Waterside – 2024 edition

Visit the best of coastal Washington and British Columbia

Art, music and film festivals

Waterfront hikes & nature walks

Fun for kids in every community

publisher’s note

HERE AT WATERSIDE MAGAZINE, WE ARE LIFELONG RESIDENTS OF THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST and are happy to share the very best this region has for travelers and residents alike. That’s why we have chosen a collection of small communities and towns stretching from Steveston, B.C. to Port Townsend, Washington.

HThese towns offer an appealing and diverse range of experiences, whether it be in recreational options, depth of dining choices, or simply in the particular environment in which they are sited.

Whether you’re a lone traveler on a cycling holiday, a couple on your honeymoon or a rowdy family traveling by RV, there is a place and adventure that is made for you. The great thing is, you don’t have to do it all in one day even though you can travel from one end of Waterside to the other in far less than a full day.

What that means is, you can take this region bite-bybite, mile-by-mile, foot-by-foot. Take the time to delve into what makes each of the Waterside communities unique to themselves. Loosen your itinerary, let the timelines go and just start exploring. Waterside has been waiting for you, so let it hand you an adventure.

Welcome to Waterside.

PHOTO BY MADDY ERNST

inside welcome.

south of the border, washington.

8. port townsend

12. poulsbo

14. whidbey island

20. anacortes

25. san juan island

28. orcas island

29. lopez island

30. la conner

36. mount vernon

38. burlington

43. bow, edison & chuckanut

46. fairhaven

52. bellingham

60. lummi island

66. ferndale

72. birch bay

80. blaine

96. point roberts north of the border, british columbia.

90. white rock & south surrey

92. richmond & steveston

94. ladner & tsawwassen good to know.

4. publisher’s note

19. whale facts

34. waterfront walks and nature hikes

41. farmers markets

50. transportation

56. whatcom water trail

58. museums

62. events

70. film festivals

71. outdoor sculptures

78. tide chart

88 crossing the border

Patrick Grubb and Louise Mugar EDITOR Aly McGee

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 Birch Bay at Sunset Photographer: Rick Lawler

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

ORCAS ISLAND BOW, EDISON & CHUCKANUT BURLINGTON

S port townsend.

Small town with old world authenticity

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

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 and the town wilted in the early 1900s.

Today, Port Townsend’s renaissance is fully consummate, and its mention evokes wooden boats, historic buildings, music, film, 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 and elaborate trim play host to restaurants, independent

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

bookstores, wine shops, art galleries, music venues and 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, happening September 6–8, 2024.

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 the public pedestrian

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

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 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. More information on the Port Townsend Farmers Market can be found on page 41.

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 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 ANDY PORTER

PORT TOWNSEND KIDS CORNER

Fun: Port Townsend Marine Science Center

Water access: Pope Marine Park

Playground: JUMP (Jefferson Universal Movement Playground)

BY

poulsbo.

“Little Norway”

NICKNAMED “LITTLE NORWAY,” POULSBO IS A SWEET WATERFRONT TOWN nestled into Liberty Bay.

NOn the Kitsap Peninsula, Established in the 1880s, Poulsbo was settled by Scandinavian settlers, who found the area reminiscent of the fjords of Norway. Today, the town brings its history to life with festivals, murals, and more.

Poulsbo is just a 20-minute drive from the Kingston Ferry Terminal or a meandering drive over the Tacoma Narrows Bridge depending on where visitors are coming from.

Historic downtown Poulsbo is full of charming shops, bakeries, delicious restaurants, murals, and a boardwalk on which to stroll. Visitors with a yen for authentic Nordic treats will want to stop at Sluys Bakery for all manner of treats, including Swedish fruit rolls, Viking cup pastries, Fattman, and some Lefse to bring home. Stop at any of the restaurants or breweries for a variety of delectable food and Pacific Northwest beer.

Views of Liberty Bay and the Olympic Mountains will not disappoint, whether tourists are looking out their car window, walking downtown or enjoying balcony seating at a local restaurant. Great shopping can be found in Poulsbo Village, along Viking Avenue, as well as in College Market

PHOTO

GABE HOUGH

Place.

There is no shortage of parks and greenery in Poulsbo. Liberty Bay Waterfront Park will take visitors along the water via boardwalk. Lions Park is the perfect place to bring energetic kiddos. The 40-acre Fish Park is a pocket of natural wonder in the midst of an otherwise bustling city. Fish Park will provide nature lovers with trails, viewpoints, and wildlife, along with educational signage. Adventurous visitors may even find themselves gearing up at the Poulsbo Pump Track.

The Viking Festival is an annual celebration of Poulsbo’s heritage. Every May, the Viking Festival fills downtown Poulsbo with festivities, including a parade, carnival and street fair, a road race, live music, brew fest and bike ride. The Poulsbo Art Festival will be held August 16-18, 2024, and the Poulsbo Film Festical will take place October 11-13, 2024. Winter visitors will not want to miss the Lighted Ships Parade. For more information on events like these, see page 62.

Second Saturdays of the month are a great time to head to the historic downtown for an evening artwalk. Visitors stepping onto Front Street for the first time will feel like they have stepped into the pages of a Norwegian storybook. Get pulled into Scandinavian history for the day or the weekend. As they say in Poulsbo, Velkommen!

For more information visit cityofpoulsbo.com.

POULSBO

KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: SEA Discovery Center

Water access: Liberty Bay Waterfront Park

Playground: Lions Park

D whidbey island.

A Pacific Northwest haven for artists

DISCOVER HISTORY, ART, MOUTHWATERING

SEAFOOD AND, OF COURSE, THE BEAUTIFUL WATERS of Puget Sound while visiting the largest island in Island County. Outdoor enthusiasts 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 dining on fresh seafood.

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 birds inhabiting the island. Keep an eye on the waters to

BY RICK LAWLER

PHOTO

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 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 operates 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 is kicked 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.

Coupeville is well worth the visit, be it your weekend destination or if you’ve come early before catching the Coupeville Ferry. Among Coupeville’s attractions are a quaint downtown full of shops and restaurants, a gorgeous waterfront, the Island County Historical Museum and multiple summer festivals. The Coupeville Arts and Crafts Festival takes place on August 10 and 11, 2024 and the Penn Cover Water Festival takes place in May. The waterfront begs visitors to take a walk down the Coupeville Wharf on sunny days to feel the sea breeze up close while taking in the spectacular view of Penn Cove.

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 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 historical reserve known for its beautiful trails.

PHOTO BY MEG OLSEN

Painting by Meredith Cannon

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. A ‘must stop’ is the Langley Whale Center - for all ages.

Summer galleries will focus on local landscapes, glass art, jewelry and table-top sculpture. Langley will be bustling during the Whidbey Island Fair, July 25-28, 2024. 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.

WHIDBEY ISLAND KIDS CORNER

Fun: Meerkerk Gardens

Water access: Fort Ebey State Park

Playground: Windjammer Park, Oak Harbor

www.whidbeyislandfair.com

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

whales .

TThe 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

migrate here from breeding grounds in Baja. The “Sounders” gray whales are a group of about 20 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, the gray whales are suffering from an unusual mortality event that so far has claimed an estimated 38 percent loss to their 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 wellknown 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 hope that they can recover if everyone does their 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.

PHOTO BY BONNIE GRETZ

PHOTO BY JILL HEIN

PHOTO BY CINDY HANSEN

PHOTO BY AMANDA COLBERT

PHOTO BY DOUG DE VISSER

BY

anacortes.

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

AANACORTES 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 destination – which asserts a population of around 18,000 – 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 via the Washington state ferry system. 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,

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ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

fishing charters, or boat rentals. The Cap Sante Marina has over 100 berths for guest moorage along with repair facilities, fuel docks and complimentary bicycles, all 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

ANACORTES ARTS FESTIVAL

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, visitors will 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 turnof-the-century luminaries such as Anne and Tommy Thompson, who founded the Anacortes Railway. Muralist, Bill Mitchell, who passed away in 2019, is depicted on O Avenue. Mitchell gave back to the city in

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.

Sail with a smile.

