Waterside 2026

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Visit the best of coastal Washington and British Columbia

Tide Chart inside How to see the aurora in Washington State Over 100 events spanning 17 communities for tourists and locals alike

A special publication of The Northern Light

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THERE IS A PARTICULAR WAY THE WATER HOLDS THIS PLACE TOGETHER. Not as a boundary, though it is often drawn that way on maps but as a quiet, constant presence. It gathers the light, carries the weather, shapes the rhythms of days in ways both obvious and subtle. You see it in the early boats pushing off before the town has quite woken. You feel it in the afternoon wind that arrives like an old habit. You hear it, sometimes, in the spaces between conversations.

To live along the North Puget Sound or even to visit for a while is to enter into that rhythm. Not all at once. Not dramatically. But gradually, almost imperceptibly, until you begin to notice how the tides reorder your sense of time, how the horizon invites a longer gaze, how the edges between land and water become less fixed than you once believed.

And then there are the small, bright astonishments of the season. For me, it is the berries I return to again and again. The abundance feels almost improbable—huckleberries hidden along a trail, wild blueberries warmed by the sun, strawberries from the Skagit fields, raspberries so ripe they barely hold their shape. They arrive without ceremony and yet define the days, a sweetness gathered by hand, a reminder of how generous this place can be if you are paying attention.

publisher’s note

This magazine is an attempt to honor that way of living.

Waterside is not simply about destinations though there are many worth finding here. It is about a sensibility — one shaped by salt air, working waterfronts, ferry crossings and shorelines that refuse to be hurried. It is about the people who make lives here: those who fish, farm, build, guide, cook, create and care for this place in ways both visible and unseen.

In these pages, you will find stories that move with the tide rather than against it. Places that reveal themselves slowly. Moments that might otherwise pass unnoticed: a dock at low water, a stretch of beach at first light, a conversation carried over coffee while the fog lifts.

Tourism, at its best, is not extraction. It is attention. It asks us to arrive with curiosity and leave with a deeper understanding of where we have been and perhaps of ourselves. If this magazine succeeds, it will not send you rushing from one stop to the next. It will encourage you to linger. To look more closely. To let the place meet you on its own terms.

There is no single way to experience the water here.

But there is, perhaps, a shared invitation: to step closer, to listen and to allow yourself to be changed, even slightly, by what you find.

We’re glad you’re here.

Kari Mar WATERSIDE 2026

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port townsend poulsbo whidbey island anacortes san juan island orcas island lopez island la conner mount vernon burlington bow, edison & chuckanut fairhaven bellingham lummi island ferndale birch bay blaine point roberts

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publisher’s note marine mammals farmers markets race day transportation beginner bird bingo sunset beaches whatcom water trail road trip tips road trip worksheet museums events aurora chasing tide chart crossing the border

north of the border, british columbia.

good to know.

PUBLISHER Kari Mar MANAGING EDITOR Kie Relyea EDITOR Aly McGee GRAPHIC DESIGN Doug De Visser ADVERTISING SALES Molly Ernst and Gary Lee COVER PHOTO Two children take a break from paddle boarding in the San Juan Islands to take in the view. Photo by Ashley McCrea Strub. © 2026 DAFFODIL PRESS - Volume XXXI OFFICE 229 Marine Drive, Blaine, WA 98230 | PHONE 360/332-1777 EMAIL info@daffodilpress.net | WEB watersidenw.com Waterside is a special publication of Daffodil Press LLC. Printed in Canada.

Locally owned, Daffodil Press also publishes The Northern Light, All Point Bulletin, Pacific Coast Weddings, Mount Baker Experience, La Conner Community News and area maps.

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

welcome.

VANCOUVER RICHMOND STEVESTON

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LADNER

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WHITE ROCK

TSAWWASSEN

Canada United States

BLAINE

POINT ROBERTS

BIRCH BAY 5

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

FERNDALE BELLINGHAM FAIRHAVEN LUMMI ISLAND

ORCAS ISLAND

SAN JUAN ISLAND

BOW, EDISON & CHUCKANUT

LOPEZ ISLAND

ANACORTES BURLINGTON MOUNT VERNON LA CONNER WHIDBEY ISLAND

PORT TOWNSEND

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OLYMPIC PENINSULA

KITSAP PENINSULA POULSBO

SEATTLE

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Small town with old world authenticity

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PORT TOWNSEND IS THE KIND OF PLACE THAT MARRIES OLD AND NEW EFFORTLESSLY. The red brick buildings lining the downtown waterfront have a Victorian flair. One may start to wonder if they are on Water Street or Baker Street as it was described by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle in those many volumes of Sherlock Holmes stories. There is, however, something present in Port Townsend that is quintessentially Pacific Northwest. It is a small town on the water with festivals, vibrant townies and art abounding around every corner.

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 due to poorly timed recessions that stopped the railroad from reaching Port Townsend. The town’s big city dreams wilted in the early 1900s.

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

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PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

port townsend.

PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

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. Twoand three-story Victorians with high-arched windows and elaborate trim play host to restaurants, independent bookstores, wine shops, art galleries, music venues and more.

The downtown area 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

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a busy schedule of summer festivals; one such can’t miss event is the Northwest Maritime Center’s annual Wooden Boat Festival, happening September 11–13, 2026.

This inspiring and educational festival features more than 300 boats including tall ships, modern wooden boats, racing schooners and more. Additionally, the festival hosts a schedule of 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 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 WATERSIDENW.COM

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 37.

A car is not essential when visiting Port Townsend. Visitors can simply walk onto the Coupeville Ferry from Whidbey Island and arrive in town. 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 the lighthouse at Fort Worden, don’t miss 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 delivered with 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)

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PHOTO BY GABRIEL HOUGH

poulsbo.

“Little Norway” POULSBO IS A SWEET WATERFRONT TOWN NESTLED INTO LIBERTY BAY ON THE KITSAP PENNINSULA. Nicknamed “Little Norway” today, Poulsbo was settled by Scandinavian settlers in the 1880s. The settlers found the area reminiscent of the fjords of Norway.

Norwegian culture is pervasive in the town today and can be seen on full display today in the murals, statues and various annual festivals.

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 perfect for strolling. 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, Fattigman, and Lefse to bring home. Stop at any of the restaurants or breweries for a variety of delectable food and local 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

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a local restaurant. Visitors who are after a shopping spree will find fruitful clusters of shops in Poulsbo Village, along Viking Avenue, as well as in College Market 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 kids who need a good run around. 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. Each 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 14-16, 2026, and the Poulsbo Film Festival will take place October 9-11. Winter visitors will not want to miss the Lighted Ships Parade. For more information on events like these, see page 60.

Second Saturdays of the month are a great time to head to the historic downtown for an evening art walk.

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

PHOTO BY GABRIEL HOUGH

cityofpoulsbo.com.

POULSBO KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: SEA Discovery Center Water access: Liberty Bay Waterfront Park Playground: Lions Park

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A Pacific Northwest haven for artists DISCOVER HISTORY, ART, MOUTHWATERING SEAFOOD AND 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 waterfront boutiques, gift shops, art galleries and while dining on fresh seafood.

Travelers can make it to the island by ferry or by cruising over the Deception Pass bridge, which connects 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 birds inhabiting the island. Keep an eye on the water to catch a

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PHOTO BY RICK LAWLER

whidbey island.

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

glimpse of harbor seals. Can’t leave just yet? Make reservations to 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 operating today. Visitors can visit the PBY Memorial Foundation Naval Heritage Center to view seaplanes, artifacts, a flight sim-

ulator and learn more about naval history.

Don’t miss Oak Harbor’s Old Fashioned Fourth of July when Windjammer Park is transformed into a grand carnival. The day kicks off with a parade, complete with music, candy and performers and ends 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 a visit, be it your weekend destination or a brief sojourn before catching the Coupeville

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For more information visit oakharborchamber.com or call 360-675-3755

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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 8 and 9, 2026 and the Penn Cove Water Festival takes place in May annually.

The waterfront begs visitors to take a walk down the Coupeville Wharf to feel the sea breeze up close while taking in a 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.

Native Canoe Exhibit & so much more!

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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 for visitors of all ages is the Langley Whale Center.

Summer galleries will focus on local landscapes, glass art, jewelry and table-top sculpture. Langley will be bustling during the Whidbey Island Fair, July 23-26, 2026.

Fair visitors will experience farm exhibits, animals, live entertainment, a wine garden and eye-popping art all on historic farm grounds.

From plentiful parks, woods and shorelines to shops and festivals, 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

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

August 21-23rd Gala & Exhibition pacificnorthwestartschool.org

Whidbey Working Artists Studio Tour is a program of the Whidbey Island Arts Council (WIAC), a nonprofit 501 (c)3 organization (91-1147736)

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From shopping and music to beaches and forests, Fidalgo Island has all you need ANACORTES IS A SMALL TOWN FULL OF ART AND VITALITY. Breathe in the salty air on the busy waterfront and enjoy the rocky beaches, a bustling downtown shopping district, lively annual festivals and 50 miles of multi-use trails.

Surrounded by water, this destination 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 the gateway to the San Juan islands via the Washington state ferry system. Amid the revolving cast of ferry goers, Anacortes maintains a population of around 18,000.

Opportunities for boating, camping and hiking are plentiful and visitors seeking to connect with nature will have no shortage of activity choices. Seafarers’ Memorial Park is a favorite launch spot amongst 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, camp-

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

anacortes.

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

sites and a playground.

Whale watching tour companies, fishing charters, and boat rentals are readily available should visitors find themselves called to the sea. The Cap Sante Marina has over 100 berths for guest moorage along with repair facilities, fuel docks and complimentary bicycles (seasonally), all just blocks from downtown.

While the town’s water access is breathtaking, the forests surrounding Anacortes are just as notable. 2,950 acres of

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

ANACORTES KIDS CORNER

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woods, wetlands, lakes and meadows comprises Anacortes Community Forest Lands, all within city limits. The rocky dome of Mt. Erie and idyllic Heart Lake are some extraordinary woodland gems. Mt. Erie’s summit offers a spectacular view of the San Juan Islands, and the 1,273-foot peak is accessible by both car and by foot. 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. Stroll past paintings of turn-of-the-century luminaries such as Anne and Tommy Thompson, who founded the Anacortes Railway. Muralist,

Fun and Free: Anacortes Public Library (a Family Place Library) Water access: Sunset Beach Playground: Storvik Park Bill Mitchell, who passed away in 2019, is depicted on O Avenue.

Local music and nightlife energize the downtown area as the sun sets over the water. 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 takes place from July 31-Aug. 2, 2026 in downtown Anacortes has celebrated art in Anacortes since 1962. The festival features near-

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ly nonstop music performances, beer gardens, as well as artists and craftspeople displaying sculptures, textile art, jewelry, photography, paintings and more. The Anacortes Waterfront Festival takes place June 6-7, 2026 is free and family-friendly with children’s toy boat building, free boat rides, a quick and dirty team boat-building competition, a car show and much more.

Whether Anacortes is the destination, or a waypoint along your route to catch a ferry into the great beyond, the fresh air, bold murals, charming shops and natural beauty promise to relax and refresh all who pass through.

For more information, visit anacortes.org.

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A blend of history and beauty

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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 walkable hamlet full of restaurants, shops and galleries.

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. 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. 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 the wool being sourced from the alpacas in the field right outside!

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

san juan island.

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 swim spot.

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 hard-earned 600 feet of altitude.

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 views of sunsets over the Haro Straight.

Wander over to the 41-acre day use Lime Kiln Point State Park and, with a bit of luck, visitors will get to enjoy a show put on by orcas and transiting gray whales.

The second busiest town on the island is Roche Harbor, home to The Hotel de Haro, which was originally built in 1845 as a Hudson’s Bay trading post. Later, the island’s rich lime deposits struck the interest of Tacoma lawyer John S. McMillin, who thus founded 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.

McMillin’s home has been converted into restaurants where guests can find both casual and fine dining. The church the McMillin family built remains active today.

While in Roche Harbor, walk through the garden designed by McMillin’s wife, a hike around the lime quarries, check out the McMillin mausoleum, visit San Juan Sculpture Park and explore Roche Harbor Farm.

An annual not-to-miss event on San Juan Island is the Friday Harbor Film Festival, taking place in 2026 from October 22-25.

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 and sanjuanisland.org.

SAN JUAN ISLAND KIDS CORNER Fun: The Whale Museum Water access: Jackson Beach Playground: John O. Linde Community Park

2026 San Juan Island Something for Everyone Weekends Rotary Car Show of the San Juan Islands • August 9 rotaryfoundationsanjuanislands.org

FRIDAY HARBOR

Opening Boating Day May 3 • sjiyc.com

F I L M F E ST I VA L

San Juan Community Theatre presents – Spring Musical May 8-24 • sjctheatre.org

D O C U M E N T A R Y

Join us for the 14th Annual Festival in beautiful Friday Harbor, WA

October 22 - 25, 2026

San Juan County Fair August 13-16 • sjcfair.org The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova • August 21-22 lakedale.com/music-festival/ Archipelago Collective Chamber Music Festival • September 11-13 archipelagocollective.org

San Juan Island Artists Tour June 6-7 • sanjuanislandartists.com

San Juan Islands Farm Tours September 25-27 farmtourssanjuans.com/

Three Lakes Triathlon & Marathon June 20 • lakedale.com/three-lakestriathlon-marathon 4th of July Celebration Parade, Firecracker Run, Pig War Picnic, Fireworks sanjuanisland.org/4th-of-july San Juan Island Lavender Festival at Alchemy Art Farm July 18-19 • alchemyartcenter.com/

San Juan Island Restaurant Week November 15-22 sanjuanisland.org/restaurantweek Island Artisans Holiday Market November 27-28 sanjuanisland.org/winterfest Friday Harbor Winterfest December 1-31 sanjuanisland.org/winterfest/

plus Best of the Fest free monthly screenings Jan - Sept 2026/27 on San Juan and Lopez Islands

FHFF.org

Friday Harbor Film Festival October 22-25 • fhff.org

360 - 378- 5240

For more information, please contact the San Juan Island Chamber of Commerce: www.sanjuanisland.org WATERSIDE 2026

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PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

orcas island.

Largest and most mountainous of all the islands.

ORCAS ISLAND IS THE LARGEST AND MOST MOUNTAINOUS OF ALL THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS and is the second most populated. Unlike San Juan Island, the ferry to Orcas will not drop you off in town. Eastsound is the social hub of the island, and it is located eight miles down the road from the ferry landing. If visitors have boarded the ferry without a car or bike, they will find transportation to Eastsound in the taxis that run every day or 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 instead to avoid the ferry traffic that populates the Horseshoe Highway. Orcas’ terrain is challenging and full of hills, but bikers will find that the lush topography is worth the extra 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.

Visitors who enjoy hiking can try their hand at the Mt. Constitution Loop trail, which is a steep 6.6 miles. Bikers will find 19 different mountain biking trails spanning over 29 miles

throughout the park. Hikers, bikers and drivers can all be seen making their way up the mountain when the weather is favorable. 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 eight miles south of Eastsound. There you can walk the long wooden dock and take in the view 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 into 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 and orcasislandchamber.com

ORCAS ISLAND KIDS CORNER with promotion code: WATERSIDE

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FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Fun: Funhouse Commons Water access: Crescent Beach Playground: The playground on the Green, Eastsound

PHOTO BY SEVENA GUYER

lopez island.

A small community with a 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 colloquially 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 from the ferry terminal. The village has places to eat and drink and stock up on baked goods. Lopez is home to a grocery store, pharmacy and bookshop as well.

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, where visitors can peruse and purchase local food, art and wares, which are bountiful on this small island.

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

The island’s charm can be found in the tranquility of the many secluded accommodations available, from bed and breakfasts to campsites under the stars.

Lopez’s comparatively flat geography makes it a favorite destination for cyclists. Lopez Kayak and 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.

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

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 your vehicle 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 Slo-pez inspires visitors to leave their worries at the ferry dock and stroll through the island with a carefree 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 WATERSIDE 2026

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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 at 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 held its 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. These artists settled in abandoned cabins on the banks of the Skagit River and created an art colony they dubbed “Fishtown.” That artistic spirit lives on and its influence can be felt in the colorful historic buildings and the town’s flourishing museums.

Since the 1970s, La Conner has been a choice desti-

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la conner.

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

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 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 dry land and into a kayak for an aquatic tour. The

La Conner’s Only Waterfront Property •Gas Fireplaces

•Private Balconies

•Private Event & Meeting Spaces

•Continental Breakfast

•Jacuzzi Tubs & Luxury Bathrobes

•Live Piano Music Friday & Saturday Nights

205 N. 1st Street • La Conner, WA • 360.466.1500 • laconnerchannellodge.com WATERSIDE 2026

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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 romantic sunset views over Fidalgo Island.

Get a glimpse of the unique artistic culture of La Conner with a visit to The Museum of Northwest Art. The MoNa features exhibitions dedicated to local contemporary, modern and abstract art and, if that’s not enough, La Conner also has an array of small galleries and gallery tours with varying hours. 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 Indigenous 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 1, 2026 La Conner will celebrate the 26th anniversary of the annual Classic Boat & Car Show, showing off the best on land and water.

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

La Conner Marina

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

Walking distance to great dining and shopping.

Enjoy the guest docks at our friendly marina along the Swinomish Channel.

Stay in Touch!

Get community news and events year round!

La Conner Marina

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613 N. 2nd Street P.O. Box 1120 La Conner, WA 98257 360-466-3118 Channel VHF 66A www.portofskagit.com

WATERSIDENW.COM

laconnercommunitynews.org Photo by Nancy Crowell

La Conner invites you in—every season of the year.

Walk the channel at first light, linger in galleries and shops, gather for festivals, and return for the quiet moments in between. This is a town shaped by water, creativity, and community—where each visit feels both familiar and new.

Come for the day. Stay for the experience. Come back for what you missed.

La Conner events Summer and Fall schedule

Shopping directory

May

Handmade and curated home decor, local art and gifts

May 20, 2026 Museum of Northwest Art live art auction Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street

June

Specific date TBD La Conner Retirement Inn Classic Car Show La Conner Retirement Inn, 204 North First Street

July

Noon, July 4, 2026 Fourth of July Parade First Street in downtown La Conner

August

August 29, 2026 La Conner Rotary Annual Auction Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street

September

Sept. 25 – 27, 2026 2026 International Quilt & Fiber Arts Festival Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street Sept. 26, 2026 Skagit Farm to Pint FEST Port of Skagit, La Conner Marina

October

photo by Nancy Crowell

Oct. 2 – 5 Arts Alive!

Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street Date TBD Brew on the Slough Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street Oct. 22 – 24 Skagit River Poetry Festival Maple Hall, 104 Commercial Street

B.U.tiful and Wikstrom Gallery (206) 384-7264 102 North First Street

Fine Feathered Friends

Nature store and wild bird supply

(360) 399-1610 101 North First Street Go Outside

Home goods for people who love the outdoors

(360) 941-4225 111 Morris Street

Jennings Yarn & Needlecraft

Quality natural fibers and designer yarns

(360) 399-1800 512 First Street

Mystic Art Supply

Curated selection of art materials, gifts and locally-crafted goods

(360) 399-1617 101 North First Street #1-2 Seaport Books

Specializing in books about the Pacific Northwest

(360) 466-3177 106 South First Street #F Skagit River Boutique

Distinctive clothing and gifts for women

(360) 466-5554 622 South First Street

sponsored by

Oct. 31, 2026 Halloween Parade First Street in downtown La Conner WATERSIDE 2026

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A spectacular view of Skagit County history!

2026 events Topic @ The School - Equality Colony, the Rest of the Story May 17 • Skagit City School Where our Food Comes From exhibit opening reception June 5 • Skagit County Historical Museum Where our Food Comes From exhibit June 6 - Oct. 25 • Skagit County Historical Museum Topic @ The School - Decades of Northern State Hospital June 14 • Skagit City School Topic @ The School - Northern State Hospital Cemetery July 12 • Skagit City School Public History Day at Northern State Hospital July 25 • Swift Center Northern State Hospital Pioneer Picnic Aug. 6 • Pioneer Park, La Conner Dedication of 'The Skagit Valley Story of Creation' panels Aug. 14 • Skagit County Historical Museum Topic @ The School - The Headlines of Northern State Hospital Aug. 16 • Skagit City School Mark Iverson Art Exhibit Oct. 29 - Dec.6 • Skagit County Historical Museum Fall Fundraiser Nov. 7 • Maple Hall, La Conner Holiday @ The Top of the Hill Dec. 10 - Dec. 13 • Skagit County Historical Museum

Skagit County Historical Museum Located in La Conner

"Come to the top of the hill for a spectacular view of Skagit County history" 501 South 4th Street La Conner 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday ww.skagitcounty.net/museum • 360-466-3365

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This project received funding from Skagit County Lodging Tax. www.visitskagitvalley.com FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

marine mammals.

The following marine mammals are endangered/ threatened species that are important to our local ecosystems. While exciting to spot these species in the wild, be sure to keep your distance. If you do spot any of these species, you can help conservation efforts by reporting the sighting at bit.ly/43PSRID (Reports are most useful when provided with photos and coordinates).

CALIFORNIA SEA LION Sea Lions have seen an increasing population along the Washington coastline and up into the Columbia River since the 1980s. Their range follows the coastline from Southern California to Southeast Alaska. California Sea Lions are smaller than their cousin the Stellar Sea Lion, but also enjoy a diet of fish, shellfish and even squid. Males can reach up to 1,000 pounds and eight feet long, while females can reach six feet long and cap out at a lean 250 pounds.

They are considered a priority species and require protective measures for the survival of the species.

ORCA WHALES Orcas, though called Killer Whales, are actually part of the dolphin family. The southern resident orca population has been trending towards decline since 1995. The species can weigh up to 11 tons and can reach up to 32 feet in length. Female Orcas can live to be 80 to 90 years old and males have a lifespan of 50 to 60 years. The three pods that pass through our local waters are J, K, and L pods. These pods can be sighted around the San Juan Islands and the Strait of Juan De Fuca between spring and fall (though the pods seem to be spending less time in the Puget sound in recent years). Boaters are required to

stay 1,000 feet away from Southern Resident killer whales and further regulations can be found at bit. ly/3Sx2qHh. SEA OTTER While the Washington Sea Otter population is fairly low, it has been growing in recent years. A population of 59 otters was reintroduced to the area in 1969/1970 and through careful conservation that population has blossomed into 2,800 (last recorded in 2019). Sea Otters are the smallest marine mammal and unlike other marine mammals, Sea Otters rely on their dense, insulating fur to keep them warm (Other marine mammals are kept warm by blubber). Females can give birth to a fresh pup every one to two years at any time of year. Their habitat is kelp beds and rocky marine areas within a mile of the shoreline. Sea otter diets include urchins, shellfish and snails. Sea Otters are found only in the Northern Pacific Ocean.

HARBOR PORPOISES Though the population declined dramatically between 1970 and 1990, conservation efforts have rendered the Harbor Porpoise common in the Puget Sound once again. Porpoises are considered a good sign for fishermen, for where there are porpoises, there are sure to be fish. This ocean wonder is around 5 to 5.5 feet in length and weighs between 135 to 170 pounds. Males are slightly smaller than females.

Porpoises feed on small fish, octopus and squid. They are solitary, traveling alone or in groups of just a few.

Porpoises don’t splash when they surface or travel.

All information was sourced from wdfw.wa.gov. For more information on these and other local species, visit wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species.

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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 the 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 exceptional 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.

Christianson’s Nursery is a destination for gardeners

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mount vernon.

Downtown Mount Vernon Exit 226 | 202 S. 1st Street

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

and garden-lovers alike. Wander through the gift shop, occasional vendor fares to the greenhouses, which are full of resident birds who nest among the starts and blooms.

There are resident animals visitors can say hello to at the back of the property, including an emu.

Experience the heart of Skagit Valley with a bike tour around Mount Vernon and stop for a bite at one of the many restaurants. The town is full of cafes, breweries and home-style eateries. A popular beer destination, Mount Vernon is stocked with 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 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, taking place in 2026 on August 6 through 9, brings family fun to town every summer with live music, carnival rides, farm animals and eating

contests.

In Mount Vernon, there is a treat for every sense. Take in the fragrant seas of colorful tulip fields, clock the chirping and whistling of bald eagles, enjoy local food, brews and wine, and dip your toes in the cool water of the Skagit River.

Learn more at visitmountvernon.com.

MOUNT VERNON KIDS CORNER

Water access: Baker Street River Access Fun and Free: Breazeale Interpretive Center Playground: Edgewater Park

Open Daily to Everyone skagitfoodcoop.com

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Where family fun is around every corner FROM FISHING TO SHOPPING, BURLINGTON IS A DESTINATION FOR FAMILY FUN. Often referred to as “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.

Skagit’s Own Fish Market is a great place to stop 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. Take a break from the itinerary to let

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burlington.

the little ones run around and play in an educational environment.

