In the afternoons, you and the kids can watch from your boat as eagles and herons fish the islands' pristine Pacific Northwest waters, or keep a lookout for a pod of killer whales cruising nearby Haro Strait. There are also kayak and moped rentals and tennis courts. If Mom and Dad want a break from duties at the helm of their own boat, they can book a day cruise to Victoria, B.C., aboard the Victoria Star. A few good marinas connected with luxury resorts are located along a 26-mile stretch of white sand beach. Casinos are a big draw in this area.
Shuttle buses run visitors along the beach from one gaming complex to the next.
If you're with the kids, you can use the buses instead to access all of the other activities in the area, including museums, miniature golf, shopping and family restaurants specializing in Southern cuisine. Md. If you have only a day or two to show the kids a week's worth of fun, steer a course to Baltimore's historic Inner Harbor. It has more visual stimulation than your local Blockbuster, and if you pick the right marina, you can tie up near the promenade, within walking distance of many popular attractions. Also nearby is Oriole Park at Camden Yards, where fans can watch major-league baseball teams in action. Here's a suggestion for parents who are looking for a vacation from their family vacation.