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

many ways, from his ambitious mural project to collecting town history and working to save historic buildings.

Local music and nightlife energizes the downtown as the sun sets. 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 2-4, 2024, has celebrated art in Anacortes since 1962. The festival features nearly nonstop music performances, beer gardens, as well as artists and craftspeople displaying sculptures, textile art, jewelry, photography, paintings and more.

Whether Anacortes is the destination, or tourists find themselves with a few hours

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

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 KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Anacortes Public Library (a Family Place Library)

Water access: Sunset Beach

Playground: Storvik Park

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

san juan island.

A blend of history and beauty

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

SThe island offers more restaurants, shops, galleries, and activities than anywhere else in the islands. Within the easily walkable one square mile town itself, visitors will find a full selection 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, visitors 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 Lav-

2024 San Juan Island Something for Everyone Weekends

Opening Boating Day

May 5 • www.sjiyc.com

San Juan Island Community Theatre’s Annual Spring Musical – Pirates of Penzance

May 10-16 • www.sjctheatre.org

San Juan Island Artists’ Studio Tour

June 1 & 2 www.sanjuanislandartists.com

Three Lakes Triathlon & Marathon June 15 • www.sjimarathon.com

4th of July

www.sanjuanisland.org/4th-of-july Summer Arts Festival Fridays in August www.sanjuancountyarts.org/ san-juan-summer-arts-festival/ San Juan County Fair

August 15-18 • www.sjcfair.org

Rotary Car Show of the San Juan Islands

August 11

www.rotaryfoundationsanjuanislands.org/

The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova

August 23 & 24

www.lakedale.com/music-festival/ Archipelago Collective Chamber Music Festival

September 6-8 www.archipelagocollective.org

San Juan Islands Farm Tours

September 27-29

www.farmtourssanjuans.com

Friday Harbor Film Festival

October 24-27 • www.fhff.org

San Juan Island Restaurant Week

November 14-24

www.sanjuanisland.org/restaurantweek

Friday Harbor Winterfest/ Island Lights Festival

www.sanjuanisland.org/island-lightsfestival.htm

For more information, please contact the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce:

ender Farm, located on Hawthorne Lane, with over 25 acres of lavender to explore. The store on the property offers lavender-infused 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 to find this sweet spot to take a dip.

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 2.2-mile 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.

Another worthwhile hike will take visitors to English Camp which once housed British soldiers during the infamous Pig War of 1859.

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

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

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 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 hugely 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 and 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 quar-

ries, 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.

An annual not-to-miss event on San Juan Island is the Friday Harbor Film Festival, taking place in 2024 from October 24-27. See page 70 for more information.

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.

SAN JUAN ISLAND KIDS CORNER

Fun: The Whale Museum

Water access: Jackson Beach

Playground: John O. Linde Community Park

orcas island.

Largest and most mountainous of all the islands.

ORCAS ISLAND IS THE LARGEST AND MOST MOUNTAINOUS OF ALL THE SAN JUAN

OISLANDS

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 by request in the spring and summer.

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 scene on Orcas Island.

Freshwater lakes are a popular draw 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 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 Moran’s 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.

More information can be found at visitsanjuans.com.

ORCAS ISLAND KIDS CORNER

Fun: Funhouse Commons

Water access: Crescent Beach

Playground: The playground on the Green, Eastsound

PHOTO BY KRISTIN SIEMION

L lopez island.

A small community with big personality.

LOPEZ ISLAND IS A SMALL COMMUNITY WITH A 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. And with miles of shoreline, there is an adventure around every corner.

The cultural heart of the island, Lopez Village, is about four 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 fishers. Every Saturday, a farmer’s 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 comparatively flat geography makes it a favorite destination for cyclists. Lopez Bicycle Works is the oldest

bike 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.

More information can be found at visitsanjuans.com and lopezisland.com

LOPEZ ISLAND

Fun and Free: Shark Reef Sanctuary tidepools

Water access: Spencer Spit State Park

Park: Lopez Village Park

PHOTO BY OLIVER LAZENBY

BY

A la conner.

1800s waterfront community turned arts enclave

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. Historically 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 desti-

PHOTO

LOUISE MUGAR

nation for locals and travelers alike and has been named 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

Emergence by Cael Chappell

PHOTO

La Conner

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 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

613 N. 2nd Street

P.O. Box 1120

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. Expand your appreciation of the arts at the Pacific Northwest Quilt & Fiber Arts Museum. After enjoying a stroll through 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. On August 3, La Conner shows off the best on land and water at

the Classic Boat & Car Show.

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.

For more info, visit lovelaconner.com.

LA CONNER KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Early enrichment mornings at the Museum of Northwest Art

Water access: La Conner Boardwalk

Playground: Kiwanis Playground

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

BY

waterfront walks and nature hikes.

PHOTO

GABE HOUGH

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

WATERFRONT WALKS

Many of our Waterside communities offer boardwalks, piers and promenades that enable visitors and residents alike to experience the waterfront right up close.

FAIRHAVEN:

Boulevard park to the Fairhaven Green: This is a beautiful walk along a sprawling boardwalk. The path is gravel and pavement with one uphill section. The wide boardwalk is suitable for walkers, runners, bikers and strollers.

POULSBO:

Muriel Iverson Williams Waterfront Park to American Legion Park: Paved, pedestrian boardwalk with a dedicated walking/bike path overlooking Liberty Bay. Start your journey with a picnic at the AustinKvelstad Pavilion.

LA CONNER:

La Conner Boardwalk: The perfect Swinomish Channel stroll is mere moments away from shopping, restaurants, galleries and the heart of La Conner. The boardwalk is paved, and suitable for strollers and bikes alike.

WHITE ROCK:

White Rock Pier and Promenade: The White Rock Promenade is a just-over-1.3-mile paved stroll along the beach. The pier is considered White Rock’s crown jewel, and was last reconstructed in 2019 after being damaged in a 2018 wind storm. Note: there are no dogs, bikes, inline skate or skateboards allowed on the pier or promenade.

COUPEVILLE:

Coupeville Wharf: Walk the wharf any leisurely day of the week and you will find plenty of spots to post up at the end. Bring a snack, or a book to read while enjoying the ocean breeze and sunshine.

BIRCH BAY:

Birch Bay Drive and Pedestrian Facility: A paved path where pedestrians and bikers can meander with the ocean on one side and shops and restaurants on the other. Breezy and friendly, this path will not disappoint on a sunny summer day.

BELLINGHAM:

Zuanich Point Park to Bellwether Way: This paved and gravel path will take you around Squalicum Harbor, past several restaurants and the Marine Life Center. Stop at the playground or the Dockside Market, which takes place on the first and third Saturdays of each month.

NATURE HIKES

Visitors who are more into hiking than leisurely walking are in luck while in our Waterside communities. There is excellent hiking around all our communities as long as you know where to look.

ORCAS ISLAND:

Turtle Back Mountain Southern approach vs. Northern approach: Turtleback Mountain offers two distinct hikes. Chose the southern approach for sunshine, open vistas and a steep, uphill climb. Or chose the northern approach for wetlands, wooded shade and a more leisurely ascent. Turtleback Mountain is the second highest summit in the San Juan Islands.

CHUCKANUT:

Fragrance Lake Trail: A hike of moderate difficulty, the Fragrance lake trail is just under 4 miles, with an extended loop option that will bring your distance up to 5.4 miles total. A discover pass is required to park your vehicle. This is a popular hiking trail and dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash.

PORT TOWNSEND:

Fort Worden Bluff Trail: Fort Worden offers a choose-your-ownadventure of interconnected trails. Bluff Trail offers views of the Point Wilson Lighthouse as well as the San Juan Islands. This half mile trail feeds into several other options to extend your hike at various difficulty levels. Plan your hike before you go at parks.wa.gov.

LUMMI ISLAND:

The Baker Preserve: Take this steep, winding hike that gains over 1,000 feet of elevation in just 1.64 miles to an overlook with a wellworth-it view. The lookout offers views of the San Juan Islands as well as the Rosario Strait. Hikers must sign in at the trailhead. There are no dogs or bikes allowed. This trail is on a Lummi Island Heritage Trust controlled access preserve.

