Local

A privately-operated sauna is set to open at Bellingham lakeside park

A mobile sauna operated by a vendor called the Hot Spot Sauna Club will soon be available on the shore of Lake Whatcom at Bloedel-Donovan Park.
A mobile sauna operated by a vendor called the Hot Spot Sauna Club will soon be available on the shore of Lake Whatcom at Bloedel-Donovan Park. Courtesy to The Bellingham Herald

Bloedel-Donovan Park is about to have a sauna vendor on the shores of Lake Whatcom.

A “soft opening” for the business, operated by the Hot Spot Sauna Club, is set for 5 p.m. Friday, according to an announcement at the city’s website.

Hot Spot has a mobile sauna that seats eight people. It was chosen as a vendor after proposals were sought in October.

Reservations at $35 for a 50-minute “social session” can be made online. Private bookings of the entire sauna are $210.

“(The) location features immediate access to freshwater swimming in Lake Whatcom for cold plunging. Sauna is outdoors in a natural environment, small covered area for belongings but plan for the elements. It is best to arrive ready to sauna, but changing booths are available. For a smooth experience bring water, towels, flip-flops or slide shoes,” Hot Spot said at its website.

Dress for such “social sessions” in the sauna is a swimsuit or equivalent, according to the website.

This story was originally published February 20, 2026 at 5:15 AM.

Robert Mittendorf
The Bellingham Herald
Robert Mittendorf covers civic issues, weather, traffic and how people are coping with the high cost of housing for The Bellingham Herald. A journalist since 1984, he also served 22 years as a volunteer firefighter for South Whatcom Fire Authority before retiring in 2025.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER