1 of 4
Eric Shea
The sparkling waters of the shore of Bellingham.
2 of 4
Krystal Hamlin
Just one of the scenic views in Bellingham.
3 of 4
Alan Levine
Known for its micro beer, Bellingham is home to 13 breweries.
Part of the package at Kulshan Brewing Company (http://www.kulshanbrewery.com) in Bellingham, WA
4 of 4
Robert Ashworth
Taylor Dock overlooking Bellingham Bay in the Fair Haven District.
KODAK Digital Still Camera
Words by Steve Fennell
As Bellingham is the 13th largest city in Washington State and the largest in Whatcom County, it is also one of the northernmost cities in the state before the Canadian border, making for a great destination whether you’re heading north bound from an extensive trip or cruising southbound from BC into U.S waters and beyond.
Being in the busy Straight of Georgia means boating is very popular – and Bellingham is more than accommodating. For example, pulling into Bellingham Bay means throwing back the throttles and manoeuvring your way to a transient slip at Squalicum Harbor, a full-service marina along the northern shore of Bellingham.
One the larger marine facilities in the area and operated by The Port of Bellingham, the marina can hold more than 1,400 commercial and recreational boats and welcomes boaters from near and afar. Overnight visitor moorage is available on a first come first served basis. Of course, a marina of this size has all the amenities including gas/diesel, portable pump out carts, two pump-out stations, dinghy racks, and carts. Potable water, 30-amp shore power, plus showers, restrooms and laundry facilities are also available in the event you’re staying a few nights (there’s a three-day maximum stay for transient boaters). Need repairs? Professional marine services are nearby.
One of the major conveniences of Squalicum Harbor is its a stone’s throw away from downtown, so getting around to what you need or want to do won’t be an issue. If you require a few night’s rest on land some great hotels are close by or you can take some leisure time to browse the many shops and boutiques.
Although there’s much activity downtown, few may realize that Bellingham and the surrounding region is home to several food producers that spread across an impressive100,000 acres of productive farmland, qualifying the area as an agricultural hub. In fact, the region produces more than 60 percent of the nation’s red raspberries and the dairy farms are considered to be some of the most productive in Washington State. This also means that many restaurants source local produce, meats and dairy to provide savoury dining experiences.
As the downtown district encompasses numerous places to enjoy a meal in casual or formal settings, some newer establishments include Mix, a casual, health-inspired eatery that serves up fresh salads, sandwiches and more (and are all made with locally sourced ingredients). Or, visit The Wild Oat Bakery & Cafe, which offers a menu of vegan comfort food, locally roasted coffee and pastries. Perhaps try the organic bagels with vegan cream cheese or the Philly Cheeze Steak made with non-beef slices, onions and peppers on a French roll.
Another option is to create a culinary delight for yourself later on the water. For instance, visit the Bellingham Farmers Market that’s held downtown every Saturday at Depot Market Square from April to December while a second location is 5 km (3 miles) away in the Fairhaven Historic District every Wednesday from June to August. Both are a foodies’ delight with an assortment of produce, meats, dairy, seafood, plus flowers and unique artisan crafts.
You may also want to plan a visit the eclectic Fairhaven Historic District, which is just 5 km (3 mi) from Squalicum Harbor and spans over a few blocks. This is where you can stroll along Taylor Dock, an expansive boardwalk that offers great views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands, or explore the many bookstores, unique shops and discover a new restaurant or café.
Other attractions in around Bellingham, which will be of interest to history buffs, include the Spark Museum of Electrical Invention, which depicts scientific achievements that date back to the 1600s as well as The Bellingham International Maritime Museum that preserves the maritime history of Bellingham, Whatcom County, and Puget Sound. If you’re an admirer of art, The Whatcom Museum (a Smithsonian affiliate) presents rotating art exhibitions and its most recent addition is The People of the Sea and Cedar: A Journey through the Tribal Cultures and History of the Northwest Coast. This mirrors the history of local native tribes where you can view Coast Salish artwork, carvings, woven blankets, hand-made tools, clothing, and traditional crafts.
While its easy to have a full day of visiting all the attractions, Bellingham is nearby to the San Juan Islands and all the beautiful scenery that can be discovered. So, whether you’re coming or going, the region makes for the perfect destination on land – and of course – on the water where some of the best boating in region can be enjoyed throughout the season.
For more information on Bellingham visit www.bellingham.org
2019 Events at a Glance
April 19-27, 2019
This event pretty much says it all. Held over nine days every year in April, Bellingham Beer Week promotes everything that’s great about Bellingham beer and is celebrated in the local breweries, tap houses, bars, restaurants, and hotels.
Contact: www.bellinghambeerweek.com/
Every Friday - Every Month
Bellingham Art Walk
No matter when you come to Bellingham, Art Walk is hosted every Friday of every month throughout the year. You can observe the works from local and regional artists of many mediums that are displayed in galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Held from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
Contact: info@downtownbellingham.com or call 360-527-8710.
June 29-July 29, 2019
The Bellingham Festival of Music
This is considered to be one of America’s premier virtuoso orchestra festivals where music aficionados can enjoy the repertoire of some of the finest symphonies. It also features world famous guest artists and young rising stars. Contact: www.bellinghamfestival.org or call 360-201-6621
Aug 3, 2019
Kid’s Fest
Few words need to describe this exciting event that’s hosted at Civic Field Stadium, which highlights health, recreation, and educational events – not to mention games, face painting, circus performers, and more. Contact: www.cob.org or call 360-778-7000
Be sure to visit www.bellingham.org for 2019 event updates
September 21-22, 2019
SeaFeast
SeaFeast is a signature festival celebrating Whatcom County’s maritime heritage. Come enjoy a salmon grilling contest, live music, an oyster shucking competition, the legendary FisherPoets and much more. For updated schedule and event information, visit: www.bellinghamseafeast.com
Bellingham’s Micro Breweries
Just as some of the best coffee producers are home to Seattle, some of the top micro breweries are home to Bellingham. The city encompasses 13 local breweries and while some say brewing beer is all science, its more of an art in Bellingham. Whether your choice of brew are stouts, IPAs or pale ales, chances are high you’ll find a new favourite here. In fact, Sip Northwest magazine announced that nine medals were earned by craft breweries in Bellingham for the publication’s 2018 Best of the Northwest Awards, in addition to winning 26 medals at the 2018 Washington Beer Awards.