If you love scenic drives, getting outside, seafood, and local shopping you will love exploring Chuckanut Drive and Bellingham’s Historic Fairhaven Village.
Hugging the shoreline just south of Bellingham, WA, Chuckanut Drive is Washington State's original scenic byway. Shown on maps as WA State Highway 11, the route begins at I-5 exit 231 in Burlington and continues 20 miles north to Bellingham. This is a favorite and historic entry into Whatcom County. At milepost 14, Chuckanut Drive passes Larrabee State Park, the first designated State Park in Washington. With access to the beach, tide pools, and trails, and encompassing 2,000+ acres, Larrabee is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
If you’re in Bellingham and Whatcom County that means lots of oysters & seafood! Immerse yourself in the taste of the Pacific Northwest and the Salish Sea by embarking on a culinary adventure! One option, The Chuckanut Oyster Bar, is located right off Chuckanut Drive.
Book your jumping-off point from our lodging page. Whether you prefer a luxurious waterfront resort, a mid-priced hotel, or economy lodging, there's a cozy bed waiting for you in Bellingham and Whatcom County.
Located approximately 20 miles south of Bellingham, Washington's Skagit Valley comes alive with colorful flowers each spring. Visit in April for the famous Skagit Valley Tulip Festival, which draws visitors from all over the world.
The festival is a beautiful way to begin or end your spring trip to Bellingham! Walk through rows of rainbow tulips, take selfies that will stun your friends, and soak up views of the mountains beyond.
A gem on Chuckanut Drive, Larrabee State Park is located on the seaward side of Chuckanut Mountain. The park is known for its postcard views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. It is also Washington's first state park.
This unique camping park offers boating, paddling, fishing, shellfish harvesting, diving, teeming tide pools, and perfect spots for quiet contemplation, child play, or a romantic date.
One of the most popular hiking trails in Whatcom County, Oyster Dome is part of a network of trails on the southern part of the Chuckanut Mountains. The Oyster Dome trail starts from Chuckanut Drive near mile marker 10, located a few miles south of Larrabee State Park.
Spectacular views await you at the top. Oyster Dome is a dog-friendly hike, so don't forget to bring your pup! And remember to recreate responsibly.
Chuckanut Drive takes you straight into historic Fairhaven Village, known for its Victorian-era red-brick architecture and unique local businesses.
Find locally owned art galleries, gift shops, restaurants, pubs, and one of the best independent bookstores in the nation. Make it a vacation by staying the night at the charming Fairhaven Village Inn.
