Escape to Semiahmoo Resort for your next Pacific Northwest Getaway getaway.  Situated in the upper left corner of the U.S.A., on 300 acres of tideland between Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Harbor with nature at its door. Only 90 miles north from Seattle on the Washington Coast, and 40 miles south from Vancouver, guests can easily slip away for a long weekend or vacation. Here’s what to do during your Semiahmoo Getaway!

semiahmoo getaway

The name Semiahmoo was given by first settlers, Native Americans, which translates to “crescent moon” resembling the shape of the Semiahmoo Spit. Outdoor enthusiasts get out to explore beach-side walking paths and activities including cycling, two award winning golf courses, kayaking, paddle boarding, tennis, an outdoor heated pool. After a day filled with adventures, guests can relax in a full service spa.

It’s an ideal place to recharge from daily demands and city life, and reconnect with nature.

semiahmoo getaway

Sharing our recommendations – where to stay, dine, spa & what to do.

STAY

Semiahmoo Resort – The resort offers 196 suites and rooms, catering to families, romantic getaways, corporate retreats and other special occasions.  There’s even a birding convention at this unique location, home to eagles, herons, Canadian geese and birders flock here for an annual get together.

Guests snuggle up next to the fireplace in the lobby at this 3-star resort, rock away in the rocking chairs outside patios, or play chess in the common area, where there are lots of board games to choose from.  See a movie at the resort’s Discovery Theater where every night is movie night.  Sign up for a guided Bird Tour with Resident Birder Phil, and spot a plethora of birds every Saturday at 2:00 pm.  Play a volleyball game, horseshoes, or beach comb in front of the Seaview Terrace. Try the giant chess board in the Victoria Courtyard.

We met with Micah Mullen, the Rooms Reservations Manager, who shared that guests love this location in Washington State, given it’s proximity to Mt. Baker, Vancouver, B.C., Bellingham.  General Manager Nicole Newton teams closely with her staff who are passionate about ways to create a wonderful stay for guests.  She shares “We encourage our guests to discover the splendor of Semiahmoo – this region is booming with local attractions that span from watching wildlife (onshore and offshore) to riding our iconic Plover Ferry, to taking an inspiring scenic drive and beyond.  You’ll find beaches, forests, water and mountain views remarkable.”

Here’s our list of things to do at the resort and surrounding area:

  • Spa Fitness Center:  The expansive Semiahmoo Health Club is well equipped with cardio machines, free weights and a swimming pool.  Book a spa treatment and relax in the steam and sauna rooms.  The Spa at Semiahmoo offers a full menu of wellness treatments including facials, massages, and body treatments, as well as a variety of salon services including hair, and makeup.

The Vital Body Massage Treatment is a favorite – a CBD-hemp infused massage treatment with a shea-butter based cream is crafted with nine organic healing herbs and organic essential oils — relieves pain and inflammation, nourishes and calms skin, helps repair damaged tissues, and reduces anxiety.

  • Bike Loops:  Borrow a bike from the Beach Activities Center and cycle the 9 or 15-mile loop where you can take in the scenery around the town and coast.
  • Golf:  Guests of Semiahmoo Resort can play golf at the members-only Semiahmoo Golf & Country Club.  Warm up at the Eagle’s Nest Golf Simulator located near the pro shop, where you can choose from over 40 golf courses such as Pebble Beach or St. Andrews. Afterwards, play the Semiahmoo Golf Course, designed by Arnold Palmer. 

