Eliza Island

For dining near Eliza Island, visitors often head to nearby Lummi Island or Bellingham. On Lummi Island, the Beach Store Cafe is a favorite for its American cuisine and scenic views. Another option is the Legoe Bay Reefnetter, known for its seafood offerings.

In Bellingham, Nicki's Bella Marina offers a mix of seafood and American fare with a waterfront view. For a more upscale experience, Keenan's at the Pier provides a scenic venue with American dining options.

These restaurants provide a variety of culinary experiences, from casual to upscale, and are accessible by a short drive or boat ride from Eliza Island.

For accommodations near Eliza Island, several hotels in Bellingham offer convenient stays. The Chrysalis Inn & Spa is an upscale option with bay views and a spa. Another choice is Hotel Bellwether, which features high-end rooms and waterfront dining.

For a more laid-back experience, the Holiday Inn & Suites Bellingham offers a relaxed atmosphere with amenities like an indoor pool. These hotels provide a range of options for travelers looking to stay near Eliza Island.

Eliza Island itself is quite basic in terms of amenities, as it is a private, off-grid community. However, residents have access to a communal water desalination system and private generators for electricity. The island features a small airstrip and a dock for loading and unloading, but there are no public facilities like restrooms or showers available to visitors.

For those visiting the area, nearby Lummi Island offers more amenities, including a library and community centers. Bellingham also provides a wider range of services, including restaurants, shops, and public facilities.

Eliza Island is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, and crabbing. The island's south end is particularly popular for crabbing, and the designated swimming beach offers a safe and scenic spot for water activities.

Residents and visitors also enjoy agate hunting, walking, and exploring the island's natural beauty. For those interested in more structured activities, nearby Lummi Island offers hiking trails and a nature preserve, while Bellingham provides opportunities for kayaking and whale watching.

Eliza Island does not have specific disability access features like ramps or wheelchair rentals, as it is a private and off-grid community. However, nearby Bellingham and Lummi Island offer more accessible amenities. Many restaurants and public spaces in these areas provide wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the region's attractions.

Parking on Eliza Island is limited and primarily reserved for residents and their guests. Visitors typically arrive by private boat or small aircraft, and parking is not a concern in the same way as it is on the mainland. For those traveling to nearby Lummi Island or Bellingham, parking options are more readily available, with public lots and street parking available in both locations.

Eliza Island has a fascinating history, having been named after Francisco de Eliza, a Spanish explorer who led an expedition to the Pacific Northwest in 1791. The island was once used for various industrial purposes, including a black cat ranch and a chicken farm, before being developed into the private residential community it is today.

Interestingly, Eliza Island was the first small island in Washington State to install a reverse osmosis water system, showcasing its innovative approach to off-grid living. The island's unique history and self-sufficient lifestyle make it a captivating place to learn about.

Near Eliza Island, Lummi Island offers several attractions, including the Lummi Island Congregational Church and a stone labyrinth for walking meditation. The island also hosts an Artist’s Studio Tour, where visitors can explore local art studios.

In Bellingham, attractions include the Whatcom Museum and the Fairhaven Village, known for its historic architecture and shopping. The nearby Chuckanut Bay and Mount Constitution on Orcas Island are also popular day-trip destinations.