As the automatic airport doors slide open at Bellingham International Airport, just a few feet from your baggage claim, you’ll immediately smell the salt in the air. Over 100 miles of coastline await, and there are several places you can take in a seaside sunset and dine on fresh shellfish all at the same time.
• Drayton Harbor - North of Bellingham in Blaine, Washington, Drayton Harbor is a small cove off the bay that is officially recognized as an “Important Bird Area of Washington.” The beach is a good place to find Manila clams, native littleneck clams, and butter clams. Blaine is also home to Drayton Harbor Oyster Company, which harvests oysters less than a mile from their Oyster Bar. Their small, beach-grown and tide-tumbled oyster farm is a prime spot to get a full-service local oyster experience.
• Taylor Shellfish Farms - Venture down Chuckanut Drive (Washington State’s first scenic byway) to reach Taylor Shellfish Farms. Overlooking the San Juan Islands to the west, the views here are spectacular. On 1,700 acres of tidelands, Taylor Shellfish grows oysters, clams, and geoducks, all of which can be purchased in the farm's retail store. You can also stay and dine on fresh crab or take some home for later.
• Oyster Bar on Chuckanut Drive - If you are looking for a dining destination with striking views of the San Juan Islands, make sure to stop at the Oyster Bar. They are known for the food, an award-winning wine list, as well as friendly and professional service. The menu and views evolve to the Pacific Northwest seasons.
• Anthony’s Hearthfire & Anthony’s at Squalicum Harbor - In Bellingham, close to downtown, enjoy scenic waterfront dining overlooking Squalicum Harbor. Both locations feature fresh Northwest seafood complimented by local seasonal produce. Washington wines and microbrews are also served here.
• Lighthouse Bar & Grill - Dine on seafood, steak, and other Northwest style cuisine at the Lighthouse Bar & Grill. Part of the Hotel Bellwether, take in a view of the Bellingham waterfront, while tasting some locally sourced seafood and produce. With a weekend brunch and sunset dinner, you can be sure to try a variety of food offerings throughout your stay.
Looking for even more seafood? Check out this list of the best fish and chips in the area!
Don't just trust us, check out Bellingham for yourself! We're giving away a chance to win a 2-night stay at Hotel Bellwether, a whale watching tour from San Juan Cruises and a flight for two on Southwest Airlines from LAS to BLI. Click HERE to enter!