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

The playfields at Skagit River Park offer river access and walking trails as well as horseshoe pits, picnic tables and a play structure. Visit Skagit Skate to speed around the roller rink or walk the Cascade Trail for views of the North Cascades.

Disk golf is a popular hobby in the Pacific Northwest, so immerse yourself in the local culture and take in the scenery while throwing disks at the Burlington Disk Golf Course.

Your local footwear experts.

420 E FAIRHAVEN AVE

S

T’S GIW A K O N

BURLINGTON KIDS CORNER

BURLINGTON

OPEN MON-SAT 9-6

The Valley’s Best Seafood!

EBT Daily Lunch Specials with Local Seafood!

Delicious freshly-prepared!

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

SHOP HERE FOR LOCAL GIFT ITEMS

Jams • Jellies • Salsas • Honey • Sauces • Dungeness Crab Fresh Fish • Clams • Mussels • Oysters for every taste!

Shrimp • Scallops • Smoked Fish

360.707.2722 • 18042 Hwy 20 • Burlington • www.SkagitFish.com

Photos courtesy HKP Architects & Mike Penney Photographer

Hands-On Exhibits Special Events

Memberships Parties & Field Trips

Museum Store Camps & Classes

SkagitChildrensMuseum.org Check website for current operations & exciting learning opportunties!

Help Me Grow-Skagit Family Resource Center services available.

Open 7 days/week. Closed some holidays.

Mention code WS26 for 10% off admission on your next visit!

VisitSkagitValley.com VisitBurlingtonWA.com Support provided by Lodging Tax Grant Funds

Located in Burlington, WA :: I-5 Exit 229 :: Tel: 360.757.8888

WATERSIDE 2026

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PHOTO BY ANDY PORTER

Experience the power of the North Cascades!

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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 point your kayak downstream for a river-born adventure.

The annual Berry Dairy Days, which takes place June 19-21, 2026, 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.

Join us for Diablo Lake morning and afternoon tours! Start your adventure at skagittours.com or call (360) 854-2589.

WASHINGTON Anacortes Farmers Market Saturdays, May through Oct. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Depot Arts Center, 611 R Avenue anacortesfarmersmarket.org Bayview Farmers Market Whidbey Island Saturdays, April through Oct. 18 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Intersection of Bayview Road and Highway 525 bayviewfarmersmarket.com Bellingham Farmers Market Saturdays, April through Dec. 19 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Depot Market Square, 1100 Railroad Avenue bellinghamfarmers.org Bellingham Dockside Market First and third Saturdays of every month 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

June through Oct. location: Outside Gate 5 of the Squalicum Marina Nov. through May location: Fisherman’s Pavillion, 2599 S. Harbor Loop Drive bit.ly/4kTUM5T

Lopez Island Farmers Market Saturdays, May 16 through September 19, Friday, July 3 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The heart of Lopez Village Lopezislandfarmersmarket.com

South Whidbey Tilth Sundays, April through Oct. 18, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

2812 Thompson Road, Langley, just off Highway 525 southwhidbeytilth.org

Mount Vernon Farmers Market Saturdays, May through Oct. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Riverwalk Park, 501 Main Street mountvernonfarmersmarket.org

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Oak Harbor Farmers Market Thursdays May through September 10 4 to 7 p.m.

Rotary Park, 32630 State Route 20 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 Oct. 31 9 a.m.–2 p.m.

Wednesdays, June-September 3–6 p.m.

600 Block of Tyler Street jcfmarkets.org

Blaine’s Market by the Sea Saturdays, May 23 through Sept. 26 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

G Street Plaza blainebythesea.com

Poulsbo Farmers Market Saturdays March through Dec. 12 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

18901 8th Ave NE Poulsbofarmersmarket.org

Coupeville Farmers Market Saturdays, April through Oct. 10 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Coupeville Green, 788 NW Alexander Street northcentralwhidbeyfarmersmarkets.org

San Juan Island Farmers Market Saturdays, April through Oct. 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

farmers markets.

Ladner Village Market June 7 & 21, July 5 & 19, Aug. 9 & 23, September 6 & 20 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

5028A 48th Avenue in Ladner Village ladnervillagemarket.com Steveston Farmers & Artisans Market May 10 & 24, June 14 & 28, July 12 & 26, Aug. 2, 16 & 30, September 13 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Garry Point Park 12011 7th Avenue, Richmond Sfam.ca White Rock Farmers Market Sundays, April through Oct. 11 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Miramar Plaza and Russell Avenue, and Johnston Road between Russell and Thrift Avenues whiterockfarmersmarket.ca Southland Grange Tsawwassen Farmers Market Every other Saturday from May 23 to Nov. 7 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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

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These races span the 2026 summer season.

SKI TO SEA takes place on May 24 in Whatcom County. The annual race includes the following legs: cross country ski, downhill ski/snowboard, run, road bike, canoe, cyclocross bike and sea kayak. Teams come from all over to compete and cross the finish line into Marine Park in Fairhaven. Spectators can view various legs from different view points throughout Bellingham.

The race is accompanied by a street festival that takes place in Fairhaven, full of vendors and food trucks. More information can be found at skitosea.com.

RAINSHADOW RUNNING is hosting 25K and 50K races on Orcas Island on June 6. The routes run through plentiful old-growth forests and climbing elevations.

The views along the route feature the puget sound and surrounding islands. On February 26, 2027, Rainshadow Running will be hosting the annual Orcas Island 100, which is a 100.8-mile race that takes place within a 36hour time frame. More information on all races can be found at visitsanjuans.com.

THREE LAKES TRIATHLON/SAN JUAN ISLAND MARATHON, HALF MARATHON AND 10K takes place on June 20 at Roche Harbor, San Juan Island. 2026 will be the 13th annual race. The triathlon includes the following options: Olympic Triathlon, an Olympic Relay Team Triathlon, a Sprint Triathlon and a Sprint Relay Team Triathlon. There will also be a kids triathlon. More information is available at lakedale.com/three-lakestriathlon-marathon.

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THE CHUCKANUT FOOT RACE on June 28 is a 7-mile trail run that starts in Fairhaven and wraps up at Larrabee State Park. This race has been an annual feature of the Chuckanuts since 1968, and 2026 will be the 57th time the event has been held. The race will follow the interurban trail through the Chuckanut FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

Mountains. Views will feature Chuckanut Bay and the San Juans. After the race, there will be a post-race party at Larrabee State Park with strawberry shortcake and a performance by musician Taran Ki’ihele Bowlby. More information can be found at gbrc.net/races/chuckanutfoot-race.

VIKING TOUR is a bike race on June 13 that takes place in Poulsbo. The tour features three route options. The Freyja is a 17-mile, relaxed ride with beautiful scenery.

The Thor is a 29-mile moderately challenging route with rolling hills. Finally, The Odin is a 57-mile route that gains 4,000 feet of elevation to the end of epic views and a serious challenge. Free lunch at the BrewGarden is included with registration. All three routes are mapped at Ride with GPS. More information can be found at poulsborotary.org/viking-tour.

TOUR DE WHATCOM is a bike event that takes place July 18. Race length options include 22 miles, 44 miles, Metric Century Ride (62 miles), and Century Ride (100 miles). The tour will take riders through all manner of Pacific Northwest landscapes including lakes, rivers, valleys, beaches, Mount Baker and farmland. More information can be found at tourdewhatcom.com.

TOUR DE LAVENDER is a bike ride that takes place in Sequim, which is just 45 minutes from Port Townsend, on August 1. There is a 35-mile fun run as well as a 64-mile Metric Century Ride through up to six lavender farms. Proceeds from this race benefit the Peninsula Trails Coalition, and funds raised support construction and maintenance of the Olympic Discovery Trail, education and advocacy. There is a self-guided version of the 35-mile fun run for riders not available on race day. More information can be found at tourdelavender. com.

Visit page 60 for information on events in all of our communities.

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

race day.

Footraces, bike tours, triathlons and multisport races from across our communities

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

bow, edison & chuckanut.

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.

Perched 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.

Edison hosts an annual Bird Festival and Chicken Parade in February where people can dress up in all manner of feathered chicken-wear and strut down Main Street.

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 is WATERSIDE 2026

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PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

home to artisan cheese makers, and Edison has several cafés and restaurants, most of which have an intensely local focus.

Chuckanut Drive is an experience drivers won’t want to pass up. The 21-mile stretch of road between Bow-Edison and Fairhaven allows visitors the chance to ramble along

• Spectacular View • Fresh Seafood & Oysters • Prime Steaks & Game • Wine Spectator Award Lunch Daily 11:30 am - 4 pm Dinner Daily 4 - 9 pm

2578 chuckanut dr ., bow , wa 98232 360.766. 6185 • theoysterbar . net

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high above the shoreline. The cliffs fall to Chuckanut Bay on one side and steep rock faces climb the other side of 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.

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 an oyster farm and buy fresh oysters, clams, geoduck, mussels and crab right from the source.

Visit Bow, Edison and Chuckanut to connect with the bounty of the Pacific Northwest.

For more information, visit visitskagitvalley.com and bellingham.org

CHUCKANUT, BOW-EDISON KIDS CORNER Fun: Tide pooling at Larrabee State Park Waterfront access: Samish Beach Playground: Larrabee State Park

WHERE WE LIVE

WHERE WE WIN

theskagit.com C ASI N O• R ESOR T

Must be 21 or older with valid ID. Details at Rewards Club. Management reserves all rights. ©2026 Upper Skagit Indian Tribe dba Skagit Valley Casino Resort.

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Being stuck behind the wheel of a car on a busy highway this summer isn’t necessary to visit all the wonderful places listed in this guide. Visitors will find no shortage of ways to get to and TRAINS Amtrak Amtrak stations located in Vancouver, Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Stanwood, Everett and Seattle. amtrak.com

BUSES AND SHUTTLES 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

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Bellingham Greyhound Bus Station 401 Harris Avenue 800/231-2222 greyhound.com/en-us/busstation-780043 Skagit Transit: Mount Vernon to Bellingham Route 80X 360/757-8801 skagittransit.org/route-80x Friday Harbor Jolly Trolly Hop on/hop off with seven stops around the island 360-298-8873 fridayharborjollytrolley.com

from our coastal communities. Bike and e-bike rentals are also plentiful in our Waterside communities, and places like Lopez island, for example, are completely accessible by bike.

AIR TRAVEL

FERRIES

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

I-5, Exit 258 in Bellingham. portofbellingham.com/airport

Lummi Ferry Multiple sailings from the mainland.

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

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Full-service commercial airport with international flights.

Hwy 99, Exit 39 in Richmond, B.C. yvr.ca

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 wsdot.wa.gov/travel/ washington-state-ferries

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

PHOTO BY GABRIEL HOUGH

transportation.

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 islands 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

Susie’s Mopeds Friday Harbor 360-378-5244 susiesmopeds.com Rent an e-bike, moped, scooter, Scoot Coupe, ZeroMax, Buggy, or Chevy Tracker to explore San Juan Island.

Tulip Country Bike Tours and Rentals Mount Vernon 360-424-7461 countrycycling.com Rent a bike to tour the Tulip Festival or just to ride around Skagit County in the summer

BIKES, E-BIKES AND MOPEDS

Dig Deep Tours and Bike Rentals Bellingham 360-592-3830 digdeeptours.com Mountain bike, e-mountain bike and gravel bike rentals

Edenwild Adventures Lopez island 360-468-3238 theedenwild.com Ferry walk-ons can arrange to pick up their rental bikes right at the ferry landing.

Sun-E-Land Bikes Bellingham 360-389-2205 sunelandbikes.com Bike rentals in Bellingham with rental delivery and pick up available

Skagit Cycle Center Burlington: 360-757-7910 Anacortes: 360-588-8776 skagitcyclecenter.com Offering various-type bike rentals out of their Anacortes and Burlington locations, including e-bike, gravel bike, hybrid bike as well as child trailer, pet trailer, cargo trailer, car rack add ons.

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

The Broken Spoke Port Townsend 360-379-1295 thebrokenspokept.com E-bikes, town bikes, gravel bikes, road bikes, mountain bikes and kids bikes.

Bellingham Cruise Terminal and Fairhaven Transportation Station offer

Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven

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

BY SEA to the San Juan Islands and Alaska

BY RAIL to Seattle and Vancouver, BC

BY LAND aboard Greyhound ALASKA MARINE HIGHWAY

800-642-0066

AMTRAK STATION

GREYHOUND

SAN JUAN CRUISES

FAIRHAVEN COFFEE

PORT FAIRHAVEN CAFÉ

SCHOONER ZODIAC

GATO VERDE SAILING

SALISH TRADING POST

YELLOW CAB

800-USA-RAIL

360-733-3172 360-220-3215

800-231-2222 360-922-3443 360-738-8099

800-443-4552 206-719-7622 360-734-8294

www.portofbellingham.com WATERSIDE 2026

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fairhaven.

