Your engagement is one of the most magical times – the start of your new life as a couple. Engagement photos freeze that joy and excitement in time; I’ve spent over a decade capturing love stories in Bellingham as a wedding photographer. I’ve scoped out every sweeping waterfront park, every hidden gem in the city, and every romantic, secluded beach. Whether you dream of Hollywood-esque theater photos, adventure-driven hikes or something in between, Bellingham has the perfect spot for every couple.
My comprehensive list of the best engagement photo locations in Bellingham includes 15 of my favorite engagement photo locations, hand-picked for their charm, versatility, and breathtaking scenery. From Alpine fields to charming red-brick cityscapes to intimate waterfalls, these are my favorite spots to bring your unique love story to life – with practical tips!
Related: Who needs an Engagement Session?
1. Whatcom Falls Park
Picture cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and romantic stone bridges and you’re picturing Whatcom Falls Park. This urban escape in Bellingham is perhaps one of the dreamiest spots for engagement photos. It’s the perfect spot for couples who love adventure and natural beauty – plus, it’s pet-friendly!
Address: 1401 Electric Ave, Bellingham, WA 98229
Pro Tip: Wear earthy tones that compliment the deep greens and cool blues of the setting or bring on the color and really stand out amongst the trees!
Related: Whatcom Falls Park, Bellingham Engagement
2. Boulevard Park & Taylor Dock
Sweeping sunset views over Bellingham Bay and unbeatable ocean panoramas make Boulevard Park one of the best engagement photo locations in Bellingham. This spot offers a diverse mix of water shots and boardwalk scenery; it’s great for couples seeking out a blend of casual and romantic styles.
Address: 470 Bayview Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Flowy dresses photograph beautifully here in the golden hour breeze. This location is best utilized on a weekday morning if possible because it gets SO busy here on weekends and evenings!
Related: Surprise Proposal and Engagement Session in Boulevard Park
3. Teddy Bear Cove
Follow a switchback trail through the forest to stunning shoreline views of Chuckanut Bay and Clark’s Point. Teddy Bear Cove offers crystal clear blue-green waters, unique rock formations, and stunning sunsets. It’s one of those spots that feels romantic and intimate, making it a great spot for engagement photo locations. Ideal for adventurous, free-spirited couples who want secluded, authentic photos.
Address: Chuckanut Dr, Bellingham, WA 98229
Pro Tip: Wear hiking-friendly shoes to explore the best spots and pack a little picnic for some lifestyle, candid shots!
4. Lake Padden
Escape the buzz of the city at Lake Padden, one of the best engagement photo locations in Bellingham. Calm waters and wooded trails create a soft, romantic setting. There’s plenty to explore in this 745-acre wooden park; it’s a great spot for relaxed, intimate portraits with dreamy water reflections.
Address: 4882 S Samish Way, Bellingham, WA 98229
Pro Tip: Plan for early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and less people. Bring your furbaby along – this spot is pet friendly!
5. Clayton Beach
Clayton Beach offers couples a beautiful mix of sandy shorelines, tide pools, and dramatic rock formations. It’s the perfect spot for couples who love the ocean and dramatic, windy shots. Whether you want to run barefoot through the waves, explore the unique geological features, or watch the sunset over the water, this location provides a captivating blend of adventure and romance for playful and free-spirited photos.
Address: Chuckanut Dr, Bow, WA 98232
Pro Tip: Windy spots make for gorgeous, movement-filled shots
6. Fairhaven Historic District
The charming red-brick streets, cozy alleyways, and historic architecture of Bellingham’s Fairhaven Historic District make for a beautiful backdrop for Bellingham engagement photos. Fairhaven offers an old-world romance with a modern twist. Whether you want a vintage-inspired session with charming storefronts or a more urban, playful vibe, this district provides a variety of beautiful backdrops for a unique engagement shoot.
Address: 1100 Harris Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Try neutral or vintage-inspired outfits to complement the setting.
7. Waypoint Park Downtown Bellingham Murals & Alleyways
The vibrant Waypoint Park features bold murals, classic brick buildings, and an urban beach, making it the perfect spot for couples seeking out an artistic and playful engagement session.
Address: 1145 Granary Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Bright outfits pop beautifully against mural backgrounds!
