Hotels in Bellingham

Whispers of Waterfalls: Discover Bellingham's Enchanting Blend of Nature and Knowledge

Nestled between the sparkling waters of Bellingham Bay and the majestic backdrop of the Cascade Mountains, Bellingham, Washington, is a captivating blend of nature and culture. This charming city boasts a vibrant downtown filled with historic buildings, eclectic shops, and farm-to-table dining, making it a haven for foodies and art enthusiasts alike. Explore the stunning waterfalls in the nearby parks, or take a scenic stroll along the waterfront. With its rich university culture and outdoor adventures, Bellingham is the perfect escape for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Pacific Northwest.

Discover great hotels in Bellingham

Bellingham offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from charming boutique options to luxurious stays with spa services. You'll find comfortable city hotels and scenic spots near the waterfront, perfect for exploring the area's natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our travelers in Bellingham:

1. sunshine motel iiiOpens in a new window: This charming motel is perfect for travelers seeking a pet-friendly experience in Bellingham. With its inviting atmosphere, it features essential amenities designed for comfort and convenience. The property allows dogs onsite, ensuring a welcoming environment for those traveling with their furry companions. Guests appreciate the relaxed vibe and the ease of access to local attractions, creating a memorable getaway that combines adventure with comfort.
2. Super 8 by Wyndham Bellingham Airport/FerndaleOpens in a new window: This 2.0-star motel is an ideal choice for business travelers looking for a convenient and comfortable stay. With amenities tailored for professionals, the property provides services that enhance productivity and relaxation. Guests value the pet-friendly policy, allowing for a stress-free travel experience. The hotel’s atmosphere promotes a seamless blend of work and leisure, making it an excellent base for exploring Bellingham's vibrant offerings.
3. Windmill Inn LyndenOpens in a new window: This 2.0-star hotel is a delightful option for those seeking a pet-friendly retreat in Bellingham. With a focus on comfort and accessibility, the property invites travelers to enjoy its welcoming ambiance. Pets are permitted, making it a great choice for animal lovers. The hotel's design and hospitality create a home-like feel, ensuring visitors can unwind after a day of exploration while enjoying the unique charm of the local area.

Top locations to stay in Bellingham

When visiting Bellingham, Washington, consider staying in Sudden Valley, Marietta-Alderwood, and Geneva. Sudden Valley offers scenic views and recreational activities, while Marietta-Alderwood boasts a charming community atmosphere. Geneva, with its lakeside access, provides a relaxed retreat. For first-time visitors, Sudden Valley is best suited for its blend of nature and accessibility to downtown Bellingham.

1. Sudden ValleyOpens in a new window: Sudden Valley is an idyllic retreat nestled in a serene landscape, perfect for those looking to unwind. This community offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and a peaceful atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for relaxation. With easy access to hiking trails and outdoor activities, it's also a great spot for nature lovers. The nearby lake provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while the local parks offer picnic areas and scenic walking paths. You can enjoy the quiet charm of this area while still being a short drive from Bellingham's vibrant downtown.
2. Marietta-AlderwoodOpens in a new window: Marietta-Alderwood is a friendly neighborhood known for its close-knit community and beautiful natural surroundings. Staying here gives you access to several parks and waterfront areas, perfect for leisurely strolls or family outings. The area is great for shopping, with unique local boutiques and convenience stores to explore. You’ll find a variety of dining options that reflect the local culture, along with several cultural attractions nearby, including art galleries and performance venues. This area combines a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of activities to keep you entertained.
3. GenevaOpens in a new window: Geneva is a quaint and picturesque area that offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for a tranquil getaway. Known for its stunning views of Lake Whatcom, Geneva provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy a day at the lake with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, or just soaking in the sun. The community has charming local shops and cafes that highlight the area's unique character. For those who enjoy exploring, there are several trails and parks in the vicinity, making it easy to connect with nature while still being close to Bellingham’s attractions.

Things to do in Bellingham

Bellingham enchants visitors with its stunning blend of coastline, lush forests, and majestic mountains. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking, or explore vibrant local music and theater scenes. With charming shops and scenic parks, it’s a delightful destination for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.

• Squalicum BeachOpens in a new window – Enjoy a day by the water at Squalicum Beach, where you can soak up the sun, stroll along the shoreline, and watch boats glide in and out of the harbor. It's a great spot for picnicking or simply relaxing while listening to the gentle waves.
• Lake Padden ParkOpens in a new window – Venture into the natural beauty of Lake Padden Park, an urban oasis perfect for walking, jogging, or biking around the scenic lake. Bring your fishing gear or enjoy a leisurely afternoon on the water in a kayak or canoe!
• Bloedel Donovan ParkOpens in a new window – Experience the charm of Bloedel Donovan Park, where lush greenery and stunning views of Lake Whatcom await. This park is ideal for family outings with playgrounds, picnic areas, and plenty of trails for a peaceful walk.
• Cornwall BeachOpens in a new window – Dive into fun at Cornwall Beach, a lovely spot for sunbathing and beach games. Take a dip in the water or enjoy a beachside stroll as you take in the views of the surrounding scenery.
• Fairhaven ParkOpens in a new window – Unwind at Fairhaven Park, where you can explore trails that wind through beautiful landscapes. This park offers a tranquil setting to enjoy nature, with plenty of open spaces for games or just lounging in the sun.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Bellingham

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Bellingham is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices tend to be lower. To truly appreciate the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, it's best to plan for at least a 2 to 3-day stay. During your visit, you can explore the local university, enjoy live music and theater performances, sample the vibrant cafe culture, taste craft beers, and experience stunning waterfalls. Additionally, Bellingham offers great hiking opportunities and unique shopping experiences, making it an affordable destination that provides great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To find last-minute deals in Bellingham, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates on hotels close to your travel date. You could also enable email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you don't miss opportunities to save. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a useful comparison tool within the app that helps you compare hotel prices and amenities, so if prices drop or rooms become available, you're more likely to see it first and book that spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the season, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Bellingham hotel. If you're in search of something distinctive, boutique hotels might provide a more personalized experience and potentially better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates to increase your chances of getting the best deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Bellingham's excellent public transportation options, you might find a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that’s still well connected. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, you can often find great value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and unlock amazing savings on your next stay in Bellingham! As a member, you'll gain access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels worldwide. Take advantage of your membership to move up through the tiers quickly and enjoy fantastic perks, including complimentary room upgrades when available and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these incredible benefits – sign up today and start planning your next getaway!

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 typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Bellingham, June to August are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly sunny, with little to no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, January, February, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.