A 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.

On summer Saturdays, locals and visitors alike gather on the green to watch projected movies after sundown.

The town’s name comes from a translation of its indigenous name, “see-see-lich-em,” meaning safe port. Fairhaven originally functioned as a predominantly fishing-based economy before being incorporated into Bellingham in the early 1900s. While Fairhaven is no longer 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 from Vancouver, B.C. to Eugene, Oregon, depending on if WATERSIDENW.COM

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

travelers are venturing north or south.

This Waterside town was made for strolling, and if visitors look down, they may 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 books at world famous Village Books or 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 and French riviera-style bistros. Visitors will have no trouble finding the perfect setting for a drink, from dive bars to chic 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 downhill stroll from Fairhaven’s town center to the Bellingham Cruise Terminal. Just past the terminal

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of the

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BEST

Fun and Free: Outdoor music concerts at Boulevard Park Waterfront access: Marine Park Playground: Fairhaven Park

NORTH

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Whatcom County’s Favorite An Amazing Selection of Unique & Local

BOOKS & GIFTS

Jewelry, Attire, Games, Guides, Cards, and Much More!

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

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is Marine Park, the perfect place to have a picnic while watching the kayakers and paddleboarders push out to sea.

The train passes so close to the small beachfront park that parkgoers can feel the wake of the train in the wind.

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.

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

FAIRHAVEN KIDS CORNER

SURF SCOTER Surf Scoters can often be seen around the ferry docks when you look down from the ferry decks.

BALD EAGLES Reliable viewing spots include Little Squalicum Beach in Bellingham, Lily Point in Point Roberts, and on the way South into Skagit Valley.

Location Found:

Location Found:

NORTHERN FLICKER Can often be found near Western Washington University campus in Bellingham.

Location Found:

Location Found: PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

GREAT BLUE HERON These can commonly be sighted in Birch Bay, each defending its own fishing territory from other herons.

PHOTO BY GABRIEL HOUGH

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

BLACK OYSTER CATCHER Black Oyster Catchers can be found often on the beach at Boulevard Park in Fairhaven and on Orcas Island at Crescent Beach Preserve.

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

Location Found:

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

The following birds can be found in many of our Waterside communities, but we have listed locations where you can pretty reliably see these birds when the conditions and seasons are right. Can you spot them all this summer? Be sure to bring your binoculars and dress for the weather when you go birding.

PHOTO BY NANCY K. CROWELL

Beginner Bird Bingo

DOUBLE-CRESTED CORMORANT Cormorants can often be spotted around ferry docks, at Boulevard Park in Fairhaven or at Larrabee State Park.

BELTED KINGFISHER Belted Kingfishers can sometimes be seen at the Squalicum Harbor and Little Squalicum Pier both in Bellingham.

Location Found:

Location Found: WATERSIDE 2026

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Intersection of art, cuisine, and adventure

BELLINGHAM 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. Snowboarders in the winter turn to their mountain bikes in the summer, leaving no seasonal gaps in opportunities for adventure.

While it is a college town on the surface, the youthful glow doesn’t detract from the homey comforts that will make it hard to leave when it’s time to check out.

This Waterside gem sits on Bellingham Bay in the shadow of Mount Baker, and hosts the annual Ski to Sea race.

The 94-mile multisport team race includes ski, run, bike, canoe and kayak legs and brings crowds to Bellingham every Memorial Day weekend.

It’s rarely a bad 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 there in January, the view will leave visitors breathless.

Within Bellingham city limits, visitors will find lakes,

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bellingham.

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

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 37.

Bellingham was established as its own city when the neighboring towns of Sehome, Whatcom, Fairhaven and Bellingham merged in the early 1900s. The distinct neighborhoods add to what makes Bellingham feel smaller than it actually is. The population may be close to 95,000, but it never feels that big.

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.

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

ZAPPER MEGA

THE

Bellingham, WA | www.sparkmuseum.org

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PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

for every taste. An artful town through and through, even the cafés offer a rotating display of paintings and art for sale by local artists.

If visitors feel inspired to seek out more art, they will find no shortage of avenues to find it. Bellingham boasts a collection of galleries, city sponsored sidewalk sculptures, murals and, of course, the Whatcom Museum. Within the Whatcom Museum Lightcatcher building is the Family Interactive Gallery (FIG), which is a sprawling children’s museum certain to entertain kids of all ages. Those searching for more science-minded history can get their fix at the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention. More information on museums can be found on page 56.

The Marine Life Center in Squalicum Harbor is free to the public and offers visitors a chance to observe many species of sea life native to the Salish Sea. The center also rehabilitates octopi when the need arises, so you may just get to observe one of the sea’s most remarkable creatures

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in recovery. Staffed with educators, visitors should feel free to ask questions about the resident sea life and ways we can keep our local ecosystem healthy. After sojourning at the Marine Life Center, take a walk around Squalicum Harbor, where the ocean breeze is always puffing away. Seals are a common sighting at the harbor, and visitors trying to get their steps in can walk all the way to Zuanich Point Park.

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 businesses. Check out the Northwest Tune-Up bike and music festival July 10-12, 2026.

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: Bloedel Donovan Park Playground: Waypoint Park

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

sunset The ideal spot to watch the sun set over Canada is BLAINE MARINE PARK. Just a brief walk from downtown Blaine, this park offers views of the water and the Peace Arch. With two epic pirate-themed play structures, picnic shelter and walking paths, this beach spot has something for everyone. Sit under a shady apple tree or just relax and dip your toes in the warm tidewaters.

BOULEVARD PARK roughly marks the halfway point between downtown Bellingham and the historic Fairhaven neighborhood. Boulevard offers plentiful landing spots for a sunset picnic. In the summers there is occasional live music, and just down the boardwalk there are summer outdoor movie nights on the Fairhaven Green. On hot days there are usually young people jumping off Taylor Dock being passed by bikers, walkers and dogs aplenty.

LITTLE SQUALICUM PIER extends 1,248 feet out into Bellingham Bay and sits on 4.85 acres of restored costal habitat (restored by the Little Squalicum Estuary Project). The beach is tranquil and accessible by car as well as gravel walking/biking trails that wind through woods and parks. Sunset views over the pier are epic, especially when cumulus cloud formations happen to float by during a citrus sunset.

LARRABEE STATE PARK, which can be reached via a scenic meander down Chuckanut Drive from Fairhaven sports several secluded beaches, a boat launch and tidepools galore. The park is dotted with massive rock formations, sheer cliffs and a lattice of trails and beach access points. Take a picnic lunch and you’ll be able to stay all day. When sunset lights up the rippling bay waters, you’ll be glad you stuck around.

EBEY’S LANDING NATIONAL HISTORICAL RESERVE is one of the jewels of Whidbey Island. The reserve is situated on a massive bluff overlooking the Olympic Peninsula, and features miles of trails to explore. The beach itself is sunny and relaxing, and Fort Ebey State Park also offers camping if a day trip just isn’t enough. When sunset backlights the bluff, the effect is positively cinematic.

FORT WORDEN is the perfect spot to take any film buff or Richard Gere lover. The fort, located in Port Townsend, was the shooting location for the 1982 film, An Officer and a Gentleman. There’s more than just historical and cultural attractions at Fort Worden; the views from the Point Wilson lighthouse are like nothing else. Look north all the way to Victoria, B.C. or east to Fort Casey on Whidbey Island. If you catch a soft, pink sunset behind the lighthouse, be sure to take a picture; you won’t want to forget the scene.

LIGHTHOUSE PARK in Point Roberts sports spectacular sunsets. Though it does not have a lighthouse, the park sports a walking trail, barbeque facilities, picnic tables and a campground, so you don’t even have to leave when sunset is done. The plentiful driftwood makes for great places to sit as well as fodder for building beach structures. When the time comes, the sun sets over Strait of Georgia, where Orcas, seals and Eagles are common sightings.

EAST BEACH AND WEST BEACH in White Rock are hemmed in by the White Rock promenade and punctuated by the White Rock Pier. When the sun starts to hang low, start your walk down the 1,542foot pier or pop off the promenade to lay a blanket on the beach. The sunsets in White Rock are atmospheric, and you’ll be glad you stayed.

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Maple Beach

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

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

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

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

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whatcom water trail map.

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Cruise the San Juan Islands!

The Port of Bellingham created the water trail map on page 52 to promote water access along Whatcom County’s marine shoreline and freshwater lakes.

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

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

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

INSTRUCTION • BAREBOAT CHARTER • BROKERAGE

sanjuansailing.com • 360-671-4300

G EGTEWTINWG IN

ING' IN'

Elevate your ride. Wing foiling rentals, lessons, and all the foiling gear to help you reach new heights this spring.

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road trip tips

PACK FOR ACCESSIBILITY. Anything that you’ll need before you hit that next home base should be reachable from the passenger seat. Snacks, water and activities for non-driving passengers are essential and having them up front will minimize stops between destinations.

PUTTING A LITTLE EXTRA TIME INTO PACKING THE TRUNK OF THE CAR will leave you more relaxed when you arrive at your destination. If you plan to arrive at a campsite in the evening, pack your tent on top of everything else so that you can set up camp as soon as you get there. But if you intend to stop for a picnic on your way, make sure that cooler is right where you can grab it when you pop the trunk.

LEAVE PLENTY OF TIME. Often ferries fill up and you may find yourself waiting for the next one if you haven’t made a reservation. If you’ve left enough time this won’t be an imposition. With extra time, you’ll have no problem parking in the ferry line and taking the chance to explore a town you hadn’t planned to as an unexpected blessing.

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BE FLEXIBLE. The best part about our Waterside communities is that they lend themselves to the wandering traveler so easily. As long as you’ve booked a place to FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

stay, our Waterside communities require no set itinerary to have a grand old time.

GET AAA AHEAD OF TIME. Whether it’s a flat tire or keys locked in the car, it is better to have a service on speed dial than to call every car service business within a 15-mile radius until one comes through.

LOOK UP ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS BEFORE YOU LEAVE to make the stops along the way more fun. Build in stops to stretch your legs and take in some local culture. It’s more fun than stopping at rest areas and quirky stops will make any trip more memorable.

QUEUE UP YOUR MUSIC (OR PODCASTS) before putting the car in drive. Topical podcasts for Pacific Northwest road trips are plentiful. The Washington State Hiking Podcast (Jenny Thwing Flaming and Craig Romano) has topical episodes with practical, timely and seasonal hiking advice as well as hike recommendations. History of the Pacific Northwest (Ryan Tate) covers the history of Washington, Oregon and Idaho from the time humans migrated to North America to present day. Salmon Wars, and its season one predecessor Timber Wars (OPB and Propublica/NPR), explore more niche resource history in the Pacific Northwest. Off the Trails (Maegan Moaratty and Danielle Falagan) features tales of people who have been lost in nature all over the world (with a few episodes taking place in the Pacific Northwest), and with plentiful advice for staying safe in our state and national parks, this podcast is exciting and educational for travelers.

BRING BAG CLIPS TO KEEP ROAD TRIP SNACKS FRESH and a small cooler to keep your beverages ice cold.

DOCUMENT YOUR TRIP BY BRINGING A DEDICATED TRAVEL JOURNAL. Jot down little wondrous things that happen for posterity.

IF YOU’RE HEADED SOUTH OF THE WATERSIDE COMMUNITY LEDGER, make it a point to find a Pacific Northwest Mythical Troll. There are six giant troll statues throughout Western Washington and Oregon, all by the artist Thomas Dambo. While none of these gentle giants rest in our Waterside communities, they are deeply rooted in the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest and we recommend checking them out should your journey take you into the Seattle area and beyond. There is one troll located in each of the following communities: West Seattle, Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, Ballard, Issaquah, and Portland, Oregon.

road trip worksheet

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to

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DATES: ___________________TO ___________________ Destination(s)

TOTAL DISTANCE: ______________________________

Packing list

Where to stay

Itinerary musts

Where to stay

Sights to see

Restaurants to try

Itinerary musts

Road trip scavenger hunt: Circle what you see!

Kayak

Sights to see

Packing list

Seal

Mountains

Train

Restaurants to try

Sunset

Body of water

Ferry

Bald eagle

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museums.

PORT TOWNSEND

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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.

LOPEZ ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY AND MUSEUM 28 Washburn Place Lopez Island 360/468-2049 lopezmuseum.org Alongside permanent First Islanders and Natural History displays, there are rotating exhibits on farming, fishing, place name origins and island communities. Features more than 200 Native stone, bone and antler artifacts from First Islander life.