FERNDALE:

Nooksack River Trail: The Nooksack River Trail will take you on a flat, gravel journey through Hovander Homestead Park. Detour away from the river to hike the short loop through Tennant Lake and the fragrance gardens. This is an easy hike, with opportunities to see seasonal farm animals and the historical Hovander House.

BY

B mount vernon.

Welcome to Tulip Town

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 country 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 with 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.

Experience the heart of Skagit Valley with a bike tour

PHOTO

ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

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 disk golf course, boat launch, large stage and softball fields. With 10 miles of trails just five minutes from downtown, Little Mountain Park offers

MOUNT VERNON KIDS CORNER

Water access: Baker Street River Access

Fun and Free: Breazeale Interpretive Center

Playground: Edgewater Park

hiking and biking for every skill level. Bike up a paved road to the top for stunning views of the valley and to watch hang-gliders take flight.

The warm months in Mount Vernon are filled with activity. The Skagit County Fair brings family fun to town every summer with live music, carnival rides, farm animals and eating contests.

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.

F burlington.

Where family fun is around every corner

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 pinks and chinooks 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

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

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

Take in the scenery and throw some disks at the Burling-

ton Disk Golf Course.

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 downstream 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.

BURLINGTON KIDS CORNER

Fun: Children’s Museum of Skagit County Water access: Burlington Dike Trail

Playground: Maiben Park

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

farmers markets.

WASHINGTON

Anacortes Farmers Market

Saturdays, May through October

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 611 R Avenue anacortesfarmersmarket.org

Bayview Farmers Market

Whidbey Island

Saturdays, April through October,

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Intersection of Bayview Road and Highway 525 bayviewfarmersmarket.com

Bellingham Farmers Market

Saturdays, April through December 21

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 1100 Railroad Avenue bellinghamfarmers.org

Blaine’s Market by the Sea Saturdays, May through October 14

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. G Street Plaza blainebythesea.com

Coupeville Farmers Market

Saturdays, April through October 12, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

788 NW Alexander Street northcentralwhidbeyfarmersmarkets.org

Lopez Island Farmers Market

Saturdays, May 18 through September 18

Thursday, July 4

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The heart of Lopez Village Lopezislandfarmersmarket.com

Mount Vernon Farmers Market

Saturdays, May through October, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Riverwalk Park, 501 Main Street mountvernonfarmersmarket.org

Oak Harbor Farmers Market

Sundays, April through August

Second Thursday of the month, 4 to 7 p.m.

Location rotates

northcentralwhidbeyfarmersmarkets.org

Orcas Island Farmers Market

Saturdays, May through September

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Village Green in Eastsound orcasislandfarmersmarket.org

Port Townsend Farmers Market

Saturdays, April through October

9 a.m.–2 p.m.

November through December 21

10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

600 Block of Tyler Street jcfmarkets.org

Poulsbo Farmers Market

March through December 14

10 a.m.–2 p.m.

18901 8th Ave NE Poulsbofarmersmarket.org

San Juan Island Farmers Market

Saturdays, April through October

First and third Saturdays of the Month, November through March

9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Brickworks Building, 150 Nichols Street, Friday Harbor sjifarmersmarket.com

South Whidbey Tilth

Sundays, April through October 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2812 Thompson Road, Langley southwhidbeytilth.org

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Ladner Village Market

Second and fourth Sundays, June through September 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

5028A 48th Avenue, Delta ladnervillagemarket.com

Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market

First and third Sundays, May through September

10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Steveston Community Centre, 4111 Moncton Street Sfam.ca

White Rock Farmers Market

Sundays, April through October 13, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Whaling Wall, Johnston Road and Russel Avenue whiterockfarmersmarket.ca

Southlands Grange Tsawwassen

Farmers Market

Every other Saturday from June 8 to November 9

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Market Square, 6313 Market Ave, Delta, BC southlandsgrange.ca/farmers-market

BY

PHOTO

RICK LAWLER

bow, chuckanut & edison.

Unwind down the Drive

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 leads visitors towards a quaint sojourn from the chaos of everyday life.

HPerched on the banks of a slough, Edison is all about escaping the city to embrace one’s passions. This one-intersection town with an estimated population of 240 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-of-the-century schoolhouse, showcases artwork of 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 artisan cheese makers, and Edison has several cafés and restaurants, most of which have an intensely local focus.

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

Chuckanut Drive is an experience drivers should not pass up. The 21-mile stretch of road between Bow-Edison and Fairhaven allows visitors the chance to ramble along high above the shoreline. The cliffs fall to Chuckanut Bay on one side and steep rock faces climb the other side of

Spectacular View

Best Seafood

Wine Spectator Award

Daily 11:30 am - 4 pm

Daily 4 - 9 pm

the drive.

Road bikers be forewarned – the winding road is narrow with no passing room. It’s safest for everyone when drivers 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 Discover Pass to park, but there are statewide 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 and bellingham.org

CHUCKANUT, BOW-EDISON KIDS CORNER

Fun: You-pick blueberries

Waterfront access: Samish Beach

Playground: Larrabee State Park

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

fairhaven.

AA small town with a big reputation

AMONG OUR WATERSIDE GEMS IS FAIRHAVEN, A HISTORIC DISTRICT 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 on the edge of the Fairhaven Green, where on summer Saturdays, locals and visitors alike gather to watch movies after sundown.

The town’s name comes from a translation of its indigenous name, “see-see-lich-em,” meaning safe port. Fairhaven originally had a predominantly fishing-based economy before being incorporated into 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 the Amtrak Cascades route that runs

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

from Vancouver, B.C. to Eugene, Oregon, depending on if travelers are venturing north or south.

This Waterside town was made for strolling, and visitors may find themselves stopping to notice the plaques embedded in the sidewalks, each bearing a different historical factoid. The old-timey architecture helps to transport sightseers back to a simpler time. Ocean views, charming shops and lively 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

PHOTO BY PETER JAMES

books at world famous Village 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 burger joints to upscale Italian bistros. Visitors will have no trouble finding the perfect setting for a drink, from dive bars to upscale cocktail parlors, 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.

For more information, visit enjoyfairhaven.com.

FAIRHAVEN KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Outdoor music concerts at Boulevard Park

Waterfront access: Marine Park

Playground: Fairhaven Park

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

TRAINS

Amtrak

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

BUSES

Airporter Shuttle

This shuttle takes passengers 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 Greyhound Bus Station

401 Harris Avenue

800/231-2222

greyhound.com/en-us/busstation-780043

AIRPLANES

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

Washington State Ferries 888/808-7977

Ferry routes include the following: Anacortes/San Juan Islands

Edmonds/Kingston Coupeville/Port Townsend Mukilteo/Clinton Seattle/Bainbridge Island Seattle/Bremerton Fauntleroy/Southworth Fauntleroy/Vashon Tahlequah/Point Defiance

Lummi Ferry

Multiple sailings from the mainland.

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

Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal

Multiple sailings to the Gulf Islands, Victoria and Nanaimo. West end of Hwy 17 Tsawwassen 888/223-3779 bcferries.com

Anacortes Ferry Terminal

Multiple sailings to the San Juan Island 2100 Ferry Terminal Road, Anacortes 800/843-3779 wsdot.com/ferries

Alaska Marine Highway Ferries to Alaska Bellingham Cruise Terminal, Harris Avenue. 800/642-0066 ferryalaska.com

CHARTERS

Island Opportunity Charters

Located out of Bellingham, traveling to San Juan islands and Point Roberts

360/355-3610

Islandopportunitycharters.com

Island Express Charters

Located out of Anacortes, traveling to the San Juan islands 360-299-2875

Islandexpresscharters.com

PHOTO

bellingham.

Outdoorsy, artsy, and all yours. Intersection of art, cuisine, and adventure.

BBELLINGHAM IS KNOWN LOCALLY 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 where visitors soon 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, and hosts the annual ski, run, bike, canoe and kayak Ski to Sea race. The 94-mile multisport team race brings crowds to Bellingham every Memorial Day weekend.

