’S ANOTHER. Just when things were getting back pretty close to normal, the world was hit with war in Ukraine, ongoing snafus at airports and high gas prices. It makes you wanna stay close to home, doesn’t it?

Waterside to the rescue!

From north to south and back again, not one of the Waterside communities is more than half a day away (and that’s including border and ferry waits). Each of the communities and towns covered in this guide has their own distinct personality and charm and reason for being. Set your goal this year to discover what makes each of these places so special and worthy of your traveling dollar.

You’ll be glad you did.

We’re still working remotely so the photo below only shows some of the talented people who worked so hard to produce this year’s issue.

Welcome to Waterside!

CO-PUBLISHERS Patrick Grubb and Louise Mugar EDITOR Aly McGee DESIGN Doug De Visser AD DESIGN Doug De Visser and Ruth Lauman EDITORIAL Aly McGee and Pat Grubb ADVERTISING SALES Molly Ernst and Gary Lee COVER PHOTO Fairhaven’s Taylor Dock at sunset Photographer: Alan Majchrowicz © 2022 POINT ROBERTS PRESS, INC. ­Volume XXVI OFFICE 225 Marine Drive #200, Blaine, WA 98230 | PHONE 360/332-1777 EMAIL info@pointrobertspress.com | WEB watersidenw.com Waterside is a special publication of Point Roberts Press, Inc. Printed in Canada.

Point Roberts Press also publishes: Regional maps and guides Newspapers: The Northern Light and All Point Bulletin Magazines: Mount Baker Experience and Pacific Coast Weddings

VANCOUVER RICHMOND STEVESTON

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WHITE ROCK

TSAWWASSEN POINT ROBERTS

Canada United States

BLAINE BIRCH BAY 5

BELLINGHAM FAIRHAVEN

LUMMI ISLAND

ORCAS ISLAND

BOW, EDISON & CHUCKANUT

SAN JUAN ISLAND

ANACORTES

LOPEZ ISLAND

BURLINGTON MOUNT VERNON LA CONNER WHIDBEY ISLAND

PORT TOWNSEND

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OLYMPIC PENINSULA KITSAP PENINSULA

TO SEATTLE

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

port townsend.

Small town with old world authenticity

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VICTORIAN FLAIR AND RED BRICK BUILDINGS DOWNTOWN ON THE WATERFRONT make Port Townsend a rare combination of the Pacific Northwest lifestyle and old world flair.

This port town on the eastern edge of the Olympic Peninsula once aspired to be a regional center on the level of Seattle or Vancouver and for good reason – in 1887, it was Puget Sound’s sole U.S. Customs port of entry. Those big city dreams never materialized – poorly timed recessions stopped the railroad from reaching Port Townsend, the town wilted in the early 1900s.

Today, Port Townsend’s renaissance is fully accomplished and its mention evokes wooden boats, historic buildings, music, art and proximity to nature.

A bluff on one side and Port Townsend Bay on the other hem in Port Townsend’s remarkable downtown district. Its architecture is a visual feast, with abundant 19th and early 20th century buildings that landed the entire downtown district on the National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

Two- and three-story Victorians with high-arched windows

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PHOTO BY JESSICA RENNER

and elaborate trim play host to restaurants, independent bookstores, music venues and much more.

The downtown is fit for a day or weekend of exploring, with shops to see by day and music and entertainment by night.

Downtown Port Townsend also hosts a busy schedule of summer festivals – one such can’t-miss event is The Northwest Maritime Center’s annual Wooden Boat Festival, held this year September 9–11.

This inspiring and educational festival will feature more than 300 boats – tall ships, modern wooden boats, racing schooners and more – as well as presentations, exhibitors, live music, and delicious food, beer and wine.

After dining on local shellfish, stroll through downtown and past the end of Water Street to

SUSHI BAR Sushi, Rolls, Donburi Bowls, Bento & Sakes Reservations Recommended

1208 Water Street • Port Townsend 360-379-4000

The Small Town Wine Shop with the Big City Selection Offering a Great Selection in:

Wine ~ Beer ~ Champagne ~ Ciders Cheeses ~ Chocolates ~ Cigars Unique Gifts The

Open 7 Days a Week www.PTwineSeller.com

®

Est. 1982

1010 Water Street • (360) 385-7673 In Historic Downtown Port Townsend WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

PORT TOWNSEND

Size: 7.4 square miles Water access: Pope Marine Park Coming soon: JUMP (Jefferson Universal Movement Playground)

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

the public pedestrian pier at the eastern end of town. Visitors will find pockets of natural beach and the Northwest Maritime Center, which is a hub for marine craftspeople in the area. Here, visitors can see kayaks being built, wooden boats under repair, and sail makers plying their trade.

Don’t miss the trail along the beach, which starts at the end of Hudson Street and looks out toward Mt. Baker and

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Shop Like a Local

414 Kearney Street Port Townsend, WA Open Daily 8am—9pm

ORGANIC PRODUCE • GROCERY • DELI

OPEN DAILY 8AM - 9PM

414 KEARNEY STREET, PORT TOWNSEND, WA

WWW.FOODCOOP.COOP

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

the Cascades.

Some unfortunate tourists don’t make it to the area called “Uptown.” Venture north from Water Street a few blocks to the top of the hill and you’ll find another lively retail district with a bakery, pub and a few restaurants, as well as the Port Townsend Farmers Market (p. 40).

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Port Townsend is easily visited without a car by walking onto the Coupeville Ferry from Whidbey Island. However, a car allows easy access to nearby Fort Worden and Fort Townsend Historical State Parks. Both forts were constructed in the mid- to late 1800s.

In addition to exploring the historic buildings and lighthouse

at Fort Worden, check out the Centrum Foundation, a cultural gathering place with art and music classes, workshops, performances and much more.

Port Townsend greets tourists with glimpses into a colorful history and small-town panache.

For more information, visit enjoypt.com

PHOTO BY MEG OLSON

BEST WATERSIDE

Biking is a popular Waterside pastime for good reason. The region has bike trails for both the whole family and experienced riders. Here are some highlights to pedal through this summer.

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SURREY, B.C., home to Crescent Beach is an amazing place to bike. Download the “My Surrey” app for the latest bike route updates. The ride from Crescent Beach to White Rock will leave any biker hungry for a good meal on the pier.

BIRCH BAY STATE PARK is a great place to bike along the waterfront. Bike to the main strip and stop at The C Shop. Take a break from the ride for a swim or a suntanning break. Birch Bay State Park is full of activities for the whole family. For more information, go to parks.state.wa.us/170/Birch-Bay. SOUTH BAY TRAIL stretches from downtown Bellingham through beautiful Boulevard Park, across the Taylor Dock and into Fairhaven. Discover the beauty of that special place where Bellingham turns into Fairhaven. This is a family friendly ride lending itself to breaks for park time and light shopping. Visitors will also begin and end their ride in town centers full of eateries, shops and activities. For a map of this trail, visit cob.org/wp-content/uploads/South-Bay-TrailBoulevard-Park.pdf.

Looking for more miles, or to get out of town for a couple hours? Start at Fairhaven Park and head south on the INTERURBAN TRAIL. Besides a couple of gravel ascents and descents, the six-mile-long ride offers a straight, flat course to Larrabee State Park under the Chuckanut evergreen forest canopy. Paralleling the picturesque Chuckanut Drive most of the way there,

bike trails. this trail offers spectacular views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands. For more information and a map of the trail, go to whatcomcounty.us/3620/InterurbanTrail.

THE HERTZ TRAIL is another beautiful 6.2-mile path outside of Bellingham that edges the east side of Lake Whatcom. Starting near the North Lake Whatcom Trail, which offers an intense climb and descent, the Hertz Trail is a more leisurely option with only a 100foot elevation gain. This route is great for walkers and runners as well, as there are plenty of spots along the lakeshore to take a refreshing dip in the water. For more information, go to bit.ly/3zLNMDR LITTLE MOUNTAIN PARK in Mount Vernon boasts 6.5 miles of biking trails and 1.4 miles of road. This is a good place for an introduction to mountain biking as the trails are best suited for beginner to intermediate riders. For more information, go to bit.ly/2Ttu7Wa. OLYMPIC DISCOVER TRAIL EAST in Port Townsend is a waterfront trail visitors won’t regret cruising. The trailhead is a 7.3-mile waterfront trail experience that will lead bikers through trees and natural beauty, sometimes running parallel to State Route 20. More information can be found at olympicdiscoverytrail.org.

For a more challenging island ride, try MOUNT CONSTITUTION on Orcas Island. This ride will prove exhausting but well worth the view. Mount Constitution is the highest point in the San Juan Islands. At the crest bikers will find a stone tower replica of a 12th century Russian watchtower. The 360-degree view from the tower is extraordinary. For more information, visit moranstatepark.com/mount-constitution.

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

whidbey island.

A Pacific Northwest island wonder

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DISCOVER HISTORY, ART, MOUTHWATERING SEAFOOD AND, OF COURSE, THE BEAUTIFUL WATERS of Puget Sound while visiting the largest island in Island County. Outdoor thrill seekers will find activity at every turn whether kayaking, paddle boarding, hiking or biking around the island. Those seeking refuge will find treasures while shopping at waterside boutiques, gift shops, art galleries and flavorful cuisine.

Travelers can make it to the island by ferry or over the Deception Pass bridge bonding Fidalgo and Whidbey islands. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the iconic 177-foot-high bridge is admired for its graceful architecture and front-row seat overlooking lush emerald trees and turquoise waters.

Spend the day at Deception Pass State Park, Washington’s most-visited state park. Kids and adults can fish and swim in Cranberry Lake, search for seashells along the beach, hike through forests and along bluffs and listen to the collective chirp from some of the 155 species of the

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birds inhabiting the island. Keep an eye on the waters to catch a glimpse of harbor seals. Can’t leave just yet? Make reservations and set up camp at one of the park’s 172 tent sites.

Further south, visitors will find Oak Harbor, named for its distinguishing Garry Oak trees.

Oak Harbor is the largest of seven towns on

Experience Coupeville

ON WHIDBEY ISLAND WA

OUR EVENTS:

Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival - August 13 & 14 Coupeville Plein Air Paint Out! - August 15 - 21 Tour de Whidbey - August 20 The Haunting of Coupeville - Celebrating Practical Magic Events throughout October Shop Local - November 26 Greening of Coupeville - December 3 Jingle Trail Fun Run - December 3

360-678-5434

WWW.COUPEVILLECHAMBER.COM WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

the island. Dating back to the early 1850s, the town is rich with history and close to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, built in 1942, and still operating today. Visitors can visit the PBY Memorial Foundation Naval Heritage Center to view seaplanes, artifacts, a flight simulator and learn more about naval history.

Don’t miss Oak Harbor’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July that transforms Windjammer Park into a grand carnival event. The day kicks off with a parade, complete with music, candy and performers and ends with a bang with the night’s fireworks show. Rides, fair food and vendors all contribute to a Fourth of July celebration that’s fun for the whole family.

From museums to historic landmarks from World War I and II, history buffs will delight in all that Coupeville and the surrounding area has to offer. Visitors can go back in time at the Fort Casey Historical State Park, a

Native Canoe Exhibit

We Ship!

& so much more!

Local authors, New releases, Books, Maps, Cards, Stickers

Summer PorchStories Wednesdays at 2 pm

120,000 Years of Island County History At the foot of the historic Coupeville Wharf

16 NW Front St. Coupeville, WA

Open daily, year-round

908 NW Alexander St.

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Find Tours, Events & Programs at:

360-678-3310 • www.islandhistory.org WATERSIDENW.COM

360-678-8463 on Coupeville’s historic waterfront

kingfisherbookstore.com

Size: 168.7 square miles Water access: Fort Ebey State Park Historical: Pacific Northwest Naval Air Museum

360-331-1980

www.freelandchamber.org

YOUR WHIDBEY ISLAND ADVENTURE STARTS HERE!

105 Anthes Ave • Langley, Whidbey Island

beachcombing • biking • birding • boating • clamming • dogwalking fishing • hiking • horseback riding • kayaking • picnicking • swimming

Layton Rd.

Main St.

Harbor Ave.

Myrtle Ave.

Freeland Ave.

Shoreview Dr.

Freeland

Visitor Information Center

Ne w

E. Har

bor Rd .

Freeland Park

Woodard Ave.

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

WHIDBEY ISLAND

m

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Scott Rd.

525

The Freeland Visitor Information Center is your ultimate resource for Whidbey Island adventures and outdoor activities.

To join our virtual Youth and Educational Events, or for information on events and days open, follow Langley Whale Center or email katie@orcanetwork.org

To see and report whale sightings, follow Orca Network

Visitor Information Center 5575 Harbor Ave Freeland, WA 98249

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999-acre marine camping park along 10,810 feet of shoreline. Fort Casey, built in the 1800s, was used as a training facility until the mid-1940s. Park visitors can explore the original catacomb-like bunkers, an interpretative center and gift shop and admire the red and white, brick Spanish-style Admiralty Lighthouse, built in 1903.

Visitors will marvel at the sight of the Meerkerk Rhododendron Gardens, a 1960s woodland filled with 10 acres of gardens and 43 acres of woodlands to explore. Hikers and cyclists alike will love the 35-mile-long Kettles Trail System, which connects Coupeville with Fort Ebey State Park, located within Ebey’s Landing, a national histori-

CARNIVAL • ENTERTAINMENT COUNTRY FAIR • LOG SHOW 819 Camano Avenue, Langley, WA www.whidbeyislandfair.com

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY STEVE BERENTSON

cal reserve known for its beautiful trails.

Heading down into Langley, near the southern tip of the island, travelers along the waterfront will find posh boutiques gleaming with art, jewelry, books and clothing. An art hub is Langley’s claim to fame, with galleries, studios and art walks filling the city. An art walk is held every first Saturday of the month.

Summer galleries will focus on local landscapes, glass art, jewelry and table-top sculpture. Langley will be bustling during the Whidbey Island Fair, July 28-31. Fair visitors will experience farm exhibits, animals, live entertainment, a wine garden and eye-popping art on historic farm ground.

Explore the plentiful parks, woods and shorelines or join in the waterside fun; there is something for everyone to enjoy on Whidbey Island.

Visit whidbeycamanoislands.com.

farm-to-table

italian

comfort food

pasta and focaccia made in-house daily local wines • craft beer and cocktails

saturday and sunday brunch 10am-2pm mimosa towers

dog-friendly patio seating

670 se pioneer way, #102 • oak harbor

360-675-4053 rusticacafe.com

You’re invited to

Oak Harbor

on beautiful

Whidbey Island

Photos Credit: Pam Headridge

360-675-3755 | OakHarborChamber.com | 32630 SR 20, Oak Harbor, WA 98277 WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

whales.

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

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PHOTO BY BONNIE GRETZ

PHOTO BY JILL HEIN

PHOTO BY CINDY HANSEN

PHOTO BY AMANDA COLBERT

The Salish Sea is home to several species of whales. They differ in many ways, but all of them rely on the rich variety of prey species found in these waters. The three baleen whale species – humpback, gray, and minke whales – are seasonal visitors while the orcas can be seen most months of the year.

HUMPBACK WHALES leave their lower latitude breeding grounds and begin arriving here in the spring to feed on small forage fish and krill. They can be seen throughout Salish Sea waters until late fall. Overhunting in the past had a drastic effect on humpbacks, but they began to recover after the end of commercial whaling, and some populations were removed from the Endangered Species list in 2016. They are now returning to the Salish Sea in greater numbers every year, with females bringing their young calves, and there are even some known grandmother whales.

GRAY WHALES migrate here from breeding grounds in Baja. The “Sounders” gray whales are a group of about 15 individuals who return to North Puget Sound each spring to feast on ghost shrimp before continuing their migration north. Gray whales recovered from whaling and were removed from the Endangered Species list in 1994. However, they are currently undergoing an Unusual Mortality Event that has already claimed an estimated 25 percent of the population. In addition to high mortality, there are also many malnourished animals wandering through the Salish Sea right now searching for food.

MINKE WHALES are typically seen around the San Juan islands, and occasionally in Puget Sound, most often during the summer months. There is a small “resident” population of individuals who return each year and feed on forage fish. It is largely unknown if they remain here year round, or where they travel to once they leave the Salish Sea. Perhaps the most well-known of the whales in this region are the ORCAS, OR KILLER WHALES. There are two different “ecotypes” in these waters that are genetically and culturally distinct. Transient, or Bigg’s orcas, travel mostly in smaller pods and feed on marine mammals. They can be seen any month of the year searching for prey throughout the Salish Sea. Southern Resident orcas tend to live in larger pods and feed on fish, primarily salmon. They were historically seen around the San Juan and Gulf Islands during spring through fall months, and in Puget Sound in late fall into winter. However, their presence in the Salish Sea has been dramatically decreasing in recent years and they are spending more time off the coast searching for food. Southern Residents were listed as endangered in the U.S. in 2005 but the population is continuing to decline and currently stands at only 74 individuals, according to NOAA. Resident and Bigg’s orcas face some of the same threats, such as contaminants, and noise and disturbance. However, Bigg’s orcas have a plentiful supply of food and the population is thriving, while the resident orcas are struggling to find sufficient prey with dwindling salmon runs. The birth of five new calves since 2019 has given us hope that they can recover if we all do our part to create a clean and quiet environment for them, and restore salmon runs throughout their range. In addition, reducing our environmental footprint, and helping to combat climate change will benefit all the whales in the Salish Sea so that we can enjoy them for years to come.

