The Ultimate Guide to Larrabee State Park in Bellingham, WA

If you’ve spent any time in Bellingham, you’ve probably heard someone say, “You have to go to Larrabee.” And if you haven’t yet, trust us, you’re missing out on one of the Pacific Northwest’s most spectacular treasures.

Just 6 miles south of downtown Bellingham, Larrabee State Park is Washington’s first state park, and it’s everything we love about life here in Whatcom County: rugged coastlines, forested trails, salty sea air, and endless adventure right at your doorstep.

As a local real estate team, we spend a lot of time exploring every corner of our backyard, and Larrabee is one of those places that keeps drawing us back. Whether you’re new to Bellingham, considering a move here, or simply looking for your next weekend adventure, let’s dive into why this coastal paradise deserves a top spot on your must-visit list.

A Quick History: Where Washington’s State Parks Began

Before we get to the beaches and hikes (don’t worry, we’ll get there), let’s start with a little local history.

Larrabee State Park was established in 1915, making it the first official state park in Washington. It was donated by Charles and Frances Larrabee, a family whose legacy still runs deep in Bellingham today (you might recognize the name from the Larrabee family’s connection to Fairhaven’s early days).

The Larrabees envisioned this stretch of coastline as a gift to the public, a place where everyone could enjoy the beauty of the Salish Sea. More than a century later, their vision lives on in over 2,700 acres of pristine Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Things to Do at Larrabee State Park

Whether you’re into hiking, beachcombing, camping, or simply soaking up sunset views, there’s something for everyone at Larrabee. Here are a few of our favorite ways to experience this local gem:

1. Hit the Trails: Hiking with Views That Steal the Show

If you love to hike, you’re in for a treat. Larrabee’s network of trails winds through lush old-growth forest, past shimmering lakes, and up to sweeping viewpoints over the water.

Some of the most popular hikes include:

Fragrance Lake Trail – A local favorite! This 5.5-mile roundtrip hike climbs steadily through mossy forest to a peaceful mountain lake. If you’re up for a little extra, there’s a viewpoint halfway up that looks straight out over the San Juan Islands, it’s pure magic at sunset.

Lost Lake Trail – A bit longer and less crowded (around 8.6 miles roundtrip), this trail gives you a deeper dive into the Chuckanut Mountains. Expect towering trees, a few small waterfalls, and quiet moments away from it all.

Oyster Dome (via Chuckanut Drive) – While technically part of Blanchard Mountain, this trail connects closely to Larrabee’s southern edge and is one of the most iconic hikes in the area. The reward? A jaw-dropping view of Samish Bay, the Skagit flats, and the distant Olympics.

No matter which trail you choose, the forest-meets-sea scenery is classic Bellingham — wild, serene, and endlessly beautiful.

2. Explore the Beach: Tidal Treasures and Cliffside Views

There’s something extra special about a beach day at Larrabee. You won’t find sandy shores here — instead, you’ll discover dramatic sandstone formations, rocky coves, and tidepools teeming with sea life.

Head down to Clayton Beach (a short walk from the main parking area) for one of the best coastal views in Whatcom County. The sculpted sandstone cliffs are a photographer’s dream, and when the tide is out, you can spot crabs, starfish, and colorful sea anemones hiding in the rocks.

Insider tip: Bring a picnic and stay for sunset. Watching the sun dip behind the San Juan Islands from Larrabee’s coastline is a Bellingham bucket list experience.

3. Camp Under the Stars: Wake Up to Waves and Forest Air

If you’re someone who can’t get enough of nature, camping at Larrabee is the perfect way to soak it all in. The park has 85 campsites, including forested tent sites and full hook-up RV spots.

Imagine falling asleep to the sound of waves and waking up to birdsong echoing through the evergreens — it’s the kind of peace that reminds you why so many people fall in love with the Pacific Northwest lifestyle.

The campsites are open year-round, but summer weekends book up fast, so reservations are a must.

4. Get on the Water: Kayaking and Paddleboarding

With its calm coves and sheltered inlets, Larrabee is a fantastic spot to get out on the water. Experienced kayakers often launch from the park’s beach and paddle along Chuckanut Bay, exploring sea caves and tiny offshore islands.

For beginners, there are local outfitters in Bellingham that offer guided kayaking tours — a great way to safely experience the Salish Sea and maybe even spot a seal or porpoise along the way.

And yes, on a calm summer day, you’ll even see a few adventurous paddleboarders out there enjoying the glassy water.

5. Bring the Bikes: Mountain Biking in the Chuckanuts

For cyclists, Larrabee connects to an incredible network of trails in the Chuckanut Mountain system, offering routes for all skill levels. The combination of technical climbs, fast descents, and ocean views makes it one of the most scenic rides in Washington State.