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 friendly local skiers and snowboarders in the winter. Whether hiking to Artists Point in July or snowshoeing in January, the view will take the breath right

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

out of you.

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.

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 clothing. Info on Bellingham farmers market can be found on page 41.

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. 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 are often bustling with hipsters downing oatmeal stouts and vegetarian appetizers, but there truly is something for everyone. Dietary restrictions are rarely a problem in Bellingham, as many 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 taste. An artful town through and through, even the cafés offer paintings for sale by local artists.

If visitors feel inspired to seek out more art, they will find no shortage of galleries, city sponsored sidewalk sculptures, murals and the Whatcom Museum. Those searching for more science-minded history can get their

fix at the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention or Mindport Exhibits. Or learn about marine species of the Salish Sea at the Marine Life Center in Squalicum Harbor.More information on museums can be found on page 58.

The newest development in Bellingham is the Waterfront District, home to Waypoint Park, the Waterfront Pump Park, and the Granary Building, which is home to a few local shops and cafés. Check out the Northwest TuneUp bike and music festival July 12-14.

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.

BELLINGHAM KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Marine Life Center

Waterfront access: Zuanich Point Park

Playground: Waypoint Park

PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

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 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.

POULSBO

POULSBO HERITAGE MUSEUM

19020 Front Street NE

360/516-3975

Poulsbohistory.com

Cultural heritage and daily life of early Poulsbo residents. Ongoing and rotating exhibits.

POULSBO MARINE MUSEUM

19010 Front Street NE

360/994-4943

Poulsbohistory.com

Showcases the rich maritime history of Poulsbo with exhibits and interactive displays. Featuring exhibits on logging, salmon fishing, oyster farming and the mosquito fleet.

SAN JUAN ISLANDS

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 farm-

ing, fishing, place name origins and island communities. Features more than 200 Native stone, bone and antler artifacts from First Islander life.

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 skeletal remains from a family of 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.

SAN JUAN HISTORICAL MUSEUM

323 & 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 jail 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.

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

WHIDBEY ISLAND

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

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.

MARITIME HERITAGE CENTER & W.T. PRESTON

703 R Avenue

Anacortes

360/299-4130

anacorteswa.gov/333/Museum

Current exhibit on The Boys in the Boat focusing on Anacortes High School alumni Don Hume. Steamboat tours available on the P.T. Preston.

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 & 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 handson 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

A fixture in downtown Bellingham since 1995, Mindport is an interactive space where the intersections

of art and science can be explored by all ages and abilities. Our unique environment fosters observation, delight, learning and play.

SPARK MUSEUM OF ELECTRICAL INVENTION

1312 Bay Street

Bellingham 360/738-3886 sparkmuseum.org

Spark features interactive exhibits displaying the inventions and 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.

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

FERNDALE

HISTORIC PIONEER VILLAGE

2007 Cherry Street Ferndale 360/384-6461

whatcomoldsettlers.com

Large collection of cedar slab cabins, guided tours and annual events.

BLAINE

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.

POINT ROBERTS

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.

B.C.

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.

GULF OF GEORGIA CANNERY SOCIETY

12138 4th 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.

BRITANNIA SHIPYARDS

NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

5180 Westwater Drive

Steveston

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 Marine Drive NW

Vancouver 604/827-5932

moa.ubc.ca

Expected to reopen after renovations in June of 2024. 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.

A lummi island.

A small, tranquil and inviting island.

A

FEW MILES NORTH OF BELLINGHAM IS LUMMI ISLAND, A 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 art 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.

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.

Visit one of three preserves protected by the Lummi Island Heritage Trust. The Otto and Curry preserves are both perfect for a casual walk, but the real hidden gem is the Baker pre-

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

serve, 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 7 miles to the Gooseberry Point ferry dock.

The Whatcom Chief ferry runs at least once an hour throughout the day. A vehicle and driver fare is $14 round trip, and each passenger or pedestrian ticket is $8. Tickets for pedestrians with bikes are also just $8 round trip.

Lummi Island provides a beautiful backdrop for visitors to find relaxation and peace among the wildflowers native to the island, such as camas, lupine, fireweed and wooly sunflowers.

For more information, visit lummi-island.com.

LUMMI ISLAND KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Lummi Island Beach Access

Water access: Sunset Beach

Playground: There are no playgrounds on Lummi Island but stop off at Shuksan Meadows Park in North Bellingham to wear kiddos out before driving the final 20 minutes to the Whatcom Chief ferry.

Botanically dyed pillows by Darlene Beckett

Original painting by Ria Harboe

Felted vessel by Sue McCaslin

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

events. WATERSIDE

FILM

Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema

Saturdays July -August enjoyfairhaven.com

Ferndale flicks in the Park

June 21, 28, July 12 and August 23 cityofferndale.org/summer

Port Townsend Film Festival September 19-22 Ptfilm.org

Poulsbo Film Festival October 11-13

Poulsbofilmfestival.com

Orcas Island Film Festival

October 16-20 orcasfilmfest.com

Friday Harbor Film Festival

San Juan Island October 24-27 Fhff.org

TOURS

Port Townsend Bay Tours Saturdays, June 30September 4 nwmaritime.org/summer-tours

Fairhaven Gore & Lore Tours April through October enjoyfairhaven.com

ART

Bellingham First Friday

Art Walk

First Friday of every month, downtownbellingham.com/ first-Fridays

Poulsbo Art Walk

Second Saturday of every month visitpoulsbo.com

Mount Vernon Garden and Art Fair

June 29-30 mvgardenandartfair.org

PHOTO BY JASMINE LONG

The Wave En Blanc & Art Festival

July 27-28 blaineartscouncil.org

Anacortes Arts Festival

August 2-4 anacortesartsfestival.com

Birch Bay Sculpture Competition August 3 birchbaychamber.com

Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival

August 10-11 bit.ly/3yE4BSl

Whidbey Plein Air Paint Out

August 12-18 pacificnorthwestartschool.org

Noisy Waters Mural Festival

Bellingham

August 16-18 noisywatersmuralfest.com

Poulsbo Arts Festival

August 16-18 Visitpoulsbo.com

Over All Walls Mural Festival Blaine

August 22-26 overallwalls.com

Lummi Island Artists’ Studio Tour

August 31 - September 1 Lummi-island.com

Lopez Island Artists’ Studio Tour

August 31-September 1 lopezislandartists.com

International Quilt and Fiber Arts Festival

La Conner

October 4-6 qfamuseum.org

Whatcom Artists Studio Tour

October 5-6 and 12-13 studiotour.net

Lummi Island Artists’ Studio Tour

Lummi Island

November 9-10

Lummi-island.com

MUSIC

Deception Pass American Roots Concerts

Whidbey Island

Saturdays in July and August parks.state.wa.us

Downtown Sounds

Bellingham

Wednesdays July 10August 7 downtownbellingham.com/ downtownsounds

Port Townsend Concerts on the Dock

Thursdays, July-August ptmainstreet.org

Doe Bay Songwriters Showcase

Orcas Island

May 30 -June 2 Visitsanjuans.com

Birch Bay State Park Music: On the Loose

June 14 and July 27 bbbparkandrec.org

Birch Bay State Park Music: Devillies

June 15 bbbparkandrec.org

Bellingham Festival of Music Throughout July bellinghamfestival.org

Blaine Harbor Music Festival

July 7-13

Blainebythesea.com

Northwest Tune-Up

Bellingham July 12-14 nwtuneup.com/music

Art 2 Jazz Street Fair Blaine July 13 Blainebythesea.com

Ferndale Music in the Park: Baby Cakes July 19 cityofferndale.org/summer

Peace Arch Concert Series August 4 blainechamber.com

Birch Bay State Park Music: Bellingham Community Band August 10 bbbparkandrec.org

Ferndale Music in the Park: Lemon Creek August 17 cityofferndale.org/summer

Birch Bay State Park Music: Soul Duck August 23 bbbparkandrec.org

The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova San Juan Island August 23-24 lakedale.com/music-festival

Oak Harbor Music Festival August 30-September 1 oakharborfestival.com

Imagine Music and Arts Festival

September 6-8 Visitsanjuans.com

FOOD

Ferndale Food Truck Fridays

Second Friday of the month

June-August cityofferndale.org/summer

Orcas Island Cider and Mead Fest

July 13 Visitsanjuan.com

Burlington Berry Dairy Days June 14-16 berrydairydays.com

Bellingham Seafeast October 5-6 bellinghamseafeast.org

FESTIVALS

Poulsbo Viking Fest

May 17-19 vikingfest.org

Fairhaven Festival

May 26

Enjoyfairhaven.com

Bellingham Scottish Gathering Blaine

June 1 scottishdancesociety.org

Birch Bay Kite Festival

June 22-23 birchbaychamber.com

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.