Courtesy of the Orca Network/Langley Whale Center OrcaNetwork.org

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

anacortes.

From shopping and music to beaches and forests, Fidalgo Island has all you need

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ANACORTES IS A SMALL TOWN FULL OF ART AND VITALITY. Breathe in the salty air on the busy waterfront and enjoy the rocky beaches, a bustling downtown shopping district, lively annual festivals and 50 miles of multi-use trails.

Surrounded by water, this Waterside town – which asserts a population of less than 17,000 – has been historically a maritime city. Located on Fidalgo Island, Anacortes is connected to the mainland by a bridge over the Swinomish Channel. It is also the gateway to the San Juan Islands and Vancouver Island via Washington state ferries.

With opportunities for boating, camping and hiking, visitors seeking to connect with nature will have no shortage of activities. Seafarers’ Memorial Park is a favorite launch spot with locals. The peninsula on the western edge of the island is home to Washington Park, a 220-acre city park with beaches, a boat launch and camping.

There is no shortage of whale watching tour companies, FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

fishing charters, and boat rentals. The Cap Sante Marina has 100 berths for guest moorage along with repair facilities, fuel docks and complimentary bicycles, just blocks from downtown.

While the town’s water access is breathtaking, the forests surrounding Anacortes are just as special. Anacortes Community Forest Lands is comprised of 2,950 acres of woods, wetlands, lakes and meadows, all within city limits. The rocky dome of Mt. Erie and idyllic Heart Lake are some extraordinary woodland gems. Mt. Erie’s summit offers a spectacular view of the San Juan Islands and you can even drive to the top if you’d rather not hike the trail to the 1,273-foot peak. For hikers, a map is a must, as the trails tend to intertwine. Maps are available online and at nearby businesses.

Downtown, you’ll find murals from the Anacortes Mural Project lining the red brick buildings, antique shops, restaurants, marine supply stores and bookshops up and down Commercial Street. Life-sized murals of characters from Anacortes’ past add splashes of color to the city center. Stroll past paintings of turn-of-the-century luminaries such as Anne and Tommy Thompson, who founded the Anacortes Railway. The muralist himself, Bill Mitchell, who passed away in 2019, is depicted on O Avenue. Mitchell gave back to the city in many ways, from his ambitious

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

THE RIGHT AGENT CAN LEAD THE WAY

mural project to collecting town history and working to save historic buildings.

Local music and nightlife energizes the downtown as the sun goes down. Dining options range from delis and pizzerias to upscale seafood restaurants.

Anacortes hosts a varied menu of festivals throughout the year. The Anacortes Arts Festival, held in downtown Anacortes from August 5-7, 2022, has celebrated art in Anacortes since 1962. The festival features an organized run, nearly nonstop music performances, as well as artists and craftspeople displaying sculptures, textile art, jewelry, photography, paintings and more. Other annual events happening in 2022 include Shipwreck Days and Bier on the Pier, a lively event with more than 40 breweries, cideries and food trucks.

Whether Anacortes is the destination, or visitors find themselves with a few hours to kill before catching a ferry into the great beyond, the fresh air, bold murals, charming shops, and natural beauty promise to relax and refresh visitors.

For more information, visit anacortes.org.

ANACORTES

Elevation: 23’ Water access: Sunset Beach History and Art: Bill Mitchell Mural Project

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The Anacortes Mural Project BILL MITCHELL SPENT 30 YEARS CREATING MURALS TO REVITALIZE DOWNTOWN ANACORTES WITH COLORFUL NODS TO THE TOWN’S HISTORY. Over 150 murals comprise the mural project, most of which adorn Commercial Avenue. In Mitchell’s own words, the murals are “Something to keep the downtown alive.”

Even driving by in a car, it is hard to miss the bold, lifesized figures riveted to the downtown buildings.

Mitchell was paralyzed by an auto accident in his youth but discovered in the rehabilitation facility that he could still draw. His life’s work was filling Anacortes with figures from 1983’s Fred White and his safety bike to pop culture phenomenons such as Marilyn Monroe and a pair of very popular sci-fi droids. For years, residents of Anacortes were able to sponsor murals, and have family members

memorialized as a part of this small town’s history. Many of the murals include transportation, anchoring the figures to their place in the timeline through vintage cars, canoes and bikes.

Though Mitchell passed away in 2019, he left behind a town that he had transformed with art over a 30-year period.

In the documentary Bill Mitchell &The Anacortes Mural Project, Mitchell said, “It’s been a real honor to be able to do these murals and honor these people.”

In turn, Anacortes is honoring Bill Mitchell by preserving these murals and prolonging his influence on the vivacity of the downtown.

For more information on the mural project or to donate to the Mural Preservation Fund, visit anacortesmuseumfoundation.org/billmitchell.

swell food

2022 MARKET SCHEDULE SUMMER MARKET

Every Saturday 2nd Saturdays 9am-2pm 9am-2pm May 1- October January - April30

HOLIDAY MARKET

November 19-20 September 21 10am-4pm The Port (During theatMarket) 100 Commercial Ave. Pie Contest & More

Serving lunch & dinner in old town Anacortes.

ADRIFT is a reflection of all that is important to our community: farm fresh food, reviving drinks, and the camaraderie of friends.

510 Commercial Ave. • Anacortes • 360.588.0653 Open 11am - 9pm • Tuesday thru Saturday

FOLLOW US ON

PIE FESTIVAL

September 17 Every Saturday (During the Market) 9am-2pm Pie Contest & More May - October

WINTER MARKET

2nd Saturdays November 23-24 9am-2pm at The Port 10am-4pm January - April Ave. 100 Commercial

At The Historic Depot • 7th St. & “R” Avenue Anacortes, Washington

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rentals.

IF YOU HAVE PLANS FOR ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER, YOU’LL NEED GREAT GEAR TO GO ALONG WITH IT. These shops provide rentals for bikes, kayaks, paddleboards and more so you can get more out of your waterside adventure.

WHIDBEY ISLAND

Whidbey Island Kayaking Company Tours, kayak & SUP rentals 201 Wharf Street, Langley 360/221-0229 whidbeyislandkayaking.com

ANACORTES

Blue Otter Outfitters Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards 2009 Skyline Way 360/488-4247 blueotter.com Anacortes Kayak Tours Canoe and kayak tour agency 2009 Skyline Way 360/588-1117 anacorteskayaktours.com

SAN JUAN ISLAND

Discovery Adventure Tours Bicycle rental and kayak tours 260 Spring Street #2 Friday Harbor 360/378-2559 discoveryadventuretours.com Discovery Sea Kayak Tours Canoe and kayak rentals and tours 260 Spring Street #1, Friday Harbor 360/378-2559 discoveryseakayak.com

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY STEVE BERENTSON

RECREATIONAL

Meat Machine Cycles Bicycles (including kids bikes and trailers for kids/dogs/cargo) 22 Web Street, Friday Harbor 360/370-5673 meatmachinebicycles.com

Outer Island Expeditions Kayak and canoe rentals, whale watching tours 120 Sucia Drive, Eastsound 360/376-3711 outerislandx.com

San Juan Kayak Expeditions Day tours, multi-day trips, sea kayak rentals 25 Nichols Street, Friday Harbor 360/378-4436 sanjuankayak.com

Wildlife Cycles Mountain and hybrid bike rentals 350 N Beach Road, Eastsound 360/376-4708 wildlifecycles.com

San Juan Outfitters Bike, kayak and canoe rentals and whale watching tours 248 Reuben Memorial Drive Friday Harbor 360/378-1962 sanjuanislandoutfitters.com

Tulip County Bike Tours Bike rentals and tours 13391 Avon Allen Road Mt. Vernon 360/424-7461 countrycycling.com

Sea Quest Expeditions Canoe and kayak tours and rentals 2 Front Street South Friday Harbor 360/378-5767 sea-quest-kayak.com

Community Boating Center Kayak, paddle board, rowboat and sailboat rentals 555 Harris Avenue 360/714-8891 boatingcenter.org

LOPEZ ISLAND

Lopez Bicycle Works & Kayaks Bike and kayak rentals 2820 Fisherman Bay Road 360/468-2847 lopezkayaks.com Village Cycles Hybrid, road & mtn, and electric bike rentals 214 Lopez Road 360/468-4013 villagecycles.net

ORCAS ISLAND

Orcas Boat Rentals & Charters Powerboat rentals 5164 Deer Harbor Road, Eastsound 360/376-7616 orcasboatrentals.com

LA CONNER

FAIRHAVEN

BELLINGHAM

Jack’s Bicycle Center Mountain, electric and cruiser bike rentals 1907 Iowa Street 360/733-1955 jacksbicyclecenter.com Kite Paddle Surf Surfboard, paddle board rentals, kiteboarding lessons 2620 N. Harbor Loop Drive Ste 18 360/775-2741 kitepaddlesurf.com LFS Marine Outdoor Sit-on and sit-in kayaks for rent 851 Coho Way 360/734-3336 go2marine.com

Yeager’s Sporting Goods Kayak, canoe and SUP rentals 3101 Northwest Avenue 360/733-1080 yeagerssportinggoods.com Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures Guided kayak trips around the Salish Sea 909 Squalicum Way #122 360/738-7664 moondancekayak.com

BIRCH BAY/BLAINE

Semiahmoo Resort Beach Activities Center Bikes, kayaks, paddleboards 9565 Semiahmoo Parkway 855/917-3767 semiahmoo.com

Birch Bay Boards SUP board, skimboard, kayak rentals 360/820-2772 birchbayboards.com

SOUTH SURREY/ WHITE ROCK

West Beach Paddle Kayak, canoe & SUP rentals and lessons Rented out of White Rock West Beach 604/318-4019 kayakcourses.ca Crescent Beach Paddle Shack Kayak, SUP rentals & lessons 3136 Mcbride Avenue, Surrey 604/670-9551 crescentbeachpaddleshack.com

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Village Bikes Mountain, comfort, hybrid and cruiser bike rentals 3891 Moncton Street, Richmond 604/274-3865 village-bikes.ca

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

san juan island.

A blend of history and beauty

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SAN JUAN ISLAND IS THE BUSIEST OF THE ISLANDS. The ferry to San Juan Island arrives smack in the center of Friday Harbor, a charming town with lots of reasons to visit.

The island offers more restaurants, shops, galleries, and activities than anywhere else in the islands. Within the easily walkable 1-square mile town of Friday Harbor, visitors will find a full array of sophisticated cuisine along with casual pub fare, chocolate shops, ice cream shops, cozy bookshops, and quirky stores. Looking for more? In the mood for a movie? The island has had a movie theater since 1915. In the mood for disc golf? The island has that too.

The Whale Museum is located downtown, offering a look at some of the world’s largest endangered species. To help raise awareness of the plight of these iconic creatures, the museum offers symbolic orca adoptions. It was one of the first whale museums in the country. Be sure to visit the San Juan Islands Museum of Art, where travelers can view local art from around the islands.

Between the north and south ends of the island, visiWATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR SAN JUAN ISLANDS MUSEUM OF ART

tors will pass through fertile farmland scattered with animal life. Don’t be surprised to see deer grazing amongst the cows as they are the most populous animal on the island. Watch out for these frequent road-crossers.

Look out for the alpaca farm, where visitors can purchase alpaca items with wool coming from the very alpacas in the field right outside!

Another popular farm destination is the Pelindaba Lavender Farm, located on Hawthorne Lane, with over 25 acres of lavender to explore. The store on the property offers lavender-in-

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Another worthwhile hike is one to English Camp which once housed British soldiers during the Pig War. Of course, the west side of the island provides some of the best sunset lookout points.

Wander over to the 41-acre day use Lime Kiln Point State Park and, with a bit of luck, visitors will get to enjoy a show put on by orcas and transiting gray whales. It is considered one of the world’s best whale viewing locations and is worth a trip for it alone.

The second busiest town on the island is Roche Harbor, located on the

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fused foods, essential oils, soaps, and much more.

There are nine lakes on the island.

Egg Lake is a popular swimming hole – turn onto Egg Lake Road from Roche Harbor Road.

While San Juan Island doesn’t have the mountainous terrain of Orcas Island, hiking options can still provide enough exertion to get the heart rate up. A 2.2mile trek to the top of Young Hill will reward hikers with panoramic views of the islands from a breathless 600 feet of altitude. On the way up, hikers will pass the Royal Marine Cemetery.

June 9 - September 12 Thursday - Monday Extra summer hours 7-9 Thursday, Friday & Saturday

540 SPRING STREET FRIDAY HARBOR, WA 360-370-5050 WWW.SJIMA.ORG

San Juan County Fair August 17-20 www.sjcfair.org The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova • August 26-28 www.lakedale.com/music-festival/ Archipelago Collective Chamber Music Festival • September 9-11 www.archipelagocollective.org Savor the San Juans Mid-September – Mid-November www.visitsanjuans.com/savor Scarecrow Contest • October www.sanjuanisland.org/somethingfor-everyone-weekends/

San Juan Island Artists’ Studio Tour June 4 and 5 www.sanjuanislandartists.com Three Lakes Triathlon & Marathon June 18 and 19 www.sjimarathon.com 4th of July • July 4 www.sanjuanisland.org/the-4th-ofjuly-parade-and-fireworks.htm Summer Arts Festival Fridays in August www.sanjuancountyarts.org/sanjuan-summer-arts-festival/ 360 - 378- 5240

Friday Harbor Film Festival October 21-23 in-theatre/ October 24-30 online www.fhff.org Friday Harbor Winterfest/ Island Lights Festival www.sanjuanisland.org/ island-lights-festival.htm

At the time of printing, the dates have not been set for many of the various events for 2022.

The event’s website will have the most current information.

www.sanjuanisland.org

Elevation: 2,625′ Water access: Jackson Beach Iconic: Lime Kiln Lighthouse

opposite end of the island from Friday Harbor. The Hotel de Haro was originally built in 1845 as a Hudson’s Bay trading post and some of the original logs are still visible.

Later, the island’s rich lime deposits struck the interest of Tacoma lawyer John S. McMillin. He decided to start the Roche Harbor Lime and Cement company in 1884. In 1954, Reuben Tarte purchased the land and transformed it into a hotel and added slips in the marina, making it the popular boating destination it is today.

Don’t miss the San Juan Sculpture Park or Roche Harbor Farm, both located just outside the Roche Harbor resort.

The cabins that limeworkers once stayed in are now available for visitors to stay in along with the old Roche Harbor schoolhouse. McMillin’s home has been converted into restaurants where guests can find both casual or fine dining. The church the McMillin family built still stands and remains active today.

Ways to pass the time include a walk through the garden designed by McMillin’s wife, a hike around the lime quarries, or check out the McMillin mausoleum.

The resort includes amenities such as a spa, pool, tennis court, and liquor store. In the harbor itself lies a veritable fleet of privately owned yachts ranging in size from runabouts to ocean-going billionaire battleships, complete with helicopters. Traditionally at sunset, the flags are lowered to the recorded sound of Colonel Bogey’s March, a British march composed in 1914 by Lieutenant F.J. Ricketts under the pen name of Kenneth J. Alford.

Visitors can set their watches to island time for the duration of their stay on San Juan Island; the mainland and all of life’s everyday worries can wait.

For more information, visit visitsanjuans.com.

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orcas island.

Largest and most mountainous of all the islands.

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ORCAS ISLAND IS THE LARGEST AND MOST MOUNTAINOUS OF ALL THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS and the second most populated. Unlike San Juan Island, the ferry to Orcas will not drop you off in town. The road to Eastsound – the social hub of the island – stretches 8 miles from the ferry landing. If visitors have boarded the ferry without a car, they will find transportation to Eastsound in the taxis that run every day and the shuttle service offered on weekends.

The Horseshoe Highway leads all the way to Olga. Cyclists can take Crow Valley Road to avoid the ferry traffic on Horseshoe Highway. Orcas’ terrain is challenging and full of hills, but bikers will find that the lush topography makes the ride worth the effort.

Eastsound is home to restaurants and bakeries offering coffee, sandwiches, soups and seafood. Art lovers, foodies, and deer lovers alike will enjoy the local fare on Orcas Island.

Freshwater lakes are a popular feature on Orcas Island.

Cascade Lake is a part of Moran State Park, offering boat rentals, a swimming area, picnic shelters, and three campgrounds. Kilbrew Lake is known for its birdwatching. For sightseeing, Mount Constitution towers over the entire San

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ORCAS ISLAND

Size: 56.9 square miles Water access: Crescent Beach Fun: Whale watching with Outer Island Excursions Juan archipelago. Hikers, bikers, and drivers can all be seen on the way up. If you’re hiking, Mt. Constitution Loop trail is a steep 6.6 miles. Bikers will find 19 different mountain bike trails spanning over 29 miles throughout the park.

The roads, bridges and historical tower of Mount Constitution were all constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

The southeast side of the island offers Deer Harbor, a relaxing and laid-back community with a small sandy beach, marina store and a small grill that also serves local Lopez Island ice cream. The marina has 110 slips for transient moorage, along with showers and bathrooms.

