The concentration of heavy metals in the surface sediment and core samples in the northern part of the Liaodong Bay were systematically analyzed with X-ray fluorescence spectrometer(XRF), and the distribution pattern, environment quality and pollution history of heavy metals in surface sediments were studied in combination with 137Cs and 210Pb dating. The results show that the high values of As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Cr and Zn are distributed near the Huludao, and decrease off shore. Some stations in the Liaodong Bay were polluted by heavy metals, the sum of mild and severe pollution rate is 34.5%, with 65.5% remaining clean. Severely polluted stations are distributed around the Huludao water. The pollution of heavy metals in the Liaodong Bay is obviously related to the coastal socio-economic development and a national environmental protection policy is required to ensure a safe and clean environment.