Bellingham Waterfront
Bellingham Waterfront: A scenic escape with historic piers, stunning island views, and vibrant parks perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer people
Bellingham Waterfront
Best Time
Serene views, fewer people
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Bellingham Waterfront: A scenic escape with historic piers, stunning island views, and vibrant parks perfect for relaxation and recreation.
"The boardwalk view and sea breeze is amazing. It's such a beautiful scenery to go for a walk and relax."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Taylor Dock offers unparalleled sunset views over the San Juan Islands. Don't miss it!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Piers
Explore both Taylor Dock and Little Squalicum Park piers for unique perspectives of Bellingham Bay.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Taylor Dock Boardwalk
Taylor Dock
The longest pier on the West Coast, offering breathtaking sunset views and access to a charming park and beach.
Little Squalicum Park Pier
Little Squalicum Park
A historic pier dating back to 1912, providing public access to Bellingham Bay and scenic waterfront walks.
Waterfront Parks & Green Spaces
Various parks along the waterfront
Enjoy grassy areas, shade trees, picnic spots, and the chance to spot local wildlife like crabs and crows.
Beach Cat Brewing
1010 C St
A unique dockside brewery experience with ample outdoor space to enjoy craft beers with a view.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Views, Beat the Crowds
Accessibility and Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Taylor Dock offers unparalleled sunset views over the San Juan Islands. Don't miss it!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Piers
Explore both Taylor Dock and Little Squalicum Park piers for unique perspectives of Bellingham Bay.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Woods Coffee by the beach is a perfect stop for a pick-me-up or snack while enjoying the waterfront.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch! Grassy areas, shade, and even BBQs make waterfront parks ideal for a family picnic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Taylor Dock offers unparalleled sunset views over the San Juan Islands. Don't miss it!
🚶♀️ Stroll the Piers
Explore both Taylor Dock and Little Squalicum Park piers for unique perspectives of Bellingham Bay.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Woods Coffee by the beach is a perfect stop for a pick-me-up or snack while enjoying the waterfront.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch! Grassy areas, shade, and even BBQs make waterfront parks ideal for a family picnic.
🎶 Enjoy Local Events
Check for waterfront events like salsa nights for a lively evening experience. 
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll want to explore the parks and boardwalks, so comfy footwear is key.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bellingham Waterfront's stunning natural beauty, particularly the sunset views from Taylor Dock and the serene atmosphere of the parks. The combination of accessible piers, green spaces, and convenient amenities like coffee shops makes it a beloved spot for relaxation and family outings. While generally peaceful, some areas can get busy during peak times or events.
"This is a peaceful, scenic, and perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Whether you're a local or just visiting, this boardwalk offers stunning waterfront views, especially at sunset when the sky lights up over the bay.
The boardwalk is well-maintained and easy to walk, with benches and viewing areas spaced throughout. It’s great for a relaxing stroll, casual bike ride, or simply taking in the ocean breeze. On clear days, you can spot the San Juan Islands in the distance and maybe even a seal or two playing in the water."
Aplih A
"Great boardwalk with a gorgeous view! You can get coffee or hot chocolate and a pastry right there. There’s also a cool geocache here if you’re into that."
Stephanie Rahill-Keef
"Perfect waterfront park! Grassy areas, shade trees, access to the water, a coffee house, and amazing views. Plenty of people but it didn't feel crowded."
Danielle Cooley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bellingham Waterfront is easily accessible by car, with several parking areas near parks and attractions. Public transportation options are also available, connecting you to key waterfront spots. Many visitors find it convenient to drive and park near Taylor Dock or Little Squalicum Park. +1
Yes, there are parking lots available at various points along the waterfront, including near Taylor Dock and Little Squalicum Park. Parking can fill up, especially on weekends and during events, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Bellingham has a great trail system, and many paths lead to the waterfront, making it a pleasant destination for walkers and cyclists.
Bellingham's public transit system serves areas near the waterfront. Check the local transit schedules for routes and stops that will get you closest to your desired destination.
Many areas of the Bellingham Waterfront, including boardwalks and parks, are designed to be accessible. The piers generally have gentle slopes, and paved paths are common.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general access to the Bellingham Waterfront, including parks and piers like Taylor Dock and Little Squalicum Park, is free. Some specific events or venues might have admission fees.
The parks and piers along the Bellingham Waterfront are generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms or coffee shops may vary.
Walking on the public piers, such as Taylor Dock and the pier at Little Squalicum Park, is free of charge.
Leashed dogs are generally welcome in the parks and on the boardwalks of the Bellingham Waterfront. Always check local signage for specific pet policies.
The Bellingham Waterfront itself is a public area, and there is no general entrance fee. Enjoy the views and amenities freely!
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Must-sees include the expansive Taylor Dock boardwalk for sunset views, the historic Little Squalicum Park pier, and the various waterfront parks offering green spaces and sea breezes.
Yes, you'll find options like Woods Coffee near the beach and Beach Cat Brewing on the water, offering refreshments and a place to relax with a view.
Enjoy walking, picnicking, people-watching, photography, and simply relaxing by the water. During summer, you might find events like outdoor dancing. +1
Absolutely! The parks have grassy areas, shade, and access to the water, making it very family-friendly for picnics and play.
Keep an eye out for baby crabs hiding in the shallows and talkative crows in the park areas. The bay itself is home to various marine life.
📸 📸 Photography
Taylor Dock offers iconic shots with its long boardwalk and island/mountain backdrops, especially during sunset. The historic piers and park vistas also provide great photographic opportunities.
Golden hour, just before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing the waterfront's scenery.
Capture the contrast of the historic piers against the modern waterfront developments or the vibrant scenes during community events like salsa nights.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for distant island shots. A tripod is helpful for sunset photography.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's advisable to check with the City of Bellingham Parks Department for any restrictions before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a community event like a summer salsa night for a lively atmosphere, though younger children might enjoy the daytime activities more. The presence of Woods Coffee provides easy access to snacks and drinks, making it a convenient outing for families with young children.
🚶♀️ Seniors and Those Seeking Relaxation
Finding a bench in one of the parks or enjoying a coffee at Woods Coffee offers a perfect way to relax and people-watch. The historic piers provide a sense of connection to the past while offering serene vistas.
🍻 Craft Beer Enthusiasts
Imagine sipping a cold one on the dock, taking in the expansive views of Bellingham Bay and the surrounding mountains. While Beach Cat Brewing is the standout waterfront option, the broader Bellingham area is known for its breweries. Visitors can easily combine a waterfront stroll with a visit to other local breweries nearby, making for a well-rounded craft beer exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bellingham's Historic Piers
The pier at Little Squalicum Park boasts an even longer history, standing on Bellingham Bay since 1912. Its recent reopening to the public has revitalized this landmark, offering visitors a chance to walk where generations have before. Both piers are easily accessible and provide excellent vantage points for appreciating the natural beauty and maritime heritage of Bellingham.
These piers are more than just structures; they are gateways to experiencing the essence of the waterfront. Whether you're looking for a peaceful stroll, a prime photography location, or simply a place to connect with the sea breeze, these historic piers deliver an unforgettable experience.
Waterfront Parks: Relaxation and Recreation
The parks also provide direct access to the water's edge, where you might spot small crabs hiding or observe the local birdlife. The combination of natural beauty and thoughtful amenities creates a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. It's a place where you can simply unwind, people-watch, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the water.
These waterfront parks are also becoming hubs for community events. From outdoor salsa and bachata nights that fill the air with music and dance to potential farmers' markets, there's often something happening to add a vibrant pulse to the scenic backdrop.
Culinary Delights with a View
For a more unique experience, Beach Cat Brewing offers a dockside brewery where you can enjoy craft beers with your feet practically over the water. This establishment provides a relaxed atmosphere and a chance to savor local brews while taking in the waterfront scenery.
These establishments contribute to the overall appeal of the waterfront, ensuring that visitors can easily find refreshments and enjoy a meal or drink while soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit