7 beaches in Metro Vancouver perfect for a summer dip
We wait all year for summer in Vancouver to finally take advantage of our beautiful beaches. Whether you’re looking for a private sandy nook to call your own or you want to surround yourself with vibrant sun-seekers – there’s a Metro Vancouver swimming beach for everyone on this list.
Of course, it’s BC, so don’t expect the water to be warm. Still, on a hot day, the water is inviting! Put a dip in the ocean or a lake on your summer must-do list right now.
Swimming beaches in Metro Vancouver
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1. Cates Park
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This hidden beach has a small sandy shore and fantastic views. You will not find it to be crowded here, and you’ll have plenty of space to set up for a fantastic beach day.
- Distance from downtown: 30 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: Yes, from downtown, take the 211 or 212 bus and get off at Dollarton Highway.
Where: 4141 Dollarton Highway, North Vancouver
2. təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park
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Explore the trails in the park and then chill on the beach at təmtəmíxʷtən/Belcarra Regional Park.
- Distance from downtown: One hour
- Accessible by public transit: Yes, from Moody Station, take the 182 Belcarra bus.
Where: 2375 Bedwell Bay Road, Belcarra
3. Whytecliff Park
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Get to Whytecliff super early if you want a chance of finding parking. But you’ll get such a big payoff if you set up here first thing and spend a day on its sparkling shores.
- Distance from downtown: 25 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: No
Where: 7120 Marine Drive, West Vancouver
4. Spanish Banks
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While nearby Jericho and Locarno beaches are popular picks, if you’re looking for more privacy while you take a dip, keep going and check out Spanish Banks instead. Watch out for the tide because it can go out pretty far.
- Distance from downtown: 20 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: Take any bus along West 4th Avenue and get off at Tolmie Street. Walk 10 minutes down to the beach.
Where: Northwest Marine Drive and Tolmie Street, Vancouver
5. Wreck Beach
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Wreck Beach is a whole vibe, so expect lots of folks out having beach fun on its shores. If you’ve never been to the infamous clothing-optional beach, it’s worth checking out at least once. There’s no better place to take your clothes off for an au naturel swim.
- Distance from downtown: 25 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: Take any bus to UBC (#4, #44, #99, etc.) and get off at the bus loop. Walk to Northwest Marine Drive and University Boulevard, find the stairs and walk down to the beach.
Where: Northwest Marine Drive, University of British Columbia, Vancouver
6. Alouette Lake
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If you prefer to take a dip in a lake to the ocean, then this spot in Golden Ears Provincial Park is a good pick. This park is extremely busy, so you must get here early for a good spot, but it’ll be worth it.
- Distance from downtown: One hour, 20 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: No
Where: Golden Ears Parkway, Maple Ridge
7. Hadden Beach
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This dog-friendly beach in Kitsilano, right by the Maritime Museum and close to Kits Beach, is great for taking a sunset dip with your furry friend.
- Distance from downtown: 15 minutes
- Accessible by public transit: Yes, Take the #2 Bus and get off at Cornwall Avenue, walk five minutes down Chestnut Street to the beach.
Where: End of Chestnut Street, Vancouver
With files from Daily Hive Staff
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