Olga sits 8 miles south of Eastsound. There you can walk the long wooden dock and take in the views or grab a bite at Buck Bay Shellfish farm.

Doe Bay Resort is a popular destination with rustic treehouse accommodations and spa amenities.

Rosario Resort is peaceful and historical. The hotel was once the personal mansion of Robert Moran, a Seattle shipbuilder. The 54-room mansion has been converted to a restaurant, spa, hotel and museum. Visitors can walk through the Morans’ private living quarters, the organ room and library.

Orcas Island often leaves visitors wondering how soon they will be able to enjoy another vacation on this mountainous Eden in the sea.

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

lopez island.

A small community with big personality.

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LOPEZ ISLAND IS A SMALL COMMUNITY WITH BIG PERSONALITY. Having perhaps the most rural feel of all the islands, it has been dubbed “Slo-pez.” Expect a friendly wave and a smile from every passing motorist and cyclist. With miles of shoreline, there is an adventure around every corner.

The cultural heart of the island, Lopez Village, is about 4 miles out of the ferry terminal. The village has places to eat and drink, stock up on baked goods. There is also a grocery stores, pharmacy and bookshop.

Scandinavian farmers settled on the island in the 1850s and farming remains part of the local culture. Lopez Island is also rich with artists, musicians and fisherman. Every Saturday, a farmers market is held in the community center, putting the bountiful food, art and wares grown and created locally on display.

An artful and musical community, the local library even rents out musical instruments.

The island’s charm lies in the tranquility of the many secluded accommodations available, from bed and breakfasts, to camping under the stars.

Although small, the island has eight county parks and one state park. Spencer Spit State Park is 138-acres of forest, sand and water with opportunities for clamming, crabbing, and beachcombing. Odlin County Park is another popular choice with a boat launch, mooring buoys and 30 campsites.

Lopez’s relatively flat geography makes it a favorite destination for cyclists. Lopez Bicycle Works is the oldest bike

LOPEZ ISLAND

Size: 29.5 square miles Water access: Spencer Spit State Park Worth the hike: Shark Reef Sanctuary

shop in the San Juan Islands, offering both rentals and repair services. Kayaks are available to rent as well.

Iceberg Point, part of the San Juan Islands National Monument, is a great hike, rewarding walkers with a panoramic view of the island and surrounding waters. Park at Agate Park and follow the signs to the peak. With luck, you’ll see whales breaching in the nearby waters.

The friendly atmosphere of Slow-pez inspires visitors to leave their worries at the ferry dock, and stroll through the island with a smile.

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

la conner.

1800s waterfront community turned arts enclave

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A vibrant town on the Swinomish Channel, La Conner woos visitors from far and wide with tangerine sunsets and a remarkable heritage of art, architecture and history.

This little enclave on the mouth of the Skagit River has been inhabited for thousands of years. Initially the territory of the Swinomish Tribe, the area attracted settlers in the late 1800s with the promise of farming, logging and fishing. By the turn of the 20th century, La Conner had a population of about 1,000 and was the seat of Skagit County. As the years went by, La Conner remained the same size while other neighboring communities boomed, making it an alluring small town with a big history.

The natural beauty of the area drew artists to La Conner in the 1940s and ’50s, who settled in abandoned cabins on the banks of the Skagit River and created an art colony they dubbed “Fishtown.” That artistic spirit lives on — its influence celebrated with colorful historic buildings and the town’s prospering museums.

Since the 1970s, La Conner has become a choice destination for locals and travelers alike and has been named FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

one of Washington state’s most romantic towns. Stroll through downtown today and discover a delightful historic main street with restored buildings housing modern retail shops and restaurants offering a wide choice of delicious fare.

Visitors will no doubt be drawn to La Conner’s boardwalk, perched on the banks of the Swinomish Channel and offering waterfront access with stunning views.

Heading west toward Fidalgo Island, visitors will pass over the red-orange

Rainbow Bridge, a national landmark that spans the shimmering channel and offers a stunning view of Mt. Baker on clear days.

For the full La Conner experience, step off land with a kayak tour or rental. The channel provides ideal

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paddling for beginners and there’s much to explore. Afterward, enjoy a plethora of fresh seafood options at any of the well-regarded restaurants overlooking the water. Pair oysters, clams or salmon with the romantic sunset views over Fidalgo Island.

Get a glimpse into the unique artistic culture of La Conner with a visit to The Museum of Northwest Art. The MoNa features exhibitions dedicated to local contemporary, modern and abstract art and, if that’s not enough, La Conner also has an array of small galleries and gallery tours with varying hours. After enjoying a stroll through

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town with the Walking Tour of Historic Landmarks map, history lovers will enjoy a visit to the Skagit County Historical Museum to learn more about the town’s origins and Native American heritage.

La Conner blooms in the spring and visitors buzz like bees to its daffodil fields. In March, cyclists clothe themselves in garb reminiscent of the English countryside for the Tweed Ride, a celebration of spring’s arrival. In August, La Conner shows off the best on land and water at the Classic Boat & Car Show on Saturday, August 6, 2022.

La Conner is an artistic community, sure to inspire visitors with delightful views, historical tidbits, as well as art and food to suit every taste.

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mount vernon.

Stop and smell the flowers

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BACK IN THE 1800S, MOUNT VERNON WAS KNOWN AS A TRANSPORTATION AND TRADING CENTER for the logging industry. Now, the booming blooming city is known throughout Washington as the land of tulips, tulips and more tulips.

Mount Vernon remains a welcoming agricultural hub, attracting visitors from near and far to enjoy Skagit Valley’s bucolic landscapes, locally sourced food and diverse wildlife. Make sure to look up every so often, because Mount Vernon boasts some of the best skies for birdwatching.

Keep an eye out for bald eagles, swans and visiting snow geese.

With the coming of spring, lilies, dahlias, marigolds, snapdragons and, of course, tulips grace the surrounding farms. Spring isn’t official until the first tulip blooms, and as April bleeds into May, fragrant flowers paint the fields of Mount Vernon an array of startling colors. Witness the beauty of endless rows of tulips at the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, where multiple farms open their property for visitors to wander the fields and purchase bulbs to take home to their own gardens.

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PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

MOUNT VERNON

Experience the heart of Skagit Valley with a bike tour around Mount Vernon and stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants. The town is full of cafes, breweries and home-style eateries. A popular beer destination, Mount Vernon is full of breweries where visitors can grab a pint and a snack.

Wineries abound in Skagit Valley, and visitors can discover the best of Washington’s wine in local tasting rooms, vineyards and restaurants. Historic downtown Mount Vernon offers

many of the best antique shops in the region.

For a taste of the outdoors, check out Edgewater Park on the Skagit River. The park sits on 54 acres, and offers a playground, boat launch, large stage and softball fields. With 10 miles of trails just five minutes from downtown, Little Mountain Park offers hiking and biking for every skill level.

Drive or bike up a paved road to the top for stunning views of the valley and to watch hang-gliders take flight.

Size: 12.6 square miles Water access: Baker Street River Access Coming up: Skagit Valley Tulip Festival The warm months in Mount Vernon are filled with activity. On June 10, July 15, and August 5, Skagit Valley College hosts drive-in movies. From August 10-13, the Skagit County Fair brings family fun to Mount Vernon with live music, carnival rides, farm animals and eating contests. In fall, the Harvest Festival Street Fair celebrates the end of the growing season in the valley.

Mount Vernon delights visitors with treats for all senses; smell the flowers, look at the colorful fields, listen to the birds, taste the local food, brews and wine, and feel the cool water of the Skagit River.

Learn more at visitmountvernon.com.

Love at First Bite Organic Groceries Famous Sandwiches Espresso & Pastries

Open Daily to Everyone Downtown Mount Vernon 360.336.9777 • skagitfoodcoop.com

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PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

burlington.

Where family fun is around every corner

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FROM FISHING TO SHOPPING, BURLINGTON IS A DESTINATION FOR FAMILY FUN. Often called “Hub City,” Burlington sits at the junction of I-5 and Highway 20.

Rivers and lakes with public access are conveniently located throughout this Waterside community and these bodies of water are popular fishing destinations for locals and tourists alike. The Skagit River is home to a variety of fish from cutthroat trout to pink and chinook salmon to sturgeon.

Avalon Golf Links provides premium golfing for anyone looking to play on 27 championship holes. Stay for a bite to eat at the Sweet Bite Cafe, or head out for some shopping.

Head over to Skagit’s Own Fish Market for lunch or to pick up fresh Pacific Northwest seafood to grill up at home.

The Children’s Museum of Skagit County, located at The Shops at Burlington, has exhibits, STEM activities and climbing structures.

Visit the Heritage Flight Museum at Skagit Regional Airport to explore military aircrafts and vehicles from WWII and the Vietnam War. Make the trip during one of their fly days to see some vintage planes tear up that baby blue Washington sky.

The playfields at Skagit River Park offer river access and walking trails as well as horseshoe pits, picnic tables and a play structure. Visit Skagit Skate to speed around the FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

roller rink or walk the Cascade Trail for views of the North Cascades.

Visit Burlington Disk Golf Course to throw some disks and take in the scenery.

There are plenty of places to stay in Burlington as well as

places to park your RV for a family camping trip. Camp along the river for days of outdoors adventure with your family and friends. Float on the river in the summer heat, or take a kayak on a downstream adventure.

Berry Dairy Days, which takes place annually in June, is one of Skagit County’s oldest festivals. It celebrates Burlington’s agricultural history and farming community.

Make it a day trip or stay awhile – either way Burlington welcomes its visitors with vibrant and fun summer activities for all ages.

For more information, visit visitburlingtonwa.com.

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

farmers markets.

WASHINGTON Anacortes Saturdays, May 7 through October 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. anacortesfarmersmarket.org Bayview – Whidbey Island Saturdays, April through October 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. bayviewfarmersmarket.com Bellingham Saturdays through December 17 on Railroad Avenue, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesdays, June through September 14 in the historical waterfront district, 4-7 p.m. bellinghamfarmers.org

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Ferndale Fridays, June through October 7, 2 to 6 p.m. ferndalepublicmarket.org Lopez Island Saturdays, May through September 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. lopezfarmersmarket.com Mount Vernon Saturdays, May through October 8, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. mountvernonfarmersmarket.org Oak Harbor – Whidbey Island Sundays, starting in June, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Facebook @WIFM.OakHarbor

Blaine Saturdays, April through October, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

360/332-4544 Facebook @blainemarket

Orcas Island Saturdays, May through September, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. orcasislandfarmersmarket.org

Coupeville – Whidbey Island Saturdays through October 15, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. bit.ly/3MATYBH

Port Townsend Saturdays through mid-December, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. (Nov. & Dec. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.) jcfmarkets.org

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San Juan Island Saturdays through October, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Brickworks, Friday Harbor sjifarmersmarket.com South Whidbey Tilth Sundays through September 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Langley southwhidbeytilth.org

BRITISH COLUMBIA Ladner Second and fourth Sundays July 11 through September 11, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. ladnervillagemarket.com Steveston First and third Sundays, May through September 5, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Facebook @StevestonFarmersandArtisansMarket/ SFAM.CA White Rock Farmers Market Sundays through October 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. whiterockfarmersmarket.ca

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

bow, chuckanut & edison.

Unwind down the Drive

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HEAD NORTHWEST FROM MOUNT VERNON AND BURLINGTON THROUGH PICTURESQUE FARMLAND, and along the water you’ll find the tiny towns of Bow and Edison. Exit 231 off I-5 North leads visitors towards a quaint sojourn from the chaos of everyday life.

Perched on the banks of a slough, Edison is all about escaping the city to embrace one’s passions. This one-intersection town with a population of 147 is home to artisans and artists of all sorts. Journalist Edward R. Murrow graduated from Edison High School, and the community continues to foster and nurture creative minds today. Edison’s Smith & Vallee Gallery, housed in a restored turn-ofthe-century schoolhouse, showcases artwork from emerging artists.

Bow and Edison draw in food lovers from all around, with a variety of food producers and restaurants. Both Breadfarm Bakery, specializing in handcrafted small-batch breads, and Farm to Market Bakery, which bakes a variety of delicious pastries, are masters of their craft. Bow has no WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY IAN HAUPT

CHUCKANUT, BOW-EDISON Elevation Chuckanut: 1,083’ Elevation Bow-Edison: 7’ Waterfront access: Larrabee State Park View to hike for: Samish Overlook

less than three artisan cheese makers, and Edison has several cafés and restaurants, most of which have an intensely local focus.

Chuckanut Drive is an experience visitors should take advantage of. The 21-mile stretch of road between

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Bow-Edison and Fairhaven allows visitors the chance to ramble along high above the shoreline. The cliffs fall to the Chuckanut Bay on one side while steep rock faces climb on the other side.

Road bikers be forewarned – the winding road is narrow with no passing room. It’s safest for everyone to keep their eyes on the road and wait for one of the many scenic overlooks before lifting a camera to memorialize the view.

The Chuckanuts offer hiking for all ages and experience levels – Larrabee State Park on Chuckanut Drive alone has seven trails, ranging from the easy trek down to Clayton Beach to the 6.5-mile grind to the top of Oyster Dome. Though it involves a 2,000-foot gain in elevation, Oyster Dome is worth the climb for the spectacular view of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands waiting at the top. The trails at Larrabee State Park all require a day-use Discover Pass to park, but there are state-wide free days every year.

Fresh oysters are plentiful on Chuckanut Drive, as they grow right in the mudflats of Samish Bay. Stop in at The Oyster Bar to try oysters from the bay or take the lane down to the renowned Taylor Shellfish Farms to visit the oyster farm and buy fresh oysters, clams, geoduck, mussels and crab right from the source.

In Bow, Edison and Chuckanut, visitors find that they cannot help but feel connected to the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.

For more information, visit visitskagitvalley.com.

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PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

fairhaven.

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A small town with a big reputation

AMONG OUR WATERSIDE GEMS IS FAIRHAVEN, A HISTORIC PART OF BELLINGHAM. It was founded as its own town in the 1880s by Daniel Jefferson Harris, an entrepreneur and convicted felon nicknamed “Dirty Dan.” Fairhaven immortalizes Dirty Dan with a bronze statue that sits in the middle of the Fairhaven Green, where on summer Saturdays, locals and visitors alike gather to watch movies together after sundown.

The town’s name comes from a translation of its indigenous name, “see-see-lich-em,” meaning safe port. Fairhaven was originally a predominantly fishing-based economy before being amalgamated with Bellingham in the early 1900s. While Fairhaven no longer is the thriving commercial fishing hub of yesteryear, it still has a vibrant marine industrial and transportation base. The Bellingham Cruise Terminal is the gateway terminal for the Alaska Marine Highway and also serves as a jumping off point for whale watching companies and water taxis to the San Juan Islands. Fairhaven is either the first or the last U.S. stop on

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PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

the Amtrak Cascades route that runs from Vancouver, B.C. to Eugene, Oregon, depending on if travelers are ven-

turing north or south.

This Waterside town was made for strolling, and visitors can’t help but

notice the plaques embedded in the sidewalks, each bearing a historical factoid. Looking up, the old timey ar-

Where charm and sophistication meet in the heart of Fairhaven's historic district, Fairhaven Village Inn and Galloway's Cocktail Bar offer a place to pause and enjoy the everyday.

relax & recharge With spacious guestrooms and stunning harbor and parkside views, a stay at Fairhaven Village Inn is as inspiring as its location. After a day of exploring, enjoy hand-crafted beverages and light bites at Fairhaven's favorite deco-era-inspired bar, Galloway's Cocktail Bar.

1200 10th Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 | fairhavenvillageinn.com • 360.733.1311 | gallowayscocktail.bar • 360.756.2795

WATERSIDE 2022

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1200 11th St. in Historic Fairhaven, Bellingham, WA AND 430 Front St. in Downtown Lynden, WA FH:360.671.2626 • LY:360.526.2133 • villagebooks.com

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Visitor’s Center: 1106 Harris Ave. #103 • Bham, 98225

FAIRHAVEN

Elevation: 16.4’ Waterfront access: Boulevard Park Coming up: Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema chitecture helps to transport sightseers back to a simpler time. Ocean views, charming shops and lively events and festivals keep Fairhaven bustling all year round.

The shops and boutiques in Fairhaven appeal to shoppers of all ages and tastes. Whether visitors are searching for books, shoes, housewares, toys, local greeting cards, clothing or even artisan olive oil and vinegar, Fairhaven is the place to shop. Restaurants range from casual, walk-up burger joints to upscale Italian bistros. Visitors will have no trouble finding bars to fit their taste, from dives to upscale to prohibition-themed cocktail parlors, yup, there’s something for all tastes and budgets in Fairhaven.

Pups are always welcome in Fairhaven. Dogs can pop into many local shops right alongside their owners, and there is even a dog-friendly tavern along the walk to Marine Park and the Bellingham Cruise Terminal.

Come visit Fairhaven, where tourists and locals come together to decompress, meander and enjoy the slow tick of time, rain or shine.

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

For more information, visit enjoyfairhaven.com.

Respite for the body, mind and soul.

804 10th St. Bellingham, WA 360-756-1005 www.thechrysalisinnandspabellingham.curiocollection.com

Luxury Rooms

Spa

Whale Watching Packages

Restaurant

Events WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BELLINGHAM.ORG

rick steves.

