Archie MontroseIn the summer before last, we were convinced that White Rock in Vancouver was just another coastal town. Somehow, we also thought a quick visit would be enough to capture its essence. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t.
In a determined attempt to uncover every hidden gem and local delight, we set out to explore White Rock with the curiosity of a first-time visitor. Fortunately, our discoveries were plentiful, and we’ve compiled them all in this guide.
So, for all of you craving a charming seaside adventure, we’ve got you covered. Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of White Rock, Vancouver.
Best Time to Go to White Rock, BC
The best time to go to White Rock is from mid-July to late August, when the weather is a pleasant 21°C, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities.
However, if you prefer a quieter experience and want to find budget-friendly accommodations, consider visiting in December, when fewer tourists are around.
What is White Rock, BC known for?
It holds cultural and recreational significance, offering a charming seaside escape for tourists and a vibrant, close-knit community for locals, making it a beloved destination year-round.
White Rock is known as the city’s go-to waterfront spot. It’s super popular in the summer, thanks to its stunning coastline, beaches, and pier. Plus, it boasts a bunch of trendy restaurants and cafes that visitors love.
Is White Rock, BC worth visiting?
White Rock is definitely worth a visit because it features the famous historic pier and one of BC’s best beaches. The town has a unique charm that only a seaside community can offer.
The town boasts the longest pier in Canada, making it a must-visit spot. It’s an easy walk with fantastic views. While it can get crowded, the stunning scenery makes it more than worth it.
How to Get to White Rock, BC
By car: Take Highway #99 south to Exit 8A, then head south on 152nd Street past 16th Avenue to reach the Town Centre. From the Lower Mainland, take Highway #1 east to the 152nd Street South Exit, or west to the 176th Street South Exit.
By public transit: board the Skytrain Expo Line and get off at King George station. Walk towards the King George station at Bay4 and get off at WB Thrift Ave @ Johnston Road.
By rapid transit: You can reach White Rock from Vancouver or Richmond via the Canada Line, Metro Vancouver’s rapid transit line. At Bridgeport Station in Richmond, you’ll find connecting bus services that go to White Rock.
What to Do in White Rock, BC
Search for the White Rock
Media credit: kenbuis
Address: Crescent Beach Marina, 12555 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC, V4A 2V4 Canada
Phone: 604-868-1755
If you’re wondering where the “White Rock” is,” well, it actually sits along West Beach. We’re telling you, it’s very white as the City of White Rock staff manages its upkeep.
It’s a great photo op! Standing over 4 meters tall and weighing 486 tonnes, this rock is believed to be a remnant from glaciers that retreated thousands of years ago.
Visit the Iconic White Rock Pier
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Address: Crescent Beach Marina, 12555 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC, V4A 2V4 Canada
Phone: 604-868-1755
White Rock Pier offers a picturesque stroll beside the ocean. As Canada’s longest boardwalk, it boasts sturdy, recently installed boards that ensure a stable walk without sway.
Don’t forget to glance down to spot red starfish clinging to the pier supports in the water! You’ll also find charming restaurants and shops dotted along the way, adding to the pier’s allure
Go Whale Watching
Address: Crescent Beach Marina, 12555 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC, V4A 2V4 Canada
Phone: 604-868-1755
For an exciting whale watching experience, head to the end of White Rock Pier and look for White Rock Sea Tours & Whale Watching.
They offer engaging trips to the Gulf and San Juan Islands, where you can observe whales in their natural habitat.
These tours provide opportunities to spot southern resident and transient Orcas, as well as Humpback Whales.
You’ll also have the chance to explore the San Juan Islands and even stop at Poets Cove for a late afternoon lunch, adding to the adventure and enjoyment of your day.
Walk along East Beach
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Address: Crescent Beach Marina, 12555 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC, V4A 2V4 Canada
Phone: 604-868-1755
East Beach stretches for miles, especially when the tide is out, offering a tranquil atmosphere compared to West Beach with ample parking outside of the parkade.
It boasts scenic walking paths and is an ideal spot to catch breathtaking sunsets. Adjacent to the train tracks, the passing trains add a fun element to the experience.
The views are spectacular throughout the day, and as evening falls, the small white lights in the trees create a magical atmosphere.
Stroll the White Rock Promenade
Media credit: _journey.lucie
Address: Crescent Beach Marina, 12555 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC, V4A 2V4 Canada
Phone: 604-868-1755
White Rock’s promenade spans nearly 8km along the beach, offering a perfect route for a leisurely stroll to soak in the sights and sounds of the area.
You’ll find benches for relaxing, scenic viewpoints, and lovely walkways along the beaches. During summertime, this is our go-to spot.
On sunny days, this place is a must-visit, whether it’s winter or summer. Take a stroll along the beach, breathe in the fresh air, and catch a glimpse of Mount Baker in the distance. It’s a breathtaking experience year-round.
