Turns out, Bellingham residents have plenty to say about going au naturel.
A simple question about nude beaches near Bellingham sparked a lively online discussion this week, with locals sharing memories, recommendations, and a few jokes about where — if anywhere — clothing remains optional.
The conversation began when a member of a Bellingham Facebook group asked whether any nude beaches still exist around the Chuckanut area.
“Can we please bring a nude beach back?” the poster wrote. “Sometimes when you forget your swimmy on a beautiful day you just want to jump in with your birthday suit!”
The post quickly drew dozens of responses, ranging from earnest suggestions to tongue-in-cheek observations.
“Any beach can be a nude beach if you’re brave enough,” one commenter wrote.
“Any beach can be a nude beach until someone calls the cops,” another joked.
Others pointed to specific locations with longstanding reputations for clothing-optional recreation.
“I’ve seen nudity at Teddy Bear Cove, for sure! I think it’s still a thing,” one commenter wrote.
“Clayton Beach has never been a ‘nude beach.’ Teddy Bear Cove has always been referred to as the ‘nude beach,’” another person wrote.
Several commenters instead suggested Dogfish Point, a secluded stretch of shoreline along Samish Bay just south of Bellingham.
So, Does Bellingham Have a Nude Beach?
Historically, naturists and locals have frequented a handful of unofficial clothing-optional spots in Whatcom County, though none are officially designated nude beaches.
Dogfish Point, located along Chuckanut Drive, is widely regarded by locals as the area’s primary clothing-optional beach. The secluded spot requires a steep descent, including rope-assisted sections, which has helped keep it relatively quiet over the years.
Teddy Bear Cove, meanwhile, has long carried a reputation as Bellingham’s unofficial nude beach. However, the beach is now managed as a public park and sees frequent use by families, making full nudity far less common than in decades past.
For those seeking a more organized naturist experience, Washington is home to several dedicated clothing-optional parks. The nearest include Lake Bronson Club Family Nudist Park in Sultan and Tiger Mountain Family Nudist Park in Issaquah.
As for whether Bellingham still has a nude beach, the answer appears to depend on whom you ask — and perhaps how adventurous you’re feeling.
Know Before You Go
Washington law generally prohibits indecent exposure when conduct is intended to arouse or offend others.
Simply being nude is not automatically illegal in every circumstance, but visitors should be aware that public nudity can draw complaints and may result in law enforcement contact depending on the setting and circumstances.
In other words: know the rules, respect other beachgoers, and maybe double-check that you packed your swimsuit before leaving home.