With travel to Europe shut down during the pandemic, noted travel writer and TV personality Rick Steves had the pleasure of exploring Whatcom County.

Some highlights included visiting Drayton Harbor Oyster Company in Blaine, playing the organ at Mount Baker Theatre in Bellingham, and taking a break with J.J. Donovan in Fairhaven.

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AIRPLANES

TRAINS

Amtrak Amtrak stations located in Vancouver, Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Stanwood, Everett and Seattle. amtrak.com

BUSES

Airporter Shuttle This shuttle takes passengers from up the I-5 corridor to and from Sea-Tac Airport and downtown Seattle. The shuttle is also great for intercity travel and transfers to the San Juan Islands ferry in Anacortes. airporter.com

Bellingham International Airport (BLI) Full-service, commercial airport with international flights.

I-5, Exit 258 in Bellingham. portofbellingham.com/airport Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Full-service commercial airport with international flights.

Hwy 99, Exit 39 in Richmond, B.C. yvr.ca San Juan Airlines Daily scheduled flights from Anacortes, Bellingham and Seattle to the San Juan Islands, Point Roberts and B.C. 4167 Mitchell Way, Bellingham International Airport sanjuanairlines.com

FERRIES Anacortes Ferry Terminal

Multiple sailings to the San Juan Islands and Victoria, B.C. 2100 Ferry Terminal Road, Anacortes 800/843-3779 Service to Victoria remains suspended through the summer wsdot.com/ferries Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Multiple sailings to the Gulf Islands, Victoria and Nanaimo.

West end of Hwy 17 Tsawwassen 888/223-3779 bcferries.com Lummi Ferry

Multiple sailings from the mainland.

I-5, Exit 260 to Haxton Way, Ferndale co.whatcom.wa.us Alaska Marine Highway

Ferries to Alaska Bellingham Cruise Terminal, Harris Avenue.

800/642-0066 ferryalaska.com/

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

transportation.

B

BEING STUCK BEHIND THE WHEEL of a car on a busy highway this summer isn’t necessary to visit all the wonderful places listed in this guide. Visitors will find no shortage of ways to get around these coastal communities.

Bellingham Cruise Terminal and Fairhaven Transportation Station offer

Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven

355 Harris Avenue CALL 360-676-2500 FOR LEASING OPPORTUNITIES

BY SEA to the San Juan Islands and Alaska

BY RAIL to Seattle and Vancouver, BC

BY LAND aboard Greyhound ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY

GREYHOUND

AMTRAK STATION

PORT FAIRHAVEN CAFÉ

SAN JUAN CRUISES

GATO VERDE SAILING

SALISH TRADING POST

SCHOONER ZODIAC

800-642-0066 800-USA-RAIL

360-220-3215

360-733-5251 360-922-3443 360-937-4545

800-443-4552 206-719-7622

www.portofbellingham.com WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

bellingham.

Outdoorsy, artsy, and all yours.

Intersection of art, cuisine, and adventure.

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Bellingham is known colloquially as the “city of subdued excitement.” This Waterside community will keep visitors busy while making them feel as chill as the growlers in its plentiful breweries. It is a youthful college town that makes visitors feel at home. There is a reason that so many college students and snowboarders end up sticking around the city to raise their families. Come and get rooted, even if just for the weekend.

This Waterside gem sits on Bellingham Bay in view of Mount Baker, which is incidentally the course for their annual Ski to Sea race. The 94-mile multisport team race brings crowds to Bellingham every May. Regardless of the season, it’s almost always a good time to drive the 39 miles east to Mount Baker. The wildflowers and mountain air in summer are almost as refreshing as shredding with the throngs of skiers and snowboarders in the winter. Whether hiking to Artists Point in July or snowshoeing in January, the view will take the breath right out FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Mount Baker Theatre HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! PHOTO COURTESY OF DOWNTOWN SOUNDS

Browse our eclectic selection of shows with performances by award-winning artists

of your chest.

Within Bellingham city limits, visitors will find lakes, waterfront parks, trails and beaches. Downtown and the up-and-coming Waterfront District are both worth a wander with plentiful local shops, coffee spots and restaurants.

ZAPPER MEGA

Mount Baker Theatre Presents

THE

Get closer to some of the most dynamic and talented musicians on tour today! Enjoy a smaller venue that allows for a more intimate experience with live performances in the Harold and Irene Walton Theatre.

In 1927, MBT was built as a movie palace with state-of-the-art projection. Today, we welcome you back to enjoy your favorite films with the complete theatre experience.

One of the lowest ticket prices in town — just $10.50!*

Bellingham, WA | www.sparkmuseum.org

*Plus applicable fees.

Mount Baker Theatre is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to the performing arts.

WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

BELLINGHAM

Elevation: 72’ Waterfront access: Zuanich Point Park What’s new: Waypoint Park

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Take a walk down Railroad Avenue on a summer Saturday and find that you’ve strolled into a bustling and long-standing Farmer’s Market. Visit long-time stalls full of veggies, flowers, hula-hoops, pottery, hot food, and a particularly iconic tie-dye stand. Info on Bellingham farmers markets can be found on page 40.

Bellingham was established as its own city when the neighboring towns of Sehome, Whatcom, Fairhaven and

Bellingham amalgamated in the early 1900s. The distinct neighborhoods are what makes Bellingham so unique.

Visitors won’t run out of areas to explore or things to do because, in Bellingham, there is always another district (with a different energy) just around the corner.

Local businesses with friendly faces abound in Bellingham; from eateries to bookstores, the locals make visitors feel like regulars, especially if they bring their pup. Bellingham is a dog-friendly town, and furry friends will be hard pressed to find an area where they don’t find friendly, petting hands. Bring your dog along to one of the many breweries or restaurants with outdoor seating, because in Bellingham, your dogs don’t have to sit out the fun.

In the evenings, local breweries may be speckled with IPA-drinking hipsters loading up on oatmeal stouts and vegetarian appetizers, but there truly is something for everyone. Dietary restrictions are rarely a problem in Bellingham, as most restaurants have gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options available.

The smell of coffee and delectable breakfast specialties waft through the Bellingham streets in the mornings.

There is a coffee shop to fill every desire, a breakfast spot for every niche. An artful town, even the coffee places offer paintings for sale by local artists.

If visitors feel inspired to seek out more art, they will

GTFO! GET THE FAMILY

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TRAILS TO TAPS 30+ miles / 10 breweries October 16, 2022 trailstotapsrelay.com

Made possible by a Tourism Grant from Whatcom County.

WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

find no shortage of galleries, city sponsored sidewalk sculptures, murals and the Whatcom Museum. Those searching for some more science-minded history can get

EXPLORE WHATCOM COUNTY!

YouTube/BuyerMax

their fix at the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention or Mindport Exhibits. More information on museums can be found on page 58.

The newest development in Bellingham is the Waterfront District, home to the brand-new Waypoint Park, the Waterfront Pump Park, and the Granary Building, which is home to a few shops already with more to come in the near future.

For outdoor activities, take in a Bellingham Bells baseball game, or head to Lake Padden for paddle boarding. Ride the interurban trail on a bike or stroll through Whatcom Falls and wade in the cool, shaded water. Muse in shades of green while exploring the sculptures in the wooded glens of the Big Rock Garden on Sylvan Street.

Beauty in Bellingham is around every corner, so come and seek it out.

For more information, visit Bellingham.org.

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L uxury Bayside L odging

18 Breweries in

Whatcom County

100+ Miles of Shoreline

bellingham.org/plan @BellinghamExperience

Maple Beach

Point Roberts Lily Point

CANADA UNITED STATES

Patos Island Sucia Island

Orcas Island

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Matia Island

Clark Island

Birch Bay

Blaine

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Kickerville Road

Sunset Beach

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* See note regarding Lummi Nation border on reverse side.

BELLINGHAM BAY

Ferndale

Birch Bay Lynden Road

WHATCOM COUNTY, WASHINGTON

P or ta lW ay

Portage Island

Lummi Nation

Mountain View Road

Slater Road

LAKE TERRELL

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Lummi Ferry

Lummi Island

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Monument Park

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Saturna Island

KEY Discover Pass (details on other side) .....

Lynden

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Community Boating Center

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Locust Beach

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Birch Bay State Park .................................................................

Dakota Creek Kayak Launch............................................................................

Blaine Boat Launch ...................................................................................

Semiahmoo Resort ........................................................................

Semiahmoo Park ........................................................................................

Lighthouse Marine Park, Point Roberts ..........................................

NOT FOR NAVIGATIONAL USE

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Marine Park ....................................................................................................

Fairhaven Boat Launch, Community Boating Center................................

Boulevard Park ..........................................................................................

Cornwall Beach...............................................................................................

Zuanich Point Park ....................................................................................

Squalicum Harbor Boat Launch .................................................................

Little Squalicum Beach...................................................................................

Lake Terrell .....................................................................................................

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Larrabee State Park, Wildcat Cove ...............................................

Gulf Road........................................................................................................

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Lake Samish (Fish & Wildlife) ..............................................................

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Samish Park ..............................................................................................

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Lake Whatcom (Bloedel-Donovan) ................................................

Lake Padden Boat Launch (access rentals via west entrance) .....

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BloedelDonovan Park

Alabama St.

Lakeway

Yew St.

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Lake Whatcom Park ...................................................................................

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LAKE SAMISH

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CHUCKANUT BAY Larrabee State Park

Cornwall Ave.

Clayton Beach

Woburn St.

Rental ...................................................

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Lake

Garbage .................................................

Restrooms ..............................................

Free Parking ...........................................

Day Use ..................................................

Overnight Camping .................................

Visitor Information Center ........................

ck R ksa Noo

whatcom water trail map.

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Whatcom Water TRAIL MAP The Port of Bellingham has created a water trail map to promote water access along Whatcom County’s marine shoreline and freshwater lakes.

The first version of the Whatcom Water Trail map is intended to promote our region aas a water sports destination and an initial step in a longer-term process. Stakeholders will continue working with local landowners and engaging the public to identify key locations and prioritize improvements for safety and access. Future versions will include river access points.

Gina Stark, project manager with the Port of Bellingham’s Regional Economic Partnership, led the project with help from Recreation Northwest, Kristi Kucera of Moondance Sea Kayak Adventures, and local public land agencies. Credit for support of the map goes to Port of Bellingham commissioner Michael Sheppard for recognizing the value of public access to our waterways.

“This has been an amazing cross-agency collaboration, working with city of Bellingham parks, city of Blaine, Whatcom County parks, Washington State Parks, DNR and Lummi Nation,” Stark said.

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4.5 Star Google Reviews Evergreen-studded islands, abundant wildlife and peaceful anchorages. Experienced or new to boating, we can help you discover the joys of cruising the beautiful San Juan Islands!

Beginner to advanced liveaboard courses. Sailboat and powerboat bareboat charters. Guided flotillas too!

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Bellingham, WA • 360-671-4300 sanjuansailing.com • sanjuanyachting.com

“Knowledgeable, helpful staff that are happy to take the time to make sure you have the correct item. A pleasure to shop at LFS!!”

851 Coho Way, Bellingham, WA 360-734-3336 • 800-426-8860 At the entrance of Squalicum Harbor near Zuanich Park on Bellingham’s Waterfront

www.Go2Marine.com WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

museums.

PORT TOWNSEND JEFFERSON COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 540 Water Street Port Townsend 360/385-1003 jchsmuseum.org Displays exhibits and artwork reflecting the past and present of Port Townsend. Visit one of five sites including the Rothschild House and Commanding Officer’s Quarters.

PORT TOWNSEND AERO MUSEUM 105 Airport Road Port Townsend 360/379-5244 ptaeromuseum.com A variety of antique and classic aircraft, artwork, books and various displays.

PORT TOWNSEND MARINE SCIENCE CENTER 532 Battery Way Port Townsend 360/385-5582 ptmsc.org An interactive natural history museum with hands-on aquarium features, plants, touch tanks and more.

SAN JUAN ISLANDS

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LOPEZ ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM 28 Washburn Place Lopez Island 360/468-2049 lopezmuseum.org Alongside permanent First Islanders and Natural History displays, there are rotating exhibits on farming, fishing, place name origins and island communities.

Features more than 200 Native stone, bone and antler artifacts from First Islander life.

WATERSIDENW.COM

ORCAS ISLAND HISTORICAL MUSEUM 181 N Beach Road Eastsound Village 360/376-4849 Orcasmuseums.org Six original homestead cabins built during the 1870s and the 1890s were taken apart, moved, reconstructed and sited together to create the museum’s main facility. The museum contains Native American artifacts, photography and skull and bone remains from a 14,000-year-old Bison antiquus.

SAN JUAN ISLANDS MUSEUM OF ART 540 Spring Street Friday Harbor 360/370-5050 sjima.org The SJIMA offers rotating exhibitions through three galleries, focusing on artists of northwestern states and southwestern Canada.

Until September 9, “Looking into Kabul,” by James Longley.

SAN JUAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM 405 Price Street Friday Harbor 360/378-3949 Sjmuseum.org Honoring heritage and history, the museum gives visitors the opportunity to explore the grounds of the restored King farmhouse, original county and Scribner’s log cabin.

THE WHALE MUSEUM 62 1st Street N Friday Harbor 360/378-4710 whalemuseum.org The Whale Museum, opened in 1979, was the first museum in the country devoted to whales living in the wild. Today, the museum continues to promote stewardship of whales and the Salish Sea ecosystem through education and research.

WHIDBEY/ CAMANO ISLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY 908 NW Alexander Street Coupeville 360/678-3310 islandhistory.org A museum that features local and regional history including ice age relics, mammoth remains, a fine Native American collection (with cedar dugout canoes), maritime, early settlers, and the first automobile on Whidbey Island (1902 Holsman auto buggy).

LANGLEY WHALE CENTER 105 Anthes Avenue Langley 360-221-7505 orcanetwork.org Learn about the whales and marine mammals of the Salish Sea. Southern resident and transient orcas, and Gray whales. Unique gift shop.

SOUTH WHIDBEY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM 312 Second Street Langley 360/221-2101 Southwhidbeyhistory.org Focusing on the history of the south end of Whidbey Island, the museum also maintains the McLeod Cabin, an original log building and the Brooks Hill House with its photographs of early log structures.

ANACORTES ANACORTES MUSEUM AND MARITIME HERITAGE CENTER 1305 8th Street Anacortes 360/293-1915 anacorteswa.gov/333/Museum The museum houses a collection of hundreds of charts and maps, including railroad maps, town plat maps, nautical charts as well as fish trap maps, exhibits on local fishing and shipbuilding industries.

LA CONNER MUSEUM OF NORTHWEST ART (MONA) 121 S First Street La Conner 360/466-4446 monamuseum.org Located in the heart of La Conner this museum offers an exploration of art, diverse cultures and environment in the Northwest, with a series of rotating and permanent collections.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST QUILT AND FIBER ARTS MUSEUM 703 S Second Street La Conner 360/466-4288 qfamuseum.org Located in the historic Gaches mansion, this museum is a space dedicated to the display of textile work from local, national, and international quilters.

SKAGIT COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM 501 S 4th Street La Conner 360/466-3365 skagitcounty.net/museum From parlors to plows, Native American baskets to Shirley Temple dolls, the museum galleries are overflowing with interesting and often unusual treasures of Skagit County’s vibrant past.

BURLINGTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF SKAGIT COUNTY 432 Fashion Way Burlington 360/757-8888 Skagitchildrensmuseum.net Educational exhibits and events provide kids of all ages with hands-on learning experiences, geared toward promoting an understanding of the arts, science and culture.

HERITAGE FLIGHT MUSEUM 15053 Crosswind Drive Burlington 360/424-5151 heritageflight.org The Heritage Flight Museum displays military aircraft, models and memorabilia.

BELLINGHAM MINDPORT EXHIBITS 210 W Holly Street Bellingham 360/647-5614 Mindport.org Founded by three Lummi Islanders with backgrounds in electrical and computer engineering, marine biology, woodworking and photography, this museum brings together a variety of interests. A collection of exhibits focuses on exploration, observation, creativity, play and fun.

SPARK MUSEUM OF ELECTRICAL INVENTION 1312 Bay Street Bellingham 360/738-3886 sparkmuseum.org Spark features interactive exhibits displaying the inventions and

WHATCOM MUSEUM 121 Prospect Street Lightcatcher Space at 250 Flora Street Bellingham 360/778-8930 Whatcommuseum.org Located in downtown Bellingham, this museum displays more than 200,000 artifacts and artworks of regional importance.

THE MARINE LIFE CENTER 1801 Roeder Avenue Bellingham 360/671-2431 bit.ly/3rW2Z0n Part of the Northwest Discovery Project, the Marine Life Center introduces visitors to the marine flora and fauna of the Salish Sea.

BLAINE

B.C.

ALASKA PACKERS ASSOCIATION CANNERY AND FISHING MUSEUM 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway Blaine 360/371-3558 bit.ly/3vlTE3S Housed in an old cannery building, the museum focuses on the history of fishing and canning in Blaine.

WHITE ROCK MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES 14970 Marine Drive White Rock 604/541-2221 whiterockmuseum.ca Located in the historic White Rock Train Station building on the beach, this museum offers rotating exhibitions and events for all ages to showcase local history.

