Joshua ReyVancouver is a city of beaches. In fact, the city has nine beaches—eight by the ocean, and one by a freshwater lake. But in this article, we’ll explore some of the hidden beaches the city has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a new place to explore, keep reading as we take you off the beaten path to discover some of Vancouver’s lesser-known hidden beaches.
- What is the least crowded beach in Vancouver?
- Explore the Serenity at Brady’s Beach
- Unwind at Jug Island Beach
- Wander the Hidden Paths Leading to East Sooke Park
- Picnic Amidst the Picturesque Scenery of Acadia Beach
- Jog along the Tranquil Stretches of Pebbly Beach
- Capture Panoramic Views at Sandy Cove Park
- Embrace Solitude amid French Provincial Beach Park
- Embrace Solitude amid the Sands of Sombrio Beach
- Relax at China Beach and Mystic Beach
- Lounge under the Sun at Botanical Beach
What is the least crowded beach in Vancouver?
The least crowded in Vancouver is Spanish Banks. This spot is a series of beaches in Vancouver and it’s tucked along the shores of English Bay in the West Point Grey neighborhood.
Because it’s around 5 miles southwest of downtown Vancouver, Spanish Banks ends up being the least crowded and chill spot.
Explore the Serenity at Brady’s Beach
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Website: https://vancouverisland.travel/
Address: Brady’s Beach Trail, Bamfield, BC V0R 1B0, Canada
Just a quick stroll from West Bamfield, Brady’s Beach stands out as one of the prettiest spots along Vancouver Island’s rugged Pacific coastline.
It’s a bit of a hike, around 20 to 25 minutes, from the West Bamfield dock along a clear gravel trail winding through the rainforest. It’s usually pretty empty, making it perfect for surfing, kayaking, or swimming when the weather’s right.
Pro tip:
There aren’t any shops or eateries nearby, so bring along your own picnic gear if you plan on hanging out for the day.
How to Get There
Drive to the Trans-Canada Hwy ferry to Nanaimo. Take BC-19 N and BC-4 W to Franklin River Rd in Alberni-Clayoquot.
Continue driving and take Bamfield Rd to Pachena Rd. You then walk along the marked trail from the West Bamfield dock until you see a wooden sign marked “Brady Loo.”
Unwind at Jug Island Beach
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Website: http://www.metrovancouver.org
Address: Belcarra, BC, Canada
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 7am to 5pm
This scenic island situated off the northern tip of Belcarra Regional Park boasts one of the few, and arguably the most beautiful, beaches along Indian Arm. The hike to reach this beach is suitable for beginners, though not exactly a breeze.
After about an hour of walking, you’re treated to a breathtaking sight—a pristine beach tucked away along the stunning coastline.
Pro tip:
It’s a good idea to peek at the tide charts before heading out because high tides might restrict your access to some parts of the beach.
How to Get There
Head to W Georgia Street and turn right to take Prior Street to E Hastings Street. Keep driving to Ioco Road in Port Moody. Keep following Ioco Road to Bedwell Bay Rd in Belcarra.
Wander the Hidden Paths Leading to East Sooke Park
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Website: https://www.crd.bc.ca
Address: 6807 East Sooke Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 1A7, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-478-3344
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 6:30am to 10pm
This spot is truly stunning, boasting a fine sandy shore and breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains across the water. The coastal trail offers continuous vistas of the Olympics, with numerous spots along the way to pause and unwind!
The trek covers diverse terrain, winding through mixed forests, beaches, and coves, all under the backdrop of warm, sunny blue skies and a gentle ocean breeze.
Pro tip:
The trails usually have lots of edible berries along the paths so keep your eyes peeled.
How to Get There
Drive to the Trans-Canada Hwy ferry to Nanaimo. Keep driving to W Shr Pkwy in Langford. Then, continue driving on W Shr Pkwy to East Sooke Park.
Picnic Amidst the Picturesque Scenery of Acadia Beach
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Address: NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1X8, Canada
Nestled within Pacific Spirit Regional Park, Acadia Beach offers a tranquil escape in the University Endowment Lands of Canada. This secluded gem spans approximately 300 meters and features dark sand.
For a breathtaking experience, plan a visit at sunset when the sky ignites with shades of orange, providing a stunning backdrop to the ocean views.
Pro tip:
There is a cool old world war two artillery tower near the beach!
How to Get There
Drive to W Georgia Street, and turn right onto Howe Street. Stay on the right lane to take the exit towards 4th Ave W and merge onto W 4th Avenue. Turn right onto NW Marine Drive and Acadia Beach will be on the right.
Jog along the Tranquil Stretches of Pebbly Beach
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Address: Pebbly Beach, Bowen Island, BC, Canada
Tucked away in serenity, this hidden gem boasts a tranquil, secluded atmosphere and is decorated with smooth pebbles, providing mesmerizing views and ideal swimming conditions.