8. Pickford Film Center & Nearby Streets
Film lovers won’t want to skip Pickford Film Center, a whimsical and cinematic engagement photo location right in the heart of Bellingham. The cozy theater entrance, and surrounding eclectic streets provide a fun, quirky, and romantic atmosphere for couples who want engagement photos with a touch of Hollywood magic.
Address: 1318 Bay St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Bring props like vintage cameras or books for added personality.
9. Local Coffee Shops like Camber Coffee and Makeworth Coffee Roasters
Laid-back couples seeking an intimate yet cozy vibe might want to consider local coffee shops, like Makeworth Coffee Roasters or Camber Coffee. Bellingham’s artisanal coffee shops provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re sharing a laugh over lattes or stealing a quiet moment by the window, these charming cafes capture authentic, everyday romance.
Address: Camber Coffee – 221 W Holly St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Address: Makeworth – 1201 N State St, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Order a latte with cute foam art for a fun, natural pose!
10. Zuanich Point Park & Squalicum Harbor
Sailboats and shimmering blue waters make Zuanich Point Park one of the most relaxing and beautiful engagement photo locations. The open skies and gentle sea breeze create a relaxed yet polished feel, perfect for classic, elegant engagement photos.
Address: 2600 Harbor Loop Dr, Bellingham, WA 98225
Pro Tip: Soft pastels and light fabrics work beautifully in the marina setting.
11. Woodstock Farm Bellingham
Few places feel more like a storybook love scene come to life than Woodstock Farm. This hidden Bellingham gem is perhaps one of the best engagement photo locations in the area thanks to the rustic barns, open fields, and sweeping views. The blend of pastoral charm and breathtaking scenery makes it a versatile and enchanting spot for any couple.
Address: 1200 Chuckanut Dr N, Bellingham, WA 98229
Pro Tip: Wear cozy textures (like knit sweaters) for a romantic, rustic touch.
12. Big Rock Garden Park
The tranquil Big Rock Garden Park is nestled in a grove of evergreens above Lake Whatcom. Surrounded by lush greenery, this artistic and whimsical setting for engagement photos offers winding paths and unique installations. It’s perfect for couples who appreciate nature –with a little dose of creativity.
Address: 2900 Sylvan St, Bellingham, WA 98226
Pro Tip: Spring blooms here make for ethereal, magical backdrops.Plan to be here during peak daylight hours as this location can be dim later in the day!
13. Hovander Park
With more than 350 acres to explore, the peaceful Hovander Park makes for a pretty engagement photo spot for couples who love the great outdoors. This historic area has plenty to offer, including deep history preserving pioneering farming including a gorgeous old barn and farmhouse, a stunning garden in the spring and summer and gorgeous changing leaves in the fall, and sweeping wetlands. More than a mile of the park includes river frontage and there are well maintained walking trails making it easy to get around the property..
Address: 5299 Nielsen Ave, Ferndale, WA 98248
Pro tip: Climb the tower at Tennant Lake for stunning views!
14. Cornwall Park
Towering maple trees, romantic wooden bridges, and wide-open fields make up the stunning 70 acres of Cornwall Park. It’s one of the best engagement photo locations for a reason. Cornwall Park offers a fairytale-like setting that’s especially magical in the fall when golden leaves create a multitude of colors for your backdrop.
Address: Chuckanut Dr, Bellingham, WA 98229
Pro Tip: Consider a picnic-style shoot for a relaxed, storybook feel.
15. Mount Baker
Is there any spot more beautiful on a clear day than Mount Baker? Adventurous couples who love the great outdoors, or simply couples who appreciate a beautiful setting, will fall in love with this national park. Mount Baker provides a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting with snow-capped peaks and panoramic views. Whether capturing cozy winter scenes or breathtaking summer landscapes, this location guarantees epic engagement photos.
Address: Mount Baker Hwy, Deming, WA 98244
Pro Tip: Bring layers, since the mountain weather can change quickly! If you’re looking at late summer – consider Artist Point, only open July-September!
Looking for a Bellingham Engagement Photographer?
There’s no shortage of stunning engagement photo locations in Bellingham. Whether you’re searching for a dramatic coastal cliff or a charming downtown alley, Bellingham has it all. Looking to get engagement photos, but not sure where to start? Get in touch with me today and we’ll find the best fit for you, your style, and your unique love story.
