Pelican Bay Books & Coffeehouse isn't just a bookstore; it's the heart of Anacortes's literary and…read moresocial life, a true haven where the maritime air meets the comforting scent of old paper and fresh espresso. This isn't a sterile chain shop--it's a warm, sunshiny hub built from beautiful wood tones, welcoming you to slow down and stay awhile. What immediately strikes you is how wonderfully curated the space is. Despite being "jam-packed" with thousands of quality used and collectible books, the store manages to feel open, airy, and inviting. The selection is fantastic, especially their deep cuts in Pacific Northwest History, general fiction, and esoterica. Browsing is a delight thanks to the meticulous organization that makes finding that hidden literary gem feel like a genuine discovery. The "Coffeehouse" part of the name is equally crucial. Serving delicious, locally-sourced coffee (like Olympia Coffee Roasters beans) and boasting a pastry case filled with unique treats--the legendary rosemary sea salt rolls, figgy bars, and baked goods are must-tries--it perfectly complements the reading experience. The friendly, attentive staff, who are clearly passionate about bookselling, are always ready to offer a recommendation or assist, often going above and beyond. Whether you're looking for a quiet, bright nook to get some work done, a comfortable chair to sip a vanilla bean latte, or an engaging evening out for a poetry reading or live piano music, Pelican Bay delivers. It's a bookstore with character, clearly beloved by locals and a mandatory stop for any visitor. It's the kind of place you'll remember long after you've left Anacortes. Highly, highly recommend!

Oh my stars! This bookstore.....is simply perfect!!…read more This is honestly the cutest book store I've ever been to. Great place for pictures, affordable great quality second hand books, and oh did I mention it's also a coffee shop. I mean could it get any better? No I don't think it could. I genuinely felt so happy the moment I stepped inside this store. It's just such a beautiful space that feels cozy and inviting. After walking around a bit I went to order a coffee. And I honestly don't think I've ever met nicer baristas in my life! They were all so sweet and kind and helpful! I tried out the fig leaf latte and the autumn tea latte and both were spectacular! Great flavor and smoothness. Overall I love this bookstore and it's well worth the drive! Definitely a hidden gem! I'll be back!!

Easton's Books is the quintessential used bookstore tucked away in an older building with towering…read morebookcases stacked full of various books. Each book section is clearly marked and no book section is small. Often topics will creep into the other areas. Being a used bookstore their stock is understandably inconsistent. Some books are rare little gemstones, one of a kind treasures. Others are fascinating because there are duplicates of random tomes, like yacht types from the 1980's, that made me wonder how they had more than one at all. The store feels old. A used bookstore, I suppose, should feel old. I enjoyed walking through the aisles looking up at all the various titles. The employees stayed by the front desk - a couple older men who were exchanging stories of tulip festivals long since past. While they didn't engage people walking through they always turned their full attention to any customer who needed their help. It is a fascinating store!

Honestly about as good as it gets. Pretty much only used books (as the lord intended), all…read morereasonably priced, massive selection. The philosophy section is one of the absolute best I have ever seen at any bookstore period, it's better than even a place like Powell's. I spent close to an hour in that section alone. I find the staff very friendly, if not a little eclectic, but that's perfect for a place like this. Love this place.

We love to see a bookstore thriving!! This is so much more than just a bookstore (and adjoining…read morepaper/confectionery/novelty shop). Its a community hub! I recently moved to Bellingham and Village Books (and paper dreams) actually really swayed me to move here. Its a book palace, 3 stories of well organized selection. The front facing books are well chosen, and the used books are interspersed with the new books. There are quite a few staff picks sections, all of which are super interesting and worth looking over. Three days before Christmas 2025 I was there trying to pick out a horror book for a friend of mine. Horror is not my genre (more of a fantasy and literature gal myself), so I for sure needed guidance. The shop lady spent so much time reviewing the whole horror section with me . When we couldn't find the main book we decided on me buying, she spent the time looking everywhere for it. She enlisted the help of two additional staff members. When she was needed for another task, she made sure one of the other shop ladies had me covered. I ended up ordering the book, which came in a few days and they texted me when it arrived. Easy peasy! I will never forget that experince, especially as the store was jam packed with x-mas shoppers. Village books in fairhaven is the spot! My only note is that their bookclubs could be better. The bookclubs are during the day and don't have different genre selections (they are mostly nonfiction). There is a silent reading bookclub that I might try. They could be cultivating different types of communities (ie book clubs geared towards romantasy, sci-fi, literature, etc.), but maybe that will come with time.

I really wanted to love the store. I'm long time book lover and one who worked in the book…read moreindustry for over 20 years. This store seemingly has it all; great selection of books, both knew and used, lots of old wood, and a staff that seems knowledgeable if a little bit unhappy. The last part can explain why the vibe is just off. It just doesn't feel comfortable nor welcoming, and if I had to put my finger on the cause, I would say it is likely due to management. I witnessed firsthand how the store manager ignored customers in line waiting to pay because he was on the phone. You never ignore the customers who are right in front of you. I wish the store all the best, but I'm gonna take my book shopping business elsewhere.

As a serious collector one of my favorites. Often gives me a little bit off the marked price.read more

Wonderful little bookstore with a fine selection of used books. A little disorganized compared to…read moresome of the used bookstores I'm accustomed to coming from the east coast, but otherwise no complaints. Will be a staple for enjoying a quiet evening from time to time.

Holy crud! This place is amazing! The only drawback is that it's a little hard to navigate to…read morespecific sections, but the staff is very helpful. I was able to find every book I was looking for!

I love Henderson Books! A classic Bellingham favorite. They have a good system of organization…read morehere. While they have thousands of books here, I like that they are specific with their classification of their books. They are always a pleasure to frequent, and I think their prices are fair. They also sell antiques!

Love this bookstore! It has a great selection of books for all ages and genres as well as gifts…read more I've stopped by here last year and this year during mini vacations and bought some cute greeting cards. The staff is usually friendly and kind, adding to the cozy atmosphere.

Great bookstore! Helpful staff and good selection of books and gift ideas. Always happy to special…read moreorder

What an amazing find in La Conner! Such a charming bookstore filled to the brim with countless…read morebooks of all genres. I had quite the haul when leaving, found four great reads of all different varieties. Love coming here anytime I'm in the area, it's great for perusing and most importantly, supporting local bookstores.

Quaint little bookstore with great selections. If your book is not there they will always order…read more Ice Cream on the cake is it is in LaConner where you can have a great walk, good coffee and/or food and lots of fun.

A cozy little bookstore to browse around leisurely on a cold morning. Staff was very friendly &…read morehelpful. Introduced me to a small Vermont local artist named Beth Mueller, super cute!

Amazing books and staff, with a drop-in book club, espresso bar, fine art prints, and baked goods!…read moreAn old fashioned jewel.

They have a very good variety of things in here. It is much larger than it looks like. And there is…read morea downstairs. There are lots of books and also some other things like crafts. They were friendly and checkout was quick. The prices seemed typical for a small, independent bookstore. I did buy some craft things that seemed like a better deal than a large store would have.

Great selection and staff. It's a warm and inviting store and staff were pleasant and helpful. I…read morelike supporting small business so I bought a book. The shop dog found my group suspicious so we didn't get any dog interaction.