Bellingham's Fairhaven Harbor and South Hill with Mt Baker in background. Photo:www.scenicwa.com - Click to enlarge
————————————————————————————————————————–
Bellingham has an avid surfski community with one of the highest per capita numbers of surfskiers of any city in the continental United States (Hood River is possibly the only other city with a close or higher number per capita). There are a number of reasons for the local surfski popularity, not the least of which is the variety and quality of opportunities for paddling, downwinding, and outdoor sports in general. Clearly Bellinghamsters have embraced downwinding as a primary way to experience “uitwaaien”1) 2) .
Questions for locals? Get a membership on Whatcom paddlers and post your questions/requests.
Bellingham Water Trails Map.pdf
Bellingham Wide Area Conditions tide, winds, weather, webcams
TCSurfski interview with Bellinghamster Reivers Dustin about creating a paddling community with Bellingham as an example. (excellent interview, but if you find Reivers' and Nick's delivery a bit slow you can speed up the playback (1.5X may be enough, 3X is probably too much)) Intro
What is a Downwinder ?
A strong south wind coming up Hale's Passage (between Lummi Island and mainland) can produce a great 10 mile run from the Lummi Ferry to Gulf Rd Beach. Don't leave any valuables in shuttle vehicles left at Gulf Rd. Sandy Point Conversation Sandy Point is the peninsula at the north end of Lummi Bay, just south of Neptune Beach. If you go farther north - stay away from refinery docks. Neptune Beach Weather
Broke Down Paddlers Discussion 4/29/2019
All of the following have received strong recommendations from local athletes and paddlers
[Many of the local dealers may be reached through the Whatcom Paddler's listserv. They are free to post their contact info here.]
In recent past there were surfski rental businesses in Bellingham. But as of 2023 check with Pacific North Sports for Epic surfski rental options. Or you might be able to work something out with one of the local paddlers…(vacation swap - exchange for use of yours?). Get a membership on Whatcom paddlers then post your request.
Stoked on Paddling in Bellingham