Bellingham's Top Hidden Gem Locations for Engagement Photoshoots
If you’re newly engaged and are looking for the perfect place to take your Bellingham engagement photos, you’ve come to the right place! Bellingham is one of the most gorgeous places in the PNW and I’m not just saying that because I live here. Bellingham is not only a super dope small town with lots of charm but it has some of the most beautiful scenery. Surrounded by vast ocean views, snow-capped mountains, and the San Juan Islands, there are endless options for places to take your engagement photos. But, as a photographer who has lived here for a long time, I have found some of the most stunning locations for engagement sessions. So, keep reading for 10 of Bellingham's top hidden gems for engagement photoshoots.
10 Hidden Gem Locations in Bellingham for Engagement Photoshoots
1.Teddy Bear Cove
First up we’ve got one of the prettiest coves which offers over 9 acres of shoreline that is covered in pebbles and driftwood. Teddy Bear Cove is lined with beautiful lush evergreen trees that hug the shoreline creating the most idyllic setting for engagement photos. The water is calm and the views you get here are insane. To get down to the cove, you do have to hike about 1.3 miles so keep that in mind as well. If you imagine your engagement photos surrounded by nothing but nature, then I HIGHLY recommend Teddy Bear Cove.
2. Larrabee State Park
Larrabee State Park is another stunning spot located along the Chuckanut Mountains. It offers gorgeous sunsets, two freshwater lakes, dense forest terrain, coves, tidelands, and miles of hiking trails. This park kind of has it all and is an epic spot to take your engagement photos.
If you decide that you want to take your engagement photos at Larrabee State Park, a Discover Pass is required for vehicle access for day use. You can purchase that pass here.
3. Nugents Corner River Access
Nugents Corner River Acess is a tranquil and calm hidden gem location that leads you right up to the Nooksack River. Mountain views, towering trees, and the sounds of the rushing river create a calming atmosphere perfect for engagement photos. If you want to include an activity in your engagement session, you could go fishing, kayaking, or enjoy a romantic picnic after a hike.
4. Galbraith Mountain
Galbraith Mountain is one of my favorite Bellingham engagement photoshoot locations for late spring, summer, and early fall. The way the scenery changes here is absolutely stunning. At this beautiful spot, you get sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, towering trees in all directions, and miles of hiking trails.
5. Woodstock Farm
Woodstock Farm is a picturesque historic property in Bellingham that offers gorgeous views perfect for engagement photos. Imagine a stunning farm property located right on a glistening blue lake with trails that wind through meadows, orchards, gardens, and wooded areas. The historic and rustic charm combined with the scenic views makes this such a beautiful location for engagement photos.
6. Bellingham Skate Park/Waterfront Pumptrack
If you are looking for a super unique location for your engagement photoshoot, how about a skateboard park if one or both of you are into it. It’s such a fun way to help distract your nerves because you are also doing an activity while you take photos.
Or if you are more into biking, how about the Waterfront Pumptrack? This is a super epic bike park that could be such a badass place to take your engagement photos.
7. Whatcom Falls
Whatcom Falls is such a serene and calm location for engagement photos in Bellingham. As you walk through the park you will be surrounded by dense forests and cross over charming wooden bridges as you explore alongside the rushing waterfalls. Imagine a tranquil and romantic stroll through the park as your photographer tags along capturing photos of the two of you.
8. Fairhaven
If you want a super chill and relaxing location to take engagement photos where you can easily go grab a drink right before or after, Fairhaven is perfect. It’s an adorable and charming little town in Bellinghman right on the waterfront. There’s tons of beautiful historical brick buildings, stunning views of the San Juan Islands, endless options for things to do. You can wander around the cobblestone streets and end your evening with a drink at a local restaurant or you could cuddle up on the beach with your partner for some beautiful sunset pictures. It’s an area that kind of has a little bit of everything so you can craft the perfect evening for yourselves.
9. Studio
A lot of times people overlook taking studio engagement photos, but I am here to say that I LOVE them. There are so many different and unique studios to choose from and you don’t have to worry about the weather and can take your engagement photos at any time during the year. Studios are also nice because you don't have to worry about privacy. It’s just the two of you and your photographer creating a much more intimate setting that also might make you feel a lot more comfortable.
10. Cabin
Bellingham has SOOO many adorable cabins that are perfect for an engagement photoshoot. I just love the romantic and intimate setting that a cabin provides. You could take your photos while making dinner, nestled in front of the fireplace with a glass of wine, or make it a little steamy with some jacuzzi photos. The best part is that since you are renting a cabin, you get to enjoy a nice little weekend getaway to celebrate your engagement. It’s a win-win.
Here are some Airbnb’s to consider:
Best Activities for Your Bellingham Engagement Pictures
One of the best parts about Bellingham is that it is an outdoor lovers dream. We have so many different things to enjoy and I highly encourage you to incorporate one of these activities into your engagement photoshoot. It allows you to loosen up a bit and have more fun. Here are some activities for your to consider:
Kayaking or Paddle Boarding
Romantic Picnic on the beach
Enjoy some beer and appetizers at a local brewery
Go on a hike and bring your pup
Take a romantic stroll through Whatcom Falls Park
Enjoy a romantic date night in if you rent a cabin
Bar hopping in Fairhaven
Head to the skatepark or bike park
Best Places to Eat in Bellingham
If you’re turning your engagement photoshoot into a date night, as you should, here are some of the best places that I highly recommend: