Hidden Gem: Columbia Island Marina — Arlington’s Best Kept Secret on the Water

Updated: November 2025
Columbia Island Marina is one of Arlington’s most underrated waterfront escapes. Just off the George Washington Parkway, this scenic spot offers free parking, year-round access, picnic areas, and riverside dining at Island Time Bar & Grill. It’s open to the public and perfect for group gatherings, dog walks, or relaxing with a view.

☀️ If your perfect day includes sunshine, good food, and waterfront views — we found your spot.

Tucked between Arlington and D.C. along the Potomac, Columbia Island Marina feels like a peaceful mini-vacation just minutes from the city. Our team recently hosted an event here, and it’s quickly become one of our favorite local hangouts. Whether you’re meeting friends, taking a walk by the water, or just craving a calm afternoon outdoors, this is one of those rare places that locals love but visitors rarely find.

TLDR: Quick Snapshot

🌊 Vibe: Laid-back marina meets city escape
🍹 What to Do: Grab food and drinks at Island Time Bar & Grill, walk the docks, or relax by the water
🚗 Parking: Free and easy (rare in the DMV!)
🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes! Bring your pup and a picnic blanket
🕓 When to Go: Anytime — open year-round, but especially popular in summer

Why Locals Love Columbia Island Marina

Most people drive past Columbia Island on their way into D.C. without realizing what’s hidden there. The marina offers panoramic views of the Potomac River, quiet picnic spots, and one of the most relaxed waterfront restaurants in the area.

Island Time Bar & Grill serves classic casual fare — burgers, fish tacos, and margaritas — in a setting that feels worlds away from city traffic. It’s the kind of place you can linger for hours without rushing.

And here’s the best part — it’s free to visit and park. Whether you come by car, bike, or foot via the Mount Vernon Trail, it’s an easy getaway for couples, families, and teams.

What Makes It a Hidden Gem

• Location: Just off the George Washington Parkway, between the Pentagon and Arlington Memorial Bridge.

• Access: Open to the public year-round, with boat slips available for rent.

• Atmosphere: Quiet, scenic, and ideal for lunch breaks, sunsets, or weekend picnics.

• Bonus: It’s one of the few waterfront spots in the DMV where you can sit by the river without paying for parking or dealing with crowds.

Key Takeaways

• Columbia Island Marina is open year-round — not just in summer.

• Free parking and easy access make it a rare Arlington find.

• Island Time Bar & Grill is perfect for casual dining with a view.

• Great for team events, family outings, and weekend relaxation.

• One of the most peaceful waterfront escapes minutes from D.C.

FAQs

Q: Where is Columbia Island Marina located?
A: It’s just off the George Washington Parkway, between the Pentagon and Arlington Memorial Bridge (close to the LBJ Memorial Grove).

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Nope! It’s completely free and open to the public.

Q: Can you eat or drink there?
A: Yes — check out Island Time Bar & Grill for waterfront dining and drinks.

Q: Is it dog-friendly?
A: Absolutely. There’s plenty of open space and shaded areas.

Q: What’s parking like?
A: Free and plentiful — a major bonus in the DMV.

🌅 Ready to plan your visit?
Head to our Instagram to watch the full reel from our team event and get a closer look at this Arlington hidden gem.

👉 Check out our IG Reel for food, drinks, and Potomac views from Columbia Island Marina.

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