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

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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.

POULSBO HERITAGE MUSEUM 19020 Front Street 360/994-4943 Poulsbohistory.org Cultural heritage and daily life of early Poulsbo residents. Ongoing and rotating exhibits.

CROW VALLEY SCHOOL MUSEUM 1701 Crow Valley Road, Eastsound 360/376-4849 Orcasmuseums.org Tour a late 1800s school house on Orcas Island. Tours are available during open hours, or private tours can be scheduled in the off season.

POULSBO MARINE MUSEUM 19010 Front Street NE 360/994-4943 Poulsbohistory.org 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 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.

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

WHIDBEY/ CAMANO ISLAND COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY 908 NW Alexander Street Coupeville 360/678-3310 islandhistory.org A museum that features local and regional history including ice age relics, mammoth remains, an Indigenous artifact 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 bit.ly/4cfK2Mq 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.

THE MARINE LIFE CENTER 1801 Roeder Avenue Bellingham 360/676-2500 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

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.

HISTORIC PIONEER VILLAGE 2007 Cherry Street Ferndale 360/384-6461 whatcomoldsettlers.com Large collection of cedar slab cabins, guided tours and annual events.

BURLINGTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF SKAGIT COUNTY 432 Fashion Way Burlington 360/757-8888 Skagitchildrensmuseum.org 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 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.

FERNDALE

BLAINE ALASKA PACKERS ASSOCIATION CANNERY AND FISHING MUSEUM 9261 Semiahmoo Parkway Blaine 360/371-3558 blainebythesea.com/apa-museum 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-towall 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.

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.

THE RUBBER DUCK MUSEUM Tswassen Mills, Entry 3 866/567-2726 therubberduckmuseum.com The world’s first and only historical rubber duck museum features rare historical rubber duck artifacts ranging from the early 1900s to today. This unique exhibit takes visitors on a captivating journey through the history and evolution of the beloved rubber duck bath toy.

UBC MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY 6393 Marine Drive Vancouver 604/827-5932 moa.ubc.ca The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is world-renowned for its totem pole collection, research and teaching.

. s m u e s u m

Visit

HISTORIC PIONEER VILLAGE in Ferndale, WA

Largest Collection of Cedar Slab Log Cabins MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 15

GUIDED CABIN TOURS

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

OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS Lighted Christmas Stroll next two weekends www.ferndaleheritagesociety.com

JULY 24 & 25

OLD SETTLERS PICNIC Longest Running Festival in Washington State

Live Music • Car Show • Parade Cabins Open • Concessions • Beer Garden • Childrens Activities FRI. NIGHT • JULY 24 • 8:30PM Beer Garden Live Music & Dancing “Whirlwind Rodeo” SAT. NIGHT • JULY 25 • 8:30PM Beer Garden Live Music & Dancing “Sunset Superman”

www.whatcomoldsettlers.com

2000 Cherry St. • Ferndale, WA • I-5 Exit 262 WATERSIDE 2026

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A small, tranquil and inviting island.

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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 and walking easy and natural choices for visitors. Meandering aside, there are a variety of activities both recreational and cultural to fill visitors’ itineraries.

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 Indigenous local 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 preserve, offering a short but vigorous hike up a steep and winding WATERSIDENW.COM

PHOTO BY ALAN MAJCHROWICZ

lummi island.

PHOTO BY LOUISE MUGAR

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 it, as well as access to a secluded stone labyrinth for walking meditation. Lounge in the sand and rocks at Sunset Beach on West Shore Drive around sunset for a chance to see orcas swim by the island.

On the way home, visit the Silver Reef Hotel Casino Spa on the way back to I-5. Silver Reef offers several restaurants, including an award-winning steak house and wine room.

The on-site hotel makes Silver Reef a great homebase for visitors looking to explore Lummi Island as well as the surrounding areas of Whatcom County.

If you win big at the casino, be sure to spend some of your winnings stocking up at the Lummi Bay Market.

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 $24 round trip, and each passenger or pedestrian ticket is $10. Bring your bicycle; tickets for pedestrians with bikes are just $13 round trip. Anyone under 19 years old can ride the ferry for free, but children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

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.

LUMMI ISLAND ARTISTS’

Studio Tours 2026 May 23 & 24 • Sept. 5 & 6 Nov. 14 & 15 • 11am - 5pm Find special treasures for gifting paintings, drawings, prints, notecards, jewelry, photography, sculpture, Ria Nickerson glass, woodwork, pottery, metalwork, with her kiln stonework, quilts, clothing, knitwear, and more! For self-guided tour maps

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.

& details, follow us on IIII /Lummi Island Studio Tour

Glass Art

by Art Hohl

Felted vessel

by Sue McCaslin

360-317-5807 • 360-758-2815 • visit lummi-island.com WATERSIDE 2026

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PHOTO BY ASHLEY McCREA STRUB

events.

WATERSIDE

FILM

Fairhaven Outdoor Cinema Saturdays July-Aug. enjoyfairhaven.com Ferndale flicks in the Park June 12 and July 31 bit.ly/4tnZIUQ Blaine Movies in the Park July 10 and 24, Aug. 7, 21 and 28 Blainebythesea.com Port Townsend Film Festival Sept. 24-27 Ptfilm.org Poulsbo Film Festival Oct. 9-11 Poulsbofilmfestival.com

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Orcas Island Film Festival Oct. 14-18 oifilmfest.org

Friday Harbor Film Festival San Juan Island Oct. 22-25 Fhff.org

ART Bellingham First Friday Art Walk First Friday of every month, downtownbellingham.com/firstfridays Poulsbo Art Walk Second Saturday of every month visitpoulsbo.com Blaine Art Walk Second Saturday of every month blainechamber.com

Langley Art Walk Whidbey Island First Saturday of every month visitlangley.com/whidbey-islandevents Lopez Island Art Walk First Saturday of the month visitsanjuans.com Friday Harbor Art Walk First Friday of the month visitsanjuans.com Skagit Garden and Art Fair June 20-21 skagitgardenandartfair.org Poulsbo Arts Festival June 14-16 Visitpoulsbo.com

Music in Boulevard Park Fairhaven June 26, July 24, Aug. 28 bit.ly/4kqD0a6

Anacortes Arts Festival July 31-Aug. 2 anacortesartsfestival.com

Downtown Sounds Bellingham Wednesdays July 8-Aug. 5 downtownbellingham.com/ downtownsounds

Coupeville Arts & Crafts Festival Aug. 8-9 coupevillefestival.com Whidbey Plein Air Paint Out Aug. 17-20 pacificnorthwestartschool.org Noisy Waters Mural Festival Bellingham Aug. 14-16 noisywatersmuralfest.com Poulsbo Art Festival (Cultural Arts Foundation NW) Aug. 14-16 bit.ly/4dwDCc0 Lummi Island Artists’ Studio Tour May 23-24, September 5-6 and November 7-8 Lummi-island.com Lopez Island Artists’ Studio Tour Aug. 29-30 lopezislandartists.com Whatcom Artists Studio Tour Oct. 3-4 and 10-11 studiotour.net

MUSIC & PERFORMANCE Doe Bay Artists in Residence Orcas Island Through Summer, check the website for specific artist dates doebay.com/music-and-art Music in Elizabeth Park Bellingham Thursday evenings June 18-Aug. 20 bit.ly/4kqD0a6

Port Townsend Concerts on the Dock Thursdays, July 9-Aug. 27 ptmainstreet.org Bellingham Festival of Music July 3-25 bellinghamfestival.org Shoestring Circus Bellingham May 29-June 14 shoestringcircus.com Summer Nights at the Bay Poulsbo Tuesdays July-Aug. 18 Visitpoulsbo.com Northwest Tune-Up Bellingham July 10-12 nwtuneup.com/music Blaine Harbor Music Festival July 12-18 Blainebythesea.com Strings & Things Music Festival Point Roberts July 11 stringsandthingsmusicfestival.com Ferndale Riverwalk: Jam on the River June 26 bit.ly/3OcXs3F Peace Arch Concert Series Aug. 2 blainechamber.com

The Lakedale Music Festival with Brian Nova San Juan Island Aug. 28-29 lakedale.com/music-festival

events

Birch Bay Sand Sculpture Competition Aug. 1 birchbaychamber.com

Oak Harbor Music Festival Sept. 4-6 oakharborfestival.com Roche Harbor Float Fest September 4-6 rhfloatfest.com

Imagine Music and Arts Festival Sept. 11-13 imaginegathering.com Salish Sea Early Music Festival Orcas Island June 10 and 30 bit.ly/4sIZpUx

FOOD Viking Tour Brew Fest & Bike Ride June 13 visitpoulsbo.com Burlington Berry Dairy Days June 19-21 berrydairydays.com Steveston Salmon Festival July 1 stevestonsalmonfest.ca Bellingham Seafeast Sept. 26-27 bellinghamseafeast.org Seaside Bash with OysterFest Blaine Oct. 10 blainebythesea.com

FESTIVALS Poulsbo Viking Fest May 15-17 vikingfest.org

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Fairhaven Festival May 24 Enjoyfairhaven.com

Dia de Fiesta October 3 diadefiestawa.com

Richmond Dragon Boat Festival Sept. 12 dragonboatbc.ca

Liberty Bay Festival 2026 May 29-31 visitpoulsbo.com

MARITIME & WATERFRONT FESTIVALS

Seaside Bash with Oysterfest Blaine Oct. 10 blainebythesea.com

Birch Bay Kite Festival June 20-21 birchbaychamber.com Whidbey Wags Pet Parade July 3 oakharborchamber.com 4th of July All of our Waterside communities celebrate the 4th of July in style.

Visit their individual websites for more information.

Northwest Tune-Up Bellingham July 10-12 nwtuneup.com Skagit Valley Highland Games July 11-12 celticarts.org Island Shakespeare Festival July 17-Sept. 16 islandshakespearefest.org Ferndale Old Settlers Weekend July 24-25 whatcomoldsettlers.com National Night Out Aug. 4 birchbaychamber.com Birch Bay Derby Day Aug. 29 birchbaychamber.com Military Appreciation Picnic August 29 oakharborchamber.com

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Bellingham Dockside Market First and third Saturday of the month bellinghamseafeast.org/docksidemarket Historic passenger plover ferry rides Blaine Weekends through Labor Day Blainechamber.com Anacortes Waterfront Festival June 6-7 bit.ly/4dlNRlw Bellingham Sailboats Race Week June 20-24 raceweekpnw.com Anacortes Shipwreck Festival July 18 fidalgorotary.org/page/shipwreckfestival Drayton Harbor Pirate Festival Blaine Aug. 1 blainebythesea.com White Rock Sea Festival and Semiahmoo Days Aug. 1-3 bit.ly/4sm5hlR Richmond Maritime Festival Aug. 22-23 richmondmaritimefestival.ca Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival Sept. 11-13 woodenboat.org

CAR SHOWS Rotary Club Car Show July 5 ohrotary.org Rollback Weekend Car Show Birch Bay Aug. 2 birchbaychamber.com La Conner Classic Boat & Car Show Aug. 1 Lovelaconner.com Rotary Car Show of the San Juan Islands Friday Harbor August 9 visitsanjuans.com

RUN/WALK/ BIKE/SAIL/ROW

events

Bellingham Scottish Gathering Blaine June 6 scottishdancesociety.org

Ski to Sea Fairhaven May 24 skitosea.com

Family Fun Run May 30 ohedfoundation.org

Rainshadow Running Orcas Island 50 & 25K June 6 bit.ly/4sIZpUx Blaine Fun Run June 13 Blainebythesea.com

Viking Tour Poulsbo June 13 poulsborotary.org/viking-tour

Tour de Whidbey August 15 whidbeyhealthfoundation.org/ tourdewhidbey

Three Lakes Triathlon/San Juan Island Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K June 20 lakedale.com/three-lakes-triathlonmarathon

Bellingham Off-Road Triathlon Aug. 17 Bellinghamoffroadtri.com

Bellingham SwimRun June 28 questraces.com The Chuckanut Foot Race June 28 gbrc.net/races/chuckanut-footrace Kitsap Humane Society Petswalk 5k and Festival Poulsbo June 6 Visitpoulsbo.com

SPORTS Canada Cup International Softball Championship Surrey, B.C. July 3-6 canadacup.com Bellingham Bells Baseball Games June through Aug. bellinghambells.com FIFA World Cup viewing party (Blaine) July 19 blainebythesea.com

FAIRS Whidbey Ren Faire May 23-24 whidbeyrenfaire.org Jefferson County Fair Aug. 14-16 jeffcofairgrounds.org Whidbey Island Fair July 23-26 whidbeyislandfair.com Northwest Washington Fair Aug. 13-22 nwwafair.com San Juan County Fair Aug. 13-16 sjcfair.org

Padden Triathlon Bellingham June 27 bit.ly/4kvhIYL

events

Rainshadow Running 25K and 50K Orcas Island June 6 visitsanjuans.com

Whidbey Summer Classic Regatta July 10-12 whidbeyclassic.com Lake Whatcom Triathlon July 11 Lakewhatcomtriathlon.com Tour De Whatcom July 18 Tourdewhatcom.com

FOR RESERVATIONS CALL

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

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

Medicine Creek Potlatch Journey Tribal Journeys 2026 July 31 -Aug. 6 bit.ly/3NW3O7m

Newly Renovated!

