Adventure Brief
Looking for a quick, fun escape on the water? Discover affordable paddleboard and kayak rentals at the Community Boating Center, perfect for all skill levels.
2 hours
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Looking for a quick, fun escape on the water? Discover affordable paddleboard and kayak rentals at the Community Boating Center, perfect for all skill levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including beginners
Wildlife
History
The community boating area has served local residents for over 20 years, fostering a culture of outdoor water recreation.
Conservation
Participants are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, ensuring the water and surrounding environment stay pristine.
Community Boating Center
Looking for a quick, fun escape on the water? Discover affordable paddleboard and kayak rentals at the Community Boating Center, perfect for all skill levels.
Community Boating Center in Bellingham, Washington provides accessible on-water rentals, lessons, and guided experiences on Bellingham Bay. The organization offers a range of watercraft including single sit-inside kayaks, tandem sit-inside kayaks, single sit-on-top kayaks, tandem sit-on-top kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, dinghies, and keelboats. Rentals are available for one-hour, two-hour, or full-day periods, and an evening sail offers a two-hour guided sailing experience on the bay.
Dinghy and keelboat rentals require a Skills Test that can be completed with an on-water assessment or by taking a refresher or intermediate sailing class. Community Boating Center runs programming focused on inclusion, such as Wild Women programs and partnerships with local organizations to provide financial assistance when available. Safety is emphasized: some sit-inside kayak rentals are recommended only for paddlers who know wet exits and rescue techniques. Lifejackets are included with one-hour and two-hour rentals.
The Center also offers tandem and recreational sit-on-top options suited for all ages and skill levels. Guided evening sails allow participants to help sail or relax while viewing local sights. By combining equipment rentals, safety standards, skills assessments, and women-focused programs, Community Boating Center serves as a practical and community-oriented choice for paddling and sailing on Bellingham Bay.
Staffed by trained instructors and seasonal attendants, the Center emphasizes local stewardship and safe access to waterways. Reservations and on-site check-in options support flexible visits. Equipment options and program scheduling vary seasonally, and participants are encouraged to review rental requirements and skill prerequisites before booking periodically.
Location
Bellingham, WA
Operations on Bellingham Bay
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Kayak, SUP, sail, dinghy
Rental Lengths
1-2 hrs & day
One-hour, two-hour, full-day options
Safety Standards
Skills Test Required
For dinghy and keelboat rentals
Check availability, confirm Skills Test requirements, and book one-hour, two-hour, or full-day rentals and evening sails.
Wear a life jacket
Always wear the provided lifejacket for safety during your water adventure.
Arrive early
Get the best water conditions by renting early in the day.
Check weather conditions
Ensure calm weather for a safer and more enjoyable experience.
Bring sunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure while on the water.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from sunburn during outdoor water activities.
summer
Waterproof shoes
Keep your feet dry and provide traction during launching or landing.
any
Hat or cap
Shield your eyes and face from direct sun.
summer
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying your water adventure.
any