Beaching

Vancouver is no Hawaii, but that doesn’t stop us from hitting the local beaches. From Spanish Banks beach (by UBC) to West Vancouver’s tiny sandy coves, there are some wonderful sandy spots that are also great for swimming in summer.

It’s hard to say which the most popular beaches are - there are a handful of larger beaches that are all quite popular. Spanish Banks is popular with the students and those in the Point Gray area. Kitsilano is popular with the downtown chics. English Bay is popular for the West Enders. Third Beach (in Stanley Park) is popular for families . Ambleside (West Vancouver) is popular for all residents on the North Shore.

The hottest bods can be found at Kits on a summer day. There is volley ball on a number of the beaches - though it is dominated by beach bums much of the time when the weather is good. Consider your tanning angles and how the sun moves during the day - it can help you pick your beach. West Vancouver is easiest to get early and mid day sun. Spanish Banks through English Bay will get the later day sun as dusk settles. Wind and tide is another consideration. Spanish Banks can get plenty of wind and be hit by a low tide - it can make an unpleasant day if it’s not what you were looking for.