Hotel at a Glance: Semiahmoo Resort

Semiahmoo Resort is almost a town in itself—it’s home to two eateries, a golf course, and a spa. The main resort is located at the tip of the Semiahmoo Spit, just across the border from Canada and steps from Semiahmoo Marina. The resort’s restaurants are a big draw: the waterfront Packers Kitchen + Bar serves seafood, spirits, and water views. Try Great Blue Heron Grill for a fresh burger with views of the golf course.

• Where you’ll stay: Guest rooms come with terry-lined bathrobes, plush pillow-top bedding, and Keurig coffeemakers.
• Wellness: The resort offers a heated pool, sauna, steam room, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, and fitness and yoga classes.
• Sustainability: The resort’s culinary team sources ingredients from small Pacific Northwest farms, artisans, ranchers, and fishermen.
• Golf: The Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club was ranked in Golfweek magazine’s list of the top 10 “Best Courses You Can Play” in Washington from 2011 to 2018.

Blaine, Washington: Small Coastal Town on the US-Canada Border

The small coastal town of Blaine was first settled as a seaport in the mid-1800s and hasn’t changed much since—the harbor is still its big draw. Many travelers like to visit Semiahmoo Spit, home to Semiahmoo Park. Explore the beaches, have a picnic, or hike and bike the scenic trails. Birdwatchers can also get their fix on the tiny spit—it’s ranked as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society for its high numbers of great blue herons, double-crested cormorants, and bald eagles. You might even catch sight of a peregrine falcon.

Blaine also shares a stretch of border with Canada. It’s the shared home of the US-Canadian Peace Arch, which marks the border between the two countries, as well as Peace Arch Provincial Park on the Canadian side and Peace Arch State Park in Blaine.