As we all tighten our belts for 2009, a getaway within easy driving distance is certainly appealing.

For all our Owners on Canada's West Coast, we have a great suggestion: Blaine, WA and Birch Bay.

Right on the Canadian border, Blaine shares the Peace Arch monument with Surrey, BC.

Visit this town to launch a Washington or West Coast tour, or simply relax for the weekend.

Attractions & Activities

Coast Millennium Trail
A trail system that runs from White Rock, BC to Skagit County, WA.

Miniature World Family Fun Center
Fun for the whole family includes mini golf, train rides, a go cart track, and farm animals.

Ocean Fishing
A quiet coastal community, Blaine is a great spot to do some fishing, whether you charter or head out on your own.

Peace Arch State Park
A historic international park featuring a giant arch monument, gardens, seasonal special events, and tours.

Semiahmoo Golf and Country Club
Enjoy two exclusive, pro-caliber courses. Try the Semiahmoo for it's sculpted landscaping or the Loomis Trail for its water-studded terrain.

Visit the Peace Arch at the Canada-US border

View Mt. Rainier across Puget Sound

RCI around Birch Bay

The selection of RCI resorts in Blaine is relatively good for a small community with the three properties listed below. More selection is available farther down the coast in Port Townsend, Union, Ocean Shores, Ocean Park, Copalis Beach and of course, Seattle.

Jacob's Landing Condominiums (#1898)
7806 Birch Bay Drive
Blaine, WA 98230
Phone: 360.371.3633

Raintree's Sandcastle at Birch Bay (#7899)
7854 Birch Bay Drive
Blaine, WA 98230
Phone: 360.371.4900

WorldMark Birch Bay (#3873)
4810 Beachcomber Drive
Blaine, WA 98230
Phone: 360.371.0880

Build your own Birch Bay fortress

Getting to Blaine

For Owners coming via the Lower Mainland, crossing the border in Surrey, near White Rock is the best route.

If you'll be coming from Vancouver Island, the most direct route is to travel with BC Ferries to Tsawwassen and drive across the border as above. You also have the option to take the Victoria Clipper ferry to Seattle and drive up from there.

Whichever route you chose, bring your passport, driver's license, and birth certificate to avoid delays at the border.

Overall, Blaine is a great destination for family fun and seaside leisure. With gas and ferry prices down, there's never been a better time for a spontaneous road trip, whether you choose Blaine or any of the other great destinations along the Washington and Oregon coastline.

*Information on Blaine, Washington at blainechamber.com and birchbayvillage.com. Resort details at rci.com.

Your Owner Liaison Team is happy to assist you with more information. Call 1.866.769.6377.

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