My Ideal Day in Historic Fairhaven – 10 Must-Dos

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. 

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.

Keep heading north to reach Fairhaven Village!

It's no secret that Taylor Dock, located just outside of Historic Fairhaven Village in Bellingham, is one of the most popular spots in Whatcom County. 

The quarter-mile boardwalk and restored trestle are part of the South Bay Trail, which connects Fairhaven Village Green to Boulevard Park and continues all the way to downtown Bellingham. 

A walk along Taylor Boardwalk is one of the best ways to experience an excellent slice of what Bellingham has to offer. There are benches along the way, so grab a seat and soak in the views.

Fun Fact: The original town of Bellingham was located in the area that is now Boulevard Park.

You could spend a whole week in Fairhaven and still not have time to visit all the incredible restaurants, cafes, and cocktail lounges!

Try lunch at Colophon Cafe or Port Fairhaven Fish-N-Chips. Or find your next favorite cafe on our comprehensive coffee blog.

When its time for dinner and drinks, head to The Black Cat, Galloway's Cocktail Bar, Archer Ale House, or Bistro Estelle. For more cocktail spots, check out our blog on the best bars in Fairhaven.

Stones Throw Brewery is another Fairhaven favorite, with an upbeat atmosphere. unique roof access, and cozy fire pit. The brewery also offers a full calendar of events, including trivia, live music, holiday parties, and more.

If you’re in need of a feel-good treat, Fairhaven is the place to go. 

Founded in 2005, Sirena Gelato is a family-owned business serving delicious local gelato. 

For a sweet-tooth throwback, check out Paper Dreams, the gift store attached to Village Books. They have a large selection of fudge, as well as old-timey candies, truffles, and chocolates. 

Since 1980, Village Books has been “building a community one book at a time.” Today, this three-story, dog-friendly bookstore is the heart of Fairhaven Village and the main independent bookstore in Bellingham and Whatcom County. Explore their huge selection of bestsellers, children's books, periodicals, puzzles, and gift items. 

After Village Books, head next door to Paper Dreams. This locally owned greeting card and gift store offers knick-knacks, cards, jewelry, notebooks, and more. Their selections change weekly so you never know what you’ll find. 

The Whatcom Art Market (WAM) is a non-profit co-op featuring more than 40 artists local to Whatcom and Skagit County. WAM features paintings, photography, glasswork, ceramics, sculpture, jewelry, cards and more. 

As Whatcom's largest cooperative gallery, they offer a large selection of locally made art and gifts. WAM is known for it's rotating art demonstrations and displays, meaning you'll never see the same work twice. The market is open every day of the week.

One of the best ways to soak up Bellingham and Whatcom County is with San Juan Cruises, May through October. Departing from the Bellingham Cruise Terminal in Fairhaven, spend the day exploring Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands on a Whale Watching Lunch Cruise.

They also offer wine cruises, beer cruises, and cruises to Sucia Island in the San Juans.

Spend the day on Bellingham Bay with the Community Boating Center! Visitors can rent out kayaks, paddleboards, rowboats, and sailboats or sign up for one of the CBC's youth camps or adult classes. 

Come aboard the Schooner Zodiac! This stunning 160-foot classic tall ship offers sailing excursions of Bellingham Bay and San Juan Islands. Book a variety of overnight adventures throughout the summer or opt for a shorter Friday night salmon dinner sail on Bellingham Bay.

Whether you prefer a luxurious waterfront resort, a rustic camp spot or an experience right in the heart of downtown, immerse yourself in Bellingham’s “laid back, lovely” feel!

Fairhaven Village Inn is a great option for those seeking a stay in the village. Located across from the village green, it's in walking distance to everything you want to do with views overlooking the bay.