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Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand

Holiday home in Blaine with kitchen and patio

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Welcome to The Blue Heron Beach Cottage!
We are located in the heart of the Bay and only a minute walk to the beach!
The White Crane Bedroom is the getaway everyone needs- quiet, serene, and cozy!
Inside the front door, you will find an open floor plan that is inviting.
No one will miss out on conversation or great meals together.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

View in a map
Blaine, WA
  • Place, Birch Bay State Park
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Birch Bay Beach
    ‪4 min walk‬
  • Place, Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal
    ‪55 min drive‬
  • Airport, Bellingham, WA (BLI-Bellingham Intl.)
    ‪18 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand

Escape to Blue Heron Beach Cottage, a cozy, pet-friendly retreat just a 60-second walk to miles of sand in beautiful Birch Bay. This charming cottage sleeps up to six and is perfect for couples, families, or small groups. Enjoy a private, fully fenced garden with BBQ and fire pit, unwind by the fireplace, or stroll to nearby Birch Bay State Park. Comfort, charm, and the beach just outside your door....as well as the infamous C Shop to get your ice cream and candy fix on! Whether you’re here for quiet mornings, sunset walks, or quality time with loved ones (including your pup), this is a place to truly slow down. Come as you are and leave feeling refreshed.

We've thoughtfully designed this space to be the perfect retreat for 2-3 couples or a small group of friends and family. We have been visiting short-term rentals and VRBOs for more than 25 years and have curated our sweet cottage specifically to be the home away from home you (and your pup) craves. We've thought of the details we've always wanted when traveling. We know you'll love getting away to Birch Bay and calling Blue Heron home while you're visiting.

We welcome up to two well-behaved 50 lb canine companions at Blue Heron. We have three fully-fenced areas designed for their comfort and your peace of mind!

More about the cottage below...

LIVING & KITCHEN:
After a day of beachcombing, unwind in the inviting living area by the fireplace, stream your favorite shows on the smart TV, or connect with loved ones using our complimentary Wi-Fi. The fully-equipped kitchen has everything you need to prepare delicious meals during your stay. Just add your own touches, flavors, and ingredients!

SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS (Sleeps 6):
* Primary Bedroom (Main Floor): A tranquil space with a queen bed, walk-in closet, ensuite bathroom, and direct access to the garden.
* Second Bedroom (Upstairs): A comfortable room away from it all featuring a queen bed.
* Third Sleeping Area (Upstairs): A semi-private nook off the second bedroom with a full-sized bed and blackout curtains for privacy and rest.

WORK & CONVENIENCE:
* Remote Work: A folding desk is available for you to set up a comfortable workspace wherever inspiration strikes- perhaps in the serene garden!
* Laundry: An in-unit washer and dryer are provided for your convenience, along with a starter pack of scent-free detergent.

OUTDOOR OASIS:
Step outside to enjoy your private outdoor space, which includes:
* A beautiful garden sets the tone for your people watching, social time, or quiet reflection.
* Three fenced areas, perfect for your pup to roam safely.
* A propane BBQ grill for cookouts.
* A propane fire pit table, ideal for evening conversations under the stars.

BLUE HERON BEACH COTTAGE IS a completely smoke-free property and an inclusive safe space, welcome to all.

Guests will have private and exclusive access to the entire home, including the front and back gardens, during their stay. Enjoy complete privacy with a private entrance.

We also offer a power outlet (15 amps max) at the driveway for easy charging if you have an electric vehicle.

Other things to note
* For your security, exterior security cameras are located on the property to monitor the exterior areas.
* Please see the Welcome Book inside the cottage for up-to-date details on area attractions,

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
With supervision at all times due to steep stairs.
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
We have a steep staircase in the cottage so we ask that small children be supervised on the stairs at all times.
We do not have supplies for children, so parents are asked to bring their own activities, supplies, and gear for the kiddos.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Blaine

Located in Blaine, this holiday home is by the sea. Ocean Park Shopping Centre and Ocean Park Mall are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Birch Bay State Park and Peace Arch State Park. Birch Bay Waterslides and Northwest Washington Fair and Event Center are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Blaine, WA

What's nearby

  • Birch Bay State Park - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Birch Bay Beach - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Canada Place Cruise Ship Terminal - 55 min drive - 73.4 km
  • Canada Place - 55 min drive - 73.4 km
  • Vancouver Waterfront - 55 min drive - 73.4 km

Getting around

  • Bellingham, WA (BLI-Bellingham Intl.) - 25 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪McDonald's - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Woods Coffee - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪The Market At Birch Bay - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Baywood Coffee - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Jack in the Box - ‬8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

How much is parking at Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Charming Pet-Friendly Birch Bay Retreat Just Steps to the Sand located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within a 5-minute walk of Birch Bay State Park and Birch Bay Beach. Birch Bay Waterslides is 1.6 mi (2.5 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 11 out of 11 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 11 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 11 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christopher P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely, cozy, well appointed dog friendly home.Well organized, super clean, comfy bed and pillows, great location, nice artwork. Host was attentive, friendly and helpful. Super nice place to stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Tracy J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very clean, organized. It fit us well, even our fur babies we're very happy
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Georgianna G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cute beach house. Nicely decorated fully stocked kitchen, everything you could ask for and more. Never been in a vacation rental that had so much kitchen stuff available, worked perfect for me because I do like to cook! Also dog friendly house our Oliver was in heaven!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Shelley L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Getaway

