Chalet

Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!

Family-friendly chalet in Bellingham with a water park

Photo gallery for Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!

View of Chalet from across lake.
Relax...it's comfortable here.
Spacious living room with view.
Kitchen & dining area overlook the view of Emerald Lake.
Loft queen bed under skylight.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 6139.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Whatcom Falls Park
  • Place, Bellis Fair Mall
  • Place, Western Washington University
  • Airport, Bellingham, WA (BLI-Bellingham Intl.)

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Sofa Bed

1 Double Futon

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Loft Bathroom

Toilet

Main Floor Bathroom

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Balcony
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!

Did you know that water lilies will only grow in lakes that are fresh and unpolluted? We are very proud of our special little water paradise. Spring has sprung and all the critters are happy and chittering. Our lake has been freshly stalked with Rainbow trout and fishing season starts in May.

Welcome to your secluded lakeside retreat, where tranquility meets adventure, amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature's embrace.

Step into a world where family fun knows no bounds! Picture this: a cozy haven where board games reign supreme, our brand-new ROKU TV steals the show, and even Pac-Man makes a nostalgic appearance. But wait, there's more! Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque lake or venture onto the nearby trails. And for those craving a bit of winter wonder, Mount Baker beckons with its snow-capped slopes just a stone's throw away.

Nestled a mere ten minutes from the hustle and bustle of shopping and dining, our retreat offers the perfect blend of convenience and tranquility. Imagine warming yourself by the crackling fireplace while being mesmerized by the shimmering waters of Emerald Lake, especially enchanting under a full moon and starlit sky.

With vaulted ceilings framing breathtaking lake vistas and cozy nooks at every turn, our retreat effortlessly combines charm and comfort. From the vibrant culinary scene of Bellingham to the vibrant nightlife and family-friendly activities, adventure awaits just minutes away.

This isn't just any retreat; it's your home away from home, where every amenity is thoughtfully provided without an ounce of fussiness. Two queen beds ensure a restful night's sleep, while a firepit by the water adds a touch of rustic ambiance. Need to stay connected? No problem! We've got you covered with cable, HDTV, and WiFi. And let's not forget outdoor fun—canoeing, kayaking, and even a pedal boat await your exploration, all conveniently accessible from your private dock.

So pack your bags, leave your worries behind, and immerse yourself in a world where relaxation and adventure collide in perfect harmony.

Swimming and lake fishing are right outside your door between May and October.

The damage deposit will be released after your stay as long as the rental is returned in good condition.

**This is not a party house. Extra guests and/or special events must be cleared with the Owner in writing or you may lose your damage deposit.

Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.

There is a self-contained unit called the Studio that sleeps two located below the Chalet. The Studio is listed at VRBO #479323. If you wish to rent out the whole house, the Studio can be rented at a small discount, depending on the time of year. Emerald Lake Chalet is located on the top two floors of the Chalet. There are times when both Chalet and Studio are rented, especially during the summer months.

Essay by Susan F. - an 85 year old guest

…an aerie hanging in the treetops above a lake…

From the Lakeside dock:

Truly. Toad Lake has polliwogs.

A brown duck (which?) dashes for brush-cover. Two tiny ducklings follow her. (Are they really running across the surface?) They leave spidery wakes.

Dragonflies hover, dart. Butterflies flutter, alight, open, close. Yellow Irises cluster.

A woman suns on an inner-tube. A woman swims laps. A man, standing in the lake, plays fetch-a-stick with two paddling dogs.

A kayaker. Another kayaker with a fishing rod.

On the far shore, any time of day, people are fishing. Slanting light makes colors fluorescent: blue (beach chair), orange (vest), red (SUV), all repeated upside-down in the lake surface.

Bald eagles glide high above. Another raptor (which?) soars.

Swallows (which?) are skimming.

Robins and song sparrows are singing everywhere. More birdsong. (Whose?)

Timeless northwest forest trees that taper, are mirrored on the lake’s surface as wavering blocks of modern art.

Eight Canada geese form a flotilla and head to the far shore, reconnoiter on land, then slowly make their way to the small decaying raft beside us on the pier. They nibble at the covering of green growth and then depart. The geese have left the raft unstable. Untethered, it floats slowly into the middle of the lake. And then, where?

An alligator (?) with brilliant gold eyes drifts to the middle of the lake, then hides on the far side. He is retrieved by kayak, - that thrilling, life-size, plastic alligator head that was meant to keep the geese away.

From the Dwelling:

Look down on the top-feathers of swallows (which?), turned golden in the sun.

Catch sight of two young bucks with furred stubs of antlers strolling down the driveway.

Later, read by lamplight in chairs before the fireplace. One book can be passed between the two of you to share, reading aloud.

Sleep on a queen-size perfect mattress.

Brew morning coffee and take the morning easy in

an aerie hanging in the treetops above a lake

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

Similar properties

House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 19
Check out before 11:00 AM
default

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
Paddle boat, canoe, kayaks
default

Events

No events allowed
May be allowed in certain circumstances.Ask first
default

Pets

No pets allowed
default

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No fireworks without prior permission.
No parties or unauthorized guests without prior permission..

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: May be allowed in certain circumstances.Ask first
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Bellingham

Located in Bellingham, this chalet is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Mount Baker Theatre and Whatcom Museum are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Larrabee State Park and Lake Whatcom. Travelling with kids? Consider Glen Echo Garden and Park Bowl. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Bellingham, WA

What's nearby

  • Lake Whatcom - 5 min drive - 3.6 km
  • Whatcom Falls Park - 6 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Bellis Fair Mall - 10 min drive - 9.8 km
  • Mount Baker Theatre - 12 min drive - 11.3 km
  • Western Washington University - 14 min drive - 12.6 km

Getting around

  • Bellingham, WA (BLI-Bellingham Intl.) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Taco Bell - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Starbucks - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Overflow Taps - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Panera - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Emerald Lake Chalet - WE HAVE WATER LILIES! located?

