8 spots to soak up the spring sun in Vancouver

Dec 20 2017, 5:00 am

Spring is upon us and so is gorgeous, sunny weather. Temperatures are rising, winter coats are being stored away, and sunscreen is being swept off store shelves – it’s time to get outside and enjoy the warmth after a wet winter.

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But where to go? Vancouver has no shortage of stunning spots to spend an afternoon soaking up some vitamin D. Here’s a roundup of the city’s best spots to bask in the glorious sun.

English Bay

What: Vancouver’s quintessential urban beach was recently named one of the world’s top 50 beaches by The Guardian, and with chair and umbrella rentals possibly on the way this summer, it makes for an obvious choice.

Where: Beach Avenue between Gilford and Bidwell Streets, Vancouver

Get there: Take the number 6 Davie Street bus until you hit Denman Street, or just walk if you already happen to be downtown.

Third Beach

#Vancouver #thirdbeach #seawall A photo posted by Robert Kemp (@robertwkemp) on

What: A little jaunt down the seawall will take you straight to Third Beach, where the cool kids hang out. Young adults tend to frequent Third Beach rather than families, and barbecues are allowed there. Bonus: every Tuesday there’s a drum circle from 5:30 to 10 p.m.

Get there: Start from English Bay and walk along the seawall for 10 to 15 minutes.

Whytecliff Park

What: This park in West Vancouver not only has stunning views, it has a secluded feel. Located just off Marine Drive, Whytecliff Park offers some great sunbathing spots with very little hiking required – plus you might spot a sea lion or two.

Where: 7120 Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Get there: Either follow Marine Drive for the more scenic route, or take Highway 1 westbound, getting off at exit 2 for Eagleridge Drive. You can also catch the 257 bus from downtown.

Lighthouse Park

Sun rays for days #beautifulbc #lighthousepark A photo posted by Courtney Leigh (@crossedthe_line) on

What: Recently featured on our list of easy hikes for lazy people, Lighthouse Park offers ocean views, short, easy trails, and perfectly scenic picnic spots.

Where: Beacon Lane, just off Marine Drive, West Vancouver

Get there: Just a 40 minute drive from downtown, or take the 250 bus.

Queen Elizabeth Park

#queenelizabethpark #vancouver #sunnyday

A photo posted by ???? (@laurazzh) on

What: The 52-hectare park is Vancouver’s highest point at 152 metres above sea level. It’s also home to the Bloedel Conservatory and is a perfect spot for botanical garden enthusiasts to worship the sun.

Where: Cambie Street and West 33rd Avenue, Vancouver

Get there: Drive up Cambie Street until you hit 33rd Avenue, or take the Canada Line to King Edward or Oakridge-41st.

David Lam Park

#davidlampark A photo posted by (@bettiebisson) on

What: Located in the heart of Yaletown, David Lam Park is the ultimate grassy, urban getaway along the seawall. Many apartment dwellers bring their pets here to stretch their legs with a game of frisbee, or just lay a blanket on the immense green space to have a relaxing afternoon.

Where: 1300 Pacific Boulevard, Vancouver

Get there: It’s an easy walk if you’re already downtown, or take the Canada Line to Yaletown-Roundhouse.

Jericho Beach

What: Jericho appeals to both lazy beach goers and active ones. Choose from playing fields, tennis courts, or swimming in the ocean, or just roll out a mat and lay there. It’s up to you. Jericho is accessible, too, with two beach wheelchairs available for rent.

Where: 3941 Point Grey Road, Vancouver

Get there: Drive 15 minutes from downtown or take the 084 towards UBC.

Crab Park

A beautiful crisp day in #Vancouver at #crabpark #veryvancouver #sunshine #spring #happyeaster A photo posted by Suzanne Rushton (@feelingphotosuz) on

What: A dog-friendly park complete with a playground, a beach, a gazebo, and docks, with beautiful North Shore mountain views. Located conveniently near Gastown, right next to the City of Vancouver’s Port.

Where: 101 East Waterfront Road, Vancouver

Get there: Walk to Alexander and Main Streets and take the overpass on Main.

DH Vancouver StaffDH Vancouver Staff

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