Semiahmoo Bay facts for kids

Semiahmoo Bay, just south of White Rock. Point Roberts can be seen on the horizon

Semiahmoo Bay (SEM-ee-AH-moh) is a beautiful part of Boundary Bay on the Pacific coast of North America. It's located where the land meets the sea, forming a southeastern section of the larger Boundary Bay.

The bay gets its name from the Semiahmoo First Nation, who are the Indigenous people who have lived in this area for a very long time. The land around the bay, known as the Semiahmoo Peninsula, used to have factories that processed fish. Today, it's home to the Semiahmoo Resort, a popular place for golfing and relaxing.

Where is Semiahmoo Bay?

Semiahmoo Bay sits right on the border between Canada and the United States. Many towns and special places are found along its shores.

Communities in British Columbia, Canada

On the Canadian side, in British Columbia, you'll find:

• The neighbourhoods of Crescent Beach and Ocean Park, which are part of the city of Surrey.
• The city of White Rock, known for its long pier and sandy beaches.
• The Semiahmoo Indian Reserve, which is the land belonging to the Semiahmoo First Nation.
• Peace Arch Provincial Park, a unique park that crosses the border.

Communities in Washington State, USA

On the American side, in Washington State, you'll find:

• Peace Arch State Park, the US part of the border park.
• The town of Blaine.

The town of Blaine has a smaller harbor called Drayton Harbor. This harbor opens into Semiahmoo Bay and is separated from the main bay by the Semiahmoo Spit. The Semiahmoo Resort is also located on this spit.

Water Quality and Wildlife

The waters of Semiahmoo Bay are very important for many kinds of sea life. Experts have studied the bay and found that its water is very clean and healthy.

This clean water is excellent for:

• Fish: It's a great place for salmon and other fish to travel, grow, and lay their eggs.
• Shellfish: Clams, oysters, and mussels thrive here, growing and reproducing in the bay.
• Crustaceans: Other sea creatures like crabs, shrimp, and crayfish also live and grow in these waters.

Several rivers and creeks flow into Semiahmoo Bay, bringing fresh water from the land. The Campbell River flows into the Canadian side of the bay. On the US side, California Creek and Dakota Creek flow into Drayton Harbor, which then connects to Semiahmoo Bay.

Semiahmoo cannery office along Semiahmoo Bay, August 1918. This building was part of the area's history of fish processing.