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PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

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 home to around 16,000 people. Ferndale 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 mile of river frontage. In the summer, Hovander is home to barnyard animals and Hovander House Historical Tours.

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PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

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 cedar slab cabins in the Pacific Northwest and features tours led by historically dressed docents from mid-May through Sept. This is the setting of the annual Old Settlers Days on July 24-25, 2026. 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 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. Ferndale Flicks in the Park will take place on June 12 and 31 and Jam on the River will be taking place on June 26. For more information on these events, visit page 60.

Visitors will find themselves quite taken by this historical hamlet with a zeal for summer fun.

For more information, visit cityofferndale.org.

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aurora chasing in washington state Story and photos by Nancy K. Crowell

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Washington state isn’t the first place that comes to mind for aurora borealis viewing, but dedicated chasers here have been enjoying a spectacular couple of years.

The aurora becomes more visible during years of high solar activity, and the sun follows an 11-year cycle of sunspot activity. We are currently near the peak and entering the declining phase of the current cycle, which has made for some great aurora viewing—occasionally as far south as Arizona. The rise of digital photography has drawn more people into the hobby, as these colorful displays can often be captured on cell phones. Digital sensors pick up colors the human eye can’t see, so experienced chasers know that what looks like pale gray movement in the sky may turn into brilliant green or purple when viewed through a camera.

Of course, the experience is nothing like viewing the aurora in the far northern parts of the world, where dark skies and the intensity of the phenomenon allow people to see vivid color without a camera. But if traveling isn’t an option, this is a good year to follow the sun’s activity right where you are. In northwest Washington, clear

northern horizons over water—like the Skagit flats or coastal areas—can improve your chances.

I started looking for aurora activity about five years ago and have learned a great deal about recognizing favorable conditions. A helpful Facebook group called Aurora Borealis Washington State has been a great resource, but if you’re not on social media, there are plenty of ways to chase on your own. Several phone apps provide real-time alerts. When the sun releases a coronal mass ejection (CME), NASA tracks its trajectory and whether it’s likely to impact Earth. Many aurora chasers also watch the “Kp index,” which measures geomagnetic activity—higher numbers increase your chances of seeing aurora farther south.

While general forecasts can be made days in advance, the exact timing and intensity often aren’t clear until about 30 to 60 minutes before activity reaches Earth.

Even then, predictions can be off, but once you understand the key indicators, you can be ready when it matters. A reliable source for updates is NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center, SpaceWeather.com. Vincent WATERSIDE 2026

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Ledvina, a space physics Ph.D. student in Fairbanks, Alaska, is another excellent resource; his site is called theauroraguy.com.

In Washington, the aurora visible to the naked eye often looks like pale clouds drifting through the night sky.

Occasionally you may notice faint color, but more often it appears white or gray. The first time you see it and then lift your camera or phone and suddenly see color, it’s a surprise—but it also teaches you what to look for. The more you watch, the better you get at spotting it.

If you’re planning to look for aurora, preparation mat-

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ters. Scout a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view to the north. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged. If you’re using a digital camera, bring a tripod. For phones, use night mode to allow for longer exposures—many people use small tripods for stability.

With a camera, use a wide-angle lens and an aperture of f/2.8 to f/4. Turn off autofocus, as it won’t work well in the dark. Instead, set your focus in advance by zooming in on a star using your camera’s magnifier and making sure it’s sharp—then leave it alone.

ISO will vary depending on conditions, but a good start-

ing range is 1600–3200. For those striking vertical columns, a shutter speed of two to 15 seconds usually works well. Longer exposures blend the colors together, while shorter ones help preserve definition, especially for ribbon-like movement. Including a foreground element—a mountain, water, a building, or a bridge—adds interest and context. A colorful sky is beautiful, but seeing it above something familiar makes the image more compelling.

Aurora chasing takes patience. I’ve spent entire nights out for just a few shots, and other times I’ve

stepped outside for thirty minutes and captured something incredible. Sometimes the aurora lasts for hours; other times it’s a brief burst just after sunset. If you’re not ready, you can miss it.

But with the right attitude, that’s part of the experience. I usually go with a friend or two, and whether we get lucky or not, we have a good time.

If you’re looking for a unique hobby, this is a great year to give it a try.

Nancy K. Crowell is a photographer and writer based in La Conner, Washington.

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PHOTO BY MOLLY ERNST

birch bay.

The destination for retro beachside fun THE BEACHSIDE COMMUNITY OF BIRCH BAY FEELS LIKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME. Driving down Birch Bay Drive in the middle of summer, the breeze 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. Visitors come from far and wide for 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 easy access to the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest. Located on the Pacific Flyway migratory bird route, Birch Bay is a birdwatching destination. Enthusiasts should pack binoculars so as to not miss any details while observing migratory species such as dunlin, brant and black-bellied plover from the panoramic view spot in Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve. This reserve

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PHOTO BY EMMY DUKE

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

PHOTO BY EMMY DUKE

Carmel • Snow Cones • Cinnamon Rolls • Marshmallows • Cookies

Summer Starts at

The C Shop

is a Whale of a Place to Go! Homemade Candy Chocolates Cookies Fudge Cinnamon Rolls Carmelcorn Snow Cones C-Foam Cotton Candy Carmel Apples

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

Open Daily: Father’s Day to Labor Day

www.thecshop.com 4825 Alderson Road at Birch Bay Drive

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

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 664acre Birch Bay State Park, which offers campgrounds, a playground, picnic tables, boat launch, the Terrell Marsh Interpretive Trail, and BP Heron Center. The park is a great place

Ice Cream Cones • Chocolates • Carmel Apples • Fudge WATERSIDE 2026

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ver

Discover SHOPPING

Adored Again Boutique Applegrove Junction Betty Be Good Birch Bay Budz Mike’s Dollar Plus

DINING

Bob’s Burgers & Brew Jack in the Box Sahara Pizza Subway The Market at Birch Bay Tokyo Monster Sushi Woods Coffee

TESLA SUPERCHARGER STATION Leasing info:

360-676-4866

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Anytime Fitness Bay City Barbershop Capstone Physical Therapy Energy Foot Massage MD MedSpa Nail Masters Quantum Healing Lounge

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Birch Bay Tax & Accounting Catholic Community Services Recovery Center Edward Jones JDS Exim/ U-Haul NEXUS Global Entry Program Northwest Veterinary Clinic Snip Snip Hooray Windermere Real Estate

I-5, Exit 270 • 5 Minutes from the Border

RESTAURANT & BAR

PHOTO BY ALY MCGEE

BAY BREEZE

for exploring tide pools in the summer.

The beach is sandy and full of small wonders from tiny crabs and seashells, to floating waterfowl. The woods behind the beach are full of woodland critters, tall trees, soft moss and plenty of picnic shelters for when visitors get caught in the rain.

Along Birch Bay’s miles-long beach, explorers can discover tidal pools, go clamming and crabbing, or push out into the open water in a kayak or paddleboard.

A limestone pedestrian and biking path entices visitors to take a walk along the bay’s shoreline. The relatively new path was the result of a $15 million county project. 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 go-kart track and mini golf course at Station 49.

Birch Bay’s Only Waterside Dining!

BAY BREEZE RESTAURANT & BAR

Savor the freshness.

Experience the flavors!

Discover Bay Breeze Restaurant & Bar, where exceptional dining meets friendly service, unforgettable flavors with every dish showcasing the finest locally sourced ingredients.

(360) 922-7902 7829 Birch Bay Dr, Blaine, WA 98230

www.baybreezerestaurantandbar.com WATERSIDE 2026

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PHOTO BY MOLLY ERNST

BUY LOCAL

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

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

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

WATERSIDENW.COM

In the summers Birch Bay comes alive through tourists and, of course, events and festivals. On August 1, the beach will be packed with amateur sandcastle architects for the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce’s annual Sand Sculpture Competition. Pop by for the Kite Festival on the weekend of June 20-21, 4th of July festivities, the Rollback Weekend Car Show on Aug. 2 or National Night out on Aug. 4.

On Aug. 29, the Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce hosts a Birch Bay Derby Day celebrating the local culture and history of Birch Bay. For more details on events, visit 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 or birchbaywa.org.

BIRCH BAY KIDS CORNER

Fun: Station 49 Waterfront access: Birch Bay Drive Playground: Birch Bay State Park

Stay Connected!

Get community news and events all year!

www.thenorthernlight.com

18 Hole Par 72 Public Golf Course!

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

CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR MONTHLY

SPECIALS!

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

www.GolfAtGrandview.com

EXPLORE CONNECT

LIVE HERE WWW.BIRCHBAY.COM Your Local Real Estate Team

Your One-Stop Everything Store Directly on the Bay! Groceries, Fresh Produce, Gifts, Beer, Wines, Deli, ATM, Souvenirs, Hats, T-shirts, Sweaters, Shellfish Licenses, Beach Toys ... and All The Usual 8050 Harborview At Birch Bay Drive

Tonya Wahl REALTOR

(541) 707-0196 tonyawahl@windermere.com

Billy Brown

REALTOR

(360) 220-7175 billybrown@windermere.com

360-371-7233

WATERSIDE 2026

75

JUNE

Date

Mo 1

Time

1:09 am 12:48 pm Tu 2 1:57 am 1:22 pm We 3 2:49 am 1:56 pm Th 4 3:47 am 2:30 pm Fr 5 4:53 am 3:06 pm Sa 6 5:53 am 3:44 pm Su 7 6:37 am 4:24 pm Mo 8 12:10 am 11:21 am Tu 9 12:34 am 1:19 pm We 10 1:00 am 3:05 pm Th 11 1:30 am 4:25 pm Fr 12 2:04 am 5:31 pm Sa 13 2:42 am 6:27 pm Su 14 3:24 am 7:19 pm Mo 15 12:02 am 12:07 pm Tu 16 1:04 am 12:57 pm We 17 2:04 am 1:45 pm Th 18 3:08 am 2:33 pm Fr 19 4:16 am 3:19 pm Sa 20 5:22 am 4:05 pm Su 21 6:22 am 4:51 pm Mo 22 12:03 am 12:56 pm Tu 23 12:33 am 2:52 pm We 24 1:01 am 4:26 pm Th 25 1:31 am 5:32 pm Fr 26 2:01 am 6:18 pm Sa 27 2:33 am 6:56 pm Su 28 3:09 am 7:30 pm Mo 29 12:11 am 11:52 am Tu 30 12:59 am 12:28 pm

76

Height

Time

7.3 4:49 am -1.5 8:52 pm 7.4 5:15 am -1.5 9:32 pm 7.3 5:39 am -1.3 10:10 pm 7.1 6:03 am -0.9 10:44 pm 6.8 6:33 am -0.4 11:16 pm 6.2 7:27 am 0.3 11:44 pm 5.3 9:17 am 1.3 9.3 7:11 am 5.2 5:12 pm 9.3 7:47 am 5.4 6:06 pm 9.3 8:25 am 6.3 7:16 pm 9.4 9:05 am 7.5 8:32 pm 9.5 9:47 am 8.7 9:46 pm 9.6 10:31 am 9.7 10:56 pm 9.7 11:19 am 10.4 7.9 4:10 am -3.9 8:07 pm 7.8 5:02 am -3.9 8:53 pm 7.4 5:58 am -3.4 9:39 pm 6.8 6:58 am -2.4 10:19 pm 5.9 8:06 am -1.1 10:57 pm 4.9 9:26 am 0.5 11:33 pm 3.7 11:04 am 2.1 9.7 7:18 am 5.5 5:39 pm 9.5 8:06 am 6.0 6:33 pm 9.3 8:50 am 6.9 7:41 pm 9.1 9:28 am 7.8 8:57 pm 8.9 10:06 am 8.5 10:09 pm 8.7 10:42 am 9.0 11:15 pm 8.6 11:18 am 9.3 7.7 3:45 am -1.6 8:02 pm 7.5 4:21 am -1.6 8:34 pm

