A relaxed waterfront community to the north of Seattle, Bellingham is a brilliant pick for an outdoorsy holiday. The city is famously liberal and laid-back, with cafés and brewpubs aplenty, as well as an appealing focus on its natural wonders. Bellingham’s big draw is undoubtedly big, beautiful Bellingham Bay, and there is a good selection of accommodation options centred around its shores. Many of the best places to stay in Bellingham boast both superb sea views and easy access to the town’s many attractions — perfect for a relaxing break.

Once four separate settlements, Bellingham has fused into a single city but retains a lovely neighbourhood feel. Stroll through Fairhaven for heritage charm and excellent shopping, or head downtown for buzzing brunch spots and boutiques in trendy restored warehouses before soaking up the greenery of Whatcom. If you’re keen to delve into the area’s past, the Lynden Pioneer Museum and the Whatcom Museum of History & Art are great places to start. Western Washington University is also home to Western Gallery, whilst you can venture back into central Bellingham for the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention.

Whatcom County is a nature lover's dream, with heaps to see and do throughout the year. Gorgeous Whatcom Falls Park is ideal for a walk, run or cycle, and the city is criss-crossed with nature trails. Head out onto Bellingham Bay for days of sailing, kayaking, fishing or whale watching. Larrabee State Park and Birch Bay State Park are particular highlights for adventurers, as are the Chuckanut Mountains, Galbraith Mountain and Lake Whatcom. There’s no end of exploring to be done! If you’re into skiing or snow boarding come during the winter months: the Mount Baker Ski Area boasts the longest season in Washington State.

Wind down with live music nights or convivial evenings in craft breweries back in downtown Bellingham. The best places to stay in Bellingham are close to the city’s urban hotspots as well as the many marvellous natural landscapes which surround it.

The Best Places to Stay in Bellingham

For a Relaxed Inn

• The Chrysalis Inn & Spa is an appealing pick for families, those visiting university students or business travellers looking for modern rooms with brilliant bay views. The shops and eateries of Fairhaven are a short walk away, and there's a spa as well as great meeting facilities onsite. A friendly waterfront base.

For Luxury

• Hotel Bellwether promises an indulgent waterfront stay with classic rooms and suites featuring breath-taking views over Bellingham Bay. Flexible options are well-suited to families, pets are welcome, and there's a small spa. Kick back at the grill and enjoy live music on weekends. A luxurious holiday choice.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, and travel by car or bus to Bellingham. The drive should take just under two hours.
• Rural Washington State is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for sunshine and warmer weather — well-suited to outdoorsy adventures. Spring and autumn are also beautiful.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Seattle.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Washington State.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.