Whether it’s lying in the soft sand or peering into rocky tide pools, we all have our favourite.
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Destination BC shared their top 12 beaches in B.C. list with us. And we’re asking which is your favourite. Oh, snap. That’s 12 — so consider a bonus of two.
Rathtrevor Beach
The flat sand at Parksville’s popular Rathtrevor Beach stretches out as far as the eye can see at low tide, creating plenty of tide pools safe for little ones. Add a shady campground with hiking and biking trails, and you have an unforgettable family getaway.
Agate Beach
One of B.C.’s most stunning and remote beaches, Agate Beach extends along the rugged coast of northern Haida Gwaii in Naikoon Provincial Park. Keep an eye out here for wildlife and surfers as you gaze out toward the open ocean.
Skaha Lake
Situated between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, Penticton has no shortage of waterfront. The soft sand of Okanagan Lake is popular for sunbathing and water sports, Skaha is a little quieter, offering respite from the sun under a row of shade trees.
Kitsilano
Kitsilano Beach Park features sandy beaches, a large grassy play area, tennis courts, basketball courts, a fully accessible playground, and a huge outdoor heated saltwater pool, all with views of the downtown Vancouver skyline and the North Shore Mountains.
SẀIẀS (Haynes Point)
Operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point) sits on a peninsula that extends into one of the warmest lakes in the province. It also offers a chance to learn about local Indigenous culture and the area’s unique desert ecosystem.
Coxs Bay and Tofino’s beaches
The pristine coastline along Vancouver Island’s west side is the stuff of dreams. Seemingly endless beaches are backed by thick temperate rainforest on one side and the open ocean on the other. The surfing here is legendary, and the sunsets are spectacular.
English Bay
This popular beach in downtown Vancouver sits outside the city’s iconic Stanley Park. In addition to the usual sunbathing and swimming, kayaking and beach volleyball are popular here with busy shops and restaurants just steps away.
Tribune Bay
If you thought clear blue seas were only found in tropical destinations, think again. Tribune Bay on Hornby Island is home to soft sand and shallow, temperate waters perfect for swimming. Getting to remote Hornby, accessible via B.C. Ferries, is part of the adventure.
San Josef Bay
Part of Cape Scott Provincial Park on the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, near Port Hardy, San Josef Bay is a secluded spot made for adventurers. The bay is accessible only on foot, or by boat or helicopter, so there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself.
Wreck Beach
Put the camera away for this one. Located next to the University of British Columbia campus near downtown Vancouver, Wreck Beach is one of several popular urban beaches in the city. What makes Wreck unique? It is North America’s largest clothing-optional beach.
Kalamalka Lake
This warm lake in Vernon is as popular with photographers as it is with swimmers and stand-up paddleboarders in the summer months. When the water warms up, it turns a remarkable blue-green colour, a result of limestone crystals that reflect the sunlight.
Christina Lake
Located close to the Canada-U.S. border near Grand Forks, Christina Lake sits along the Trans Canada Trail. The beaches on the southern end of this warm lake are popular for swimming and with those who enjoy water sports.