New Pier at Little Squalicum Park Gives Bellingham Fresh Waterfront Access
Stretching 1,248 feet into Bellingham Bay, the recently opened pier at Little Squalicum Park is now the longest public pier in Washington and even on the West Coast between White Rock, B.C., and Pacifica, California. Even better, this gives Bellingham two spots where you can walk out over the water (the other being Taylor Dock between Fairhaven and Boulevard Park).
If you love spotting boats or taking photos, you’ll have a great vantage point over the bay. There are clear walking paths, railings for safety, and beach access.
Fishing and wildlife watching are allowed, so you might catch a glimpse of birds, or see crabbing and fishing in action. On a recent visit the tide was out and even at the end of the pier, I could see shells on the sea floor.
If you have accessibility needs, the pier is flat with concrete grates as a surface. There are no stairs to the pier, but there is a slight incline of the trail up towards the pier entrance.
The new Little Squalicum Pier officially opened to the public in early April 2025.
This pier is built on the site of an old industrial structure that dates back over 100 years. For decades, the original pier was off-limits residents. With this new project, the city has given you access to a piece of Bellingham’s history that many people never got to experience before.
Construction took more than a year, including work to make the pier safe, modern, and open for recreation. Work finished in time for the spring and summer seasons so you can take advantage of the good weather out on the bay.
The pier is open every day during park hours and is already proving to be a popular spot for people in Bellingham and nearby areas.
Pier Location in Little Squalicum Park
You’ll find the new pier on the northwest side of Bellingham, inside Little Squalicum Park. The park itself runs right up to the shoreline of Bellingham Bay, making it easy to get from the parking lot to the start of the pier.
Use the park’s main entrance off Marine Drive, then follow the wide gravel paths that lead past open spaces and trees. As you get closer to the water, the pier starts to come into view. Just head in the direction of the water, under the train trestle, and you will find the pier.
The park has a small parking lot, with spots set aside for visitors with disabilities. It’s a quick walk from the entrance to the start of the pier, so you don’t have to hike more than a few minutes to reach the water. The parking lot also has some portable restrooms.
Wheelchair and Stroller Access
The pier is accessible if you use a wheelchair or other mobility devices. The access paths are wide, and once in the park they have gentle slopes, however they are primarily crushed gravel so not 100% smooth.
I recommend accessing the park through the BTC student parking lot if you are in a chair. The access paths from both the parking lot and Lindbergh Ave. are fairly steep.
Bringing your dog
Much of Little Squalicum Park is a popular off-leash dog area, and there’s beach access underneath parts of the pier.
Dogs are welcome on the pier, as long as you keep your dog on a leash at all times, no longer than six feet. This keeps everyone—both people and pets—safe.
A posted chart near the entrance lists these dog rules for quick reference:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Leash length | Six feet or less |
| Clean up waste | Required; stations and bins provided |
This way, you and your dog can both enjoy the fresh air, open water, and lively crowds without worry.
Fishing Opportunities
If you enjoy fishing, the pier at Little Squalicum Park is a great spot to try your luck. Its structure lets you cast your line right into Bellingham Bay. Note that when the tide is out, the water underneath is quite shallow, even at the end of the pier.
If you want more information about public use and pier renovations, you can check out the City of Bellingham’s update on the Little Squalicum Pier.
Walking and Sightseeing
The pier is also perfect for walking. You can stroll out over the water, take in the sea air, and enjoy open views of the bay. It’s a quiet place if you want a break from the busy city or just somewhere to take a peaceful walk with your dog.
Photographers and birdwatchers love the new walkway, too. You might see herons, eagles, or passing boats. The space feels welcoming, and it encourages you to slow down and enjoy all that the bay offers.
During the summer months, and with the new pier opening, there is currently increased foot traffic in the park. However, note that the park does have many trails through treed areas, which lone female walkers may find uncomfortable from a personal safety standpoint. Walk with a buddy or plan your trip for times when the park is well populated.
Park Improvements and Future Plans
If it has been a while since you have visited Little Squalicum Park you’ll notice lots of changes. The city not only made updates to the old pier, but in 2024, almost 5 acres of habitat along the water were restored. This work keeps local plants and animals healthy, and it makes your time by the bay more enjoyable.
Read more about the estuary project.
If you like being outdoors, keep an eye out for more updates. Future plans may include more places to sit, extra trees, and new ways for you to explore the shoreline. That means Little Squalicum Park is only going to get better for you and your family.
Getting There and Parking
Getting to the new Little Squalicum Pier is pretty easy. The park is on Bellingham’s waterfront and can be reached by car, bike, or on foot.
Address:
Little Squalicum Park
640 Marine Drive, Bellingham, WA
If you’re driving, you have a few parking options. There’s some parking right at the park, but it fills up, especially on weekends.
For extra space, you can park at the Bellingham Technical College (BTC) student lot. Access is from W. Illinois street. Drive down to the lower lot and turn right towards the chain link fence. It’s about a 10 minute walk from there to the pier. This is helpful when things get busy at the park, however please be respectful of the fact that this lot is for the use of college students first and foremost.
Ways to get there:
- By Car: From downtown, head north on Eldridge Ave (which becomes Marine Drive). Just past Lindbergh Ave you will cross a bridge, turn right on W Illinois St and the parking lot is immediately to your right.
- By Bus: Several bus routes stop at BTC nearby. Check the local schedule for times. There is a bus stop on Lindbergh Ave just north of campus (right before Marine Dr.) that is steps away from one of the access trails to the park.
