Birch Bay
In the land of sand...

Getting There: Take exit 270 off I-5 and travel west.

Located five miles south of Blaine, Birch Bay’s center of activity is the tree-lined bay with its miles of sandy beaches. This is a swimmer’s paradise – as the tide rolls in over the sun-warmed sand, the water gets up to bathtub temperatures. Its smooth waters makes for great water skiing and wake boarding. But above all, Birch Bay is relaxing.

When the tide goes out, you’ll see dozens of people with shovels and pails out in search of razor and manila clams destined to be bathed in garlic and butter. With its mostly flat terrain, Birch Bay is a great place for running and cycling. For a change of pace, after biking the bay, head inland for quiet country lanes and long distance views of fields and sky.

The C Shop at the south end of the bay is a candy store, bakery and restaurant and is the place to find out what’s happening in the area. Kids will get a special kick at watching owners Pat and Patricia Alesse making the candy the old fashioned way using time-honored recipes.

Down a bit further at the south end of the bay, Birch Bay state park also offers 194 acres of beaches, trees and campgrounds. To be on the safe side, campers would be wise to call ahead for reservations. Nearby is also the state’s second largest heron rookery. It’s a great place to sit at dusk and watch the herons fly overhead on their way back home. Migratory waterfowl and shorebirds explain why Birch Bay and Blaine were listed as one of Audubon Society’s best places for birding in Washington state.

If you are looking for a faster way to get into the water, hit the Birch Bay Waterslides. Down the street are go-karts and miniature railroad. Nearby are the Semiahmoo and Loomis Trail golf courses; two of the area’s most agreeable and challenging championship courses. On the bay itself is the nine-hole Sea Links Golf Course, a fun and quick play if you don’t have the time or inclination for a full 18 holes. Some of the events to look for during the summer are Discovery Days parade and the arts and crafts festival held July 19 and 20. The parade is a hoot - a real small town event that everyone enjoys. On Saturday, June 21 the sandcastle contest is held. Details can be found at www.birchbaychamber.com or call 360/371-5004.

Don’t miss:
• The Discovery Day Parade
• An ice cream cone & beach walk
• Clamming at Birch Bay State Park

Events

June 21: Sand Castle Contest
July 19 & 20: Birch Bay Discovery Days

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