Notes From the Green Room: Beaches

The family and I recently spent a weekend at Cama Beach, a state park on Camano Island. We rented one of their quaint cabins on the Puget Sound, a tiny two-room respite just perfect for a short getaway. It's a picturesque spot, made more peaceful by the fact that outside cars are not allowed on the cabin grounds. You park on the hill overlooking the water, then walk or take a shuttle down. With two kids and questionable weather, we certainly packed a good deal, but it was well worth the effort, given the tranquil escape.

Our cabin had two full beds (you bring your own bedding), a table and chairs, a fridge, sink and microwave. The kids loved sharing a room together and having the beach right outside the front door. Although the restrooms are housed in a public facility, they were clean and not too far from our cabin.

The rain and cold found their way into the cabin, despite having a heater. I was so cold the first night that I caved in on our 'State-Made' proposal. It's embarrassing, but I could not stop myself from buying a fleece vest at the park store with a clear "Made in Vietnam" label. After spending the night huddled very close to Doug wearing almost every layer available in my overnight bag, I just couldn't take it. I look at it as a benefit to the Washington State Park system.

Because it's a state park, you can head over for an easy day trip. There's a Center for Wooden Boats on site, which offers boat rentals and family programs. The girls got to make small wooden boats that they "docked" at the beach. We invited some friends and family to join us later in the afternoon, which made for a crowded cabin, but happy, scampering kids. One of the best parts of living in the Pacific Northwest is the balance between urban living and the natural world. We loved being at Cama Beach and will definitely be there again before the summer's out.