Beaches In Vancouver

Part of our Vancouver guide.

Vancouver’s best beaches include Kitsilano Beach, English Bay Beach, and Jericho Beach, each offering sand, water, and mountain views. These are the main urban beaches within the city limits, with lifeguards in summer and easy access from downtown.

Exploring Gastown And Granville Island In Vancouver, Canada

Gastown, in the heart of Vancouver, is a historic neighborhood with cobblestone streets and Victorian architecture. It is home to the steam clock, which chimes every 15 minutes. Granville Island, a short walk or ferry ride across False Creek, features a public market, artisan shops, and a brewery district. Together, these two areas offer a compact introduction to the city’s history and local food scene, and they are part of any epic one week travel itinerary and guide to Vancouver. To plan your visit, check what to expect from Vancouver's weather during your stay, as rain is common from October through March.

Coastal British Columbia

Have you ever heard of the wild salal groves in Coastal British Columbia? Nestled among towering trees and lush greenery, the groves provide a serene escape from the city. The salal plant, with its dark green leaves and edible berries, thrives in this coastal environment. Exploring these groves, you might encounter diverse wildlife, from birds to small mammals.

Beaches In Vancouver

Kitsilano Beach (Kits Beach) is the most popular, with a large grassy park, volleyball courts, and a heated outdoor pool open from May to September. English Bay Beach, near the West End, is the city’s central beach, lined with the Seawall and close to the Denman Street restaurants. Jericho Beach, farther west, offers a quieter setting with a sailing club and views of the North Shore mountains. All three have public washrooms, concession stands, and are free to access. For a full list of highlights in Vancouver, including beaches, parks, and neighborhoods, see our main guide. The best time to swim is July and August, when water temperatures reach 18°C (64°F) and air temperatures average 22°C (72°F).

Getting Around

The Seawall connects most beaches from Stanley Park to Kitsilano, making it easy to walk or cycle between them. Bus routes 2, 4, and 7 serve Kitsilano and Jericho, while English Bay is a 10-minute walk from the Burrard Street SkyTrain station. Parking is limited and paid at all beaches, with rates around $3 per hour. If you are planning a longer trip, consider our epic one week travel itinerary and guide to Vancouver, which includes beach days, Gastown, and Granville Island.

When To Go

Summer (June to September) is the peak season for beachgoing, with lifeguards on duty daily and water temperatures warmest in August. Spring and fall are cooler but less crowded, and the beaches remain open year-round for walking and picnics. Winter storms can bring high waves, so check conditions before swimming. For more on timing, read about what to expect from Vancouver's weather throughout the year.