A very hot summer this year, fantastic for outdoor activities and visiting water destinations such as beaches, lakes, falls and rivers that closely surround Vancouver.
Vancouver can be a very attractive city, but the best features are its natural settings. Beautiful trails to hike, featuring creeks and rivers plus beaches and lakes for canoeing, kayaking and just relaxing.
The ocean front in Vancouver is really calm, as it is surrounded with islands, so there are no significant waves and is generally shallow. Most of the coast line is rocky bordered with pebbles and tree trunks. However, there are a few nice sandy beaches described below.
Probably, the most trendy beach is Kitsilano, across the Burrard Bridge from downtown Vancouver. Is on the west side and has an immense 137 m. pool! It has multiple volley ball nets and a playground.
It's quite popular with young people and is usually full every day. The downside is that is not easy to park being in middle of the city and one of the most coveted neighbourhoods. (City of Vancouver image)
Second Beach, Third Beach and English Bay in Downtown Vancouver are also very popular beaches, as they are flanked by the seawall where bikers, runners and skaters are passing constantly and stop to soak up some sun. They are located in Stanley Park shores. These beaches are usually packed with tourists, as they are in the heart of the city. Second Beach has also a huge 80 m. pool and English Bay is bordered by residential buildings and great restaurants of every type.
There are two main beaches in the North Shore that are in West Vancouver: Ambleside, close to Park Royal Mall. This beach has a park and playground behind, making it super attractive to combine some outdoor sports and the beach. There is a huge well kept grass area were is very safe for kids to enjoy playing and running.
Ambleside also has an exclusive dog park, where you see dogs diving in the sea to fetch balls or sticks. Dundarave, further to the west, is in a more residential area. It is a smaller beach, but it is more private and has a fine restaurant beside it, the Beach House. A bit pricey, but totally worth it.
One of my favourite beaches is Spanish Banks in West Point Grey. It is a more secluded beach surrounded by trees, in the skirts of UBC (University of British Columbia) residential area. it’s one of the largest sandy beaches where you will see Volleyball action in the late afternoon during the summer. It is filled with students and young people living close to the university.(Wikipedia image)
Vancouver is becoming one of the most attractive cities to visit and live. Many eco attractions, businesses and new developments which draws more people into the city.
Check our calendar availability whenever you are planning to visit.
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