Pride in the Park

Blaine

July 11

blainechamber.com

Northwest Tune-Up

Bellingham

July 12-14 nwtuneup.com

Skagit Valley Highland Games

July 13-14 celticarts.org

Ferndale Old Settlers Weekend

July 26-27 whatcomoldsettlers.com

National Night Out

August 6

birchbaychamber.com

Fidalgo Bay Day

Anacortes August 24 visitskagitvalley.com

Birch Bay Derby Day August 31 birchbaychamber.com

Blaine Harbor Harvest Festival October 12 Blainebythesea.com

BOATS/ MARITIME

Anacortes Sailboats Race Week June 24-28 raceweekpnw.com

Anacortes Shipwreck Festival July 20 fidalgorotary.org

Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival August 3

blainebythesea.com

Steveston Dragon Boat Festival

August 24

stevestondragonboatfestival.ca

Richmond Maritime Festival

August 24-25 richmondmaritimefestival.ca

Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival

September 6-8

woodenboat.org

CAR SHOWS

Golden Eagle Classic Car Show

Ferndale

June 2

bit.ly/4dDGrYb

Cars + Coffee Car Show

Poulsbo

July 20 visitpoulsbo.com

La Conner Classic Boat & Car Show

August 3 Lovelaconner.com

Rollback Weekend Car Show

Birch Bay August 4

birchbaychamber.com

RUN/WALK/ BIKE/ROW

Ski to Sea Fairhaven May 26 skitosea.com

Kitsap Humane Society

Petswalk 5k and Vendor Fair

Poulsbo

June 1

Visitpoulsbo.com

Bellingham SwimRun

June 9

questraces.com

Padden Triathlon

Bellingham

June 22 cob.org/races

Lake Whatcom Triathlon

July 13

Lakewhatcomtriathlon.com

Tour De Whatcom

July 20

Tourdewhatcom.com

Bellingham Off-Road Triathlon

August 18

Bellinghamoffroadtri.com

Bellingham Bay Classic –Outrigger Canoe Race

August 24

Pnworca.org/events

FAIRS

Jefferson County Fair

August 9-11 jeffcofairgrounds.org

Whidbey Island Fair

July 25-28

whidbeyislandfair.com

Northwest Washington Fair

August 8-17 nwwafair.com

San Juan County Fair

August 15-18

sjcfair.org

hiexpress.com/hotels/us/en/bellingham/bllex

ferndale.

Bustling destination bursting with history

THE CITY OF FERNDALE IS AN INVITING DESTINATION with a bustling Main Street, a substantial number of women-owned businesses, and activities for all ages. A growing city that celebrates their history and has a lively take on summer fun, Ferndale is a must for anyone driving through the northmost stretch of I-5.

TFerndale is home to just over 16,000 people, but it is growing quickly. Named one of the fastest growing cities north of Everett, it is a hub of manufacturing, home to Superfeet, Samson Rope, Timken and the new Vicinity Motor Corporation facility that assembles electric buses.

Despite its serene appearance, Ferndale is a city of rock ‘n roll. Take a gander at Metallica Bridge; a railroad bridge that spans the Nooksack River has had the rock band Metallica’s name spraypainted on it consistently for over 30 years.

Ferndale is home to parks of all kinds. From Hovander Homestead Park to Pioneer Village to Riverwalk Park, visitors could spend a full day walking the trails, hanging out by the river and exploring Ferndale’s history.

Hovander Homestead Park is 350 acres in size with a

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

mile of river frontage. In the summer, Hovander is home to barnyard animals and Hovander House Historical Tours. Kids will love interacting with the farm animals, playing on the playground, and dipping their toes in the river. For some fresh air, take an invigorating walk or run through the Fragrance Garden and adjacent trails.

Pioneer Village is home to the largest collection of original ce-

• Gorgeous Historic/Rustic venue with 3 private rooms.

• Seating for 100 or more

• Specializing in Weddings, Rehearsals, Bachelor/Bridesmaids Parties, Baby Showers, Corporate/Holiday parties, and all personal celebrations.

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

dar slab cabins in the Pacific Northwest and features tours led by historically dressed docents from mid-May through September. This is the setting of the annual Old Settlers Days on July 26 and 27, 2024. Old Settlers Days is one of the longest continually operating celebrations in all of

Washington. Winter visitors will be charmed by December’s annual Old-Fashioned Christmas.

Next door to Pioneer Village is Star Park, which contains the largest play structure in North Whatcom County. Finally, Vanderyacht Park is the perfect setting for energetic

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

visitors with its disk golf course, basketball, pickleball and handball courts as well as horseshoes and playground. The event schedule in Ferndale is packed from summer to fall. Events include Food Truck Fridays; Music in the Park; Jam on the River; Downtown Trick or Treat; Oktoberfest; and Buckles, Brews & Que. For more information on these events, visit page 62. Visitors will find themselves quite taken by this historical hamlet with a zeal for summer fun.

PIONEER VILLAGE

film festivals .

IIn 1999 four film buff buddies decided to bring the film festival scene to their hometown on the Olympic Peninsula. Annually taking place in the National Historic District at the Port Townsend waterfront, the Port Townsend Film Festival (PTFF) is a hometown film fest with something for everyone. 2024 will welcome the 25th year of festivities starting on Thursday, September 19 and running through Sunday, September 22. This year’s film festival will feature a Short Screenplay Competition for Olympic Peninsula residents. PTFF is a non-profit decidedly set on supporting the next generation of local filmmakers through competitions like this as well as including categories like Local Short Film. Their mission, sparking community through film, can be felt in the crowds during the yearly festival, but their events don’t just take place once a year. The PTFF has year-round events including the Focus Film Series and summer backyard movies at Fort Worden. Stay updated on the upcoming festival at ptfilm.org.

The Friday Harbor Film Festival (FHFF) is a go for Thursday through Sunday, October 24-27, 2024. Categories include documentaries, shorts and a Young Filmmakers Showcase. FHFF welcomes filmmakers to showcase documentary films that are entertaining, compelling, inspiring and enlightening. The Young Filmmakers Project encourages student participation in the art of film storytelling. The FHFF also holds monthly Best of the Fest screenings with livestream

Q&A segments at the San Juan Island Grange #966 and the San Juan Island Library. For more information on the FHFF, visit fhff.org.

Poulsbo Film Festival (PFF) takes place October11 through 13, 2024 in Historic Downtown Poulsbo. The PFF brings diverse stories to a panel of national and local judges. Come to Poulsbo for the third year of PFF parties, filmmaker panels, networking all while taking in beautiful scenery small town feelings. Venues for the weekend include the Sons of Norway – Poulsbo, Moe’s on Liberty Bay and the Sea Discovery Center. Find out more about the 2024 film line up at poulsbofilmfestival. com.

The Orcas Island Film Festival will be taking place from Wednesday, October 16 through Sunday, October 20, 2024. Keep an eye on their website for periodic minifests as well as their October lineup announcement (oifilmfest.org).

Film Festivals that will be taking place in 2025 with dates TBD at the time of publication include:

Cascadia International Women’s Film Festival, which showcases women directors in film and takes place in Bellingham (cascadiafilmfest.org).

Whidbey Island Film Festival in Langley, which focuses on classic films for a week-long festival in January (whidbeyislandfilmfestival.org).

