Lummi Island Travel Guide
Explore Lummi Island with our comprehensive travel guide, including things to do, places to visit, food scene, and more.
- Introduction to Lummi Island
- List of Places to Visit in Lummi Island
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lummi Island
- Best Things to Do in Lummi Island: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lummi Island
- Food and Drink Scene of Lummi Island
- Where to Stay in Lummi Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lummi Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lummi Island
- Best Time to Visit Lummi Island
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lummi Island
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lummi Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lummi Island
- Where to Go Next from Lummi Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Lummi Island
Located in the Northwest Cascades of Pacific Northwest, Lummi Island is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle-bustle of city life. The island is part of the San Juan archipelago and can be reached via ferry from Bellingham.
Renowned for its natural beauty, the island offers a wide array of adventurous outdoor activities, delicious food options, and breathtaking scenic views. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or just someone looking for a weekend escape, Lummi Island is the perfect destination for you.
List of Places to Visit in Lummi Island
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
If you’re interested in history and culture, Lummi Island has several attractions that can satisfy your curiosity. Some of the must-visit museums and historical places on the island are:
- The Lummi Island Heritage Trust Conservancy
- The Lummi Island Historical Society
- The Beach Store Cafe
These places provide insights into the island’s cultural and historical roots, making them integral tourist spots for history buffs.
Natural Attractions of Lummi Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Being an island, Lummi Island offers some breathtaking scenic views and outdoor adventures. Here are the top natural attractions of Lummi Island:
- Baker Preserve and Forest Trail: This is an easy and picturesque hiking trail that leads to the Baker Preserve.
- Lummi Island Scenic Estates: This is a lovely neighbourhood that boasts fantastic views of the surrounding ocean and mountainside.
- Eagle Cove Beach: Located near the ferry terminal, this is a beautiful and secluded beach where you can spend a calm and relaxed day.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lummi Island
Lummi Island is a hiker’s paradise. The island offers various hiking and biking trails, catering to different skill levels. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes of Lummi Island:
- Mount Waddington Trail: A challenging hiking trail that offers stunning views of the island’s surrounding scenery.
- Lummi Mountain Trail: This is a moderate hiking trail that offers an excellent view of Bellingham Bay.
- The Baker Preserve and Forest Trail: A straightforward and serene hiking trail through lush forests.
Best Things to Do in Lummi Island: Activities and Tours
Whether you’re looking to relax on a beach or indulge in adventurous activities, Lummi Island offers a variety of things to do to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Here are some of the best things to do in Lummi Island:
- Eagle Watching Tour: Witness the majestic eagles in their natural habitat with this exciting tour.
- Clamming and Crabbing Tour: Experience the thrill of catching your own shellfish with this fun tour.
- Farmers Market Tour: Visit the island’s farmers market for fresh produce and locally made products.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lummi Island
If you’re planning to spend a week on Lummi Island, here is a suggested itinerary that can help you make the most of your trip:
Day 1: Hike the Mount Waddington Trail
Day 2: Visit the Lummi Island Heritage Trust Conservancy and Lummi Island Historical Society
Day 3: Clamming and Crabbing Tour
Day 4: Visit the Baker Preserve and Forest Trail
Day 5: Farmers Market Tour
Day 6: Eagle Watching Tour
Day 7: Relax at Eagle Cove Beach
Food and Drink Scene of Lummi Island
Lummi Island has a robust food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- The Beach Store Cafe’s famous fish and chips
- Willows Inn’s locally sourced, seasonal cuisine
- Island Market’s delicious deli sandwiches
Local Beverages
- Nettie’s Kombucha
- Artifex Brewing Company
- Lummi Island Wine Company
Where to Stay in Lummi Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Lummi Island offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:
- Willows Inn: A luxury resort with scenic views of the surrounding ocean and mountains.
- Beach Store Cafe: An affordable and comfortable accommodation with a breathtaking view of the beach.
- Bishop’s Guest House: A charming bed and breakfast with a cozy ambiance.
What to Buy in Lummi Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Lummi Island has several local products that make perfect souvenirs. Here are some of the best products to bring home:
- Locally made jams, jellies, and preserves
- Artisanal cheeses
- Handmade soaps and skincare products
Local Culture and Customs of Lummi Island
Lummi Island is a tight-knit community with a rich culture and customs. Here are some of the things to keep in mind while visiting:
- Respect the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
- Support local businesses and farmers.
- Embrace the island’s peaceful and relaxed vibe.
Best Time to Visit Lummi Island
Lummi Island is a year-round destination. However, the best time to visit is during the spring, summer, and fall months. The milder temperatures, longer daylight hours, and fewer crowds make it the perfect time to explore the island’s outdoor attractions comfortably.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lummi Island
Do:
- Respect the privacy and property of the residents.
- Follow the island’s regulations and guidelines.
- Carry a trash bag and leave no trace.
Don’t:
- Harass the island’s wildlife.
- Ignore NO TRESPASSING signs.
- Litter or damage the island’s environment.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lummi Island
Lummi Island is incredibly safe. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the natural surroundings and follow the necessary precautions. Some safety tips to keep in mind include:
- Wear appropriate footwear while hiking.
- Carry a map or GPS device while exploring.
- Be aware of the tide schedule while visiting the beach.
Health in Lummi Island
While Lummi Island doesn’t have any hospital or medical facility, there are a few clinics nearby. Here are some of the medical facilities near Lummi Island:
- Island Family Health Center
- PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center
- PeaceHealth Medical Group - Family Medicine
Getting to Lummi Island: Transportation Options and Logistics
Lummi Island is accessible via ferry from Bellingham. Here are some transportation options and logistics to keep in mind while planning your trip:
Airports Near Lummi Island
- Bellingham International Airport
- Vancouver International Airport
Bus Stations Near Lummi Island
- Bellingham Greyhound Bus Station
- Mount Baker Transit Center
Other Options
- Bike rental services are available in Bellingham.
- Private water taxis and charters can be arranged from Bellingham.
How to Get Around in Lummi Island
Lummi Island is a small, compact island, and most of its attractions can be accessed on foot. However, if you’re looking for convenient transportation options, here are some of the options:
- Bike rentals
- Car rentals
- Water taxi services
Where to Go Next from Lummi Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
After exploring Lummi Island, here are some nearby attractions and excursions you can plan for:
- Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
- San Juan Islands
- Vancouver, British Columbia
Conclusion
Lummi Island is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure junkies, and anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxed retreat. With its natural beauty, cultural heritage, delicious food, and vibrant cultural scene, Lummi Island is a must-visit destination in Pacific Northwest. Plan your trip today and experience the charm of this beautiful island.