Fun trip away, first time in birch bay- had a great time. Cottage is so cute and fully stocked. Hosts are amazing and give great suggestions on places to eat and things to do! Would stay again.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jake S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Already plotting our return

My family of four thoroughly enjoyed our one-week stay at this beach cottage. The property is as advertised: immaculate, tastefully decorated, and convenient to all Birch Bay has to offer. The owners were highly responsive and have obviously gone to great lengths to ensure their property is fully equipped for a comfortable stay. Check in/out was a breeze. We are already plotting our return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This house has it all: Location, well-appointed kitchen, comfy beds, beach supplies, and dog supplies (the Poop Deck should be trademarked!). The outside spaces were as nice as the interior. One of us worked remotely from the house, so all is well even if you cannot fully unplug. Due to the convenient location and laid-back town, we walked to dinner in town and combed the beach (awesome sand dollar colony!). I took side-trips to Ferndale/Tennant Lake, Bellingham, and Mt. Baker, but one could easily fill a weekend or full week in Birch Bay.
Zelda rests on the couch after completing Chain Lakes Loop hike on Mt. Baker
Every sunset was amazing!
Artist Point is 2 hrs away. This is from the midpoint of the Chain Lakes Trail.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tania A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing and relaxing home away from home!

My husband, myself, and our pups wanted to get away before the holiday rush. This little oasis was just what we needed! We loved how close we were to the beach - the sunset and sunrises were absolutely incredible! We will definitely be coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great at any season!

We stayed during the off-season. A number of businesses were closed and we experienced continuous rain. We still enjoyed our stay! We watched migratory sea birds, shopped for gifts, walked along the sandy beach with our dog, visited the Semiahmoo spa, and finally relaxed! Nostalgic board games, fabulous artwork, fireplace heater, soft blankets, comfy bed, loungy couch, unique books, and a coffee bean grinder were all much appreciated! This place is conducive to relaxation!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Doc M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful home by the beach!

We had such a nice getaway at this cozy beach cottage! Us and our 2 dogs. Hosts had thought of everything: dog supplies, fenced yard, USB and newer c-USB ports (!); extra bedding; 120% stocked kitchen—everything! Location was perfect: a quick walk to beach, state park, and downtown Birch Bay + quick drive to Blaine, Bellingham, Ferndale! (We hardly drove anywhere, but we knew that we could!) So cozy inside with the electric fireplace and TV and many reading nooks. Such comfy furniture! Hosts very responsive! Absolutely PERFECT stay!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Debi Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute and comfy!

The Blue Heron suited our needs perfectly! The place is charming and welcoming with much thought given to the details that make it outstanding. The hosts were very easy to communicate with, swiftly answering all my questions. I appreciated the multi-type cell phone charger provided in the kitchen, as well as the pet food dishes available. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Thanksgiving and know that whatever the reason and time of year may be, you and your family will enjoy your stay. And, bonus, it’s sooo close to the beach, too!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

William B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Sanctuary at the beach

My wife and brother-in-law spent childhood summers in Birch Bay and we knew spending time here together would be a wonderful way to relax and unwind. The Blue Heron home exceeded our expectations in every way possible--we have stayed at many vacation rentals and B n B's over the years and this is definitely one of our new favorites. It felt like it was our house, as if we lived there...meaning we felt 100% at home. The owners have taken every step to create an inviting, comfortable, peaceful and functional space to enjoy. You can tell they put a great deal of thought into every nook and cranny. Their love and consideration for their home and guests made it easy to just simply "be" and lean into our stay. Things we appreciated: close to shopping and beach recreation rentals close to state park, a few minutes walk to the bay (if that), quiet neighborhood with friendly neighbors, beautiful home and gardens, fenced and private yard, well stocked kitchen, grill and supplies, very comfortable beds (we all slept like babies and logs!), thoughtful welcome package, great water pressure in showers and immediate hot water), garage to store our bicycles for easy access, lamps throughout the home for that lovely cozy glow, a charging station for your devices, the list goes on. We didn't have a dog to bring with us but if we had, we can tell they would have been living their best vaca life here as well! Thanks so very much, we can't wait to return.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

About the host

Your host

Host profile image
We are a professional couple who balance a passionate creative life (she's an artist, he's a musician) with careers (we are both small business owners). We love dogs, the outdoors, and everything to do with the BEACH. Birch Bay is a special place to us and we are thrilled to share our seaside getaway with other bird watchers, nature lovers, and dog fanatics. The location can't be beat and we pinch ourselves every time we get to stay "at the Bay". It's magical and we love hosting guests and making their stays memorable!

Why they chose this property

Birch Bay is a hidden gem just on the Washington State side of the US/Canada border. It's literally 2 hours from Seattle, an hour from Vancouver, BC, and less than 30 minutes from Bellingham. It offers us so much access to the beach, to trails, to local farms...it's just perfect for feeling like you're getting away, but you're really not that far from anything!

What makes this property unique

Our cottage was thoughtfully designed and curated for comfort and convenience. As long-time short-term vacation renters ourselves, we have been long building a list of "must-haves" for our own renters and are continually striving to improve our stays as we go. The location provides guests with a literal minute's walk to the beach and the beloved, infamous candy store at Birch Bay, The C Shop. Sometimes the smell of cinnamon buns is wonderfully mixed with the gorgeous salt air of the Bay. It's intoxicating!
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