Squalicum Beach sits in Bellingham on Bellingham Bay in Whatcom County, taking its name from the native word meaning "place of the dog salmon." The Squalicum name appears throughout Bellingham including Squalicum Creek, Squalicum High School, and Squalicum Harbor, reflecting indigenous peoples' connection to the salmon that were abundant in the area. Squalicum Creek flows through the area where the Bellingham Bay Coal Company operated mines in the mid-19th to mid-20th centuries, with mining operations running southwest to Bellingham Bay on both sides of the creek covering approximately one square mile. The name has been preserved through European settlement and remains in use for various geographical features and institutions throughout Whatcom County. Bellingham itself was named by George Vancouver in June 1792 for Sir William Bellingham, the controller of the storekeeper's account of the Royal Navy.
Kayaking and paddleboarding launch from the beach for exploration of Bellingham Bay with routes toward the San Juan Islands visible across the water, views of Lummi Island, and opportunities to observe maritime activity including the commercial fishing fleet at nearby Squalicum Harbor. Beachcombing along the shoreline reveals smooth stones, driftwood, shells, and beach glass deposited by tides. Wildlife watching includes harbor seals, bald eagles soaring overhead and fishing the bay, great blue herons stalking shallows, and diverse seabirds utilizing Bellingham Bay's marine ecosystem. Fishing opportunities exist from the beach and nearby Squalicum Harbor area during appropriate seasons. Views capture Bellingham Bay's expanse with the San Juan Islands archipelago visible to the west, Lummi Island rising from the water, and Mount Baker visible to the east on clear days. The beach's proximity to Squalicum Harbor creates access to both natural shoreline and maritime industrial areas.
Bellingham waterfront dining offers options near Squalicum Beach and harbor. Anthony's at Squalicum Harbor serves fresh Northwest seafood with scenic waterfront dining overlooking Bellingham Bay and sweeping views of San Juan Islands and boating activity from Zuanich Park. Anthony's Hearthfire Grill features spectacular Bellingham Bay and San Juan Islands views with open kitchen specializing in hearthfire cooking, premier Northwest beef, and fresh seafood. Keenan's at the Pier creates fresh local Northwest cuisine with breakfast, lunch, happy hour, and dinner on the deck with views of Taylor Dock, Bellingham Bay, Lummi Island, and San Juan Islands. Lighthouse Bar and Grill at Bellwether Hotel prepares fresh food from scratch kitchen with local breweries on tap. Woods Coffee overlooks the Waterfront District with food from local Whatcom County farms.
