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The 10 Best Beaches in Vancouver for That Much-Needed Vitamin Sea
“Today drained me” might just be my go-to phrase this entire week. Honestly, I feel like Garfield on a Monday, but every day feels like Monday, except for Friday (which actually feels like Friday).
After breaking free from a stuffy office and soaking up way too much laptop radiation, I figured a little sunshine and sea breeze might just fix me. Enter: the beaches. A dose of vitamin D, a soft stretch of sand, and the sound of waves? Yes, please.
So, if you’re craving that quick city escape (without actually leaving the city), here are the best beaches in Vancouver to reset your soul.
English Bay Beach
Media from james_hatheway
Address: Beach Ave
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 10 PM
Website
You’ve probably heard of this one, or the locals told you about it—English Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver, especially since it sits at the edge of downtown. It’s neat that it has a designated swimming area with lifeguards on duty.
You’ll often see beach volleyball games going on. Plus, the seawall (ocean path front) runs right past the beach, so you can easily stroll, cycle, or skate through without a hitch.
And just a short walk from the sand is the A-maze-ing Laughter sculpture. It’s this quirky and much-photographed public art piece made up of giant figures in fits of laughter.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning to visit on a weekend, arrive before noon to find a good spot—it fills up quickly, especially if the sun’s out. And consider biking or taking the bus since they have a bike rack by the beach and several bus route stops nearby.
Kitsilano Beach (Kits Beach)
Address: 1499 Arbutus St
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 10 PM
Website
Kitsilano Beach, or Kits Beach, as the locals call it, is like the Sporty Spice of beaches in the city since it has tons of recreational facilities. Think volleyball courts, basketball courts, a playground, and a large grassy area perfect for picnics or tossing a frisbee.
But it’s not to be taken away from the sandy beach itself; it has a swimming area with lifeguards, the water is cool but refreshing, and it’s usually great for wading or floating on a paddleboard. And one of the highlights here is the Kitsilano Pool, a massive, heated outdoor saltwater pool.
If you’re up for some snacks or drinks, there are cafes, juice bars, and casual restaurants just up the hill. That said, this beach is especially popular with people in their 20s and 30s who come to hang out on the grass or play volleyball.
Pro tip:
It’s a good idea to bring a towel and a blanket since the grassy area is also as good as the sand to lounge around. Also, if you’re driving, try to park early or look for side-street parking near the residential area.
Jericho Beach
Media from wabi_sabi_exchange
Address: 3941 Point Grey Rd
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM – 10 PM
Website
Compared to popular beaches like English Bay, Jericho Beach is a bit more low-key. Although it’s still a hit for families, nature lovers, and people looking for a more peaceful beach day, with lots of space to spread out and breathe.
You can even expect to spot wildlife like herons, eagles, and rabbits around the beach and nearby park areas. All the basics are also covered, like washrooms, change rooms, water fountains, picnic tables, and a concession stand that operates in the summer.
Not to mention, the nearby Jericho Sailing Centre is a hub for paddleboarding, windsurfing, dinghy sailing, and kayaking. You can get rentals and lessons, so it’s a great place to try a water sport—even if you’re a beginner.
Pro tip:
Since Jericho is nestled in the Point Grey area and not far from the University of British Columbia, you can also stop by places like the Museum of Anthropology or Pacific Spirit Park.
Wreck Beach
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Address: SW Marine Dr
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 7 AM to dusk
Website
You’ll be seeing moons on this beach even during the day since Wreck Beach is Canada’s largest (and most famous) clothing-optional beach. It’s a judgment-free zone that celebrates body positivity, and many visitors go nude, though you don’t have to.
What’s nice about this place is that it’s tucked below the cliffs of UBC, so it feels like you’ve escaped the city completely. Plus, there’s no urban development in sight, just dense coastal forest, tall bluffs, and a long, wild stretch of sand—perfect for “feeling” the breeze.
And quick heads-up: getting there is part of the experience since you’ll descend around 500 wooden steps from the top of the bluff to reach the beach. The stairs are steep but well-maintained—they’d count as your workout for the day!
Pro tip:
Note that there are no official lifeguards, and amenities are minimal: no permanent washrooms or concession stands. So, bring water, snacks, and anything you need for your stay.
Second Beach
Media from madelinehait
Address: Stanley Park Dr
Contact details: 604-257-8371
Opening hours: N/A
Website
You can find Second Beach on the western edge of Stanley Park, near the West End, but slightly off the main tourist path. We quickly noticed how popular this beach is with families, thanks to its calm water, safe swimming zone, and nearby playground.
One of the main attractions here is the Second Beach Pool, a heated outdoor pool with a beachfront view. What’s neat is that it has shallow sections for kids, lap lanes for adults, and a gently sloping entry, making it ideal for all ages.