PHOTO BY ELIZABETH BECKER

outdoor sculptures

Our Waterside communities are full of public art. Below you will find a list of sculpture gardens, sculptures, murals as well as links to maps of outdoor art walking tours.

WASHINGTON

BLAINE

Peace Arch Park Sculpture Exhibition, Peace Arch Park

FERNDALE

Downtown Mural Project

LUMMI ISLAND

Sculpture Woods, 3851 Legoe Bay Road

BELLINGHAM

Big Rock Garden, 2900 Sylvan Street, and Western Washington University Outdoor Sculpture Collection, 516 High Street

CHUCKANUT, BOW, EDISON

Chuckanut Bay Gallery and Sculpture Garden, 700 Chuckanut Drive N

ANACORTES

Anacortes Mural Project (map available at billmitchellmuralproject.org/mural-map)

MOUNT VERNON

Art on Display (map available at bit.ly/3ytmzqX)

BURLINGTON

Roots to Rise mural, 730 E Fairhaven Avenue

WHIDBEY ISLAND (COUPEVILLE)

Price Sculpture Forest, 678 Parker Road

SAN JUAN ISLAND (ROCHE HARBOR)

San Juan Island Sculpture Park and Nature Reserve, 9083 Roche Harbor Road

POULSBO

Downtown Murals, NE Front Street

PORT TOWNSEND

Haller Fountain or Galatea, Corner of Washington and Taylor streets

LA CONNER

Walking Art Tour (map available at bit.ly/41bf6Fy)

B.C.

LADNER

I Love Ladner Mural, 48th Avenue

RICHMOND

Public Art Trail (Map available at visitrichmondbc.com/public-art-trail)

WHITE ROCK

Public Art Story Map (Map available at bit.ly/3NQUgbs)

birch bay.

The destination for retro beachside fun

TTHE BEACHSIDE COMMUNITY OF BIRCH BAY FEELS LIKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME. Driving down Birch Bay Drive in the middle of summer, the breeze conjures up collective pop culture 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, out-of-towners 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 recently 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 dun-

BY MOLLY ERNST

PHOTO

lin, brant and black-bellied plover from the panoramic view spot in Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve. This reserve features 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 664-acre Birch Bay State Park, which offers a 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, beach-

Summer Starts

PHOTO BY MOLLY ERNST

combers 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 to take 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 visit the gokart track and mini golf course at Station 49.

In the summers Birch Bay comes alive through tourists and, of course, events and festivals. Pop into town for the Kite Festival on the weekend of June 22-23, 4th of July festivities, on August 3, the beach will be packed with amateur sandcastle architects for the annual Sand Sculpture Competition, the Rollback Weekend Car Show is on August 4 and National Night out on Tuesday,

PHOTO BY OLIVER LAZENBY

Birch

Bow

Mike’s

Bob’s

Jack

Sahara

Subway

The

Tokyo

Woods

Anytime

Capstone

Energy

Nail

Birch

NEXUS

Northwest

Red

Whatcom

Windermere

August 6.

On August 31, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts a Birch Bay Derby Day celebrating the local culture and history of Birch Bay. The 2024 event will include a Duck Derby, Crab Derby and more. For more details on events, go to birchbaychamber.com.

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.

BIRCH BAY KIDS CORNER

Fun: Station 49

Waterfront access: Birch Bay Drive

Playground: Birch Bay State Park

tide tables.

JUNE

Date Time Height Time Height

Sa 1 1:23 am 9.7 8:28 am 2.4

2:12 pm 5.9 7:13 pm 3.5

Su 2 1:55 am 9.7 9:10 am 0.8

3:48 pm 6.9 8:23 pm 4.9

Mo 3 2:27 am 9.7 9:50 am -0.7

5:06 pm 8.1 9:31 pm 6.0

Tu 4 2:59 am 9.7 10:32 am -1.9

6:10 pm 9.1 10:39 pm 6.9

We 5 3:35 am 9.6 11:16 am -2.7

7:04 pm 9.8 11:43 pm 7.4

Th 6 4:11 am 9.4 11:58 am -3.0

7:56 pm 10.2

Fr 7 12:45 am 7.6 4:47 am 9.1

12:42 pm -3.0 8:42 pm 10.4

Sa 8 1:45 am 7.6 5:27 am 8.7

1:24 pm -2.7 9:30 pm 10.3

Su 9 2:45 am 7.5 6:05 am 8.1 2:04 pm -2.1 10:14 pm 10.1

Mo 10 3:55 am 7.1 6:43 am 7.5

2:46 pm -1.4 10:54 pm 9.8

Tu 11 5:09 am 6.6 7:27 am 6.8

3:26 pm -0.4 11:30 pm 9.6

We 12 6:23 am 5.9 8:27 am 6.0 4:06 pm 0.6

Th 13 12:02 am 9.3 7:17 am 5.0 10:05 am 5.3 4:46 pm 1.8

Fr 14 12:30 am 9.1 7:53 am 4.0 11:57 am 4.9 5:28 pm 3.0

Sa 15 12:54 am 9.0 8:21 am 3.0 1:57 pm 5.2 6:16 pm 4.2

Su 16 1:16 am 8.9 8:51 am 2.0 3:39 pm 6.0 7:16 pm 5.3

Mo 17 1:40 am 8.8 9:21 am 1.0 4:51 pm 6.9 8:26 pm 6.3

Tu 18 2:06 am 8.8 9:53 am 0.0

5:45 pm 7.9 9:34 pm 7.0

We 19 2:32 am 8.8 10:27 am -0.8 6:31 pm 8.7 10:40 pm 7.4

Th 20 3:02 am 8.8 11:03 am -1.5

7:11 pm 9.4 11:40 pm 7.7

Fr 21 3:34 am 8.8 11:41 am -2.1 7:49 pm 9.8

Sa 22 12:36 am 7.8 4:10 am 8.7

12:21 pm -2.6 8:29 pm 10.1

Su 23 1:28 am 7.8 4:52 am 8.5 1:01 pm -2.7 9:07 pm 10.3

Mo 24 2:22 am 7.5 5:38 am 8.2

1:43 pm -2.6 9:45 pm 10.4

Tu 25 3:18 am 7.0 6:34 am 7.7

2:25 pm -2.0 10:19 pm 10.3

We 26 4:16 am 6.2 7:42 am 7.0

3:09 pm -1.0 10:51 pm 10.2

Th 27 5:12 am 5.1 9:08 am 6.3

3:55 pm 0.3 11:23 pm 10.1

Fr 28 6:08 am 3.8 10:50 am 5.8

4:43 pm 2.0 11:53 pm 10.0

Sa 29 7:00 am 2.3 12:44 pm 5.8

5:35 pm 3.7

Su 30 12:23 am 9.9 7:50 am 0.9 2:42 pm 6.5 6:39 pm 5.3

JULY

Date Time Height Time Height

Mo 1 12:55 am 9.8 8:40 am -0.5 4:18 pm 7.6 7:55 pm 6.7 Tu 2 1:31 am 9.7 9:28 am -1.5 5:30 pm 8.6 9:17 pm 7.5

We 3 2:11 am 9.6 10:14 am -2.2 6:24 pm 9.4 10:33 pm 7.9 Th 4 2:53 am 9.4 11:00 am -2.6 7:10 pm 9.9 11:43 pm 7.9