WATERSIDENW.COM

JULY

Height

8.2 9.6 8.0 9.6 7.7 9.6 7.3 9.5 6.8 9.4 6.2 9.4 5.5 4.2 2.5 2.9 3.8 1.5 5.1 -0.0 6.3 -1.4 7.1 -2.6 7.7 -3.5 9.6 10.7 9.3 10.8 8.8 10.7 8.1 10.5 7.2 10.3 6.3 10.0 5.6 2.5 3.8 1.5 5.2 0.6 6.4 -0.1 7.1 -0.7 7.6 -1.1 7.7 -1.4 8.4 9.5 8.2 9.7

Date

Time

We 1 1:43 am 1:02 pm Th 2 2:27 am 1:34 pm Fr 3 3:13 am 2:06 pm Sa 4 3:57 am 2:38 pm Su 5 4:41 am 3:12 pm Mo 6 5:23 am 3:48 pm Tu 7 6:05 am 4:28 pm We 8 6:51 am 5:20 pm Th 9 7:39 am 6:30 pm Fr 10 12:28 am 4:39 pm Sa 11 1:10 am 5:39 pm Su 12 2:00 am 6:27 pm Mo 13 3:00 am 7:09 pm Tu 14 4:00 am 7:47 pm We 15 12:52 am 12:43 pm Th 16 1:48 am 1:29 pm Fr 17 2:42 am 2:13 pm Sa 18 3:38 am 2:53 pm Su 19 4:32 am 3:35 pm Mo 20 5:26 am 4:15 pm Tu 21 6:18 am 4:57 pm We 22 7:10 am 5:45 pm Th 23 8:00 am 6:59 pm Fr 24 12:25 am 5:26 pm Sa 25 1:05 am 6:04 pm Su 26 1:53 am 6:36 pm Mo 27 2:45 am 7:02 pm Tu 28 3:35 am 7:28 pm We 29 12:33 am 12:06 pm Th 30 1:11 am 12:40 pm Fr 31 1:47 am 1:12 pm

Height

DST Not For Navigation

49° 0’ 0”N - 122° 46’ 0”W

AUGUST

Time

7.3 5:01 am -1.6 9:04 pm 7.0 5:41 am -1.3 9:30 pm 6.6 6:25 am -0.8 9:56 pm 6.0 7:19 am -0.0 10:18 pm 5.2 8:27 am 1.0 10:40 pm 4.2 9:53 am 2.3 11:02 pm 3.0 11:33 am 3.7 11:26 pm 1.7 1:27 pm 5.1 11:54 pm 0.4 3:17 pm 6.5 9.6 8:31 am 8.1 8:02 pm 9.6 9:21 am 9.1 9:30 pm 9.6 10:13 am 9.8 10:46 pm 9.6 11:05 am 10.3 11:54 pm 9.4 11:55 am 10.5 7.2 5:04 am -3.2 8:25 pm 6.4 6:08 am -2.4 8:59 pm 5.5 7:12 am -1.2 9:33 pm 4.5 8:22 am 0.3 10:03 pm 3.5 9:38 am 1.9 10:31 pm 2.6 11:06 am 3.5 10:59 pm 1.8 12:50 pm 5.0 11:25 pm 1.2 2:52 pm 6.2 11:53 pm 0.6 4:28 pm 7.1 8.7 8:48 am 8.0 8:35 pm 8.5 9:32 am 8.5 10:01 pm 8.4 10:14 am 8.9 11:03 pm 8.2 10:54 am 9.1 11:53 pm 8.1 11:32 am 9.3 6.9 4:23 am -1.2 7:52 pm 6.4 5:13 am -1.0 8:14 pm 5.9 6:03 am -0.6 8:34 pm

Height

Date

7.9 9.7 7.5 9.7 7.1 9.7 6.6 9.6 6.1 9.5 5.7 9.5 5.6 9.5 6.0 9.5 7.0

Sa 1

-0.9 7.5 -2.0 8.0 -2.9 8.1 -3.4 7.8 -3.5 9.0 10.5 8.5 10.4 7.8 10.2 7.1 10.0 6.5 9.7 6.0 9.4 6.0 9.2 6.6 8.9 7.3 0.1 7.6 -0.3 7.7 -0.7 7.6 -1.0 7.3 -1.2 8.0 9.4 7.7 9.5 7.5 9.5

Time

2:23 am 1:42 pm Su 2 2:59 am 2:14 pm Mo 3 3:39 am 2:48 pm Tu 4 4:21 am 3:24 pm We 5 5:09 am 4:06 pm Th 6 6:03 am 5:00 pm Fr 7 7:01 am 6:22 pm Sa 8 8:03 am 8:08 pm Su 9 12:36 am 5:23 pm Mo 10 1:50 am 6:01 pm Tu 11 3:04 am 6:37 pm We 12 4:16 am 7:09 pm Th 13 12:34 am 12:27 pm Fr 14 1:20 am 1:09 pm Sa 15 2:06 am 1:49 pm Su 16 2:52 am 2:29 pm Mo 17 3:38 am 3:07 pm Tu 18 4:24 am 3:47 pm We 19 5:12 am 4:29 pm Th 20 6:06 am 5:25 pm Fr 21 7:02 am 6:55 pm Sa 22 8:00 am 8:49 pm Su 23 12:17 am 5:20 pm Mo 24 1:31 am 5:46 pm Tu 25 2:41 am 6:10 pm We 26 3:41 am 6:30 pm Th 27 4:35 am 6:50 pm Fr 28 12:29 am 12:14 pm Sa 29 1:01 am 12:48 pm Su 30 1:35 am 1:22 pm Mo 31 2:11 am 1:58 pm

SEPTEMBER

Height

Time

Height

Date

5.2 0.2 4.5 1.2 3.6 2.4 2.6 3.8 1.6 5.1 0.7 6.4 -0.3 7.4 -1.1 7.9 9.2 9.2 9.0 9.7 8.9 9.9 8.8 10.0 5.5 -1.6 4.5 -0.5 3.6 0.8 2.8 2.2 2.1 3.6 1.6 4.9 1.3 6.0 1.1 6.8 0.9 7.4 0.6 7.4 7.8 8.4 7.6 8.6 7.6 8.8 7.6 9.0 7.7 9.1 4.8 0.3 4.0 1.0 3.1 1.9 2.3 3.1

6:55 am 8:54 pm 7:51 am 9:14 pm 8:55 am 9:34 pm 10:13 am 9:58 pm 11:43 am 10:22 pm 1:35 pm 10:54 pm 3:25 pm 11:38 pm 4:35 pm

7.2 9.5 6.9 9.4 6.6 9.3 6.5 9.3 6.5 9.3 7.0 9.3 7.8 9.3 8.6

Tu 1

Time

Height

Time

Height

2:49 am 2:36 pm We 2 3:33 am 3:18 pm Th 3 4:25 am 4:08 pm Fr 4 5:23 am 5:20 pm Sa 5 6:29 am 7:02 pm Su 6 7:37 am 8:46 pm Mo 7 12:34 am 4:41 pm Tu 8 2:08 am 5:17 pm We 9 3:30 am 5:47 pm Th 10 4:42 am 6:15 pm Fr 11 12:12 am 12:07 pm Sa 12 12:50 am 12:49 pm Su 13 1:28 am 1:29 pm Mo 14 2:06 am 2:07 pm Tu 15 2:44 am 2:47 pm We 16 3:26 am 3:31 pm Th 17 4:10 am 4:25 pm Fr 18 5:02 am 5:37 pm Sa 19 6:00 am 7:49 pm Su 20 7:02 am 9:39 pm Mo 21 8:04 am 10:01 pm Tu 22 1:21 am 4:36 pm We 23 2:43 am 4:58 pm Th 24 3:49 am 5:18 pm Fr 25 4:47 am 5:38 pm Sa 26 5:43 am 5:58 pm Su 27 12:21 am 12:24 pm Mo 28 12:55 am 1:04 pm Tu 29 1:31 am 1:46 pm We 30 2:13 am 2:32 pm

1.5 4.3 0.7 5.5 0.2 6.5 -0.3 7.3 -0.6 7.7 -0.9 7.4 8.1 9.2 8.0 9.4 8.0 9.4 8.2 9.4 3.3 0.8 2.3 1.9 1.5 3.1 1.0 4.2 0.8 5.2 0.7 6.1 0.8 6.8 0.9 7.2 1.0 7.2 1.1 6.8 1.0 6.2 6.7 8.5 6.8 8.7 7.1 8.8 7.5 8.9 8.0 8.9 1.7 3.1 0.7 4.1 -0.1 5.1 -0.7 6.1

9:15 am 8:30 pm 10:27 am 8:54 pm 11:53 am 9:24 pm 1:35 pm 10:04 pm 3:05 pm 11:04 pm 4:01 pm

7.7 9.0 7.7 9.0 7.8 8.9 8.0 8.7 8.5 8.4 8.9

8:43 am 9:56 pm 9:43 am 10:46 pm 10:35 am 11:30 pm 11:23 am

-1.0 6.6 -1.0 5.6 -0.7 4.4 -0.1

9:03 am 9:38 pm 9:59 am 10:48 pm 10:51 am 11:44 pm 11:41 am

-1.8 7.8 -2.3 7.3 -2.5 6.5 -2.2

5:46 am 6:41 pm 6:46 am 7:05 pm 7:42 am 7:29 pm 8:40 am 7:51 pm 9:40 am 8:13 pm 10:46 am 8:35 pm 12:02 pm 8:55 pm 1:32 pm 9:13 pm 2:52 pm 9:39 pm 3:40 pm 11:35 pm 4:12 pm

8.3 9.4 8.3 9.2 8.3 9.0 8.2 8.8 8.1 8.5 7.9 8.2 7.8 7.8 7.8 7.5 8.0 7.2 8.2 6.8 8.4

5:22 am 7:39 pm 6:26 am 8:07 pm 7:28 am 8:33 pm 8:32 am 8:59 pm 9:40 am 9:25 pm 10:58 am 9:49 pm 12:30 pm 10:15 pm 2:22 pm 10:43 pm 3:54 pm 11:21 pm 4:46 pm

8.6 9.9 8.3 9.8 7.9 9.6 7.5 9.4 7.1 9.1 6.9 8.8 6.9 8.5 7.2 8.2 7.7 8.0 8.1

8:56 am 10:23 pm 9:42 am 10:51 pm 10:24 am 11:19 pm 11:04 am 11:49 pm 11:44 am

0.9 5.5 0.9 4.7 1.2 3.7 1.6 2.7 2.3

8:54 am 10:05 pm 9:42 am 10:49 pm 10:24 am 11:25 pm 11:02 am 11:57 pm 11:38 am

0.3 7.2 -0.0 6.8 -0.3 6.2 -0.3 5.6 -0.1

6:37 am 6:18 pm 7:29 am 6:40 pm 8:27 am 7:04 pm 9:29 am 7:30 pm

8.4 9.0 8.8 9.0 9.0 9.0 9.0 8.9

5:29 am 7:10 pm 6:21 am 7:28 pm 7:15 am 7:48 pm 8:11 am 8:08 pm

7.7 9.1 7.7 9.1 7.8 9.1 7.8 9.1

PHOTO BY DOUG DE VISSER

tide tables.

Tides at Cherry Point

Join the fun in

Birch Bay! Y our All-Season B ea c h E s c a p e

Candy Shop Restaur ant & Shopp s ing

Beaches Clamming Mini Golf & Go-Car ts

2026 FAMILY-FUN EVENTS W Kite Festival: June 20 & 21 W Birch Bay Derby Day: August 29 W Sand Sculpture Competition: August 1 W Trick or Treat on the Berm: Oct. 24 W Rollback Weekend Car Show: August 2 W Ring of Fire & Hope: Dec.31 W National Night Out: August 4 W Polar Bear Plunge: January 1, 2027

Golf Cart Zone & Rentals

Coffee Shops Activities & Recreation

Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center

Birch Bay Our events are made possible in part by a tourism promotion grant from Whatcom County Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Information Center

For More Info Visit: www.birchbaychamber.com

WATERSIDE 2026

77

78

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

blaine.

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

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 fish traps in the Puget Sound.

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 bronze statue called “Vigil.” The commemorative statue depicts a woman looking out to sea with her child as they wait for her fisherman husband 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,

FACEBOOK.COM/WATERSIDEMAG

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

a wine bar and cultural cuisines including Italian, German, Japanese, Indian, Thai, Mexican, American and more.

Many, if not 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 drive.

Where Two Nations Meet, & the World Comes to Play.