The entire family can enjoy the well-equipped playground and open grassy spaces with picnic tables and BBQ pits. If you’re low on snacks, there’s a small but handy concession near the beach and pool that sells items like fries, ice cream, and cold drinks.
Pro tip:
The Seawall path runs right past the beach, making it easy to cycle, walk, or skate in from other parts of Stanley Park or downtown. It’s a great stopping point if you’re doing the full Seawall loop.
Sunset Beach Park
Media from m1iikan
Address: 1204 Beach Ave
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday: 6 AM – 10 PM
Website
True to its name, Sunset Beach Park is a great spot to catch the sunset. It’s the more peaceful option near downtown since there are fewer crowds than in English Bay, but just as easy to access.
It also has shallow and calm waters that are easy for wading or paddleboarding. While not as popular for swimming, they still have lifeguards patrolling during the peak hours.
But the real magic happens in early spring when the cherry blossom trees bloom throughout the park area behind the beach and along the Seawall.
Pro tip:
For a low-key evening experience, you can bring a picnic or grab takeout from nearby Davie Street and enjoy dinner with a sunset view.
Ambleside Beach
Media from mark_big_dog_janzen
Address: Argyle Ave, West Vancouver
Contact details: +1 604-925-7275
Opening hours: 24/7
Website
Ambleside Beach is situated at the waterfront in West Vancouver (about 21 minutes from downtown). It’s just across the Lions Gate Bridge, so you’ll see Stanley Park and freighters anchored in English Bay.
Just a block up from the beach, you’ll find coffee shops, bakeries, and local boutiques along Marine Drive, great for grabbing food or browsing after some tanning.
Nature lovers will also love this place since it’s a fantastic spot for birdwatching; you might see herons, eagles, and even seals offshore. And if you time it right, you might reach the cherry blossom trees blooming around early spring.
Pro tip:
Keep in mind that parking is free, but it can easily fill up on sunny weekends, so arriving early in the day is your best bet for a stress-free visit.
Spanish Banks Beach
Media from virtual_rob
Address: Metro Vancouver
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
Website
Spanish Banks Beach is a long stretch of sandy shores along the edge of Pacific Spirit Park. The views you’ll get from here are breathtaking—you’re looking straight across the water to downtown Vancouver with the North Shore Mountains behind it.
Here’s a cool fact: at low tide, water recedes dramatically, revealing huge tidal flats where you can even walk far out and explore marine life. It’s also a fun time for beachcombing, wading, and spotting crabs and sea stars.
We also love that volleyball nets are available, and there’s ample room for Frisbee, soccer, and lounging. Even your furbabies can have fun since it has an off-leash dog area.
Pro tip:
Spanish Banks is split into East, West, and Extension sections. East is more active and social, West is a bit quieter, and the Extension (further west) is often used by kiteboarders and dog walkers, so you’ve got options.
Locarno Beach
Media from alextnphotography
Address: Stanley Park Seawall
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: N/A
Website
If you’re after something quiet, like we’re talking about no loud music, parties, or large amplified events, then Locarno Beach is a solid choice. That’s why it draws in families, couples, and people who want a relaxing spot to read, nap, or enjoy a slow picnic.
This beach is sandwiched between two of Vancouver’s beaches, Jericho and Spanish Banks. So, you’ll get beautiful surroundings and easy access, minus the high foot traffic.
As for the facilities, Locarno Beach has volleyball courts and nice green spaces for lawn games. Just above the sand is a wide, tree-lined grassy zone, complete with picnic tables and BBQ pits.
Also, the beach itself is sandy and relatively flat, and the water stays shallow for quite a distance out, so it’s ideal for wading or just soaking your feet.
Pro tip:
Pack a good amount of snacks since the area doesn’t have a lot of commercial activity nearby. If you want the quietest time, aim for a weekday evening or early weekend morning.
Third Beach
Media from ingles180canada
Address: Ferguson Point, Stanley Park
Contact details: N/A
Opening hours: 24/7
Website
Third Beach sounds like a spot that doesn’t exist, but it does, and it looks like a hidden escape. You see, it’s surrounded by thick forest on one side and open ocean on the other, giving the beach a peaceful, almost untouched feel despite being right in the city.
Given its low-key location, the sand here is soft and clean, with shallow water that’s good for a casual swim or dip to cool off. The waves are gentle, and the lack of wind makes it comfortable even on breezy days.
Even though it feels remote, the beach is still patrolled by lifeguards during the warmer months. You can also find washrooms and basic amenities, but there aren’t any food vendors, so come prepared.
Pro tip:
You can only get to Third Beach by walking or biking, either from the Stanley Park Seawall or through one of the trails in the park.
