Blaine Marine Park:
Your Gateway to the Games Scenic Stopover
At the heart of Blaine, Washington, a serene waterfront destination invites visitors to unwind, explore, and connect.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, Blaine Marina Park is worth exploring. Visible from the Peace Arch Border Crossing and just minutes from I-5 Exit 276, it’s a perfect stop to leave the busy route, stretch your legs, and enjoy relaxing hours by the water. As “Blaine by the Sea,” the city embraces its role as the “Gateway to the Games,” welcoming travelers headed to the soccer events in the host cities of Vancouver, BC, and Seattle, Washington. Serving as a “basecamp” for fans and visitors crossing between these cities during the games, Blaine invites you to enjoy the views, discover the stories, and leave with a deep appreciation for this special destination on the Washington coast.
Planning your visit
Blaine Marina Park is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. There are no entrance fees to enjoy the park and its amenities. Free parking is available for visitors. To reach the park, take I-5 to Exit 276 and follow the signs for Blaine City Center. Blaine Marina Park is located at the end of Marine Drive and is easily accessible for travelers arriving from both the United States and Canada. Public restrooms and picnic areas are available on site.
From Waterfront to Community Oasis
The origins of Blaine Marina Park trace back to the community’s desire to create a welcoming space. They wanted to celebrate the area’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Over the years, the park has evolved into a cherished gathering place for locals and visitors. Its development was fueled by a shared vision: to blend the tranquility of Blaine’s scenic waterfront with a dynamic public space for recreation and reflection.
The park’s standout feature is its half-mile waterfront trail, winding gently along the water’s edgewith views of the US/Canada border crossing and White Rock, BC. This scenic pathway provides breathtaking perspectives of the Pacific Northwest coastline. It also serves as a gateway to iconic sights. Visitors enjoy views of the International Peace Arch, symbolizing friendship between the United States and Canada, and the sparkling seaside town of White Rock, B.C. Together, these features make every visit an unforgettable experience.
This evolution of the park underscores its significance—not only as a recreational area but also as a symbol of community dedication to heritage and connection.
Honoring Mariners: Seafarer's Memorial at Blaine Harbor Marina
A short stroll from the main park brings visitors to the Seafarer’s Memorial at Blaine Harbor Marina. This tribute honors those who have lived, worked, or lost their lives at sea. The memorial offers a spot to pause and reflect. Inscriptions and plaques commemorate local fishermen, sailors, and mariners. Its presence highlights Blaine’s deep maritime roots and reminds visitors of the community’s bond with the sea.
The Whale Sculpture: A Tribute to Marine Life
Another feature of the park is the impressive whale sculpture. It celebrates marine life in Blaine’s waters. The installation captures the movement of a breaching whale, inspiring wonder for the natural world. Both children and adults are drawn to its dynamic form. The sculpture serves as a playful landmark and a tribute to the area’s marine biodiversity.
The Marine Park Playground: Fun for Families
Blaine Marina Park welcomes guests of all ages, thanks to the Marine Park Playground. This well-designed play area provides a safe and engaging space for children. With slides, climbing structures, and ample space to run, the playground is a favorite gathering spot for families. Parents can relax nearby while their children enjoy hours of outdoor fun. Throughout the park, you’ll also find picnic tables, public restrooms, and convenient benches—adding comfort and ease for both families and travelers. While there are no food vendors directly in the park, local cafés and eateries are just a short walk away in downtown Blaine, making it easy to plan a full outing. It’s a perfect destination for community connection.
The Promenade & Boardwalk Overlooking Blaine Harbor Marina
No visit to Blaine Marina Park is complete without a stroll down the Blaine Harbor Marina promenade and boardwalk. Stretching alongside the harbor, this elevated walkway offers spectacular views of boats, the marina, and sunsets over the water. Benches let visitors savor the changing vistas. Interpretive signs share the harbor’s history and ecology. The boardwalk is designed to be accessible for visitors of all abilities, including those using wheelchairs or strollers, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the scenic route. The boardwalk is ideal for leisurely walks, photography, or quiet contemplation, connecting all who walk it to Blaine’s maritime heritage.