Nestled on the border of the U.S. and Canada, Blaine by the Sea is more than a destination—it’s a celebration of connection. From the iconic Peace Arch to our vibrant dining scene, boutique shops, 2026 Events and lively community events, Blaine is where cultures blend and seaside fun is discovered.

As the “Gateway to the Games” we’re ready to welcome soccer fans and the world with open arms. Come for the charm, stay for the experience, and leave with a story to tell.

MINUTES FROM THE BORDER

Semiahmoo Resort - Golf - Spa AS NORTHWEST AS IT GETS Located on a scenic peninsula that stretches into the beautiful Salish Sea

BLAINE W A S H I N G T O N

9565 Semiahmoo Parkway • 360-318-2000 • semiahmoo.com

BLAINE WELCOME CENTER 546 Peace Portal Dr. I Blaine, WA I 360-332-4544 GATEWAY TO THE GAMES

40-minutes from Vancouver, BC • 2-hours from Seattle • Seconds off 1-5, Exit 276 at the US/Canada Border

w w w. B l a i n e B y T h e S e a . c o m

/BLAINEBYTHESEA

/VISITBLAINEBYTHESEA

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

Join Us For AUTHENTIC Mexican Food!

• Outdoor Patio • Best Margaritas

in Whatcom County!

Dail Happy y Hour

2

MINUTES from the border!

• Lunch & Dinner

Specials • Air Conditioned

Open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner

758 Peace Portal Drive Downtown Blaine

360/332-4045

Order Online!

80

WATERSIDENW.COM

pasodelnorte.net

FRIEN

DLY

Sandwiches • Paninis • Milkshakes Homemade Pastries • Espresso Infused Lattes • Specialty Coffees 360-332-2448 795 Peace Portal 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 ma-

OysterFest October 10

For current hours & menu: draytonharboroysters.com

WATERSIDE 2026

81

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

The LARGEST

SELECTION of:

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

Ask About Our Daily Specials!

CANNABIS Pe a

ce

H Street

Exit 275

Po r

ta

Blaine l Dr.

Eight Minutes from Birch Bay!

82

WATERSIDENW.COM

Bell Rd.

D R AY T O N HARBOR

Two Locations! www.dankofamericawa.com

BLAINE

BELLINGHAM

Boblett Rd.

Open Daily 8 am - 11:45 pm

Open Daily 8 am - 10 pm

Sweet Rd.

2530 Peace Portal Drive Blaine, WA 98230

5309 Guide Meridian Bellingham, WA 98226 360-332-8922

Exit

274

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

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

Exit

262

Axton Rd.

Ferndale Smith Rd.

Guide Meridian Rd.

Must be 21+

Exit

256

Bellingham

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

jor north-and-south migratory path for seabirds. Birdwatchers frequently spot great blue herons, bald eagles, loons, mergansers and brant, sometimes even catching a rare glimpse of wayward pelicans. The annual Wings Over Water Northwest Birding Festival occurs every 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 13-18, brings world-class musicians to perform and teach at the festival. The following month, the Drayton Harbor Pirate Festival brings out the pirates of every age on Aug. 1.

Every Saturday, the G Street Plaza swells with visitors and vendors buying and selling goods at the farmers

Waterfront Dining 825 Peace Portal Drive

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

www.ChadaThaiUSA.com

Building Community Through Music

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

July 13 - 18, 2026

Stay Connected!

Get community news and events year all year!

thenorthernlight.com

Live music with a view. A week of free evening concerts with awardwinning artists overlooking the Blaine Harbor Waterfront.

Bring a friend. Bring a chair. Bring your dancing shoes!

Photo by Ruth Lauman

blaineharbormusicfestival.org

WATERSIDE 2026

83

PHOTO BY RUTH LAUMAN

market. Information on the Blaine Farmers Market can be found on page 37.

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.

BLAINE KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Lincoln Park walking trails & disc golf Waterfront access: Marine Park, Semiahmoo County Park Playground: Blaine Marine Park

Full Service Marina at 49° North Walk To Dining and Shopping Playground and Walking Trails

Historic

Public Meeting Room

Blaine Harbor www.portofbellingham.com

84

WATERSIDENW.COM

(360) 647-6176

BLAINE HARBOR

blaineharbor@portofbellingham.com

2026 BLAINE 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 16 • Spring Block Party June 6 • Bellingham Scottish Gathering June 13 • Blaine Fun Run July 3 • Freedom Eve July 4 • Old Fashioned 4th of July Celebration July 13-18 • Blaine Harbor Music Festival August 1 • Drayton Harbor Pirate Festival September 12 • Catoberfest Music Festival October 10 • Seaside Bash with OysterFest November 28 • Holiday Harbor Lights March 2027 Wings Over Water NW Birding Festival

See Website for Local Soccer Watch Parties!

Outdoor Movie Nights July 10, 24, August 7, 21, 28, September 11

WATERSIDE 2026

85

PHOTO BY GRACE MCCARTHY

crossing THE border.

The friendship between Canada and the United States spans centuries, built on shared values, intertwined histories, and the world's longest undefended border. From early trade relationships to standing together through two world wars, from NAFTA to countless cultural exchanges, our nations have demonstrated that neighbors can indeed become the closest of allies. Despite today's rapidly changing political landscape, with shifting priorities and new challenges on both sides of the border, maintaining and strengthening these personal connections between citizens is more vital than ever. Whether it's families reuniting, friends visiting, business partnerships flourishing, or simply the joy of exploring each other's remarkable landscapes, these individual relationships form the true foundation of our binational bond. Every border crossing represents an opportunity to reinforce the ties that make North America stronger, more prosperous, and more resilient together.

Border Crossing Requirements 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 (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 (NEXUS or SENTRI), or an enhanced driver's license (EDL). U.S. citizens should carry a U.S. passport, valid trusted traveler program card (NEXUS or SENTRI), enhanced driver's license (EDL), military ID with official travel orders, Merchant Mariner Credential, 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.

Dogs: Every dog entering the U.S. (including returning U.S. dogs from a Canada day trip) needs a CDC Dog Import Form receipt. Dogs must be at least six months old, microchipped, and must appear healthy. For dogs that have only been in Canada (a low-risk country) in the past six months, the form receipt is valid for multiple entries until expiration (this is helpful for frequent Point Roberts to mainland Washington crossings.

Such travelers won’t require a new form each time). For the most current information and to complete the required form, visit the CDC's website at cdc.gov/importation/dogs/.

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.

Common Border Questions 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?

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

Beachside history and blue skies all summer long.

88

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 the promenade at sunset.

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

White Rock and South Surrey, situated on the U.S./Canada border, have a climate that’s often compared to the south of France. A local atmospheric phenomenon called the Blue Hole means that White Rock and other Waterside communities are often sunny while neighboring communities have weather that is less favorable. Combine the balmy weather, a 1.4-mile-long waterside promenade with WATERSIDENW.COM

PHOTO BY PAT GRUBB

white rock & south surrey.

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

PHOTO BY KAT DAW

the beach on one side and a host of unique shops and restaurants on the other, and visitors will be happy to put down roots in this community for a while. The historic 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, taking place on July 3-6, 2026, 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, taking place on August 1-3, features salmon BBQs, live music, artisan markets and tremendous fireworks displays.

Visit the farmers market every Sunday until October 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Miramar Plaza and Russell Avenue and Johnson Road between Russell and Thrift avenues. Details about the White Rock Farmers Market can be found on page 37. To the same 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.

WHITE ROCK AND SOUTH SURREY KIDS CORNER Fun: White Rock Museum Water access: White Rock Beach Playground: White Rock Generations Playground

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Island city, by nature

RICHMOND CALLS ITSELF AN “ISLAND CITY, BY NATURE,” A TIDY WAY OF SUMMING UP ITS RICH DIVERSITY. Richmond, with the village of Steveston on its southern flank, grew on the 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 Canada Day (July 1), visitors flock to the Steveston Salmon Festival where hundreds of pounds of wild salmon are grilled over open fires. The festival also features a

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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 September 20, 2026. 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 jumps and Paralympic sit-skis.

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 or by 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 an inspiring 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

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River and ocean towns

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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 loaded with historic buildings, friendly restaurants and hometown merchants. Have a drink or bite to eat while you watch boat traffic on the peaceful and picturesque Ladner Slough.

The Ladner Village Market operates on a “make it, bake it, grow it” vendor model. In 2026, the market will be held on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 7 and 21, July 5 and 19, August 9 and 23 and September 6 and 20. More information on Farmers Markets can be found on page 37.

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 WATERSIDENW.COM

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cardiovascular workout.

Splash a kayak at Ladner Slough and paddle through the backwaters of the Fraser River. Great blue herons and eagles will soar overhead while visitors 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 boon 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 out 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

LADNER AND TSAWWASSEN KIDS CORNER Fun: Reifel Bird Sanctuary Water access: Centennial Beach and Wellington Point Park Playground: Rotary WaterWorks Playground

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point roberts.

They call it “The Sigh.”

THERE’S A PHENOMENON EXPERIENCED BY BOTH LOCALS AND VISITORS TO THE ISOLATED HAMLET that is Point Roberts and it’s called “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 with the sea swelling in the distance. Not everyone feels it but those who do are inevitably hooked. People who feel the sigh will be back, that’s absolutely guaranteed. After driving through loads of traffic, braking for stoplight after stoplight, passing store after store, finally, heaven presents itself.

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

Go ahead and let it out. We’ll wait.

Point Roberts is an island of serenity compared to the bustle of the Vancouver metropolitan area. The calm is palpable the moment 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. Neigh-

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bors chat in the post office or the supermarket on Tyee Drive. The Gulf Road community center is a gathering place for local groups, hosting everything from seniors’ association lunches to the History Center. 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.

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35 YEARS OF REAL ESTATE DONE RIGHT.

OWN A PIECE OF POINT ROBERTS

years

rem.ax/pointroberts 1480 Gulf RD

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POINT ROBERTS, WA

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

The northeast corner of the Point is home to Maple Beach. During summer low tides, Maple Beach offers acres

Scan to shop

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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.

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. 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 Light-

house 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 of Point Roberts, 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.

Strings and Things International Music Festival will take place July 11, 2026. Strings & Things is a one-day music festival featuring a varied line up of musicians and bands.

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POINT ROBERTS KIDS CORNER

Fun and Free: Beachcombing at Maple Beach Waterfront access: Maple Beach Park: Lighthouse Marine Park

The event will take place at Lighthouse Marine Park. In March, the Point fills with music again for PaddyFest, an annual Saint Patrick’s Day-inspired music festival.

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.

THE HISTORY CENTER is open year-round from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays and is located at the Point Roberts Community Center. Additional hours are added in the summer and holiday seasons. Find the current hours at allpointbulletin.com/calendar. Stop by to view historic photographs, Point Roberts memorabilia, hear from knowledgeable personnel and visit the gift shop.

THE HISTORY TRAIL will leave you with an enhanced contextual lens with which to view your destination. The trail includes over 29 signs detailing the history of the Point. Pick up your map at the History Center or the information kiosk at the International Marketplace.

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Vancouver’s Best Kept Secret is Just Across the Line

J VANCOUVER 99

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While the world gathers in Vancouver for the 2026 global tournaments, a hidden treasure awaits just minutes away. Discover Point Roberts, a unique American exclave on the Tsawwassen Peninsula, perfectly positioned off the Highway 99 corridor. This quiet corner of the Pacific Northwest always welcomes visitors with its blend of relaxed charm and natural beauty. Here, you can escape the crowds and find your moment of peace. Stroll through waterfront parks, hike pristine trails, or enjoy a round of golf on a championship course.

BAY

Y Retreat to the tranquility D A Rof Point Roberts. It’s the perfect balance of global UN O B solitude. Just remember to bring your passport! energy and serene

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SOUTH TO Make Point Roberts an essential Bpart E L L I of N G your H A M 2026 travel experience and & S E AT T discover an unforgettable destination. L E

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POINT ROBERTS, WA

Our community thrives on connection and celebration, hosting events that bring together locals and visitors for unforgettable experiences.

You won’t wantWHITE to missROCK the Fourth of July parade and the summer-long celebrations for our nation’s 250th birthday. And mark your calendar BLAINE for July 11, the 3rd Annual Point Roberts Strings & Things International Music Festival—a Y one-day celebration of string-driven artistry set BA against the Ostunning backdrop of the Salish Sea. Purchase tickets at O M stringsandthingsmusicfestival.com H SE

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Events can be big in our small seaside community.

POINT ROBERTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & VISITOR’S BUREAU

BIRCH BAY www.explorepointroberts.com

P H OTO : ST EP H EN F O WL E R

Explore the Tiny American Gem on the Canadian Salish Sea!