Howdy folks! With the weather heating up, we thought that now is a great time to revisit our guide of the beaches around Vancouver. This time around, we’re expanding the list to include a few more picks outside the city. You know, just in case you want to make a day trip.
Here are 10 amazing beaches around Vancouver.
KITSILANO BEACH
Everyone’s been here, so it’s no secret that Kits is the perfect place to kick back with friends. With BBQ space and off-leash dog areas, you can easily make a whole day of it out here. Also, the pool’s totally worth getting pruny in (just make sure you reserve your spot ahead of time).
Where: Cornwall Ave at the north end of Yew St
WRECK BEACH
Want to let your pale bits see the light? Trail on down the windy stairs and shed your clothes as you go. This clothing-optional spot is a favourite among anyone wanting to really even out the tan. Expect buskers and vendors to pop by. Don’t ever think that buying juice naked on the beach loses its shine. It doesn’t.
Where: 6344 University Blvd
JERICHO BEACH
A favourite among the sports crowd, expect to catch a game of beach volleyball while you bask here. Bring your balls and bats and enjoy some sports before retiring to the sand. There’s more than enough space to spread out for a picnic after.
Where: 3941 Point Grey Rd
ENGLISH BAY
This beach is so popular because it’s super central. No need to walk a million miles in those questionable flip flops to find paradise! The sunsets are killer, so make sure you stay through the evening. There’s plenty of dining options in the area if you’re feeling a little peckish post-kayak.
Where: Beach Ave between Gilford St and Bidwell St
SECOND BEACH
This spot’s a classic for a few reasons. Firstly, you’ve got plenty of BBQ room, a playground for the kiddos so they’re not tempted to take out their boredom by eating kelp, and a heated pool. Yep, that’s right- you can swim so close it feels like the ocean, without feeling too much like the ocean. Nice!
Where: Stanley Park Dr & North Lagoon Dr
…AND ALSO THIRD BEACH
If the crowds of Second Beach aren’t your thing, wander along the Stanley Park Seawall to this quieter option. It’s secluded and tree-lined, perfect for a beach date night or wallowing in your loneliness. Not that we’d know.
Where: Seawall off Stanley Park Dr
AMBLESIDE BEACH
Feel like getting out of the city? Well then, you can escape to West Van for this one. Ambleside has got two solid bonuses in our eyes. First, it offers a new vista of the Vancouver skyline. And second, there’s a huge off-leash area that includes beach access, if you want to bring your pup.
Where: Ambleside Park, West Vancouver
DUNDARAVE BEACH
Another West Van gem. We’re suggesting Dundarave Beach for all of the walkers out there. Sure everyone has been around the Seawall, but how many people do you know who have done the Centennial Seawalk? It might be only a couple of kilometres, but it’s worth every step.
Where: Dundarave Park, West Vancouver
CATES PARK
Located in Deep Cove, Cates Park is loaded with beaches and trails. Rather than spend your day here, we’re suggesting it as a great way to enjoy a picnic or some local takeout while you explore the area. There’s Quarry Rock of course, but there are also a ton of amenities in the park itself!
Where: Deep Cove, North Vancouver
TROUT LAKE
We don’t know many people who would pick a lake over the ocean, but they must be out there. And for those of us who would, our first pick is Trout Lake. We think you should head down on a Saturday so you can take advantage of the farmers market that goes down.
Where: John Hendry Park, Vancouver
And that’s our list of 10 beaches around Vancouver that you can explore! Now get out there and go make the best of the next sunny day, folks!
