Enjoy a beach day with the fam jam at one of the best spots to soak up the sun in and around Vancouver.
Although most beaches are quite busy with lots of people, there are quite a few hidden spots worth a day trip from Vancouver that you can spend a relaxing afternoon at.
So pack a picnic, put on the sun tan lotion and go for a dip or build a sandcastle at one (or all) of these must-visit beaches.
RELATED: 7 Places In BC That Feel Like An Exotic Getaway
Best Beaches For Families Near Vancouver
Derby Reach Regional Park, Langley
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Discover this serene park with a beach area, riverfront trails, picnic spots and picturesque mountains as the ultimate backdrop. Derby Reach is nestled right on the banks of the Fraser River and is home to several historic buildings and heritage apple trees. It also has a campground, which is the perfect place to spend a weekend with the whole family.
Location: 21801 Allard Crescent, Langley Township
Centennial Beach Boundary Bay Regional Park, Tsawwassen
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This park is located on the south tip of Metro Vancouver near the border with the United States. There is a long trail that wraps around the bay, and is a popular bird watching area for nature enthusiasts. On a clear day, you can also see Mount Baker in the distance. It’s an awesome spot to take the kids swimming, with its warm shallow waters. Those who enjoy bird watching will also want to flock here, as it’s home to hundreds of birds.
Location: 12th Avenue and Boundary Bay Road, Delta
Iona Beach Regional Park, Richmond
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Head to this dog-friendly natural area for a fun day out with the family. It has several picnic tables, as well as hiking and biking trails. It’s located just north of the Vancouver International Airport so it’s also a popular spot to watch the planes taking off and landing while walking along the iconic jetty.
Location: 900 Ferguson Road, Richmond
Trout Lake Park, Vancouver
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Take off to one of the most popular parks in the city, Trout Lake Park, which is also known as John Hendry Park. The 27-hectare park has a sprawling beach area, as well as lots of beautiful sights to take in.
Location: 3300 Victoria Drive, Vancouver
Best Beaches For Families On The Island
East Sooke Park Regional Park, Sooke
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The west coast wilderness awaits you at this magical place. The regional park offers several pocket beaches, rocky bays, tide pools and lush forest trails. Visitors will also be swept away by the spectacular views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Olympic Mountains.
Location: East Sooke Road, Sooke
Tribune Bay, Hornby Island
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The breathtaking Tribune Bay features emerald-green waters you have to see to believe. Tribune Bay can be found on Hornby Island, which is three ferries away from the Lower Mainland, but totally worth it. The area has several pristine beaches and lush forests to explore.
Location: St. Johns Point Road, Hornby Island
For more places to explore in beautiful BC, check out our Travel & Outdoors section.