These include Locarno Beach, Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks, all of which boast huge expanses of sand, especially at low tide. The water is shallow and warms up nicely for swimming. The farther you go west toward Spanish Banks the less-crowded it gets. Beaches begin at the end of Point Grey Rd. West End Beaches Second Beach and Third Beach along Beach Drive in Stanley Park are perfect for families.
Second Beach has a guarded pool, and both have washrooms and concession stands.
English Bay Beach at the foot of busy Denman Street downtown offers kayak rentals, a water slide and street performers in the summer. In Canada, proper bathing attire is officially required on all public beaches, but at Wreck Beach, officials turn a blind eye. Thousands of sun worshippers make their way down the steep trails to the beach at the foot of the cliffs between Spanish Banks and the University of British Columbia to join their fellow beach buffs. Only 15 minutes from downtown, this tram will take you to the top of the North Shore s Grouse Mountain, where you ll be treated to panoramic views of the city, its famous mountains and its waterways. Once there, you can relax in the Peak Chalet, check out the Theatre in the Sky or enjoy both casual and fine dining.