Right up along the Salish Sea in northern Whatcom County, the city of Birch Bay, WA, is a coastal community where ocean life and small-town living meet.  Home to about 11,100 residents, this bayfront town is best known for its long, gently curving beach, calm waters, and relaxed pace that invites visitors to slow down and stay awhile.

While the beach itself is the main draw, what makes this coastal community special is how it balances recreation and tradition. During the summer months, families fill the shoreline with kites and beach blankets, and the calm waters make it a favorite spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and digging for clams. Low tide reveals long stretches of sand where children build castles and beachcombers search for driftwood and shells. Evenings often bring bonfires, the scent of saltwater mingling with the sound of laughter. Locals enjoy gathering for outdoor concerts, spontaneous volleyball games, and the occasional impromptu picnic along the water. The slower pace here allows people to connect to the sea, to one another, and to a simpler rhythm of life that feels both refreshing and enduring.

The culinary scene reflects the salt marshes and coastal setting of the region. Take, for example, CJ’s Beach House, which offers fresh sustainable seafood, burgers, steaks and deck dining with bay views. Or consider Bay Breeze Restaurant & Bar, appreciated for its panoramic waterside dining, locally sourced seafood and hearty American family fare. A local favorite business for gathering and unwinding is Beach Cat Brewing, which has carved out a reputation as the area’s craft brewery with bay view patios, small batch beers, rotating food trucks and a pet friendly environment. That combination of local flavor, both literally and socially, helps define this spot's atmosphere beyond mere scenic value.

When it comes to things to do, there is no shortage of waterfront play. The adjacent state park offers saltwater shoreline, tidal flats and opportunities for clamming or crabbing depending on the season. Walking the sands at low tide, one might witness natural curiosities such as herons hovering over small creeks, a quiet procession of tide pools, or the afternoon sun glinting across the water. The town also celebrates several annual events that bring together people from near and far. Each June the Kids Kite Festival raises colorful sails above the water with live entertainers, crafts, kite making and vendor tents. Later in the summer a beloved weekend known as Sand and Shine pairs the long-running Sand Sculpture Competition with a Rollback Weekend Car Show. The result is music, sand art, classic cars, families and a lively convergence on the beach flats at sunset. These customs and festivals affirm the communal rhythm of the area rather than simply tourism driven activity.

There are lesser-known details too. For example, the bay itself was used as an anchorage by the Spanish in the 1790s and was thought of as a natural harbor by early explorers. The shape of the shoreline, with its headlands on either side, causes incoming waves to bend and the result is a gently sloping beach that invites long walks rather than abrupt drops. The underlying topography makes the place especially inviting when most beach fronts elsewhere are steeper or more abrupt. Beyond recreation it means that tidal flat zones often extend farther, ideal for casual exploration of marine life.

Businesses in the area reflect the residents of the community. The brewery mentioned earlier stands out as a social hub rather than just a drink stop. In addition, local restaurants bring the water to table ethos together with community gatherings, creating spots where one might linger after the meals to watch the day fade. One might find neighbors chatting about the crabbing season, or new arrivals asking for the best place to catch the low tide. The mix of casual local favorite eateries and community-oriented artisan businesses gives the whole place an approachable feel.

As a company offering restoration services, we at Cleaner Guys know that with the benefits of waterfront living come unique risks like water damage, fire aftermath or mold issues, and we’re here to help. If you live in Birch Bay or its surroundings and have issues with water intrusion, fire damage, mold growth or need a mold inspection, contact us today to protect your home, restore your peace of mind and enjoy this special coastal setting without worry.