The best beaches in Bellingham, Washington span Bellingham Bay all the way to Larrabee State Park. They include amazing watersport options and gorgeous views.
The beaches in Bellingham are numerous and all very different from one another. There are options for those hoping to stay close to downtown and for hikers and rock climbers hoping to get out of the city.
Locust Beach
Location: Marietta-Alderwood, Washington
Distance from Downtown: 8 minutes
Why Visit? Gorgeous and unusual sand effects
Locust Beach is one of the most popular "hidden" beaches in Bellingham, Washington. It has a long, rocky shoreline and is located on the north side of Bellingham Bay. Unlike some beaches, it's very easy to find and get to. There is a trail you can take from Locust Avenue and stairs down to the beach.
Teddy Bear Cove
Location: Chuckanut Bay
Distance from Downtown: 12 minutes
Why Visit? A "secret" beach with fewer visitors
Teddy Bear Cove is a wonderful option if you're hoping to get away from the crowds on a warm day in Bellingham. A short trail made up of a few switchbacks takes you to views of the bay and Clark's point. The beach is really beautiful with white sand that's unusual along this section of the coastline. If you come at low tide, you'll also get to explore tidepools.
Little Squalicum Beach
Location: Marietta-Alderwood, Washington
Distance from Downtown: 6 minutes
Why Visit? Easy to access and great during low tide
Little Squalicum Beach is a Bellingham beach that's only 6 minutes from downtown. It's open daily and includes an off-leash area for dogs in the park. While the shoreline might not be the most spectacular of all the best beaches in Bellingham, it is very pretty, especially at sunset. There are also miles of trails, some paved, that you can explore.
Wildcat Cove
Location: Larrabee State Park
Distance from Downtown: 18 minutes
Why Visit? Rocky coastline and expansive views
Wildcat Cove is part of Larrabee State park, about 18 minutes from downtown Bellingham. There is a large parking area there with wonderful views of Samish Bay. Along the shoreline, you'll find some really incredible sandstone rock formations and places to launch kayaks and canoes.
Zuanich Point Park
Location: Zuanich Point
Distance from Downtown: 7 minutes
Why Visit? Beautiful views, playground, paved walking paths.
Zuanich Point Park is a smaller Bellingham beach that includes access to the water, picnic tables, paved paths, and a playground. It's far less secluded than some other options on this list but does have some great views of Squalicum Harbor. In the park, you'll also find Squalicum Boathouse.
Point Whitehorn
Location: Point Whitehorn
Distance from Downtown: 30 minutes
Why Visit? More isolated than other beaches and has beautiful views
The Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve is one of the best beaches in Bellingham. It includes areas to hike along the shore and wetlands and is great for all ages. There is a portion of the trail that's also accessible for wheelchair users.
In the park, you might get lucky and see some of the many bird species that live in the area. Including snow geese, brant, red-tailed hawks, buffleheads, and even bald eagles.
Waypoint Park
Location: Whatcom Creek Waterway
Distance from Downtown: 3 minutes
Why Visit? A newly developed area with nearby food trucks and a skate park
Waypoint Park is a suburban access point to the water and is very easily accessible from downtown. It is a newly developed area that is still growing today. There is a great beach, picnic tables, bike racks, a playground, and more.
Larrabee Beach
Location: Larrabee State Park
Distance from Downtown: 15 minutes
Why Visit? Wildlife, kayaking, and rock climbing
Larrabee Beach is in the Washington state park of the same name. It's one of the most beautiful beaches near Bellingham and is a must-visit if you live in the area. It also provides a great contrast to some of the more city-based beaches in the area. The state park is over 2,700 acres and includes camping, trails, and water access.
Boulevard and Taylor Dock Beaches
Location: Fairhaven Historic District
Distance from Downtown: 7 minutes
Why Visit? Multiple small beaches to explore, fewer visitors
The beaches at Boulevard and Taylor Dock are very close to downtown Billingham and include really beautiful boardwalks. Nearby are playgrounds, walking paths, restaurants, and more. Taylor Dock is a quarter of a mile long and is a great place to watch the sunset.