POINT ROBERTS

GULF OF GEORGIA CANNERY SOCIETY 12138 Fourth Avenue Richmond 604/664-9009 gulfofgeorgiacannery.org Located in the fishing village of Steveston, the largest commercial fishing port in Canada, this museum preserves, presents and promotes the history of Canada’s west coast fishing industry.

POINT ROBERTS HISTORICAL SOCIETY’S HISTORY CENTER 1437 Gulf Road Point Roberts 360-945-7747 Facebook @pointrobertshistoricalsociety Located in a WPA-built community center, the History Center highlights the rich and diverse history of this unique American exclave through videos and photographs, thoughtful displays and a wall-to-wall timeline.

Visit

HISTORIC PIONEER VILLAGE

BRITANNIA SHIPYARDS NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 5180 Westwater Drive Steveston

museums

innovations that changed the course of human history. Come to the Megazapper Show to see 4.5 million volts of electricity light up the room.

604/238-8050 britanniashipyard.ca A rare example of the type of village which once served the thriving fishing industry with its canneries, boatyards, stores, homes and its mix of cultures. A national historic site.

UBC MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY 6393 NW Marine Drive Vancouver 604/822-5087 moa.ubc.ca The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is world-renowned for its totem pole collection, research and teaching.

VANCOUVER MARITIME MUSEUM 1905 Ogden Avenue Vancouver 604/257-8300 vanmaritime.com Since 1959, the Vancouver Maritime Museum Society has worked to preserve and tell the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and Arctic.

ART | NATURE | HISTORY

in Ferndale, WA

Largest Collection of Cedar Slab Log Cabins

GUIDED CABIN TOURS

Tues - Sun 11:30am to 4:30pm FIRST WEEKEND IN DECEMBER

OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

Lighted Christmas Stroll next two weekends www.ferndaleheritagesociety.com JULY 29 & 30

OLD SETTLERS PICNIC

Longest Running Festival in Washington State Live Music • Car Show • Concessions • Beer Garden SAT. NIGHT • JULY 30 • 9PM Live Music & Dancing with Southbound www.whatcomoldsettlers.com

2000 Cherry St. • Ferndale, WA • I-5 Exit 262

See it at the Whatcom Museum!

Art galleries History exhibits Children’s museum Museum Store Café & Wine Bar

©Benjamin Benschneider

MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15

Visit our downtown campus: Lightcatcher Building | 250 Flora St. Old City Hall | 121 Prospect St. Bellingham, WA | 360.778.8930 For hours, admission, and Covid safety protocols visit: www.whatcommuseum.org

WATERSIDE 2022

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A small, tranquil and inviting island.

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A FEW MILES NORTH OF BELLINGHAM IS LUMMI ISLAND, A SMALL, TRANQUIL ISLAND that was named one of 28 “Best Secret Islands on Earth” by Travel & Leisure magazine in 2011. Not a tourist destination in the traditional sense, Lummi offers a relaxing retreat for food enthusiasts and nature lovers. This is where you’ll find a vibrant artist community living on “island time” and enjoying every minute of the laid-back lifestyle.

Quiet, tree-lined country lanes traverse the island, making biking or walking the obvious recreational activities, but outdoor and cultural options are varied, and a great meal is never far away.

In the summer months, find a spot to watch reef netters hard at work in the bay. Wild Pacific salmon reef net fishing is a traditional Pacific Northwest salmon-fishing method and has been practiced for centuries by Native American tribes using cedar canoes and cedar nets to catch wild sockeye and other wild Pacific salmon.

The world-famous Willows Inn offers accommodation and gourmet fare that is both seasonal and local.

Visit one of three preserves protected by the Lummi Island WATERSIDENW.COM

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

lummi island.

LUMMI ISLAND

Size: 9.3 square miles Water access: Sunset Beach Worth the walk: Otto Preserve

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE WILLOWS INN

Heritage Trust. The Otto and Curry preserves are both perfect for a casual walk, but the real hidden gem is the Baker preserve, offering a short but vigorous hike up a steep and winding trail with a great payoff – an overlook with breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands.

If introspection is what you’re seeking, the Lummi Island Congregational Church welcomes the public to the beach behind the church, as well as a secluded stone labyrinth for walking meditation. Lounge in the sand and rocks at Sunset Beach on West Shore Drive, where you may be able to watch reef netters catching salmon, or come around sunset for your best bet at watching orcas swim by.

On your way home, try your luck at the Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa on the road back to I-5. Silver Reef offers several restaurants, including an award-winning steak house and wine room. Overnight accommodations make it a great base from which to travel. Stock up at the Lummi Bay Market with your winnings from the casino.

To get to Lummi Island, take the Slater Road exit from I-5 and head west 3.2 miles to Haxton Way. Turn south on Haxton Way and drive seven miles to the Gooseberry Point ferry dock.

The Whatcom Chief ferry runs at least once an hour Ken Ken Linda throughout the day.

A vehicle and driver fare is $14 Swanson Swanson Swanson round trip, and each passenger or pedestrian ticket is 360.734.7500 360.734.7500 360.961.6066 cell 360.961.6066 360.201.5180 cellcell KenSwanson@windermere.com LindaSwanson@windermere.com KenSwanson@windermere.com $8.

Lummi Island provides a beautiful backdrop for visitors to find relaxation and peace among the wildflowers One of the most desirable properties in the San Juan Islands. native to the island, such as camas, lupine, fireweed and And only a 5-minute ride on the county operated ferry We would like to introduce to you an often over looked gem and the most accessible of the San Juan We would Islands! like to introduce to you an often over looked gem and the m wooly sunflowers. makes it the easiest island to reach.

Discover the

Find your place on the Salish Sea. Discover the

Lummi Island Vibe

Lummi Isla

Lummiinformation, Island is located near Bellingham and is served by a small ferry which makes the short scenic Lummi crossing Islandmany is located timesnear a day.

Bellingham Just two hours and isfrom served Seattle by a small and ferry which makes the short For more visit lummi-island.com.

Legoe Rd, (mls 30 minutes from the Canadian border, it’s convenient to all the amenities from quiet island life4232 to 30big minutes city excitement. fromBay the Canadian EnjoyLummi natural border,beauty it’sIsland convenient on this wooded, to#1803621) all the amenities from quiet island li rural island. Spend many quiet hours watching birds & whales, go kayaking, boating and rural Spend crabbing, with an many easyquiet stroll along beaches and birds quiet & whales, countrygo kayaking, boating and cra Situated on orisland. therelax island’s coveted westhours side,watching you’ll enjoy gorgeous sunsets, roads. Lummi Island is no stranger to the comforts of vacation style living with hiking trails, VRBO’s, roads. Lummi a world-famous Island is no Michelin stranger star torestaurant the comforts & local of vacation cafe. style living with hiking trail

LUMMI ISLAND ARTISTS’

wildlife and resort style living at its finest. This no bank, waterfront home

S tudio Tour 2022

As Real Estate Agents & homeowners who live on the island, we welcome you to come(2235 discover that Estate this wonderful Agents & homeowners community whotolive offer. onJoin thelaunch, us island, for removable we welcome you to come disco sf,Asall 4Real bed/3 bath) features include has cement boat Saturday morning farmer’s market in the summer and a local art community that holds Studio Saturday Houses morning 3-4 times farmer’s a year. market willflows inalso thefind summer a acouple andchurches, a local art community pier, Open a luxury kitchen, dining areaYou that into large comfortable living that holds Studio O local store, post office, library and an International Baccalaureate designated school. local store, post office, library and an International Baccalaureate designated school.

room. Perfect to enjoy each other, family, and friends. Beautiful views of

Learnbeckon more by from exploring website... www.KenS Rosario Strait, Orcas and San Juan Islands everyourwindow.

September 3Learn & more 4 by exploring our website... www.KenSwansonHomes.com

Across the street are 2.5 acres and a large 12,900 square foot warehouse with several businesses. $2,750,000.

Many Artists displaying at various locations on the island!

Self guided tour maps available at the Islander Grocery and on Facebook at Lummi Island Studio Tour

SEE US ON

360-758-7121 • 360-758-2815 • visit lummi-island.com

Ken Swanson, Island Resident Broker, Realtor 360-961-6066 KenSwanson@Windermere.com www.KenSwansonHomes.com WATERSIDE 2022

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events.

ONGOING

Mount Vernon Drive In Movie Nights June 10, July 15 and August 5 mountvernonwa.gov Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema Saturdays June 25-August 27 enjoyfairhaven.com Port Townsend Bay Tours Saturdays, July 2-September 3 nwmaritime.org/summer-tours

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WATERSIDENW.COM

Port Townsend Hands on Ship Simulator Tours Saturdays, July 2-September 3 nwmaritime.org/summer-tours Downtown Sounds Wednesdays July 6 - August 3 downtownbellingham.com

Port of Anacortes Summer Concert Series at Seafarers Park Wednesday & Fridays, July 15 throurgh August

Savor the San Juans Mid-September – Mid-November visitsanjuans.com/savor

JUNE Burlington Berry Dairy Days June 17-19 burlington-chamber.com Orcas Island Solstice Parade June 18 orcasislandchamber.com

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

WATERSIDE

Bellingham Interstellar Solstice Party June 21 kulshanbrewing.com/events

Anacortes Sailboats Race Week June 20-24 anacorteswa.gov Bellingham Jazz on Tap Festival June 25 bit.ly/3aZBFIP

Birch Bay Kite Festival June 25-26 birchbaychamber.com Blaine Art Studio Tour June 25 blainechamber.com

JULY Bellingham Festival of Music Throughout July bellinghamfestival.org Steveston Salmon Festival July 1 stevestonsalmonfest.ca 4th of July All of our Waterside communities celebrate the 4th of July in style. Visit their individual websites for more information.

Northwest Tune-Up Festival July 8-10 kulshanbrewing.com/events

Mount Vernon Highland Games July 9 celticarts.org Blaine Harbor Music Festival and Camp July 10-16 blaineharbormusicfestival.org

Heart of Anacortes Concert July 10 anacorteswa.gov Anacortes Shipwreck Festival July 16 anacorteswa.gov

Vintage RV Rally and Classic Car Show Deception Pass State Park July 22-24 whidbeylocal.com

The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova, San Juan Island August 26-28

Whidbey Island Fair July 28-31 whidbeyislandfair.com

Discover Birch Bay Days August 27-28

Birch Bay Sand Sculpture Competition July 30 birchbaychamber.com White Rock Sea Festival July 30-31 whiterockcity.ca Birch Bay Rollback Weekend Car Show July 31 birchbaychamber.com Tsawwassen Sun Festival July 29- August 2 sunfestival.ca

AUGUST San Juan Island Summer Arts Festival Fridays in August sanjuancountyarts.org/san-juan-summerarts-festival Birch Bay National Night Out August 2 birchbaychamber.com San Juan County Fair August 17-20 sjcfair.org La Conner Classic Boat and Car Show August 6 lovelaconner.com Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival (Blaine) August 6-7 blainechamber.com

Skagit County Fair August 10-13 skagitcounty.net

Orcas Island Artists’ Studio Tour August 12-14 orcasartistsstudiotour.com

Whidbey Island Car Show August 13 whidbeylocal.com

Blaine Art 2 Jazz July 16 blainechamber.com

Steveston Dragon Boat Festival August 20

Blaine Pride in the Park July 16 blainechamber.com

Richmond Maritime Festival August 20-21

stevestondragonboatfestival.ca

lakedale.com/music-festival

birchbaychamber.com

SEPTEMBER Oak Harbor Music Festival September 2-4 oakharborfestivall.com

Anacortes Music Project September 3 anacorteswa.gov

Lopez Island Artists’ Studio Tour September 3-4 lopezislandartists.com

Orcas Island Jazz Festival September 4-6 oijf.org

Archipelago Collective Chamber Music Festival, San Juan Island September 9-11 archipelagocollective.org

Bellingham Seafeast September 17 bellinghamseafeast.org

OCTOBER San Juan Island Scarecrow Contest October

events

Whidbey Island Strawberry Daze June 18-19 whidbeylocal.com

Sanjuanisland.org/something-for-everyone-weekends

Festival of Family Farms Skagit Valley

October 1-2

festivaloffamilyfarms.com

Whatcom Artists Studio Tour October 1-2 and 8-9 studiotour.net

Orcas Island Film Festival October 6-10 orcasfilmfest.com

Anacortes Bier on the Pier October 7-8 anacortes.org

Friday Harbor Film Festival October 21-23 in-theatre/ October 24-30 online fhff.org

richmondmaritimefestival.ca

WATERSIDE 2022

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RUNNING

WHATCOM COUNTY Chuckanut Footrace July 16 7-mile footrace gbrc.net/races/chuckanut-foot-race Bellingham Bay Marathon September 24 and 25 5K, 10K, half and full marathon bellinghambaymarathon.org Benefits Bellingham bay Swim Team and Whatcom Football Club Rangers Last Chance Marathon and Half Marathon December 31 Half and full marathon nwenduranceevents.com/events/lastchance Honeywagon Run March 23, 2023 Kids fun run, 4 mile, half marathon gbrc.net/races/honeywagon-runs (Everson)

SKAGIT The Mount Baker Ultra June 5 56 mile mtbakerultra.com/overview Skagit Flats Marathon and Half Marathon September 11 5 mile, half marathon and full marathon skagitflats.skagitrunners.org

64

FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Fidalgo Trail Run October 1 5 mile, half marathon and full marathon, and Woodland Speeders Kids Race evergreentrailruns.com/fidalgo-trail-run

RELAYS, TRIATHLONS AND MORE!

ISLAND COUNTY/SJI

WHATCOM COUNTY

Jefferson County Jeffferson Healthcare Rhody Run May 22 10k, 5k rhodyrun.com

Ski to Sea May 29 Team relay skitosea.com

San Juan Island Marathon June 18-19 10k, half marathon and full marathon bit.ly/2WvLTb5 Race the Reserve August 13 10k, 5k, half marathon racethereserve.com

B.C. CIBC Run for the Cure October 2 1k, 5k Solo or team bit.ly/3JW6t9k Forever Young 8k September 11 Must be 55+ to participate Richmond OlympicOval foreveryoung8k.ca Run Surrey Run September 11 5k, 10k run/walk runsurreyrun.com

Padden Triathlon June 25 Swim, bike, run cob.org/services/recreation/races/padden-triathlon Lake Whatcom Triathlon July 9 Olympic, sprint, aquabike, youth splash and dash Solo or relay lakewhatcomtriathlon.com Ragnar Road Northwest Passage July 15-16 12-leg relay, 10–22-mile legs runragnar.com/ Bellingham Youth Triathalon August 7 Swim, bike, run cob.org/services/recreation/races/bellingham-youth-triathlon Bellingham Traverse September 10 Run, bike, paddle, Solo, tandem or relay team bellinghamtraverse.com/

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

competitive events.

WATERSIDE

Trails to Taps October 16 5-10 team trailstotapsrelay.com/

ISLAND COUNTY/ SJ COUNTY Three Lakes Triathlon June 18-19 olympic, sprint triathlon; olympic, sprint triathlon relay; youth triathlon sjimarathon.com Odyssey SwimRun September 18 Swimming and running 2-person or solo odysseyswimrun.com

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL

360-671-4800 or 1- 877-865-6578

Moran Constitutional Relay September 24 2-6 person teams nwtrailruns.com/events/moran-constitutional-relay

hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/bellingham/bllex 4160 MERIDIAN STREET BELLINGHAM • WASHINGTON

CLALLUM COUNTY Big Hurt September 24 Bike, kayak, run Solo or team bighurtpa.com

BIKING Tour De Whatcom July 23 100-mile, 62-mile, 44-mile, 22-mile tourdewhatcom.com Tour De Whidbey August 20 162-mile, 100-mile, 67-mile, 50-mile, 33-mile, family friendly 10-mile tourdewhidbey.org

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

Mount Baker Hill Climb September 11 22 miles bakerhillclimb.com

Free Fiber Optic Internet Access Complimentary Express Start Breakfast Free Local Phone Calls Free Taxi to Local Airport, Amtrak/Ferry Indoor Heated Pool/Spa HD TV Channels - HBO & SHOWTIME Free Access to City Gym Shopping & Restaurants Golf Packages

WATERSIDE 2022

65

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

birch bay.

The destination for retro beachside fun

T

66

THE BEACHSIDE COMMUNITY OF BIRCH BAY FEELS LIKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME. Driving down Birch Bay Drive in the middle of summer, the breeze will conjure up collective pop cultural memories, like poodle skirts and classic cars cruising the strip. Birch Bay is home to both permanent residents and many, mainly Canadian, summer residents. It attracts visitors seeking the sand and warm, shallow waters of the bay.

Year after year, tourists return to enjoy walks along the beach and the variety of nostalgic restaurants and stores, including The C Shop, which is stocked with homemade chocolates, sweets, ice cream and other seasonal treats.

This community enjoys a long curving beachfront with a newly constructed berm, and access to the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest. Located on the Pacific Flyway migratory bird route, Birch Bay is a birdwatching destination.

Enthusiasts should pack binoculars so as to not miss any details while observing migratory species such as dunlin, brant and black-bellied plover from the panoramic view spot in Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve. This reserve feaWATERSIDENW.COM

tures a fully accessible trail and 54 acres of forest. Follow the trail down the bluff to the beach overlooking the Strait of Georgia to catch a glimpse of resident great blue herons and bald eagles.

