Love being out on the water at all times during the summer? This list is for you – and while you’ve likely tried your hand at multiple of these water sports & activities around Vancouver, it never hurts to make the most of our beautiful province and head somewhere new. So with that in mind, here are 10 of the best adventures you can have on (or in) the water in BC this summer.
Rent some kayaks & paddleboards
We’re starting off with something that should be on everyone’s summer bucket list regardless of experience level is kayaking, as our province boasts some of the best kayaking, canoeing, and paddling options in the country. Whether you want to hit the water closer to Vancouver, or are ready to venture off to a BC park you’ve not yet explored, you’ve got plenty of options – from ocean kayaking to days on the lake.
Where: See our picks above
Big Splash Water Park
Relaxing by the poolside with a drink in our hands is our absolute favourite way of going through summer. And if this poolside comes with a gigantic pool, a hot pool, some great slides and a whole lot of tanning space, even better! Big Splash Water Slide Park is officially open for the summer season.
When: Open for the season
Where: 4775 Nulelum Way, Tsawwassen, BC
Cost: $37 for GA
Cultus Lake Waterpark
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Cultus Lake Waterpark is filled with waterslides, themed tunnels and pools, lazy rivers, and even hot tubs for the whole family to enjoy. Whether you want to lounge at one of the 150+ picnic areas and let the kids splash around “Pirates’ Cove” or “Tots Castle,” or do some splashing yourself on the waterpark’s “Tubular Terror,” there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy here.
When: Open for the season
Where: 4150 Columbia Valley Highway, Cultus Lake
Cost: $21-$34
Rent some jet skis at Cultus Lake
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Speaking of Cultus Lake, if jet skis are more your vibe, we suggest renting a couple of Yamaha Wave Runner Jet Skis, or relaxing on the water with one of their powerboats, which seat up to 11 people. Best of all? No boating license required!
They also have their unique Jetovators and Freedom Flyer Chairs available to rent!
When: Open for the season
Where: #50 Sunnyside Boulevard, Cultus Lake
Cost: $60+ per jet ski
Harrison Lake Inflatable Water Park
Created by Harrison Watersports, the Harrison Lake Inflatable Water Park is a sprawling ‘funstravaganza’ on the lake. Featuring trampolines, swings, slides and a whole lot more, the waterpark will have all guests feeling like a kid again – no matter their age.
When: Open for the season
Where: Harrison Lake, BC
Cost: $39.99 for GA
Go scuba diving
Come rain or shine, scuba diving is the perfect activity in any kind of weather. In case you’re wondering, water temperatures in BC range from 9 to 15C in the summer – totally doable with a solid wetsuit.
In addition to diving activities and courses at the International Diving Centre on Arbutus and Rowand’s Reef, here are some stunning local dive spots and marine-protected sanctuaries to check out:
- Whytecliff Park and Lookout Point
- Porteau Cove and The Nakaya
- Ansel Point – Howe Sound
- Caulfield Cove – North Shore
Try cliff jumping
B.C. is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls and cliffs in the country. Whether you go with The Circuit at Lynn Canyon (perfect for beginners), jump into Lions Bay at sunset, or take the plunge into Deep Cove – you’re sure to have a blast.
Before you dive, be sure to drop a stone into the water to see where it lands. You’ll want to start cliff jumping from a lower altitude and work your way to higher altitudes – if you feel like raising the stakes. Be sure to go with experienced cliff divers if this is your first time!
Check out some of these popular and lesser-known spots for cliff diving:
- Whytecliff Park – near Horseshoe Bay
- Green Lake
- Capilano Granny’s Cove
- Brohm Lake
- Lighthouse Park (up to a 60 feet/18.2-meter drop!)
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Go on an Indigenous-led water-based tour
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A great way to experience BC’s natural beauty is through guided cultural tours – specifically ones that are Indigenous-led. What’s more, water-based activities like kayaking and canoeing represent a way to form deeper connections to the land in many Indigenous communities, and there are plenty of exciting eco-tours across BC to choose from.
Where: See our picks above
Go on a waterfall hike
It goes without saying that BC is home to some of the most scenic hikes in the country – but there happen to be some particularly striking waterfalls you can check out on many of them!
Where: Click the link above for more info
Go surfing or skimboarding
Catch a couple of waves on Vancouver Island for the real west coast experience this summer. Although Tofino is a popular choice, there are also surfing options around Jordan River, Raft Cove, and Nootka Island that are definitely worth exploring. Put on your wetsuit and enjoy BC’s cool, clear waters this summer – it’s going to be an extra hot one!
Those who go north to Haida Gwaii or Sombrio Beach are rewarded with wilderness surfing experiences – accompanied by stretches of pristine beaches, practically untouched by tourists.
So there you have it, BC! If you enjoy being out on the water (or in!), you’ve got some exciting water adventures here to get you started.