Fr 5 3:39 am 9.1 11:44 am -2.7 7:50 pm 10.1

Sa 6 12:45 am 7.7 4:25 am 8.8 12:26 pm -2.6 8:28 pm 10.1

Su 7 1:37 am 7.4 5:13 am 8.3 1:06 pm -2.2 9:04 pm 10.0

Mo 8 2:29 am 7.0 6:01 am 7.8 1:42 pm -1.6 9:36 pm 9.9

Tu 9 3:19 am 6.4 6:49 am 7.2 2:18 pm -0.8 10:06 pm 9.7

We 10 4:09 am 5.8 7:41 am 6.6 2:52 pm 0.2 10:32 pm 9.4

Th 11 4:57 am 5.1 8:45 am 6.0 3:24 pm 1.3 10:54 pm 9.2

Fr 12 5:41 am 4.3 10:03 am 5.5 3:58 pm 2.6 11:16 pm 9.0

Sa 13 6:23 am 3.4 11:39 am 5.3 4:32 pm 3.8 11:36 pm 8.9

Su 14 7:05 am 2.6 1:35 pm 5.6 5:10 pm 5.1 11:58 pm 8.8

Mo 15 7:47 am 1.6 3:35 pm 6.4 6:04 pm 6.2

Tu 16 12:22 am 8.8 8:29 am 0.7 4:53 pm 7.3 7:32 pm 7.1

We 17 12:54 am 8.7 9:11 am -0.2 5:41 pm 8.2 9:04 pm 7.7

Th 18 1:32 am 8.7 9:53 am -1.0 6:19 pm 8.9 10:18 pm 7.9

Fr 19 2:18 am 8.8 10:37 am -1.7 6:53 pm 9.5 11:22 pm 7.8

Sa 20 3:10 am 8.8 11:19 am -2.3 7:25 pm 9.9

Su 21 12:16 am 7.6 4:04 am 8.7 12:03 pm -2.7 7:57 pm 10.1

Mo 22 1:04 am 7.1 5:02 am 8.5 12:45 pm -2.6 8:27 pm 10.2

Tu 23 1:52 am 6.4 6:04 am 8.2 1:27 pm -2.1 8:57 pm 10.2

We 24 2:40 am 5.5 7:10 am 7.8 2:09 pm -1.1 9:27 pm 10.2

Th 25 3:32 am 4.4 8:20 am 7.2 2:51 pm 0.3 9:55 pm 10.1

Fr 26 4:24 am 3.2 9:42 am 6.7 3:35 pm 2.0 10:25 pm 9.9

Sa 27 5:18 am 2.0 11:18 am 6.5 4:23 pm 3.8 10:55 pm 9.8

Su 28 6:14 am 0.9 1:08 pm 6.7 5:15 pm 5.4 11:27 pm 9.7

Mo 29 7:12 am -0.1 3:02 pm 7.4 6:23 pm 6.8

Tu 30 12:03 am 9.5 8:10 am -0.8 4:30 pm 8.3 7:53 pm 7.6

We 31 12:47 am 9.2 9:06 am -1.4 5:30 pm 9.0 9:29 pm 7.9

Tides at Cherry Point

AUGUST

Date Time Height Time Height

Th 1 1:41 am 9.0 9:58 am -1.7 6:14 pm 9.4 10:47 pm 7.8

Fr 2 2:39 am 8.7 10:46 am -1.8

6:52 pm 9.6 11:47 pm 7.4

Sa 3 3:37 am 8.5 11:30 am -1.8 7:22 pm 9.7

Su 4 12:33 am 6.9 4:31 am 8.2 12:10 pm -1.5 7:52 pm 9.6

Mo 5 1:13 am 6.3 5:23 am 7.9 12:46 pm -1.1 8:18 pm 9.5

Tu 6 1:51 am 5.8 6:13 am 7.5 1:18 pm -0.4 8:40 pm 9.4

We 7 2:27 am 5.2 7:03 am 7.2 1:50 pm 0.4 9:02 pm 9.2

Th 8 3:05 am 4.5 7:55 am 6.8 2:22 pm 1.5 9:22 pm 9.0

Fr 9 3:43 am 3.9 8:53 am 6.5 2:52 pm 2.6 9:40 pm 8.8

Sa 10 4:21 am 3.3 10:01 am 6.2 3:22 pm 3.8 9:58 pm 8.6

Su 11 5:03 am 2.6 11:21 am 6.2

3:54 pm 4.9 10:18 pm 8.5

Mo 12 5:49 am 2.0 1:05 pm 6.4 4:32 pm 6.0 10:40 pm 8.4

Tu 13 6:39 am 1.4 3:11 pm 7.0 5:30 pm 6.9 11:06 pm 8.4

We 14 7:33 am 0.7 4:27 pm 7.7 7:16 pm 7.5 11:44 pm 8.3

Th 15 8:29 am -0.1 5:09 pm 8.4 9:00 pm 7.7

Fr 16 12:44 am 8.3 9:21 am -0.8 5:41 pm 9.0 10:10 pm 7.5

Sa 17 2:00 am 8.3 10:09 am -1.5 6:11 pm 9.4 11:04 pm 7.1

Su 18 3:12 am 8.4 10:57 am -1.9 6:39 pm 9.6 11:50 pm 6.4

Mo 19 4:18 am 8.5 11:41 am -1.9 7:07 pm 9.8

Tu 20 12:34 am 5.4 5:24 am 8.5 12:27 pm -1.4 7:33 pm 9.9

We 21 1:16 am 4.3 6:30 am 8.4 1:09 pm -0.5 7:59 pm 9.9

Th 22 2:02 am 3.1 7:36 am 8.3 1:53 pm 0.9 8:27 pm 9.8

Fr 23 2:48 am 2.0 8:46 am 8.0

2:37 pm 2.5 8:55 pm 9.7

Sa 24 3:40 am 1.0 10:04 am 7.8 3:23 pm 4.1 9:25 pm 9.5

Su 25 4:34 am 0.3 11:32 am 7.7

4:13 pm 5.6 9:57 pm 9.3

Mo 26 5:32 am -0.2 1:14 pm 7.8 5:15 pm 6.8 10:33 pm 9.0

Tu 27 6:34 am -0.4 2:58 pm 8.3 6:41 pm 7.5 11:17 pm 8.6

We 28 7:40 am -0.6 4:10 pm 8.7 8:35 pm 7.6 Th 29 12:19 am 8.2 8:42 am -0.6 5:00 pm 9.0 10:03 pm 7.2

Fr 30 1:35 am 7.9 9:38 am -0.7 5:38 pm 9.1 10:57 pm 6.6 Sa 31 2:51 am 7.7 10:26 am -0.6 6:08 pm 9.2 11:35 pm 6.0

SEPTEMBER

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2024 EVENT SCHEDULE

Polar Bear Plunge - January 1

Kite Fest - June 22 & 23

Sand Sculpture Contest - August 3

Rollback Weekend Car Show - August 4

National Night Out - August 6

Derby Day - August 31

Berm Trick-or-Treat - October 26

Ring of Fire & Hope - December 31

blaine.

BA 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 from the 1800s to mid-1900s, Blaine was one of the busiest seaports in the Northwest. In 1909 there were five canneries located in Blaine, but by 1960 the Alaska Packers Association had to pack up shop due to the aftereffects of Initiative 77, which banned Puget Sound fish traps.

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 wife and child looking out to sea, waiting for a fishing husband and father 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 and ribs, farm to table oysters, Italian, German, Indian, Thai, Mexican, American, and even a

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

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 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

Discover Blaine!

Discover ‘Blaine by the Sea’ – a serene haven nestled just moments from the hustle. Surrounded by pristine beaches, lush walking trails, and vibrant waterfront playgrounds, Blaine is a beacon for voyagers yearning to explore the great outdoors. Our maritime heritage weaves a rich tapestry of history and culture, offering a unique backdrop.

Travelers seeking a tranquil retreat or an adventure-filled getaway will find:

• Outdoor Activities - Watersports, walking, biking trails, waterfront playgrounds, two full-service marinas that are the gateway to the San Juan Islands.

• Culinary Delights - Savor the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and International cuisine.

• Year-Round Events - Tailored to every season.

• Rich Maritime History - Explore a maritime museum and waterfront landmarks that tell the tale of Blaine’s deep-rooted connection with the sea.

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drive. Along the way, children will have lots of fun at the Maritime Playground. Return along the southside board walk and view the commercial and recreational boats moored in the harbor.

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.

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 northand-south migratory path for seabirds. Birdwatchers

BY

PHOTO

RUTH LAUMAN

PHOTO BY WALTER SELDEN

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

first mural festival August 22nd - 26th, 2024!

frequently spot great blue herons, bald eagles, loons, mergansers and brant, sometimes even catching a rare glimpse of wayward pelicans. The annual Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival occurs in March.