Where to Stay near White Rock, BC
Ocean Promenade Hotel
Address: 5611 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1E1, Canada
Phone: +1 888-976-2326
Pricing: $$
Opened in 2003, the Ocean Promenade Hotel is the best choice if you’d like to be so near to the White Rock Pier, you’re basically steps away.
The rooms and suites here feature high-thread-count sheets, pillow-top mattresses and bathrooms with heated floors. Quite fancy if you ask us.
The hotel is conveniently located directly across from the beach, offering stunning sunset views. It’s also just a 15-minute walk to the White Rock pier, making it an ideal location for visitors.
Best Western Peace Arch Inn
Address: 2293 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V4A 5A4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-541-8100
Pricing: $
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The Best Western Peace Inn boasts a prime location, nestled in the heart of the city, which provides easy access to White Rock, which is only a 6-minute drive. Breakfast is included, and there’s a bathroom across the hall.
The hotel also features amenities like a sauna, hot tub, and a small pool. Please note that while some rooms are pet-friendly, not all are, as the hotel caters to both guests with pets and those with allergies.
Best Western King George Inn & Suites
Address: 8033 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3W 5B4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-502-9000
Pricing: $
While it’s not exactly very close to White Rock, the Best Western King George Inn & Suites is your best bet if you’re looking for an accommodation that’s in the middle of Vancouver and White Rock.
Complimentary amenities include parking and breakfast. Guests can also enjoy an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center, along with access to a business center and guest laundry facilities.
Where to Eat near White Rock, BC
Uli’s Restaurant
Address: 15023 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-538-9373
Pricing: $$
We’re not typically big on burgers, but Uli’s Restaurant has completely won us over with their award-winning burgers. We’d definitely return just for those.
The schnitzel oscar was also tasty, though we wished there was a bit more sauce; the bottom piece of schnitzel didn’t get enough hollandaise.
The Ocean Beach Crafts, Drafts & Eats
Address: 14995 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-385-9977
Pricing: $$
This sunny spot in the heart of White Rock offers a fantastic beer selection and creative cocktails. Ocean Beach is the go-to spot for classic grub.
Their cocktails, fries, and burgers are a must-try with beach views! The patio seats provide an excellent vantage point for enjoying the scenery. The oversized California stone was also deliciously sweet and satisfying.
Charlie Don’t Surf
Address: 15011 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-538-1988
Pricing: $$
Charlie Don’t Surf has been a fixture on the White Rock strip. The calamari is of the best we’ve ever had, as was the ahi tuna bowl.
We highly recommend Charlie Don’t Surf for the food, service, location, and fabulously interesting interior decor. Great view of the ocean as you enjoy drinks and a bite to eat in the laid back atmosphere.
MKR Kitchen & Bar
Address: 15019 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-385-1663
Pricing: $$
At MKR Kitchen & Bar, you’ll find a delightful blend of Nepali and Western cuisine, featuring authentic homemade ingredients in their dishes.
We tried a spread including Shrimp Chow Mein, Chilli Chicken Momos, Fish & Chips, and Masala Chai. The food was delicious, and they accommodate varying spice preferences—just ask to adjust the heat levels to suit your taste.
ONYX Steakhouse
Address: 1225 Johnston Rd, White Rock, BC V4B 3Y8, Canada
Phone: +1 604-542-0334
Pricing: $$
True to its name, ONYX Steakhouse focuses on steaks, particularly the finest, never frozen, 40-day-aged Angus Signature Reserve beef.
During our visit, we savored the 40-day dry-aged Petite Filet Mignon accompanied by grilled polenta, crispy onion rings, and lobster mac and cheese.
The beef was cooked perfectly, showcasing rich flavors from the aging process, while the onion rings were delightfully crispy, and the mac and cheese was enjoyable.
FIVE Kitchen & Oyster Bar
Address: 15047 Marine Dr, White Rock, BC V4B 1C5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-538-8153
Pricing: $$
Five is a must-visit spot in White Rock, offering a charming location overlooking the pier. We enjoyed some of the freshest oysters here.
We highly recommend trying the lobster benedict and seafood linguine. While a bit on the pricey side, the dining experience was very pleasant and comfortable.
West Beach Bar & Grill
Address: 1101 Elm St, White Rock, BC V4B 3R9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-541-7655
Pricing: $$
The menu at this place offers a wide range of affordable choices and is perfect for enjoying live bands on weekends.
We highly recommend the seafood platter, which is packed with fresh and flavorful seafood. The meat dishes are also exceptional, particularly the grilled steak, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Apps to Download for a Trip to White Rock
PayByPhone: pay for parking in White Rock with ease and convenience using the PayByPhone app.
iOs | Android
Vancouver Transit Live: search and view live updates of Vancouver’s bus schedules coming to the stops near you.
OpenTable: make restaurant reservations, read reviews from customers, and earn points to redeem discounts and free meals.
Alertable: emergency alerts for facilities, roads, parks, schools, various municipal services, pandemics, fires, floods, severe weather and other hazards.