This course was rated Washington’s #7 public course by Golfweek.  Open year-round, this 7,005-yard tree-lined masterpiece allows golfers to relax and enjoy nature at its best.  The course has rolling fairways with water in play on five holes and 67 strategically placed bunkers.  There’s driving range, putting and chipping greens and practice bunkers.  Enjoy a snack or lunch afterwards at Great Blue Heron Grill.

semiahmoo getaway
  • Fishing:  Join a fishing charter and fish for salmon.
  • Hike:  There are several parks and National Forest where you can find hiking trails, including Pioneer Park, Mt. Baker/Snoqualmie National Forest Recreational Area, Hovander Homestead Park.
  • Skiing:  Check out the ski resorts in this region within 2-3 hours drive, including Mt. Baker Ski Area, Whistler/Blackcomb with 200 marked trails.
  • Whale Watching:  Join an excursion to go whale watching!
  • Wine Tasting Tours:  Call Mount Baker Vineyards for their schedule, or join the Saturday Wine Tasting at Semiahmoo Resort.
  • Museums:  Visit the Drayton Harbor Maritime Museum where you can learn about the history of Semiahmoo’s fish cannery days dating back to the late 1800’s.  There are some historic buildings still standing.
  • Beach Bonfire & S’mores at Sunset:  a special highlight for couple and families are the s’mores at sunset. We were told by Brinna at the front desk, “Each evening, guests love to wind down with a breathtaking sunset over the water next to a crackling fire, where you will be provided with everything you need to create mouthwatering s’mores with your loved ones around the bonfire.”

Where to Dine?

Packers Kitchen + Bar:  Take in the views of Drayton Harbor or Semiahmoo Bay at the resort’s Oyster Restaurant where you can order locally farmed oysters on a half shell, juicy burgers, fresh-caught fish and chips. 

Don’t Miss!  The wood-fired oven pizzas are delicious.

More local options include…

  • Black Forest Steakhouse
  • Chada Thai
  • Ocean Bay Chinese Restaurant
  • Little Red Caboose Café
  • Seaside Baker Café
  • Sweet Tangerine Bistro

Places to Visit in the Region

Semiahmoo is a central place to stay on your journey to one of these Pacific Northwest locations.

  • Fairhaven:  Bellingham’s historic district is only 45 mins from the resort, with amazing views of the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands.  Shop, dine, gallery hop, visit pottery shops, take a break at a café.  Don’t Miss!  Drive the scenic Chuckanut Drive along the coast.
  • Lynden Dutch Village:  Visit this small Dutch Village only 30 mins from the resort.  Enjoy Dutch food, antique shop, see vintage cars at the Pioneer Museum, enjoy a slice of baked pie at a café.  Follow the  windmills to the main Front Street.
  • Mount Baker Highway:  Drive 58 miles and take in the majestic views and natural wonders along this highway.  From I-5 in Bellingham, head to Artist Point (5,140 ft. elevation) to have views of Mt. Baker, Mt. Shuksan and Table Mountain.
  • La Conner:  Be sure to visit this charming town during the annual Tulip Festival in Skagit Valley.  It’s about a 60 mins drive from the resort.
  • Seattle:  Called the Emerald City, Seattle is just 110 miles south of Semiahmoo, ~2hrs drive.  This city offers urban attractions including the Seattle Center, the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, the Hiram Chittenden Locks, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Aquarium, Pioneer Square and the International District.  There are so many waterfront, lakeside and sound beaches, local wineries & breweries. 
  • Vancouver, B.C.:  Only 40 mins north of the resort, Vancouver is one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.  Highlights include Granville Island, historic Gastown, Stanley Park, Vancouver Aquarium.  Rose Gardens, horse-drawn carriages add to its charm.  The totem poles, Native American art are part of its history.  Don’t Miss!  Take the gondola ride to the top of Grouse Mountain for phenomenal views of the city and surroundings.
  • White Rock, B.C.:  A waterside town just across Canada’s border where you find sandy beaches, restaurants, tea rooms, art galleries, waterfront dining.  Drive along Marine Drive where you’ll enjoy 3 miles of waterfront beauty.
  • Victoria, B.C.:  Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, just off the coast of British Columbia, you’ll enjoy downtown Victoria with its shops, cafes, nightclubs.  Be sure to visit Butchart Gardens.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: Global Adventuress thanks Semiahmoo Resort & Spa for hosting us during our stay.

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