Bellingham was listed as the 2006 Best Paddling Town by Outside Magazine. The relatively protected waters of Bellingham Bay and surrounding San Juan Islands offer plenty of opportunities for paddlers to explore the natural beauty and wide array of wildlife in the Puget Sound.
If you are new to kayaking and need some instruction and/or equipment, the Whatcom County Parks & Recreation has teamed up with the Bellingham Bay Community Boating Center to offer kayaking classes for all levels. The Center is located next to the public boat launch in historic Fairhaven.
Want to explore a little more? The Whatcom County Parks Department has partnered with Elakah Expeditions to offer a variety of day and overnight trips around the area with equipment and assistance provided.
Need a place to practice those rusty skills during the bad weather? The Arne Hanna Aquatic Center has a place on its schedule where individuals can bring in their own kayaks to practice rolling and basic techniques in the pool.
Looking for a good place to launch? Below is a list of some free kayak launching sites in Bellingham.
Bellingham Bay:
Harris Street boat ramp - Public ramp in Fairhaven near the BBCBC.
Marine Park - Located at the west end of Harris Ave. in Fairhaven
Squalicum Harbor - The Marina in downtown Bellingham has two boat launches and a dock.
End of Cornwall Ave. - Downtown Bellingham
Larrabee State Park - Public boat launch located at the north entrance.
Lakes:
Lake Whatcom - Bloedel Donovan Park has a public boat ramp at the north end of the lake.
Lake Padden - Public boat ramp is at the east entrance to the park.
Lummi Island:
A new public kayak launch is being created near the ferry dock as of Spring 2008. When finished, it will be be a great addition to paddlers wanting to go to Lummi Is. from Bellingham.
