One of Bellingham's best free attractions. It's small, hands-on, and a great place to get an up-close look at the incredible marine life of the Salish Sea. Marine Life Center – Bellingham Located at Squalicum Harbor, the Marine Life Center features touch tanks and live exhibits showcasing native sea stars, anemones, crabs, octopuses, and other Salish Sea creatures. Opened in the late 1980s, its mission is to inspire stewardship of local marine life through free education and interactive exhibits. The center is operated by the Port of Bellingham and admission is always free.