Roughly a mile and a half from the reserve is the 664acre Birch Bay State Park, which offers campground, playground, picnic tables, boat launch, the Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail and BP Heron Center. The park is a great place for exploring tide pools in the summer.

Along the miles-long beach of Birch Bay, beachcombers can explore tidal pools, go clamming, crabbing, or push out into the open water in a kayak or paddleboard.

A new limestone pedestrian and biking path entices visitors for a walk along the bay’s shoreline. The new path was the result of a $15 million county project that has been years in the making. A restored beachhead with a natural shoreline now protects the roadway from storm damage.

If the waterfront and trails are not the adventure visitors are looking for, they can take a short drive or walk inland to Birch Bay Waterslides, the region’s largest water park, or the go-kart track and mini golf course at Station 49.

The summers are when Birch Bay comes alive through tourists and, of course, events and festivals. July 30, the beach will be packed with amateur sandcastle architects

Summer Starts at

MENTION THIS COUPON

Upgrade to a waffle cone The C Shop

FREE

with

is a Whale of a Place to Go! purchase of a Cookies Homemade Candy regular Cinnamon Rolls Fudge ice cream Coffee Carmelcorn cone.

Snow Cones C-Foam Cotton Candy Carmel Apples Chocolates

Open Weekends: Mother’s Day to Father’s Day

Open Daily: Father’s Day to Labor Day www.thecshop.com 4825 Alderson Road at Birch Bay Drive Ice Cream Cones • Chocolates • Carmel Apples • Coffee • Fudge

Cheesecorn • Cotton Candy • Popcorn • Peanut Brittle • Almond Butter Toffee • C-Foam

Carmelcorn • Saltwater Taffy • C-Creatures • Cashew Clusters • Peanut Butter Cups

Carmel • Snow Cones • Cinnamon Rolls • Marshmallows • Cookies

HE WHERE TA YS FUN ALW

SHINES!

OPEN DAILY!

STARTING JUNE 24 THRU LABOR DAY Family-Friendly Food Policy See website for details

Heated Water

Snack Bar & Gift Shop available inside Birch Bay Waterslides

Free Parking

360.371.7500

4874 Birch Bay-Lynden Rd. I-5 Exit 270, 3 minutes west

www.BirchBayWaterslides.com WATERSIDE 2022

67

18 Hole Par 72 Public Golf Course!

Only 10 minutes south of the border on I-5, take Exit 270

Check our website for monthly

SPECIALS!

Your One-Stop Everything Store Directly on the Bay! Groceries, Gifts, Beer & Fine Wines, Fresh Produce, Deli, ATM, Souvenirs, Bait, Clothing, Shellfish Licenses, Beach Toys ... and All The Usual

Bay Center Market, the place to get your...

7738 Portal Way, Custer, WA • I-5 Exit 270 Toll Free 1-877-410-9599 • Local 1-360-366-3947

www.GolfAtGrandview.com

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

8050 Harborview At Birch Bay Drive

360-371-7233

WWW.BIRCHBAY.COM

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

EXPLORE CONNECT LIVE HERE for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Sand Sculpture Competition. The Rollback Weekend Car Show takes place on July 31. Pop into town for the Kite Festival on the weekend of June 25-26, the 4th of July, or National Night out on Tuesday, August 2. For more details on events, go to birchbaychamber.com.

Over the August 27-28 weekend, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts Discover Birch Bay Days celebrating the local culture and history of

Billy Brown REALTOR

360-220-7175 billybrown@windermere.com

Tonya Wahl REALTOR

541-707-0196 tonyawahl@windermere.com

WELLNESS SPA

Massage • Airbrush Tanning • Manicures & Pedicures Myofascial Release • Acupuncture • Facials & Waxing Plus we’re the only location north of Seattle offering Watsu!

Come refresh, renew, and restore your 7 Elements of Wellness and achieve an active life, healthy body, and peaceful mind.

BOOK NOW!

360-922-0091 • 7elements.life 7714 Birch Bay Drive in Beautiful Birch Bay WATERSIDE 2022

69

PHOTO BY OLIVER LAZENBY

Birch Bay. The event features a parade, crab derby, a ducky derby, vendors, live entertainment and more.

In Birch Bay, the retro beach town atmosphere will make visitors feel like time is standing still. Escape the hustle and bustle this summer with a trip back in time at Birch Bay. For more information, visit birchbaychamber.com.

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BIRCH BAY

Elevation: 10′ Waterfront access: Birch Bay State Park New: Birch Bay Berm Promenade

ver

BUY LOCAL

Accepting Canadian Cash

Where Your Budz Are Flower • Carts Pre-Rolls • Concentrates

+21 I-5 Exit 270 (Next to The Market) 8125 Birch Bay Square Street #222 360-506-7117 www.BirchBayBud.com

Edibles • Drinks

Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

Discover SHOPPING

Betty Be Good Birch Bay Budz Bow Wow & Woofs Mike’s Dollar Plus

DINING Bob’s Burgers & Brew Jack in the Box Sahara Pizza - Opening Soon!

Subway The Market at Birch Bay Woods Coffee

TESLA SUPERCHARGER STATION

HEALTH & WELLNESS Anytime Fitness Capstone Physical Therapy Energy Foot Massage Nail Masters

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Birch Bay Tax & Accounting NEXUS Global Entry Program Northwest Veterinary Clinic Red Cab Taxi Whatcom Land Title Co. Windermere Real Estate

Leasing info: I-5, Exit 270 • 5 Minutes from the Border 360-676-4866

BirchBaySquare.com WATERSIDE 2022

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tide tables.

Time

We 1 1:46 am 1:21 pm Th 2 2:36 am 1:55 pm Fr 3 3:36 am 2:31 pm Sa 4 3:07 pm Su 5 3:46 pm Mo 6 12:02 am Tu 7 12:31 am 10:26 am We 8 12:59 am 12:34 pm Th 9 1:27 am 2:26 pm Fr 10 1:53 am 3:52 pm Sa 11 2:23 am 5:02 pm Su 12 2:55 am 6:02 pm Mo 13 3:29 am 6:56 pm Tu 14 4:09 am 7:48 pm We 15 12:41 am 12:42 pm Th 16 1:43 am 1:30 pm Fr 17 2:47 am 2:20 pm Sa 18 3:55 am 3:08 pm Su 19 5:07 am 3:58 pm Mo 20 6:17 am 4:50 pm Tu 21 12:18 am 12:03 pm We 22 12:52 am 2:01 pm Th 23 1:24 am 3:41 pm Fr 24 1:54 am 4:59 pm Sa 25 2:22 am 5:57 pm Su 26 2:52 am 6:43 pm Mo 27 3:22 am 7:21 pm Tu 28 3:54 am 7:57 pm We 29 12:48 am 12:27 pm Th 30 1:36 am 1:01 pm

Height

7.2 -1.4 7.3 -1.2 7.2 -0.9 -0.5 0.1 9.3 9.2 5.2 9.2 5.1 9.2 5.7 9.3 6.7 9.3 7.9 9.4 9.0 9.5 9.9 9.5 10.5 7.6 -3.8 7.6 -3.7 7.3 -3.1 6.8 -2.1 5.9 -0.7 4.8 0.8 10.0 5.5 9.7 5.7 9.5 6.4 9.3 7.3 9.1 8.1 8.9 8.8 8.7 9.2 8.5 9.5 7.5 -1.6 7.4 -1.5

Time

JULY

Height

Date

5:28 am 9:25 pm 5:48 am 10:07 pm 6:06 am 10:49 pm 11:27 pm

8.1 9.6 7.8 9.5 7.5 9.5 9.4

Fr 1

4:29 pm 7:50 am 5:15 pm 8:10 am 6:09 pm 8:38 am 7:11 pm 9:10 am 8:21 pm 9:48 am 9:29 pm 10:28 am 10:35 pm 11:10 am 11:39 pm 11:56 am

0.8 5.0 1.7 4.0 2.8 2.7 3.9 1.3 5.1 -0.2 6.0 -1.5 6.8 -2.7 7.3 -3.4

Tu 5

4:51 am 8:38 pm 5:39 am 9:28 pm 6:31 am 10:16 pm 7:31 am 11:00 pm 8:43 am 11:42 pm 10:15 am

9.4 10.8 9.1 10.8 8.6 10.7 7.8 10.5 6.8 10.2 6.0

7:19 am 5:40 pm 8:11 am 6:36 pm 8:55 am 7:40 pm 9:33 am 8:48 pm 10:09 am 9:54 pm 10:43 am 10:58 pm 11:17 am 11:56 pm 11:53 am

3.5 2.4 2.3 3.9 1.2 5.3 0.2 6.3 -0.5 7.0 -1.0 7.3 -1.3 7.5 -1.5

4:26 am 8:31 pm 4:58 am 9:05 pm

8.3 9.6 8.0 9.7

Sa 2 Su 3 Mo 4

We 6 Th 7 Fr 8 Sa 9 Su 10 Mo 11 Tu 12 We 13 Th 14 Fr 15 Sa 16 Su 17 Mo 18 Tu 19 We 20 Th 21 Fr 22 Sa 23 Su 24 Mo 25 Tu 26 We 27 Th 28 Fr 29 Sa 30 Su 31

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Time

2:22 am 1:35 pm 3:12 am 2:07 pm 4:04 am 2:41 pm 4:54 am 3:15 pm 5:38 am 3:51 pm 6:20 am 4:31 pm 7:00 am 5:19 pm 12:15 am 2:26 pm 12:45 am 3:58 pm 1:21 am 5:08 pm 2:03 am 6:04 pm 2:51 am 6:52 pm 3:43 am 7:36 pm 12:31 am 12:30 pm 1:29 am 1:18 pm 2:27 am 2:04 pm 3:25 am 2:50 pm 4:25 am 3:34 pm 5:25 am 4:18 pm 6:21 am 5:04 pm 7:17 am 5:56 pm 12:20 am 3:47 pm 12:50 am 5:01 pm 1:26 am 5:51 pm 2:06 am 6:29 pm 2:48 am 7:01 pm 3:34 am 7:31 pm 12:30 am 12:07 pm 1:10 am 12:41 pm 1:48 am 1:13 pm 2:26 am 1:45 pm

Height

7.2 -1.4 7.0 -1.0 6.6 -0.4 6.0 0.4 5.2 1.4 4.2 2.6 3.0 3.9 9.4 6.2 9.4 7.3 9.5 8.4 9.6 9.4 9.6 10.1 9.6 10.5 7.6 -3.6 7.1 -3.2 6.4 -2.3 5.5 -1.0 4.5 0.5 3.5 2.2 2.5 3.8 1.6 5.2 9.1 6.9 8.9 7.7 8.7 8.4 8.5 8.8 8.4 9.1 8.2 9.3 7.1 -1.3 6.8 -1.2 6.4 -0.9 6.0 -0.4

DST Not For Navigation

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

AUGUST

Time

Height

Date

5:32 am 9:39 pm 6:08 am 10:09 pm 6:48 am 10:37 pm 7:44 am 11:01 pm 9:02 am 11:25 pm 10:44 am 11:49 pm 12:34 pm

7.7 9.7 7.3 9.6 6.9 9.6 6.3 9.5 5.7 9.4 5.4 9.4 5.5

Mo 1

7:44 am 6:21 pm 8:28 am 7:41 pm 9:14 am 9:03 pm 10:02 am 10:19 pm 10:50 am 11:29 pm 11:40 am

1.7 5.3 0.3 6.4 -1.1 7.3 -2.2 7.7 -3.1 7.8 -3.6

Mo 8

4:41 am 8:20 pm 5:41 am 9:00 pm 6:43 am 9:38 pm 7:49 am 10:14 pm 9:03 am 10:48 pm 10:27 am 11:20 pm 12:07 pm 11:50 pm 2:01 pm

9.4 10.7 9.0 10.6 8.4 10.5 7.6 10.2 6.8 10.0 6.2 9.7 5.9 9.4 6.2

Su 14

8:07 am 7:00 pm 8:53 am 8:24 pm 9:35 am 9:44 pm 10:15 am 10:52 pm 10:53 am 11:46 pm 11:31 am

0.9 6.4 0.2 7.1 -0.3 7.5 -0.7 7.5 -1.0 7.4 -1.2

Mo 22

4:18 am 7:59 pm 5:02 am 8:25 pm 5:46 am 8:51 pm 6:32 am 9:13 pm

8.1 9.4 7.9 9.5 7.6 9.5 7.3 9.4

Su 28

Tu 2 We 3 Th 4 Fr 5 Sa 6 Su 7

Tu 9 We 10 Th 11 Fr 12 Sa 13

Mo 15 Tu 16 We 17 Th 18 Fr 19 Sa 20 Su 21

Tu 23 We 24 Th 25 Fr 26 Sa 27

Mo 29 Tu 30 We 31

Time

3:06 am 2:17 pm 3:46 am 2:49 pm 4:28 am 3:23 pm 5:12 am 4:03 pm 6:00 am 4:51 pm 6:52 am 5:57 pm 7:48 am 7:31 pm 12:31 am 5:00 pm 1:31 am 5:48 pm 2:39 am 6:30 pm 3:45 am 7:06 pm 12:17 am 12:16 pm 1:09 am 1:02 pm 1:57 am 1:46 pm 2:47 am 2:28 pm 3:37 am 3:08 pm 4:27 am 3:52 pm 5:19 am 4:36 pm 6:13 am 5:32 pm 7:07 am 6:48 pm 8:03 am 8:30 pm 12:34 am 5:15 pm 1:34 am 5:49 pm 2:36 am 6:17 pm 3:32 am 6:43 pm 12:02 am 11:41 am 12:34 am 12:15 pm 1:08 am 12:49 pm 1:40 am 1:21 pm 2:14 am 1:55 pm 2:50 am 2:29 pm

Height

5.4 0.4 4.7 1.4 3.8 2.6 2.9 3.9 1.8 5.2 0.7 6.5 -0.3 7.3 9.2 8.9 9.2 9.5 9.1 9.9 9.1 10.1 6.4 -2.5 5.6 -1.8 4.6 -0.7 3.7 0.8 2.9 2.3 2.2 3.8 1.7 5.1 1.3 6.2 1.0 7.0 0.7 7.3 7.9 8.4 7.8 8.7 7.7 8.9 7.7 9.0 6.1 -0.4 5.5 -0.2 4.9 0.3 4.2 1.0 3.5 2.0 2.7 3.1

Time

SEPTEMBER Height

Date

7:22 am 9:35 pm 8:20 am 9:57 pm 9:32 am 10:19 pm 10:56 am 10:43 pm 12:38 pm 11:11 pm 2:30 pm 11:45 pm 3:58 pm

6.9 9.4 6.6 9.3 6.2 9.2 6.1 9.2 6.4 9.2 7.1 9.2 8.0

Th 1

8:46 am 9:03 pm 9:42 am 10:19 pm 10:36 am 11:23 pm 11:26 am

-1.3 7.7 -2.1 7.6 -2.7 7.1 -2.8

Th 8

Fr 2 Sa 3 Su 4 Mo 5 Tu 6 We 7

Fr 9 Sa 10 Su 11

4:51 am 8.9 7:42 pm 10.2 5:57 am 8.7 8:14 pm 10.1 7:01 am 8.3 8:46 pm 9.9 8:05 am 7.7 9:16 pm 9.6 9:13 am 7.2 9:44 pm 9.4 10:31 am 6.9 10:12 pm 9.0 11:59 am 6.7 10:42 pm 8.7 1:45 pm 7.0 11:12 pm 8.4 3:25 pm 7.5 11:46 pm 8.1 4:31 pm 8.0

Mo 12

8:55 am 0.3 9:54 pm 7.2 9:43 am 0.0 10:48 pm 6.9 10:25 am -0.3 11:26 pm 6.5 11:05 am -0.4

Th 22

4:24 am 7:05 pm 5:14 am 7:27 pm 6:04 am 7:47 pm 6:52 am 8:07 pm 7:44 am 8:27 pm 8:42 am 8:49 pm

