Squalicum Beach
About
Squalicum Beach is a gem for families with young children, offering a winning combination of calm, shallow waters ideal for first-time swimmers and a well-maintained playground steps from the sand. The accessible beach park features picnic areas with stunning views of Bellingham Bay and the San Juan Islands, making it perfect for a full morning or afternoon of outdoor fun without the intimidating waves of ocean beaches.
Highlights
- ✓Shallow, calm waters perfect for young swimmers and waders
- ✓Well-equipped playground adjacent to the beach
- ✓Picnic tables and grassy areas for family meals
- ✓Tide pools to explore during low tide
- ✓Stunning views of Bellingham Bay and island scenery
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive before 10 AM on summer weekends to snag prime parking and picnic table spots,it fills up quickly during warm weather
- 2.Bring water shoes for the kids as the beach has some rocky patches mixed with sand that can be rough on little feet
- 3.Pack a kite! The gentle breezes off Bellingham Bay make this an excellent spot for kite flying on the grassy areas
- 4.The playground equipment can get scorching hot in direct summer sun,plan playground time for morning or late afternoon
- 5.Low tide reveals the best tide pooling opportunities; check local tide charts before your visit
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings from late June through August offer the warmest water temperatures and fewer crowds. Sunset visits (around 8-9 PM in summer) provide magical golden hour lighting and cooler temperatures while staying within park hours.
What to Know
Parking is free and the beach is fully accessible with paved paths from the parking area. There are clean restroom facilities on-site, but no food concessions, so pack a picnic or plan to grab food nearby before arriving.
Seasonal Notes
While open year-round, water activities are best from June through September when temperatures are warmest. Winter visits can be beautiful for storm watching and beachcombing, but dress warmly. The beach can be windy during spring and fall.
Nearby Eats
Woods Coffee (nearby location) is a local favorite for kid-friendly drinks and pastries, or head to Boundary Bay Brewery about 10 minutes away for casual family dining with a kids' menu and outdoor seating.
More Activities Near Bellingham
Birch Bay State Park
Birch Bay State Park is a family paradise with over a mile of warm, shallow sandy beach perfect for building sandcastles and wading with little ones. Kids will be thrilled exploring the expansive tidelands at low tide to discover crabs, clams, and starfish, while parents appreciate the well-maintained picnic areas and easy hiking trails through coastal forest. The gentle waters and protected bay make it one of the safest and most kid-friendly beaches in the Pacific Northwest.
Cornwall Park
Cornwall Park is Bellingham's beloved community gathering spot, offering 65 acres of well-maintained green space perfect for families seeking outdoor adventure. With multiple playgrounds for different age groups, wide open fields ideal for soccer or frisbee, and picnic areas surrounded by stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this park delivers everything needed for a memorable family day out.
BAAY Theatre
BAAY Theatre delivers professional, high-quality theater productions specifically crafted for young audiences in an intimate setting. With classic fairy tales reimagined and original stories that spark creativity, this beloved Bellingham theater has earned a perfect 5-star rating from families who appreciate productions that engage children while maintaining theatrical excellence.
Larrabee State Park
Larrabee State Park is Washington's first state park and a Pacific Northwest gem where families can explore rocky beaches, tide pools teeming with sea creatures, and forested trails with breathtaking views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. The park's 2,683 acres offer everything from easy shoreline strolls to more challenging hikes, making it perfect for families who want to combine beach play with outdoor adventure.