When it comes to beaches in and around Vancouver, we truly feel that there’s truly a beach for everyone. However, if you’re looking to do a bit of exploring, we have some beautiful ‘hidden’ beaches to toss your way that will make you wonder why you didn’t find them sooner.
So, whether you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Kits Beach or Ambleside – or just want to check out a lesser-known spot in BC, here are 7 stunning ‘hidden’ beaches to check out in and around Vancouver.
Brady’s Beach, Vancouver Island
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Just a short hike away from West Bamfield (Accessible via a $5 water taxi), Brady’s Beach is the epitome of a hidden gem. Enjoy the calm, residential vibes, gorgeous greenery, and breathtaking blue water. If you’re into tide pools and larger waves – this is definitely the spot for you.
In terms of getting there, you’ll want to walk along the marked, gravel trail from the West Bamfield dock until you see a wooden sign marked “Brady Loo.”
Where: Bamfield, BC
TÉ™mtÉ™mĂxĘ·tÉ™n/Belcarra Regional Park
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This beach (formerly called “Jug Island Beach”) is another rocky but beautiful spot – definitely worth the trek from the parking lot to the northern tip of tÉ™mtÉ™mĂxĘ·tÉ™n/Belcarra Regional Park. Although Jug Island itself is not accessible to the public, the beach faces the island and offers sweeping views of the Indian Arm.
Keep your eye out for eagles and starfish!
Where: Belcarra, BC
Secret Beach Park (Avis Hopkins Beach)
This hidden spot takes the word “secret” very seriously. Avis Hopkins Beach offers a quiet, relaxing space for locals to catch some rays and take a dip in the ocean – but we’re sure they wouldn’t mind a couple of visitors here and there. Just make sure to “read the room” and leave the heavy beach partying for another day.
Where: 131 Secret Beach Road
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Acadia Beach
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This one’s not so much a hidden beach as it is a lesser-known spot to unwind by the water – think the quieter alternative to Jericho and Spanish Banks. This UBC spot is a great place to walk around any time of year and offers sunbathers a prime area to lounge at during the warmer months. Just be cautious of the rocks, which can be very slippery when wet!
Where:Â North West Marine Drive
Kelvin Grove Beach & Marine Park
Photo via James Chen / Shutterstock
The Kelvin Grove Beach Park is the southernmost beach in the Village of Lions Bay – accessible via the Kelvin Grove exit from the Sea to Sky Highway. The beach park has an off-leash dog area with a trail that leads to natural beaches, a community garden, and a picnic area. Plus, there are washrooms, pet waste bags, and garbage/recycling – making it a great spontaneous pick.
Drop by for golden hour or a sunset dive – Kelvin Grove offers deep-sea diving for all skill levels! Underwater features to look out for include rocky coral reefs, starfish, urchins, and a sandy ledge perfect for taking a diving break.
Where: Tidewater Way, Lions Bay
Pebbly Beach, Bowen Island
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While it’s certainly not the only well-kept secret of Bowen Island’s beach scene, it’s definitely a memorable one. Pebbly Beach is just how it sounds – a cute, pebbly beach boasting gorgeous views and prime swimming conditions – just be on the lookout for boat activity.
Where: Bowen Island
Sandy Cove Park, West Vancouver
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Sandy Cove is a quaint beach tucked away between two rock headlands, perfect for stopping by for an afternoon of sunbathing or leisurely book reading. If you’re driving, head west on Marine Drive for a mile or two past Dundarave Beach until you see a small bridge and a street called Rose Crescent. Once you’ve parked, there’s a very short trail to Sandy Cove Beach.
Where: 3966 Marine Drive, West Vancouver
So there you have it, Vancouver – it’s time to discover your new favourite beach!
