by Evan Elder
Summer is a great time to be a UBC resident! For the first time in months, the rainclouds peel away, the sun comes out, and Vancouver turns from an urban rainforest into the stunning coastal city that the brochures promised us.
Amidst the myriad events happening around town, sometimes the most appealing option is to head to the beach, soak in the water, and catch some rays. Luckily, Vancouver has no shortage of beautiful beaches to visit, and here are some of the finest:
Kitsilano Beach
Kits Beach is a large sandy beach with a great grass area. Kits Pool, a salt-water pool that is Canada’s longest, is on the west side of the beach, and there are seven free volleyball courts setup on the east side of the beach. There are also tennis courts, basketball courts, and a small playground. Additionally, the seawall is a popular route for runners and bikers.
English Bay Beach
English Bay is one of the most popular beaches in downtown Vancouver for watching the annual fireworks competition, The Celebration of Light. Like Kits Beach, English Bay has a large sandy beach, and a grass area. There are also two volleyball courts, kayak rentals, and a swimming raft with a water slide.
Spanish Banks Beach
Spanish Banks is one of the largest beaches in Vancouver, comprised of three sections: East, West, and the extension. The seawall that runs through Spanish Banks is fantastic for running, cycling, and appreciating the beautiful views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. Spanish Banks also has numerous volleyball courts, and barbeques are allowed as well.
Jericho Beach
Jericho Beach is a great beach for watersport lovers. The west side of the beach is reserved for windsurfers and sailors, while the east side of the beach is for swimmers. Adjacent to the beach is Jericho Park, a grassy field that is great for sports or a picnic. Jericho also has two volleyball courts, tennis courts, and a baseball diamond.
Wreck Beach
A UBC favourite, Wreck Beach, Canada’s first clothing-optional beach, stretches 7.8km from the Musqueam Reserve to Spanish Banks West. The 400 step trek down to the pristine beach ensures that every Wreck day is leg day, with the trail access being just off of Gate 6 in UBC. There is no official concession, but snacks and drinks can be purchased from Vendors Row – just make sure to bring cash!