Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
June to September
About Dogfish Beach
Dogfish Beach is a small, secluded strip of shore on Samish Bay below Chuckanut Drive (SR-11), between Larrabee State Park and the Skagit County flats, south of Bellingham, Washington. It sits between the bay and the BNSF railway line that runs along the foot of the Chuckanut cliffs. The beach is a mix of rock, cobbles and sand with sharp shells, opening onto shallow tidal flats; the water is noticeably warmer than most Puget Sound beaches because it spreads over the flats on a rising tide. The first section is rockier and more private, while a sandier stretch further along has easier water access. Volunteers maintain a small garden, steps and fire pits. It is used clothing-optional, mainly by local regulars, couples and older locals, often with dogs off leash, and reviewers report that on some days everyone present was nude. It is much quieter than Wreck Beach across the border. The key hazard is the railway: reaching the beach means walking about half a mile along the tracks around a blind curve.
Getting there
Drive south on Chuckanut Drive past Larrabee State Park and the Skagit County line, about 2 miles more, to just after a 'Scenic Point 1/3 mile' sign; park in the small free pull-out on the west side (about 10 cars). Take the gentler footpath south of the lot behind the guardrail (a steeper rope-assisted route also exists), then walk north along the railway about half a mile. Trains come every 30 minutes or so and are hard to hear from the north; stay on the beach side. About 10-15 minutes' walk; not suitable for mobility needs or small children. No public transport.
What visitors say
Visitors describe a peaceful, friendly local spot with a strong naturist culture, warm water on the flats, with a mixed crowd that some say includes more women than men. Repeated warnings concern the railway walk, the steep trail, sharp shells (water shoes recommended), and car break-ins at the pull-out. Some are unsure about bringing children or dogs because of the tracks.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no designation. Washington has no statute against simple non-lewd nudity, but indecent exposure law applies if someone is alarmed. Walking on the railway is trespass on BNSF property and is dangerous; deaths have been reported. No nudity enforcement found as of 2026.
Naturism at Dogfish Beach sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
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Approx. 48.6276, -122.4628
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Dogfish Beach?
Park at the small pull-out on Chuckanut Drive just past the 'Scenic Point 1/3 mile' sign, take the path down, then walk about half a mile north along the railway.
Is the railway walk safe?
It is the main danger: trains are frequent, there is a blind curve and you have seconds to step clear. Stay alert and off the tracks where possible.
Is nudity common?
Yes, regulars describe most people as nude on warm days, but it is optional and unofficial.
Are there facilities?
No toilets or food. Bring supplies from Fairhaven or Bellingham.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
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