It’s no wonder outdoor enthusiasts love calling Whatcom County home — there’s truly no shortage of ways to get your adrenaline fix.

Wildlife Watching: Nature at Its Best

Keep your camera handy, Larrabee State Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife. You might spot:

• Bald eagles soaring overhead
• Seals lounging on offshore rocks
• Black-tailed deer wandering through the woods
• Woodpeckers and songbirds filling the air with sound
• If you’re lucky (and patient), you might even catch sight of an Orca pod passing through the Salish Sea, a rare but unforgettable experience.

It’s moments like these that remind us why life in Whatcom County feels so connected to the natural world.

Picture-Perfect Moments

Whether you’re an amateur photographer or just love capturing memories on your phone, Larrabee is a dream come true. The sandstone cliffs, driftwood-strewn beaches, and crystal-clear lakes create a backdrop that’s beautiful in every season.

• In spring, the forest comes alive with fresh greenery and waterfalls.
• In summer, the long golden evenings light up the bay.
• In fall, you’ll find trails lined with fiery reds and oranges.
• In winter, the park quiets down: peaceful, misty, and perfect for those who love solitude and stormy seas.

It’s no wonder so many locals bring their out-of-town guests here — Larrabee captures the soul of the Pacific Northwest in a single place.

Getting There: A Scenic Drive Worth the Trip

One of our favorite parts about visiting Larrabee is getting there. The park sits along Chuckanut Drive (Highway 11) — one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the state.

As you wind along the cliffs between Bellingham and Bow, you’ll pass ocean overlooks, fern-lined forests, and cozy spots like The Oyster Bar (a perfect post-hike dinner stop). It’s the kind of drive that makes you fall in love with this corner of Washington all over again.

From downtown Bellingham, it’s only about a 15-minute drive, but it feels like stepping into another world.

Don’t Miss: Teddy Bear Cove — Larrabee’s Charming Neighbor

Just north of Larrabee State Park, Teddy Bear Cove is a local favorite that feels like a hidden slice of paradise. Tucked off Chuckanut Drive, this small cove offers clear turquoise water, smooth pebbly beaches, and sweeping views of the San Juan Islands. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet picnic, a refreshing summer swim, or simply relaxing while the tide rolls in.

The short hike down (about half a mile each way) winds through lush forest and opens up to a stunning double cove divided by an old railway trestle, one side faces north toward Bellingham Bay, the other south toward Larrabee’s sandstone cliffs.

Locals love Teddy Bear Cove for its peaceful vibe and natural beauty, it’s a reminder that here in Whatcom County, world-class scenery is never more than a few minutes away.

Why Locals Love Larrabee 

For those of us who live and work in Bellingham, Larrabee State Park isn’t just a weekend destination, it’s part of our lifestyle. It’s where we take our morning trail runs, watch summer sunsets, or recharge after a busy week.

You’ll find families building driftwood forts, friends gathered around campfires, and solo adventurers finding peace among the trees. It’s a reminder of what makes living in Whatcom County so special: the outdoors isn’t just nearby, it’s woven into daily life.

Thinking About Moving Closer to Larrabee?

We can’t tell you how many times we’ve heard someone say, “I wish I lived closer to this.” And honestly, we get it. That’s one of the biggest perks of living in Bellingham or the surrounding communities like Fairhaven, Sudden Valley, and Chuckanut.

Here, nature isn’t just something you visit on weekends. It’s right outside your front door.

If you’re dreaming about a lifestyle where you can:

• Hike after work
• Watch the sunset over the San Juans from your deck
• Be minutes from beaches, trails, and parks like Larrabee

…then you’re in the right place.

Our team loves helping people find their perfect place in Whatcom County, whether that’s a cozy condo near Fairhaven, a forested retreat in Sudden Valley, or a waterfront home with views that will make your jaw drop.

Because here’s the truth: when you live this close to places like Larrabee State Park, every day feels like a little adventure.

One of Bellingham's Coastal Gems 

Whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, Larrabee State Park captures everything that makes Bellingham, WA so special. From the forest trails and rocky beaches to the community of people who cherish them, it’s a place that inspires you to slow down, explore, and reconnect with nature.

So pack a picnic, grab your hiking boots, and set your sights on the coast, Larrabee is waiting to show you why it’s one of Washington’s most unforgettable destinations.

And if you find yourself thinking, “I could get used to this,” well, that’s where we come in!

Give our team a call, we’d love to help you find a home base that keeps the magic of Larrabee (and all of Whatcom County) close to your heart.

Ready to live your own Pacific Northwest adventure?

Reach out to our local Bellingham real estate team today! We’re here to help you find the perfect home base for all your Washington State explorations.