Each summer, Blaine hosts the largest 4th of July celebration in Whatcom County, with street vendors, fireworks and live music attracting friendly crowds from all over.

The Blaine Harbor Music Festival, July 7-13, brings world-class musicians to perform and teach at the festival. The following month, the Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival brings out the pirates of every age on August 3 and 4.

Every Saturday, the G Street Plaza swells with visitors

The Blaine Arts Council is proud to present these fabulous events for 2024!

Arts Council Gallery

4th Grand Opening!

and vendors buying and selling goods at the farmers market. Information on the Blaine Market by the Sea can be found on page 41.

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 and blainechamber.com

BLAINE KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Lincoln Park walking trails & disc golf

Waterfront access: Marine Park, Semiahmoo County Park

Playground: Blaine Marine Park

BY

PHOTO

JOEY WINKLER

At the US/Canada border! At the US/Canada border!

2024 Events

Saturdays: May - October

Blaine’s Market by the Sea

Weekends thru Labor Day

Historic Plover Passenger Ferry Rides

Friday-Sunday

Alaska Packers Association Cannery Museum

May– September

Peace Arch International Sculpture Exhibit

May 18 • Spring Block Party

June 1 • Bellingham Scottish Gathering

July 4

Old Fashion 4th of July Parade, Car Show & Fireworks

July 7-13 • Blaine Harbor Music Festival

July 11 • Pride in the Park

July 13 • Art 2 Jazz Street Fair

July 27-28 • The Wave En Blanc & Art Festival

August 3-4 – Drayton Harbor Maritime Festival

August 4 • Peace Arch Concert Series

October 12 • Harbor Harvest Festival (Oysterfest)

November 30 • Holiday Harbor Lights

March 21-23, 2025

Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival

Historic Plover Passenger Ferry Rides

Harbor Harvest Festival - OysterFest 4th of July Parade

Spring Block Party - G Street Plaza

Photo: Jannel Kortlever

crossing border. THE

The rules for crossing the border can change with little notice. Make sure to check the latest rules at the websites listed below.

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.

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. New U.S. regulations governing dogs are due to go into effect August 1, 2024. See CBP.gov for details.

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

Peace Arch

TThe Peace Arch is a monument that stands as a symbol of peace and friendship between the United States and Canada. Constructed in 1921, the arch marks the westernmost point of the U.S.-Canada border. Standing at a height of 67 feet (20 meters), the Peace Arch has become an iconic landmark in the Pacific Northwest and a testament to the enduring peace between the two neighboring nations.

The idea for the Peace Arch originated in 1914 during the International Pacific Highway Conference, where the participants envisioned a monument that would

celebrate the long-standing peace and strong relationship between the United States and Canada. The architect, Samuel Hill, designed the arch in the neoclassical style, drawing inspiration from ancient Roman triumphal arches. The construction of the arch was completed in 1921, and it was dedicated on September 6 of the same year.

Throughout its history, the Peace Arch has served as a venue for numerous diplomatic events and gatherings. It has been the site of various ceremonies, including the annual Hands Across the Border, where citizens from

both countries come together to celebrate the shared values of peace and cooperation. The monument has also witnessed historical moments, such as the visits of several U.S. presidents and Canadian prime ministers.

Today, the Peace Arch stands as a cherished symbol of unity and goodwill. It serves as a reminder of the enduring peace and strong ties between the United States and Canada. The arch continues to attract visitors from around the world, who come to admire its grandeur and appreciate its significance in promoting peace and friendship across borders.

PHOTO BY LOUISE

MUGAR

white rock & south surrey.

Beachside history and blue skies all summer long.

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.

SWhite 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 the balmy weather, a 1.4-mile-long waterside promenade with the beach on one side and a host of unique shops and

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

restaurants on the other, and visitors will be happy to put down roots in this community for a while. The historic White Rock 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. Here’s where you can fulfill that hankering for fish & chips and ice cream cones.

To the north, Crescent Beach is a popular waterfront spot with a safe swimming area in the warm water of Boundary Bay, while the Blackie Spit Nature Reserve with miles of trails is 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.

There’s much more to this region than beaches and waterfront. Softball City is home to the Canada Cup International Softball Championship (July 1-7) hosting female fast pitch teams from North America and around the world. Celebrate Canada Day on the beach on July 1. The White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days (August 2-4) features salmon BBQs, live music, artisan markets and tremendous fireworks displays. The White Rock Arts Festival and Cultural Crawl happens October 14 and 15 with over 22 sites featuring the arts.

Visit the farmers market every Sunday until October 13 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 15154 Russell Avenue in downtown White Rock. Details about the White Rock Farmers Market can be found on page 41. 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

WHITE ROCK AND SOUTH SURREY KIDS CORNER

Fun: White Rock Museum

Water access: White Rock Beach

Playground: White Rock Generations Playground

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

richmond & steveston.

Island city, by nature

BY

RRICHMOND 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 17 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 the Steveston area 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 Steveston Salmon Festival where hundreds of pounds of wild salmon are grilled over open fires. The festival also features a

PHOTO

KEN ESCANAN

BY

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 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 (next to River Rock Casino) is a great way to experience the Asian culture in Richmond. It is open weekends and holidays from April to October 14. 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 springboards. 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.

RICHMOND AND STEVESTON KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Larry Berg Flight Path Park

Water access: Gary Point Park

Playground: Steveston Community Park

PHOTO

DOUG DE VISSER

tsawwassen & ladner.

LADNER AND TSAWWASSEN KIDS CORNER

Fun: Reifel Bird Sanctuary

Water access: Centennial Beach and Wellington Point Park Playground: Rotary WaterWorks Playground

River and ocean towns

TSAWWASSEN AND LADNER PROVIDE VISITORS WITH A BREAK FROM URBAN LIFE. With a river on one side and an ocean on the other side, travelers have lots of options for fun and 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 boutique shopping, 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.

Downtown Ladner 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.

TThe Ladner Village Market operates on a “make it, bake it, grow it” vendor model. The market is held on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 9 and 23, July 14 and 28, August 11 and 25 and September 8. (ladnervillagemarket.com)

Exercise enthusiasts can be found doing laps on the stairs 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.

Splash 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.

Between Tsawwassen and Ladner are acres upon acres of blueberry fields; stop at one of the roadside stands for a fresh hit of antioxidants. Highway 17 divides the two communities and also leads to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal taking travelers to Vancouver Island and various Gulf Islands. Along the way is the huge Tsawwassen Mills outlet shopping center, a major addition to the shopping scene.

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

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 high 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.

For more information, visit tourismdelta.com

BY

point roberts.

They call it “The Sigh.”

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, that’s absolutely guaranteed. After driving through loads of traffic, braking for stoplight after stoplight, passing store after store, finally, you’re looking at heaven.

TThat’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 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’

PHOTO

LOUISE MUGAR

association lunches to the History Center. Stop by the History Center and pick up a copy of their History Trail map. Then drive or cycle around the Point to view the signs and learn the history of this little exclave. 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 pancake breakfast, parade, and usually barbecue and fireworks.

Point Roberts life centers around the outdoors. With parks at each corner of the peninsula, a marina and a golf course, this five-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 educates visitors on the rich history of the area.

Historically, Lily Point was a summer fishing encamp-

ment 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 skim boards. On an incoming tide on a hot summer day, the water temperature can reach the mid-80s.

Visit Point Roberts, U SA !

PHOTO BY

LOUISE MUGAR

POINT ROBERTS KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Beachcombing at Maple Beach

Waterfront access: Lighthouse Marine Park

Playground: Lighthouse Marine Park

In the southwest corner, Lighthouse Marine Park offers camping and picnicking. 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. Sitting next to the main trail is a sun sweep arch, one of three sculptures by artist David Barr placed along the US/Canada border, of which the western anchor point is located at Lighthouse Marine Park. There is an eastern sun sweep arch on Campobella Island with a keystone element in Lake of the Woods, Minnesota.

In the northwest corner, Monument Park houses a trail down to the beach. While parts of the trail are 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 pointrobertschamberofcommerce.com.

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB