Hotels in Bellingham

Bellingham: Where Cascading Waterfalls Meet Vibrant University Life

Nestled between the mountains and the stunning Bellingham Bay, Bellingham, Washington, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant culture. Explore the charming downtown filled with historic buildings, eclectic shops, and local eateries. Nature enthusiasts can revel in nearby waterfalls and scenic trails, while the picturesque bay invites kayaking and whale watching. Don’t miss a visit to the Bellingham Golf Club for a round amidst breathtaking landscapes. With a relaxed atmosphere and an abundance of outdoor activities, Bellingham is the perfect off-the-beaten-path destination for both adventure seekers and those seeking a tranquil retreat.

Discover great hotels in Bellingham

Bellingham offers a range of accommodation options from charming lodges to upscale hotels, featuring luxurious rooms with stunning views. Whether you prefer spacious suites or waterfront properties, you’ll find comfortable stays that cater to various tastes and budgets, ideal for a relaxing getaway. Here are some of our travellers' favourite hotels in Bellingham:

1. sunshine motel iiiOpens in a new window: This welcoming motel offers a comfortable retreat for leisure travellers seeking a pet-friendly experience. With key amenities that include spacious accommodations and a relaxed atmosphere, it allows guests to enjoy their stay alongside their furry companions. The standout features of this property include its convenient pet policy and inclusive services for all types of pets, ensuring a seamless experience for those travelling with animals. Positive sentiments highlight the friendly environment and the ease of accessibility, making it a perfect choice for those looking to unwind and explore the local area.
2. Super 8 by Wyndham Bellingham Airport/FerndaleOpens in a new window: This business-themed motel caters specifically to busy professionals seeking a comfortable reprieve after a long day. The property boasts essential amenities tailored for business travellers, including high-speed internet access and flexible meeting spaces. The pet-friendly policy adds a touch of convenience for those who travel with pets. Guests appreciate the efficient service and thoughtful touches that elevate the overall experience, ensuring a productive yet relaxing stay. The atmosphere promotes a sense of professionalism while maintaining a warm and inviting environment.
3. Windmill Inn LyndenOpens in a new window: This charming hotel is an ideal sanctuary for leisure travellers desiring a pet-friendly getaway. The property features well-appointed rooms designed for relaxation, complemented by a welcoming ambiance. With a focus on comfort and accessibility for pets, the hotel ensures that guests can enjoy their stay without sacrificing quality. Positive reviews highlight the inviting atmosphere and the ease of travel, making it a desirable destination for those looking to explore the area with their beloved pets while enjoying a delightful retreat.

Top locations to stay in Bellingham

Some great areas to stay in Bellingham, Washington, are Sudden Valley, Marietta-Alderwood, and Geneva. Sudden Valley offers stunning views and outdoor activities, while Marietta-Alderwood features a charming community vibe and easy access to amenities. Geneva boasts beautiful waterfront properties, ideal for relaxation. For first-time visitors, Sudden Valley is particularly appealing due to its scenic beauty and recreational options.

1. Sudden ValleyOpens in a new window: Sudden Valley is a charming community nestled within lush greenery, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature. The area boasts a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking trails and access to scenic parks. You'll find a strong sense of community here, with local events often taking place. The nearby Sudden Valley Golf Course offers a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors while honing your skills on the green. Plus, its close proximity to Bellingham means you can easily venture into the city for more urban experiences.
2. Marietta-AlderwoodOpens in a new window: Located just north of downtown Bellingham, Marietta-Alderwood is a delightful area that combines residential charm with easy access to amenities. The neighbourhood features beautiful parks and trails, perfect for walking or cycling. You’ll find local shops and eateries that give a taste of the area's unique character, alongside cultural attractions like art galleries and community events. The proximity to the waterfront allows for leisurely strolls and picturesque views, making it a great place for relaxation.
3. GenevaOpens in a new window: Geneva is a serene lakeside community that appeals to those looking for a peaceful retreat. With its scenic views of Lake Whatcom and surrounding forests, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers a range of recreational activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking along nearby trails. Geneva is known for its friendly atmosphere and local charm, providing a lovely escape while still being a short drive from Bellingham’s vibrant shopping and dining scene.

Things to do in Bellingham

Bellingham is a delightful blend of natural beauty and vibrant community spirit. Nestled amidst mountains and lush forests, visitors can enjoy invigorating hikes, serene lakeside strolls, or thrilling boating adventures. The lively arts scene and local shops offer plenty of entertainment, making it an inviting destination for all.

• Squalicum BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a day soaking up the sun at Squalicum Beach, where you can stroll along the shore, enjoy a picnic, or simply watch the waves roll in. This beach is perfect for families looking to unwind and take in the scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
• Lake Padden ParkOpens in a new window – Lace up your walking shoes and explore the trails around Lake Padden Park. This urban park offers a lovely lake surrounded by lush greenery, making it ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling. You can also enjoy a peaceful moment by the water’s edge or let the kids play in the designated areas.
• Bloedel Donovan ParkOpens in a new window – Head over to Bloedel Donovan Park for a relaxing afternoon. With its expansive lawns and stunning views of the lake, it’s a great spot for a family barbecue or a leisurely walk. The playground is perfect for children, ensuring everyone has a great time.
• Cornwall BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy the coastal charm of Cornwall Beach, where you can take a refreshing dip or simply relax on the sand. This beach is a great spot for beachcombing and enjoying the picturesque surroundings, making it a delightful escape from the city.
• Fairhaven ParkOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of Fairhaven Park, where you can wander through well-maintained trails and enjoy the serene environment. It’s an excellent location for a family outing or a quiet escape, with plenty of spots to sit and appreciate nature.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bellingham

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Bellingham is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are lower. For a budget-friendly trip, it is advisable to stay for at least 2 to 3 days to fully appreciate the city’s key landmarks, historical sites, and cultural experiences. During your visit, you can explore the local university, enjoy live music, catch a theatre performance, and indulge in the vibrant café scene. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to hike to stunning waterfalls and browse through unique shopping options, all while experiencing the great value for money that Bellingham has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Bellingham, visit the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates on accommodation as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you're more likely to see flash sales and special promotions, helping you save on your booking. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool within the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you can make informed decisions. This way, you could be among the first to know if prices drop or availability changes for your preferred hotels.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a hotel in Bellingham. For those seeking distinctive experiences, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised touch and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest more economical dates to enhance your chances of securing the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Bellingham's excellent public transport connections, you may find a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well-connected. For those eager to discover alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often remarkable value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Bellingham

Bellingham experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 38.3°F (3.5°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.7°F (17.6°C). November is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Bellingham, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, January, February, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.