7.7 9.1 7.7 9.1 7.6 9.1 7.6 9.1 7.5 9.0 7.4 8.9

Tu 13 We 14 Th 15 Fr 16 Sa 17 Su 18 Mo 19 Tu 20 We 21

Fr 23 Sa 24 Su 25 Mo 26 Tu 27 We 28 Th 29 Fr 30

Time

Height

Time

Height

3:30 am 2.0 9:50 am 7.3 3:09 pm 4.3 9:11 pm 8.8 4:16 am 1.2 11:08 am 7.3 3:53 pm 5.5 9:35 pm 8.8 5:10 am 0.6 12:44 pm 7.6 4:53 pm 6.5 10:09 pm 8.7 6:10 am 0.0 2:24 pm 8.1 6:17 pm 7.3 10:53 pm 8.6 7:16 am -0.6 3:40 pm 8.7 8:01 pm 7.5 12:01 am 8.4 8:22 am -1.0 4:32 pm 9.1 9:25 pm 7.2 1:29 am 8.2 9:22 am -1.4 5:12 pm 9.5 10:25 pm 6.4 2:53 am 8.3 10:18 am -1.4 5:48 pm 9.6 11:15 pm 5.5 4:05 am 8.4 11:10 am -1.1 6:20 pm 9.7 12:01 am 4.4 5:13 am 8.5 11:58 am -0.5 6:50 pm 9.6 12:43 am 3.4 6:17 am 8.5 12:42 pm 0.5 7:18 pm 9.5 1:25 am 2.4 7:17 am 8.4 1:24 pm 1.7 7:44 pm 9.3 2:07 am 1.7 8:17 am 8.2 2:06 pm 3.0 8:10 pm 9.0 2:49 am 1.2 9:19 am 8.0 2:48 pm 4.2 8:36 pm 8.7 3:31 am 1.0 10:27 am 7.8 3:32 pm 5.3 9:00 pm 8.3 4:17 am 0.9 11:43 am 7.7 4:24 pm 6.2 9:24 pm 8.0 5:07 am 1.0 1:13 pm 7.8 5:32 pm 6.9 9:50 pm 7.6 6:03 am 1.1 2:39 pm 8.0 7:18 pm 7.1 10:26 pm 7.3 7:03 am 1.1 3:39 pm 8.3 9:26 pm 6.9 11:40 pm 7.0 8:05 am 1.0 4:19 pm 8.5 10:08 pm 6.4 1:14 am 6.8 8:59 am 0.8 4:49 pm 8.6 10:34 pm 5.9 2:34 am 6.9 9:47 am 0.7 5:15 pm 8.7 11:00 pm 5.3 3:38 am 7.1 10:29 am 0.8 5:37 pm 8.8 11:28 pm 4.5 4:34 am 7.4 11:07 am 1.0 5:59 pm 8.9 11:56 pm 3.7 5:26 am 7.7 11:45 am 1.5 6:19 pm 8.9 12:26 am 2.8 6:16 am 8.0 12:21 pm 2.1 6:39 pm 8.9 12:58 am 2.0 7:08 am 8.2 12:59 pm 3.0 6:59 pm 8.9 1:32 am 1.2 8:02 am 8.4 1:37 pm 4.0 7:21 pm 8.8 2:08 am 0.5 9:00 am 8.6 2:19 pm 5.0 7:43 pm 8.7 2:50 am -0.1 10:04 am 8.6 3:07 pm 6.0 8:05 pm 8.6

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

JUNE

Date

Tides at Cherry Point

JO

! y a B h c r i B

THE FUN IN IN

2022 EVENTS

Kite Festival • June 25 & 26 Sand Sculpture Competition • July 30 Rollback Weekend Car Show • July 31 National Night Out • August 2 Discover Birch Bay Days • August 27 & 28 Trick-or-Treat on the Berm • October 29 Ring of Fire & Hope • December 31 Polar Bear Plunge • January 1, 2023

Visitor Information Center NEW LOCATION: 4819 Alderson Road #103 Blaine, WA, 98230 360-371-5004 www.birchbaychamber.com www.birchbaywa.org

Follow us!

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

blaine.

B

A city by the sea

BLAINE IS A CITY WITH A RICH HISTORY, AND THERE’S NO BETTER REPRESENTATION OF THAT THAN THE CITY’S ICONIC PEACE ARCH. Built in 1921 to commemorate the peace established between U.S. and Great Britain at the end of the War of 1812, the arch acts as a gateway between the U.S. and Canada, celebrating the shared history that makes Blaine one-of-a-kind.

For decades in the 1800s to mid-1900s, Blaine was one of the busiest seaports in the northwest. Salmon and crab were shipped between Blaine and Alaska while workers labored in the many canneries.

Today, Blaine is less reliant on sea trade, but the legacy of the fishing industry can still be seen at H Street Plaza, in the form of a statue called “Vigil.” The commemorative statue depicts a mother and wife and child looking out to sea, waiting for the fishing husbands and fathers to safely return to harbor.

More recently, Blaine has become known for its bustling “restaurant row,” where visitors will find all manner of cuisines including steak & ribs, farm to table oysters, Italian,

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PHOTO BY ANNIE PFLUEGER

Wine • Beer • Craft Cocktails PNW Cuisine • Covered Outdoor Seating Trivia on Thursdays • Live Music on Fridays Wine Paired Menu on Saturdays Open Wednesday - Saturday 277 G Street • Downtown Blaine • 360-392-0955 TheVaultWine.com TheVaultWine

German, Thai, Mexican, American including a wine bar.

Most of these restaurants offer dining with a view of the harbor.

Blaine boasts truly stunning waterfront scenery and the view from Marine Park is in a class of its own. Facing north on Semiahmoo Bay, with Drayton Harbor just behind, the

CELEBRATE inSUMMER Blaine by the Sea! Historic Plover Ferry Rides Runs Friday, Saturday & Sunday thru Labor Day

• The perfect rubber-tire getaway vacation that’s easy on the wallet!

• Just 2-hours from Seattle & 1-hour from Vancouver, BC! • Plenty of pristine beaches, waterfront playgrounds, outdoor activities & fabulous open-air restaurants to enjoy!

• Plover Ferry rides & other summer-long, fun-filled, family events:

STUDIO TOUR

June 25

Over 35 Artists BLAINE

ALL VOYAGERS WELCOME!

BlaineByTheSea.com/events

Old-Fashioned

4TH OF JULY Celebration

Grand Parade

Car Show • Live Music Street Fair & Fireworks

Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival

August 6-7

2-Day Maritime Festival Kids Games • Pirate Daze

Alaska Packers Association Museum Open Weekends Blaine Market By The Sea, Saturdays thru October Art 2 Jazz Street Fair July 16 SECONDS OFF I-5, 276 AT THE US/CANADA BORDER

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AVAILABLE NOW! 9000 Semiahmoo Parkway Blaine, WA 98230

2,454 - 3,029 Square Feet

3 Designer Selected Interior Schemes

Brian Southwick 360-815-6638

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4 Floorplans to Choose From

Jim Kaemingk 360-224-5465

PHOTO BY ANNIE PFLUEGER

park offers views of White Rock, B.C. and the Peace Arch.

Visitors can walk a dog and stroll along the beach and path to the fishing and crabbing pier at the end of the drive.

Return along the southside board walk and view the commercial and recreational boats moored in Blaine marina.

Peace Arch State Park offers more than just the titular monument. The grounds are meticulously groomed to make the best possible impression on border crossers from both the U.S. and Canada. From May to October, the International Sculpture Exhibition displays sculptural works of both local and international artists. Unfortunately, the Canadian side is still observing pandemic restrictions and remains closed.

Freshest Oysters Around From OUR Farm to YOUR Table Visit our website at: draytonharboroysters.com For current store hours, farm updates, and smiles.

Drayton Harbor Oyster Company 685 Peace Portal Dr. • Blaine, Washington

Historic

Blaine Harbor

Full Service Marina at 49° North Walk To Dining and Shopping Playground and Walking Trails Convenient Stopover on the Inside Passage (360)

www.portofbellingham.com blaineharbor@portofbellingham.com

647-6176

BLAINE HARBOR WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

Blaine, A Home For You Call for Opportunities!

Across from the pier is the Semiahmoo Resort, offering seaside restaurants, a spa, golf course, pool and beaches. Also located on Semiahmoo Spit is the APA Museum which tells the story of the Alaska Packers Association salmon cannery.

Blaine has long been a birdwatching destination. The city is located on the Pacific Flyway, a major north-tosouth migratory path for seabirds. Birdwatchers frequently spot great blue herons, bald eagles, loons, mergansers and brant, sometimes even catching a rare glimpse of wayward pelicans.

Each summer, Blaine hosts the largest 4th of July cele-

Open for dining till 6pm, take out till 8pm

The Mullenix Team

360-820-2630 info@peacearchrealestate.com www.peacearchrealestate.com Waterfront Dining 825 Peace Portal Drive

Downtown Blaine • Minutes from I-5 Exit 276 360-332-3267

www.ChadaThaiUSA.com

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Mon-Fri 11-8, Sat & Sun 12-8

FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Join Us For AUTHENTIC Mexican Food!

• Outdoor Patio • Best Margaritas

in Whatcom County!

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

2

• Lunch Specials

MINUTES from the border!

Open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner

758 Peace Portal Drive Downtown Blaine

360/332-4045

Order Online!

pasodelnorte.net

LARGEST SELECTION of: The

• Prerolls • Flower • Oil • Vape Cartridges • Edibles & CBD Products

OPEN 7 DAYS

DAILY 8AM - 11:45PM

360-746-8545

2530 Peace Portal Drive Blaine, WA 98230 I-5 EXIT 274 (next to Shell Gas Station)

www.dankbankofblaine.com ATM On Site Must be 21+

WARNING: Marijuana products may be purchased or possessed only by persons 21 years of age or older. This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug.

There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.

Pe a

ce

H Street

Exit 275

Po r

Blaine

tal

Boblett Rd.

Dr .

Sweet Rd.

D R AY T O N HARBOR

Eight Minutes from Birch Bay!

Bell Rd.

CANNABIS

Ask About Our Daily Specials!

Exit

274

WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY WALTER SELDEN

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BLAINE

Size: 8.6 square miles Waterfront access: Marine Park Historic: Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum WATERSIDENW.COM

bration in Whatcom County, with street vendors, fireworks and live music attracting friendly crowds from all over.

Every Saturday, the G Street Plaza swells with visitors and vendors selling goods at the farmers market (p. 40).

Visit Blaine for a much-needed dose of salty sea air, amazing food, and views like nowhere else. Stop on your way across the border or spend a weekend; either way Blaine greets every visitor with a friendly sea wave.

For more info, visit blainebythesea.com.

Photo: Shawn Robbins

A WATERSIDE BORDER TOWN, RICH IN MARITIME HISTORY!

Blaine play, eat & stay! by the sea!

Welcome to

Photo: Jannel Kortlever

2022 events

Saturdays: April–October • Blaine’s Market by the Sea Friday–Sunday: April–September Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum

Weekends thru Labor Day

Blaine Old Fashioned 4th of July

Historic Plover Passenger Ferry Rides

May–October

Photo: RuthLauman

Peace Arch International Sculpture Exhibition

June 25 • Art Studio Tour & Summer Concert Series July 4

Kayaking Semiahmoo Bay

Photo: RuthLauman

Photo: Pat Grubb

Old Fashioned Fourth of July Parade, Street Fair, Car Show & Fireworks

July 9 • Summer Concert Series Ride the Plover Over

July 10–16 • Blaine Harbor Music Festival July 16 • Art 2 Jazz Street Fair July 23 • Summer Concert Series August 6–7 • Drayton Harbor Days August 27 • Summer Fun in the Park October • Downtown Scarecrow Contest

Year-round golfing

Blaine Harbor - Full Service Marina & Boat Launch

December 3 • Holiday Harbor Lights

2023 Events

March 17-19 • Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival

Photo: RuthLauman

Check our website for more events! & WELCOME CENTER

Facebook.com/BlaineChamber

Visit us at

546 Peace Portal Drive • Downtown Blaine (360) 332-6484 • 1-800-624-3555

WWW.BLAINECHAMBER.COM

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

crossing THE border.

The rules for crossing the border have been in a state of flux since the beginning of the pandemic. Consult the latest advisories before attempting any cross-border travel. Currently, Canada requires proof of vaccination status and both residents and visitors must complete all steps on the ArriveCAN App before their arrival.

To cross, you will need one of the following documents.

Canada: If you are a citizen of the U.S., you do not need a passport to enter Canada but you will need it to return into the U.S. Regardless, Canada still requires proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization as well as photo identification, a valid trusted traveler program card (FAST, NEXUS or SENTRI), or an enhanced driver’s license (EDL). If you are a permanent resident of Canada or the U.S, you should bring your permanent resident card with you. Remember – everyone is required to complete the online ArriveCAN prior to arriving at the border. The app may be found at the Google and Apple app stores as well as a web version.

U.S.: Canadian citizens should carry a passport, a valid trusted traveler program card (FAST, NEXUS or SENTRI), or an enhanced driver’s license (EDL).

U.S. citizens should carry a U.S. passport, valid trusted traveler program card (FAST, NEXUS or SENTRI), enhanced driver’s license (EDL), military ID with official travel orders, U.S. Merchant Mariner document, enhanced tribal card or American Indian card.

Children: U.S. and Canadian children under the age of 16 will need to present a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship. Be prepared to prove that you have written parental consent for any minor children traveling with you. If you have legal custody or if you share custody, have copies of relevant legal documents, such as custody rights. If you are not the custodian, a parent or legal guardian, carry a letter of permission authorizing you to have custody when entering Canada or the U.S. A letter would also facilitate entry if only one parent is traveling with their offspring. The letter should contain contact telephone numbers for the parent or legal guardian. If you are traveling as part of a group of vehicles, be sure that your family is in the same vehicle when you arrive at the border.

Pets: A proof of rabies vaccination is required for dogs and recommended for cats.

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Declarations and exemptions: Review what is allowable to take into the U.S. or Canada before you reach the border. The list changes frequently and can catch the unwary traveler by surprise. Surprises are the last thing anyone needs when going through a border.

Declare everything you’re bringing into the country, even if you bought it at a duty-free shop.

Have receipts for all purchases readily available.

Always declare when you are transporting $10,000 or more in or out of the U.S. or Canada.

Prescription and over the counter medication should be in its original container.

When you’re crossing the border, be prepared to answer the following questions for each person in the car: • Where are you from?

• Where are you going?

• How long are you staying?

• What do you do for work?

• What is the value of goods with you?

• Do you have any weapons? (None allowed) • Do you have any fruit or vegetables?

(There are restrictions) • Are you leaving anything in the country?

For more info: U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) cbp.gov 877/227-5511 Blaine office: 360/332-5771 Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) cbsa-asfc.gc.ca 800/461-9999 (in Canada)

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

T

Peace Arch Centennial

The symbolic peace arch was constructed by Sam Hill in 1921 to commemorate the Treaty of Ghent, signed in 1814. The treaty ended the War of 1812 between Great Britain and the U.S. and ever since the two countries have been intertwined in peace. The park was eventually established in 1939, with the Peace Arch in the center. There are actually two parks, a provincial and a state park.

“May these gates never be closed” read the words inscribed on the white-painted 67-foot-tall concrete monument. Nearly a hundred years after the Peace Arch was built, the gates figuratively closed on March 21, 2020 when the U.S./Canada border was closed to non-essential travel.

Subsequently, the state park provided an escape for those separated by the border closure. While the provincial park was closed, Canadians were able to access the U.S. side to meet family members, friends

and lovers. Visitors gathered with tents and barbecues on the manicured lawn, carrying on the park’s legacy of representing peace and unity.

From the park you can see sweeping views of Semiahmoo Bay with the shores of Point Roberts and Gulf Islands off in the distance.

The flags of both nations have been planted facing each other – red and white flowers to recreate the Canadian flag and red, white, and blue flowers for the American flag. Strolling through the park one will find more garden beds and a lily pond.

Note: The Canadian side of the park remains closed indefinitely. For events coming to the park, visit peacearchpark.org/peace-arch-centennial

“A lot can change in 100 years.”

Remembering the past, honoring the present, and inspiring the future.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITE ROCK TOURISM

white rock & south surrey.

Beachside history and blue skies all summer long.

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START OFF WITH A ROUND OF GOLF IN THE MORNING, SPEND THE AFTERNOON ON A SUNNY BEACH, enjoy a meal al fresco and then wrap up the day with an ice cream while strolling along a promenade at sunset.

White Rock gets its name from the nearly 500-ton boulder that receding glaciers left behind on the shore of White Rock. According to a Coast Salish legend, a young First Nations Chief threw it across the Strait of Georgia and its landing spot marked the place where he would build a home for his new wife. While today it is kept white with regular coats of paint, in earlier times guano from seabirds gave it the distinctive color. That, along with its size, made it an ideal landmark for 19th century sailors.

White Rock and South Surrey, situated on the U.S./ Canada border, have a climate that’s often compared to the south of France. A local atmospheric phenomenon called the Blue Hole means that White Rock and other Waterside communities are often sunny while neighboring communities have weather that is less favorable. Combine WATERSIDENW.COM

WHITE ROCK AND SOUTH SURREY Elevation: 262′ Water access: 1001 Steps Rebuilt: White Rock Pier

Two masters. Go to beachhousetheatre.org for ticket information.

There’s much more to this region than beaches and waterfront. Softball City is home to the Canada Cup International Softball Championship (June 20-26) hosting female fast pitch teams from North America and around the world.

Visit the farmers market every Sunday Miramar Plaza in downtown White Rock (p. 40). To that end, visitors will find serious shopping, entertainment and eating choices in the uptown area, all centered on 152nd Avenue. Tourists may also want to check out the plethora of shopping and dining experiences at The Shops at Morgan Crossing and Grandview Corners, 24 Avenue and 160 Street.

White Rock and South Surrey are sunspots in B.C., full of shops, sweet treats, a promenade for long strolls and many diverse eateries. Visitors will find themselves laughing and strolling along, ice cream in hand, a smile across their face.

To learn more, visit explorewhiterock.com and discoversurreybc.com

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

the balmy weather, a 1.4-mile-long waterside promenade with the beach on one side and a host of unique shops and restaurants on the other, and visitors will be happy to put down roots in this community for a while. The historic pier was opened in 1914 as a dock for steamships and historically has been one of the premier attractions along the waterfront. A devastating windstorm in December 2018 led to significant damage to the pier itself; after millions in repairs, it was re-opened to the relief of locals and visitors alike.

Across from the promenade, Marine Drive is stocked with boutique shops, nightspots and great restaurants.

Sidewalk dining and people watching is a serious sport here!

Visit the historic train station which is home to the White Rock Museum.

At the beach’s eastern end, the Grand Chief Bernard Charles Memorial Plaza celebrates the city’s close ties with its Semiahmoo First Nations neighbors.

To the north, Crescent Beach is a popular waterfront spot with a safe swimming area in the warm water of Boundary Bay, and the Blackie Spit Nature Reserve with miles of trails popular with birdwatchers. If visitors feel up to some exercise, the 1,001 Steps trail down to the beach at 15A Avenue will not disappoint. Crescent Beach offers live theater on the beach at the Beach House Theatre. This year’s production will be Carlo Goldoni’s The Servant of

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Island city, by nature

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RICHMOND CALLS ITSELF AN “ISLAND CITY, BY NATURE,” A TIDY WAY OF SUMMING UP ITS RICH DIVERSITY. Richmond, with the village of Steveston on its southern flank, grew on the seventeen islands of the delta where the Fraser River flows into the Strait of Georgia. Its roots as a farming and fishing community are still an important part of what is today a humming metropolis.

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery and the Britannia Heritage Shipyard national historic sites in Steveston bracket a cozy town center and a port that is home to Canada’s largest fishing fleet. Visitors can buy seafood right off the dock or enjoy the ocean’s bounty in the restaurants that line the river and the downtown streets. Steveston is also the jumping-off point for whale watching tours of Georgia Strait, where riders can see sea lions, orca whales and eagles.

On July 1, Canada Day, visitors flock to the Salmon Festival where 1,200 pounds of wild salmon are grilled over open fires. The festival also features a pancake breakfast, parade, live music and performances, cultural shows and a big fireworks display.

From the original Japanese and Chinese workers in Steveston’s boatyards and canneries, Richmond has grown WATERSIDENW.COM

PHOTO BY MEG OLSON

richmond & steveston.

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

RICHMOND AND STEVESTON Size of Richmond: 49.9 square miles Water access: Gary Point Park Historical: Steveston Heritage Fishing Village

into a community in which 74 percent of its estimated 220,000 inhabitants are of Asian heritage. It has been called the Asian food capital of North America – The New York Times has touted that it has the best Asian food in North America.

The Golden Village, a warren of mini malls between Garden City Road and No. 3 Road, is home to a dizzying array of restaurants from classical Chinese dim sum to pan-Asian fusion. In just three blocks of Alexandra Street, visitors will find over 200 restaurants. The area is also home to the Aberdeen Center, one of the largest Asian malls outside of Asia, and the Daiso Japanese megastore. Tourists can start their food adventure by walking the self-guided Dumpling Trail, a collection of 20 or so restaurants. There are two routes, one being a hole-in-the-wall version and the other an upscale restaurant version.

The Richmond Night Market at 8351 River Road is a great way to experience the Asian culture in Richmond. It is open weekends and holidays from April to October 10.

The market has more than 120 food booths and 200-plus retail stalls, an entertainment stage and free rides. Discover authentic Asian snacks and street food such as tornado potatoes, grilled squid, dragon’s beard candy, bubble waffles and more. Visitors will also find retailers selling all kinds of goods at street prices. For more information, go to richmondnightmarket.com.

On rainy days, take the kids to Watermania to play in two large whirlpools, waterslides and catapult off spring boards.

A stretch of No. 5 Road known as the Highway to Heaven is home to many places of worship, such as two spectacular Buddhist temples, showcasing the variety of faiths in the community. Many of the churches and temples are open to visitors.

Richmond is ringed by an extensive dike trail system, connecting dozens of parks. The Richmond Nature Park is 200 acres of the raised peat bog habitat that once covered the area, and five kilometers of trails invite visitors to explore its unique plants and animals. There are over 100 species of resident and visiting birds that can be seen throughout Richmond; visit Garry Point Park, Terra Nova Rural Park, and Iona Beach Regional Park to see bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, northern harriers, barred owls, sandpipers, killdeer and great blue herons. Nature lovers will want to keep their eyes peeled for turtles, river otters and sea lions.

In 2010, Richmond was one of the venues for the Vancouver Olympic Games and the legacy of the games continues in the magnificent Richmond Olympic Oval, which today offers a multitude of recreational and physical fitness opportunities. Try out their state-of-the-art Olympic and sport simulators featuring bobsleighs, kayaks, race cars, ski jump and Paralympic sit-ski.

A few blocks away, the River Rock Casino, B.C.’s largest, offers gaming and world class entertainment.

Steveston and Richmond are great places to explore on foot and bicycle as there’s nary a hill in sight. Trails wind the seashore and jetties jut out deep into Georgia Strait, making Steveston and Richmond a great place to be during a rare summer tempest.

As Richmond and Steveston fade into the rearview mirror, visitors will find themselves smiling with full bellies, wholly relaxed, holding onto memories of fun that will not soon be forgotten.

For more information, visit visitrichmondbc.com.

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

tsawwassen & ladner.

Small towns with big views

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TSAWWASSEN AND LADNER PROVIDE VISITORS WITH A BREAK FROM URBAN LIFE. Nestled between river and ocean, these towns have lots of options for relaxation. Take a stroll or bike ride on a dike beside the river or sea, buy wild local salmon at Superior Fish Market, do some shopping in boutiques, play a round of golf or kayak through a quiet slough with only Steller sea lions and great blue herons for company. These are just a few of the attractions of Ladner Village and Tsawwassen.

In Ladner, traffic is light, terrain is flat and the town’s surrounding horse and agricultural farms will give visitors the urge to get out and walk or bike. Downtown is ladened with historic buildings, friendly restaurants and hometown merchants. Have a drink or bite to eat while you watch boat traffic on the peaceful and picturesque Ladner Slough. The Ladner and Tsawwassen leisure centers offer plenty to do on the rare rainy day.

The Ladner Village Market is a fun local stop, this farmer’s market operates on a “make it, bake it, grow it” vendor model (p. 40).

Exercise enthusiasts can be found doing laps on the stairs WATERSIDENW.COM

LADNER AND TSAWWASSEN Size of Tsawwassen: 5 square miles Size of Ladner: 2.9 square miles Water access: Tsawwassen Beach and Wellington Point Park Family fun: Berry picking at local farms

Serving Sweets Since ‘72 604.943.7535

at Fred Gingell Park on English Bluff Road in Tsawwassen.

These stairs treat visitors to views of the Georgia Strait and the Gulf Islands as well as provide a top-notch cardiovascular workout.

Rent a kayak at Ladner Slough and paddle through the backwaters of the Fraser River. Great blue herons and eagles soar overhead while you explore small islands and marshlands abutting the waterway. Walk or bike the dike on River Road west to Georgia Strait; alternatively, ride the dike from Beach Grove around Boundary Bay. This flat gravel trail goes on and on under silent skies for 20 kilometers.

Both communities are located on the Pacific Flyway, and the surrounding lands are vital stopovers for millions of birds on their annual migration. One of the best places to observe all kinds of birds is at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Ladner. Take River Road West, and turn right for the bridge to Westham Island. Just before the bridge is a small park where often visitors have a close-up view of

1263 56 St. • Tsawwassen

On the way to the Ferry & Centennial Beach Proudly Canadian Goods Ice Cream | Chocolate Gifts | Candy Vegan and GF options

Monday-Saturday 10 am - 6 pm

www.thechocolatebearshoppe.com

Call on Kari & Debbie Fresh local halibut and salmon in season.

We pack for Air Travel Wild local salmon and seafood.

Specialty organic meats and poultry.

Large selection of vegan items.

Bringing you the freshest seafood since 1981

Minutes from Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Superior FiSh Market & Specialty FoodS Trenant Park Square • 5229 Ladner Trunk Road Ladner • 604-946-2097 • www.superiorfish.ca

Specialty Items • Cheeses Soups • Gluten-free Meat pies • Fruit pies Yogurts • Frozen desserts Chocolates • Preserves Condiments & much more!

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Steller sea lions sunning on the docks.

Don’t miss the Delta Nature Reserve at Burns Bog, the world’s largest domed peat bog. Trails lead visitors through a small portion of the 40 square kilometer reserve.

Between Tsawwassen and Ladner are acres upon acres of blueberry fields; stop at one of the roadside stands for a fresh hit of anti-oxidants. Highway 17 divides the two communities and also leads to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal taking travelers to Vancouver Island and various Gulf Islands.

Tsawwassen is located on the north end of the same peninsula occupied by Point Roberts. More suburban than village, the main thoroughfare, 56th Street, is rich with restaurants, boutiques and food markets.

The huge Tsawwassen Mills outlet shopping center is a major addition to the shopping scene. If you feel like a little downtime, head to Centennial Beach for a swim and sprawl on the soft sands of Boundary Bay. Miles of sand flats warm the waters of afternoon tides to a comfortable 80°F/26°C. Alternatively, head up the 56th Street hill towards Point Roberts to cool off in the water spray playground at Diefenbaker Park.

Tsawwassen and Ladner are sweet small towns with a spectacular views of the Georgia Straight and avian migrations.

Come and take it all in.

For more information, visit tourismdelta.com and sunnytsawwassen.ca.

Discover the past and present with a guided tour

Visit burnsbog.org today to book your experience

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Keep an eye on our website for special events all year long

#4- 7953 120 Street, Delta, BC, Canada V4C 6P6 info@burnsbog.org 604.572.0373 | www.burnsbog.org

WATERSIDENW.COM

Bird Sanctuary!

Gift Shop • Picnic Area Open daily 9am-4pm • Affordable Admission!

Visit us online at www.reifelbirdsanctuary.com to reserve your parking spot.

PHOTOS BY DAVID RIFFLE

PHOTO BY MEG OLSON

Explore the secrets and wonders of Burns Bog

5191 Robertson Rd. Westham Island • Ladner, BC 604.946.6980 VISIT US ONLINE! WWW.REIFELBIRDSANCTUARY.COM

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

disc golf courses

Disc golf is an increasingly popular sport for people of all ages. Beginners toting a single disc to throw and old pros with backpacks full of discs alike will enjoy these courses. Disc golf is a great excuse to get outside and experience our Waterside communities and their parks. Happy throwing!

WASHINGTON

BLAINE DISC GOLF COURSE

BAKERVIEW PARK DISC GOLF

Blaine 18 holes, shady forested park

Mount Vernon Nine holes, beginner-friendly

CORNWALL PARK DISC GOLF COURSE

ROCHE HARBOR DISC GOLF COURSE

Bellingham Nine holes, shady forested park

San Juan Island 18 holes, mix of woods and lush open spaces

FORT NUGENT STATE PARK

B.C.

Oak Harbor 18 holes, mix of woods and open space

WHITEMARSH COURSE

Burlington 18 holes, along the Skagit River, mix of old growth and open fields

WINSKILL PARK DISC GOLF COURSE Tsawwassen Nine holes, Canada’s first disc golf course, established in 1976

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

take the plunge

There is nothing more refreshing in the summer than swimming in the great outdoors. In our Waterside communities, a place to dive into cool, glassy waters is always just around the corner. Freshwater and saltwater swimming spots are plentiful in the Pacific Northwest, and here are a few of our favorite places to dive in and cool off.

Always check local advisories and pay attention to warning signage before jumping into any body of water.

WASHINGTON MAPLE BEACH

Point Roberts Saltwater Access: Easy, parking on side streets

BIRCH BAY

Birch Bay Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available just across Birch Bay Drive

WHATCOM FALLS

Bellingham Freshwater Access: Medium, well-kept gravel trails, requires walking

THE BEACH AT LARRABEE STATE PARK

Chuckanut Saltwater Access: Medium, well-kept gravel path and steep stairs, Discover Pass required to park

BAY VIEW STATE PARK

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Mount Vernon Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available at beach site, Discover Pass required to park WATERSIDENW.COM

DOUBLE BLUFF BEACH

NORTH BEACH COUNTY PARK

EAGLE COVE BEACH

B.C.

Whidbey Island Saltwater Access: Easy, limited parking available near beach San Juan Island Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available, short walk to beach

CASCADE LAKE

Orcas Island Freshwater Access: Easy, parking available at the day use area of the lake, Discover Pass required to park

AGATE BEACH DAY PARK

Lopez Island Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available near picnic area

Port Townsend Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available at beach site

WHITE ROCK PROMENADE AND EAST BEACH

White Rock Saltwater Access: Easy, parking available, street and paved paths to beach

CENTENNIAL BEACH

Tsawwassen Saltwater Access: Easy, short walk from parking area to beach

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They call it “The Sigh.”

T

THE SIGH INVOLUNTARILY ESCAPES BOTH VISITORS AND LOCALS AFTER THEY DRIVE THROUGH U.S. CUSTOMS, turn onto Tyee Drive and see the long, expansive view of towering evergreens – the sea swelling in the distance. Not everyone feels it but if you do, you’re hooked. You’ll be back, again and again. After driving through loads of traffic, braking for stoplight after stoplight, passing store after store, finally, you’re looking at heaven.

That’s when “The Sigh” will involuntarily escape you.

Go ahead and let it out. We’ll wait.

Point Roberts is an island of serenity compared to the bustle of the Vancouver metropolitan area. The calm is palpable as soon as visitors cross the border. The streets are narrow and lined with forests and fields, with views of the sea peeking through. Drivers give a wide berth to the horses, cyclists and walkers with whom they share the road.

The pandemic was tough on the Point – only essential travel was allowed into Canada or to transit to the rest of the States. The re-opening of the border was an issue of

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

point roberts.

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

deep concern to residents and local businesses. Now, “the Point” is welcoming tourists back with open arms.

The Point maintains a small-town atmosphere. Neighbors chat in the post office or the supermarket on Tyee Drive. The Gulf Road community center is a gathering place for local groups, hosting everything from seniors’ association lunches to the History Center. The Point Roberts Library sits just next door.

At the end of Gulf Road, there are two restaurants with panoramic views of Georgia Strait, the Gulf Islands and Vancouver Island. On exceptionally clear days, one can see the whitecapped mountains of the Olympic Peninsula.

The Fourth of July in Point Roberts is a hometown USA extravaganza featuring a parade, pancake breakfast, barbecue and fireworks.

Point Roberts life centers around the outdoors. With parks at each cor-

ner of the peninsula, a marina and a golf course, this 5-square-mile community is bursting with opportunities for outdoor activity.

Lily Point Marine Park has miles of hiking trails, snaking along the uplands and down to the bluff-ringed

beach with views of the San Juan and Gulf islands, Mount Baker, as well as sightings of resident eagles and great blue herons. In early summer, eagles gather by the hundreds on the sand flats to gorge on small fish trapped in tidal pools. Signage in the park edu-

So close you are already there ...

POINT ROBERTS MARINA RESORT Closest Marina to the Gulf & San Juan Islands

★ Affordable Moorage ★ US Fuel Prices ★ ★ US Customs Clearing ★ Restaurant ★ .PRM. PH: 360-945-2255

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FAX: 360-945-0927

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prmarina@pointrobertsmarina.com WATERSIDE 2022

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PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

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cates visitors on the rich history of the area.

Historically, Lily Point was a summer fishing encampment for several Coast Salish tribes who used reef nets to fish the sockeye run. Later, the Alaska Packers Association Cannery built giant fish traps off the Lily Point reef, canning millions of salmon until the traps were outlawed in 1934.

The northeast corner of the Point is home to Maple Beach. During summer low tides, Maple Beach offers acres of tide flats where families set up camp and spend the day splashing in the warm water, clamming, crabbing, beachcombing or zipping along on skimboards. On an incoming tide on a hot summer day, the water temperature can reach the mid-80s.

In the southwest corner, Lighthouse Marine Park offers WATERSIDENW.COM

POINT ROBERTS

Size: 4.9 square miles Beaches: Over 6 miles Historic: Point Roberts History Center camping and a boat launch. When the salmon are running, it’s a popular fishing spot for more than just people; harbor seals and the local pod of southern resident Orcas also stop to fill their bellies. Whale watchers tend to have better chances of spotting an Orca in mid-afternoon but the local park ranger will be happy to tell you when they tend to visit recently.

Monument Park in the northwest corner houses a trail

down to the beach. While the trail is steep, the beach is worth the hike. The end of the hike offers a place on the beach that is quiet and secluded, with acres of tide flats at low tide. These tide flats are a popular hunting ground for great blue heron, making this beach the perfect spot to observe nature on a sunny afternoon.

The sigh Point Roberts inspires in visitors is a gift that keeps on giving – inhale that luxuriously fresh sea air, and let the sigh take over again and again.

For more information, visit

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

pointrobertschamberofcommerce.com.

Visit Point Roberts, USA ! n n

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POINT ROBERTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

Nearly 7 miles of beaches Stunning ocean views of the San Juan and Gulf islands Park trails Marina and golf course Waterview restaurants and shopping Minutes from Vancouver, BC

The Tiny American Gem on the Salish Sea! PointRobertsChamberOfCommerce.com WATERSIDE 2022

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