The Phil Claymore Totem Pole—A Tribute That Stands Tall
One meaningful feature of Blaine Marina Park is the Phil Claymore Totem Pole. It stands as a stunning work of art and a heartfelt tribute to a beloved community member. Installed in August 1995, this totem pole memorializes Phil Claymore, a marine biology teacher who inspired countless students. To honor him, students completed the totem pole with carvings celebrating his legacy and the Pacific Northwest’s cultural traditions.
The Artistry of the Totem Pole
Every detail of the Phil Claymore Totem Pole tells a story. Standing tall against the park’s greenery, the pole captivates with vibrant designs and symbolic carvings. At the top, an eagle sits proudly as a guardian, representing strength, wisdom, and freedom. Eagles are important in Indigenous cultures and are often seen as messengers between the heavens and the earth.
Near the base of the totem pole, a raven emerges—another key figure in Indigenous mythology. The raven is often regarded as a creator, a trickster, and a symbol of transformation. The eagle and raven together embody a balance of power, creativity, and connection to nature. These symbols blend cultural significance with the natural world Phil Claymore loved.
This totem pole is more than just a visual highlight of the park. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on a community. The pole stands as a physical and spiritual marker of Phil Claymore’s devotion to marine biology and education. His legacy continues to inspire generations.
A Destination for All
Blaine Marina Park is more than just a scenic refuge—it’s central to the community. The Jorgensen Public Pier, a key attraction, extends to the park’s tip. The pier draws people seeking sunsets or a spot to drop a crab pot. Many come simply to enjoy views of boats gliding into the harbor. It’s the perfect place to breathe the salty air and enjoy the peace of the waterfront.
The park hosts several beloved “Blaine by the Sea” festivals each year, often held in spring and summer. Notable events include the Bellingham Scottish Gathering, Super Hero Fun Run every June, the Drayton Harbor Pirate Festival in early August, the festive Fourth of July Firework Finale, and Summer Outdoor Movie Nights, which fill the park. These events further cement Blaine Marina Park as a hub for culture, recreation, and togetherness.
The park welcomes a variety of visitors, offering something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the stunning waterfront views. History lovers can explore stories behind local landmarks. Families can find a peaceful outing. The park promises an enriching experience for all.
Beyond its natural allure, Blaine Marina Park builds community ties. Seasonal festivals, gatherings, and spontaneous meetups often happen here. The park is a central, welcoming spot for shared experiences.
The park also serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural spaces amidst development. By investing in its trail system, showcasing its unique landmarks like the Phil Claymore Totem Pole, and encouraging sustainable enjoyment of its surroundings, Blaine Marina Park has become a model for blending conservation with recreation.
Celebrating Legacy and Landscape
One of the pillars of Blaine Marina Park’s evolution has been the vision and dedication of individuals who have contributed to its lasting impact on the community. A key figure in the park’s history is Jim Jorgensen, whose unwavering passion for preserving natural spaces has left an indelible mark on Blaine Marina Park.
Jim Jorgensen, a visionary and community leader, wore many hats in our community: Blaine science teacher, commercial fisherman, Port of Bellingham Commissioner, and dedicated leader. In 1963, he sparked the vision for Blaine Marina Park when he proposed the idea to the Blaine City Council. He quickly organized the founding committee and secured the grant funding needed to construct this waterfront sanctuary.
In 2016, the Port of Bellingham formally recognized his profound contributions. They renamed the structure at the west end of Marine Drive to the “Jim Jorgensen Public Pier,” honoring his lifelong service to the port and local citizens. His enduring legacy remains a cornerstone of the park today.
At its core, Blaine Marina Park is a celebration of the Pacific Northwest. Breathtaking views mix with heartfelt stories, making each visitor part of living history. From the calm waterfront trails to the symbolic Phil Claymore Totem Pole and the Seafarer’s Memorial, the park invites you to pause, reflect, and connect with its heritage.
Download Blaine Marine Park & Downtown Merchant District Map
Resourceful Links
Helpful links to discover Blaine by the Sea:
• Blaine Restaurants
• Shop in Blaine
• Blaine Attractions
• Blaine Art Gallery
GATEWAY TO THE GAMES