Birch Bay Washington is “commonly referred to as a community near and around this body of water” according to Wikipedia. Located north of Seattle and just about 30 minutes from the Canadian border, this community has consistently grown in population over the past couple of years. So that you can
Reason # 1 — 5 of the Biggest Activities Throughout the Year
Birch Bay Chamber of Commerce is very active in providing its residents and visitors alike something special to enjoy during their stay. Almost every month there is something happening that is unique to Birch Bay.
Ring of Fire and Hope/Polar Bear Plunge
Bring in the New Year with the Ring of Fire & Hope plus the Annual Polar Bear Plunge. Ring of Fire and Hope lights up the bay with flares and is a beautiful sight to see as it brings in hope for the New Year. Visitors come from all over the world to participate in the Annual Polar Bear Plunge. Started as a dare in 1982, it now draws thousands of visitors and locals to take the plunge in the bay’s chilly waters.
Fourth of July
Fireworks over the water has been one of the most popular activities to attend in Birch Bay for years. The warmer weather, beautiful sunsets and the fireworks on the skyline makes this a very well attended event. If you want to get front row seats, you need to plan ahead. It gets might busy for this “amazingly beautiful display of fireworks – it is one of the best ever seen.”
Sand Sculpture Competition
July 14-15 the beach comes alive from 9am – 3pm as competitors build their sand sculptures to be voted the next big winner. As a spectator, you are the biggest winner because these sculptures display the rich history of Birch Bay. Young and old like design and craft their sand into one of a kind artistry. It is a day full of fun, sun and sand – what could be better. You need to get their early to watch the sand come to life because once the tide comes in, the sculptures are claimed by the bay.
Rollback Weekend – August 11-12
Cool cars cruise the beach bringing back a piece of the past. Enjoy food vendors, classic cars, live music and the beautiful beach. Get ready to go back in time to poodle skirts, leather jackets, classic cars and guitars. You do not want to miss that blast from the past weekend – definitely a time to remember.
These are just some of exciting events that happen throughout the year. For more information, be sure to check out all the activities at Birch Bay Chamber Of Commerce.
Reason # 2 — Wings Over Water Bird Watching Festival
Calling all bird watchers! Do you love bird and want to see a variety of species all in one place? Then you do not want to miss this festival March 16-18, 2018. Bald Eagles, Blue Herons, Peregrine Falcons and so many more to see in this area. Wayne Diaz, Bird Watching Guru and Photographer, knows all the best places in the area to see every kind of bird that either lives there or migrates to the area. Enjoy expert speakers, field trips, photography workshops and so much more. For more in contact Wayne Diaz at Birch Bay Chamber.
Reason #3 – C.J.’s Beach House Restaurant
Located overlooking the bay C.J.’s Beach House is a great place to enjoy food, fun, sports and a fantastic view of the bay. The Rueben sandwich is one of the best I’ve ever eaten. The meat is cooked to perfection! Tender, juicy it just melts in your mouth. Furthermore, the sauerkraut is made from scratch. The burgers are thick, juicy and made to order. Add fries on the side and you have more than one meal. We went in to watch the Seahawks play and made new friends. The people are friendly, the service the absolutely the best and you leave feeling like one of the family.
Reason #4 – Shellfish Harvesting
Ready to grab some clams, oysters, mussels or crab? There is nothing better than fresh seafood and you can get it fresh every day. You do need to have a license, make sure it is displayed on your clothing — stick to the limits/rules so you can continue to enjoy everything the bay has to offer. Many of the shellfish are available year-round so you can get out and get your limits every day!
Reason #5 – Beautiful Views and Stunning Landscapes
No matter the time of year, you will always find something a beauty in the Birch Bay area. Lush greenery, amazing sunrises/sunsets over the water, and plenty of parks to
enjoy. The shallow warm water bay is perfect for water activities or just some casual wading. Even on rainy days, there is so much to see and do in this area. Walk the beach during low tide and pick up some sea shells as a souvenir. Enjoy a walk along Birch Bay Drive and visit with the locals and hear all the great stories they have to tell. Everyone is so warm and welcoming, you can’t help but make a friend or two.
Reason #6 – Semiahmoo Resort, Spa, Golf Course and Park
Feed your soul with the Semiahmoo experience. Set on Semiahmoo Bay, you can enjoy paddle boarding, kayaking or crabbing. Need some pampering, be sure to check out the spa which offers just want to you need to relax and rejuvenate. If golfing is your thing, then you will definitely enjoy the golf course designed by Arnold Palmer. Culinary delights abound with a variety of restaurants to choose from depending on what you are craving at the time. This resort has so much to offer for families, couples and even business retreats. Everything you need for a great vacation is right here – you never have to leave, but you will want to make sure to check out a few other places in the area while you are here.
Reason #7 – Parks, Parks and More Parks
The area abounds with parks and you will pay some nominal fees to enter them but they are truly worth the price you pay. Here are a few of our favorites.
Birch Bay State Park offers camping and day use opportunities. Take the family on a picnic and take a hike up to the Terrell Marsh trail to experience rare saltwater and freshwater estuary. Be sure to look closely as you may see wildlife, birds and even the great blue heron.
Semiahmoo Park located in Whatcom County perfect for walking the tideline on the beach walk or the “split coast millennium trail” that spans the park. Easy hikes with spectacular views of Semiahmoo Bay, Drayton Harbor to Mount Baker. While you are there, be sure to check out the day lodge, APA Museum and maybe even plan to extend your stay at the campsites or cabins.
Peace Arch Park brings together both U.S. and Canada in one spot. Magnificent gardens, lush greenery and the ability to stand in two countries at one time is amazing. Walk through the park, cross into Canada and back again all the while enjoying the incredible landscape and scenery. Houses line the street across from the park and are actually in Canada. Cross over to the Peace Arch where the two countries meet. You will definitely want to set aside some time because you will want to explore every inch of this amazing park. Rich in history and beauty, it is a sight to behold.
Finally, these 7 Amazing Reasons to Visit Birch Bay Washington are just the tip of what this area has to offer. Rain or shine there is so much to do and see. Get ready to relax, enjoy the scenery and meet some great people. It is no wonder that the population in this area is increasing every year – it is definitely a place we love to visit often. Hope you will make this your next travel destination!