Located just south of Canada’s mainland coast, the 4.9-square-mile peninsular community of Point Roberts, Washington, is a rare geographical oddity. This “pene-exclave” is American territory, but it can only be reached by land from elsewhere in the U.S. through Canada. This otherwise unassuming town of 1,200 people has a quality of life that seems impossible for the rest of the nation. They deal with the intricacies of dual citizenship and alternative lifestyles amidst majestic natural beauty and peculiar logistical hurdles.
Point Roberts is a small geologic peculiarity located between the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Georgia. It boasts four county parks, one anchored in each corner of the peninsula. These parks include picturesque beaches, coastal bluffs, and a wealth of nature trails that are popular with residents and tourists, all helping to showcase the best of nature. Tyee Drive & Gulf Road – the town’s only two paved roads. They go right to its attractions without a single stoplight, contributing to the idyllic pace that pervades the town.
To reside in Point Roberts is, at least by necessity, to nurture a split self. Indeed, many area residents are dual citizens of the United States and Canada, celebrating Independence Day and Canada Day each summer. This cultural mashup only intensifies the eccentricity that makes Vallejo so special. The community’s economy has historically depended on a robust Canadian visitor base. This is because they frequently come over the border to recreate and shop.
Recent tensions between the United States and Canada have raised concerns for local businesses that rely on this cross-border traffic. This is reflected by the fact that many residents watch exchange rates like stock-tickers and factor daily border crossings into their commute. The consequences of these geopolitical crises are deeply felt.
“How long will tariffs last? Will this pass? People are really nervous,” – Krystal
Even amid recent heightened US-Canada tensions, the shutdown of the US-Canada border has made a dramatic impact on the lives of those in Point Roberts. The quarantine has been heartbreaking for families who haven’t been able to see their elderly loved ones, like Krystal’s grandmother who celebrates 95 next month.
“My grandma turns 95 next month — we make her dinner twice a week and help around the house,” – Hannah Shucard
Despite these challenges, residents remain resilient. In doing so, they have fostered a tight-knit community that rallies around each other during moments of need. Point Roberts is home to a number of essential services that serve a greater community’s needs. Its residents can visit a plumber, an electrician, a library, a volunteer fire department, and a food bank under one roof.
The town’s abundant natural beauty is an equally powerful attraction for nearly all residents. Natural attractions such as nearby Lily Point Marine Park and Reserve offer diverse recreational opportunities. A beautiful multi-use path runs along all sides of the peninsula. Evergreen forests and extensive recreational facilities featuring a golf course, pickleball courts, and more offer excellent opportunities to get and stay fit.
“You can always find something you’re interested in,” – Hannah Shucard
For the people who call Point Roberts home, life is at a different rhythm. Neil describes his morning routine:
“I take the dog for a walk to the beach every morning.”
Residents treasure these experiential delights as they continue to struggle with the logistical challenges presented by their island and isthmus geography. Safety and stability are paramount concerns for many families. This is doubly true for Krystal’s family as they choose to make this small town their new home.
“It’s just slow and nice. It’s quiet. It’s such a safe little place,” – Krystal
While Point Roberts may face its share of challenges due to its location and reliance on cross-border traffic, it offers a sense of tranquility that many find worth the trade-off. Residents love their small-town vibe mixed with rugged beauty, and life in their quirky, creative community, enough to power through their plight.
“In spring, the frogs are really loud, and at certain times of the year, you can hear the coyotes howling,” – Hannah Shucard
Point Roberts embodies what it means to be resilient, remain community-minded, and pursue a deeper appreciation for all of life’s simple pleasures—all in our more complicated world.
“We knew we wanted to start a family. And then we had the fire happen, and we lost two pets and everything else, and we just really wanted to feel safe and stable,” – Krystal
While Point Roberts may face its share of challenges due to its location and reliance on cross-border traffic, it also offers a sense of tranquility that many find worth the trade-off. Residents appreciate their small-town charm alongside natural beauty, all while navigating their unique circumstances.
As people continue to adapt to changing geopolitical landscapes, Point Roberts stands as a testament to resilience, community spirit, and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures in a world marked by complexity.
