The Best Bellingham Neighborhoods for Bay & Island Views
Bellingham, WA is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most special places to call home. From sweeping views of Bellingham Bay to sunsets over the San Juan Islands, the city offers an incredible variety of neighborhoods where scenery is part of daily life. The best part? You don’t need a waterfront mansion to enjoy it.
Whether you’re searching for your first home, a move-up property, or a luxury residence, here are the top Bellingham neighborhoods for bay and island views, across a range of price points.
Alabama Hill — Elevated Views at an Attainable Price Point
Alabama Hill is a favorite among buyers looking for value and views. Located just northeast of downtown, this hillside neighborhood offers many homes with west-facing outlooks over the city and Bellingham Bay, especially from higher elevations.
Housing styles range from classic mid-century homes to newer construction, making it a versatile option for different lifestyles and budgets. Its central location means you’re close to downtown, Barkley Village, parks, and trail systems.
💡 Perfect for: First-time buyers, move-up buyers, and anyone who wants bay views without a premium waterfront price.
South Hill — Iconic Views & Timeless Bellingham Charm
If there’s a neighborhood synonymous with classic Bellingham views, it’s South Hill. Sitting between downtown and Fairhaven, South Hill offers some of the most consistent and dramatic panoramic views of Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and even Mount Baker on clear days.
The area is known for tree-lined streets, historic homes, and proximity to Boulevard Park, the waterfront, and Fairhaven Village. Homes here range from charming craftsman properties to thoughtfully updated residences.
💡 Perfect for: Buyers who want established charm, walkability, and postcard-worthy views.
Edgemoor — Luxury Living with Sweeping Bay Views
For buyers seeking high-end homes and premier water views, Edgemoor stands out. Located just above Fairhaven and near the waterfront, this neighborhood is known for elegant residences, quiet streets, and some of the most expansive bay and island views in Bellingham.
Homes in Edgemoor often feature large windows, outdoor entertaining spaces, and a strong sense of privacy, while still being minutes from shops, dining, and coastal trails.
💡 Perfect for: Luxury buyers and those looking for refined homes with dramatic, unobstructed views.
Barkley — Modern Living with Scenic Sightlines
While Barkley is often known for its walkable village atmosphere and newer homes, certain parts of the neighborhood offer beautiful west-facing views, including sunsets, city lights, and partial bay views depending on elevation and lot placement.
With easy access to shopping, dining, trails, and parks, Barkley blends convenience with scenery. Homes tend to be newer, making it appealing to buyers who want modern layouts and amenities while still enjoying the natural beauty Bellingham is known for.
💡 Perfect for: Buyers who want newer construction, community amenities, and select view opportunities.
Bonus Spots for Bay & Island Views Around Bellingham
Beyond the main neighborhoods above, there are several other areas where the right home can offer stunning scenery:
Puget — A quieter residential neighborhood with pockets of elevated homes that enjoy partial bay or territorial views, especially near parks and greenbelts.
Fairhaven — Historic charm, waterfront access, and select homes near the marina with bay views.
Sehome & Sehome Hill — Elevated areas near WWU with scenic overlooks and a strong connection to trails and green space.
From the approachable hillside views of Alabama Hill, to the iconic panoramas of South Hill, to the luxury appeal of Edgemoor, Bellingham offers view properties for a wide range of buyers. Even neighborhoods like Barkley and Puget can surprise you with incredible scenery when you know where to look.
Finding the right view home often comes down to local knowledge, timing, and understanding how elevation and orientation matter, and that’s where we come in.