Conveniently located near a well-maintained trail system and featuring accessible amenities like a port-a-potty, it offers easy access for visitors.
While the activities may be minimal, the opportunity to unwind while admiring the private docks and boats is unparalleled. A brief stopover on Bowen Island, this beach is undoubtedly worth a visit for its serene charm.
Pro tip:
Be on the lookout for boat activity while you’re swimming as it can be dangerous to be in close proximity to moving vessels.
How to Get There
Drive to BC-1A N and take the Trans-Canada Hwy to Horseshoe Bay. Take the ferry and once you’re on Bowen Island, follow Bowen Island Trunk Rd, Miller Rd, Melmore Rd, to Senator PI.
Capture Panoramic Views at Sandy Cove Park
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Address: 3966 Marine Dr, West Vancouver
Contact details: +1 604-9257-200
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Sandy Cove is a beautiful beach located in West Vancouver, and it’s approximately 100 meters long and features a fine white sand.
Nestled snugly between two rocky headlands, Sandy Cove is a charming beach retreat, ideal for spending a leisurely afternoon soaking up the sun or indulging in some relaxed book reading.
Pro tip:
Parking is limited so we’d advise to arrive earlier in the day.
How to Get There
Drive toward W Georgia Street and turn left. Continue driving onto Marine Drive, and your destination will be on the left.
Embrace Solitude amid French Provincial Beach Park
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Website: https://bcparks.ca/french-beach-park/
Address: Juan de Fuca, BC V9Z 1G8, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-474-1336
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
French Provincial Beach Park is tucked on the Strait of Juan de Fuca where you get unobstructed views of the Olympic Mountains.
Accessible directly from the road, you’ll be greeted with sweeping ocean vistas, inviting spots for a refreshing ocean dip, and a grassy area perfect for picnics or simply lounging about.
There’s nothing quite as quintessentially British Columbian as waking up to the sight of gray whales passing by.
Pro tip:
Just a heads up, there’s no cell service at the campground, so it’s something to consider before you go.
How to Get There
Drive to BC-1A and take the Trans-Canada Hwy ferry to Nanaimo. Follow Trans-Canada Hwy to W Shr Pkwy in Langford. Then, drive to Juan De Fuca Hwy in Port Renfrew.
Embrace Solitude amid the Sands of Sombrio Beach
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Website: https://sooke-portrenfrew.com/listings/sombrio-beach/
Address: Sombrio Beach, Capital, BC, Canada
Sombrio Beach is a beautiful stone and sand beach nestled inside the Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. It has a gorgeous rocky beach with great cliffs and waterfalls.
At low tide, you can explore the rocky area where you can observe the mesmerizing sight of the tides rolling in. You’ll encounter an array of fascinating marine life, from mussels to other captivating tide creatures, making it a must-see experience.
Pro tip:
Boots work well for navigating the rocky shore, but flip flops are handy for trekking up the creek to reach the waterfall.
How to Get There
Take BC-99 S to Long Harbour in Delta. Take the ferry, and once you’re there, follow long Harbour Rd to Crofton. Take another ferry to Duncan, Once you’re there, take the Cowichan Valley Hwy to Sandy Cove Park.
Relax at China Beach and Mystic Beach
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Website: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks
Address: China Beach Day Use Trail, Port Renfrew, BC V0R 2N0, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
China Beach and Mystic Beach boast incredibly fine sand, making them ideal spots for swimming, especially since the shoreline doesn’t have a steep drop-off. These quiet beaches offer long stretches of fine sand, perfect for families and pets alike.
To the right, you’ll find mesmerizing curtains of water cascading down the cliffs, creating a picturesque backdrop. On the left, there’s a vast expanse of soft sand, perfect for leisurely walks along the shoreline.
Pro tip:
The campsited here operate on a 100% reservation basis, so there’s no first-come, first-served option available.
How to Get There
Take the Trans-Canada Hwy ferry to Nanaimo and follow the highway to W Shr Pkwy in Langford. Once there, follow the Juan de Fuca Hw to Waters Edge in Port Renfrew.
Lounge under the Sun at Botanical Beach
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Address: Botanical Beach, Capital, BC, Canada
Botanical Beach, situated at the northern tip of the Juan de Fuca coastline on Vancouver Island, is a stunning destination.
The hike to reach it is a delightful, easy loop trail meandering through gnarled trees, leading you to a charming little beach adorned with captivating rock formations and tide pools.
Pro tip:
At low tide, you’ll find countless tide pools teeming with fascinating sea life to observe!
How to Get There
Take the ferry to Long Harbour and drive towards Crofton. Take the ferry to Duncan. Then, take the Cowichan Valley to Parkinson Rd in Port Renfrew. Finally, drive to Cerantes Rd.