This family-friendly Bellingham chalet is located on the waterfront, 2.3 mi (3.8 km) from Lake Whatcom, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Glen Echo Garden and Park Bowl. Bellis Fair Mall and Whatcom Falls Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 230 out of 250 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 250 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 250 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 250 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 250 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Kyle H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Outstanding and relaxing stay at Toad Lake. This rental has all the gear you would need to get on the water, fish, and lounge.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandi I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The view of the lake is amazing. It so peaceful but still to everthing. We had the most wonderful time.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Colette C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a terrific two night stay at Emerald Lake Chalet. Everything was as described in the listing and photos. The chalet was very clean and had everything we needed for our stay. We appreciated the “Welcome” bottle of wine left for us! Loved the kayaks and went out on the lake for a paddle the afternoon of our arrival. Very peaceful! The owner was easy to communicate with and gave helpful directions to the chalet. Highly recommended!
Early morning view from the balcony.
Heading back toward the chalet.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

christina s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a great little hide away with an amazing view of the lake. The parking is very tight esp for large SUV but we fit and the home is super cute cabin vibe and very clean. We had more than enough room for four people yet still had amazing dinners and cozy family movie nights. Best part for us though was the gift basket on arrival. We had traveled quite far and did not arrive until 1230a so everything included was 1. Not expected at all 2. The Ultimate life saver and such a welcoming touch. We hope to visit this home often as it is a perfect stay if visiting western washington university.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rachel A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect place to stay for ski to sea

Beautiful home on a very picturesque lake. And a great spot to access ski to sea
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

6/10 Okay

Mark E.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, location
Ladder to dock dangerous, especially when exiting from lake.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

beth s.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved our stay

We rented both units for our multi-generational family group for 2 nights in April. Had the most beautiful weather and enjoyed all the lake activities (boating, fishing, etc.). We would love to come back again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yong Seog J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

wondeful stay

love this place
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Melissa R.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Trip to Bellingham

Family fun
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Pepper W.

Really great place

Everything worked out perfectly and we were very happy with our stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

James F., Pukalani

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Location

The property has amazing views and everything you could need in a cabin. We hope to stay there again in the future!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Quiet stay on a serene Lake

The chalet was very comfortable with all the necessary conveniences. The view of the lake from the deck was fantastic. My son and I were able to welcome several visiting relatives for a relaxing visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Laura D., San Francisco Bay Area

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful lake stay

We enjoyed our stay at the little lake so much. Quiet and homey, felt like staying at a friends’ cabin.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Bellingham family vacation

This was the perfect spot for us to enjoy some family time. Thanks for sharing your wonderful home!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Stacy W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Lake front location

This was our second time at the property. Very clean and accommodating. Gorgeous lake views!
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamra H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Lake House

We had a wonderful time staying at this property. The house has beautiful views and a lot of thoughtful activities for all ages. We really enjoyed using the canoes.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Laura A.

Beautiful and exactly as described.

Rosetta's home is a clean, comfy, charming cabin that is beautifully situated on a peaceful lake.
Stayed 6 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Catherine M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cabin by the lake

The lake is clean and warm enough to swim comfortably in. The cabin is spacious with lots of windows and modern amenities that give it a luxurious feel. Everyone enjoyed their stay! Just FYI, this is not for mobility challenged people, lots of stairs are the only way to access the cabin.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Natasha R.

Heaven on earth

If traveling to Bellingham THIS is the place to stay. Beautiful property owned by a lovely family. Thank you so much. What a perfect vacation
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2018

10/10 Excellent

Nicole D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great retreat just minutes from the City

Had a great stay! Our son couldn't get away for the holidays because of COVID-19, so we brought Thanksgiving to him. The cabin was a great place to spend a relaxing time together away where we could cook, relax and just hang out together. Will definitely visit again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Caroline c.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful

It’s a lovely property and we enjoyed our stay. Cooling was a bit dicey and the coffee pot definitely needs to be replaced. But other than those minor details, we enjoyed our stay enormously. Explored Bellingham to the fullest extent and found the hikes to be fantastic!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bradley B.

Beautiful Lake House

The house was perfect and had everything we could possibly need. The kayak, canoe and various other lake toys were a nice bonus too! Short drive into Bellingham for restaurants and activities. Would absolutely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Charlotte W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very quiet place on the lake

Quiet place on the lake. Lots of birds!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Misty A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

What a dreamy lake!

The pedal boat and kayaks really make the experience of this rental. The chalet was clean and the kitchen stocked for cooking. The lake was perfect for swimming and relaxing!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lillian W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Getaway

House and location were just perfect for our group of four adults from the East Coast. House was well supplied and the water equipment was perfect for our adventurers. The eagle on the lake was a bonus as was the sunshine.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

About the host

Hosted by Rosetta Klassen

Host profile image
I'm passionate in what I'm doing with the Emerald Lake Chalet.
When I read guest comments that they have enjoyed their stay and want to come back, that's very rewarding.

Why they chose this property

This property is one of a kind. Swimming and fishing at the door.

What makes this property unique

My family has owned property on Emerald Lake since 1960. It's been a great retreat for my six children and grandchildren as well as our friends. Bellingham is minutes away where many activities, shopping and gourmet restaurants add to the wonderful lake setting apart from city life.

Languages:

English

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests