With its breathtaking coastal beauty and events, Vancouver is an absolute paradise for beach enthusiasts during the summer season. Whether you seek a serene beach or a livelier one, Vancouver has it all! Discover the best spots for your summer activities at the beach.
English Bay Beach
Situated right in the bustling center of downtown Vancouver, you’ll find the incredible English Bay Beach. This beach offers a majestic view of the North Shore Mountains, making it a perfect spot for swimming, picnicking, biking along the Seawall, or simply enjoying the view.
English Bay Beach provides the most spectacular view of the Honda Celebration of Light (July 22, 26, 29) as the fireworks light up the sky from the barge.
Pro Tips:
- Arrive as early as possible to secure a spot, as the expected crowd here is around 100,000.
- Bring a blanket and food for a comfortable experience.
- For a more elevated experience and a better view without the crowds, the Honda Celebration of Light organizers have three lounges available: Concord Pacific Grandstand, Scotiabank Lounge, and Inukshuk Point, offering access to bars, music, and food.
Sunset Beach
As the name suggests, the sunsets at Sunset Beach are gorgeous. Located near English Bay in Downtown Vancouver, this beach is an excellent alternative if you prefer arriving later or want to avoid large crowds while still enjoying a great view of the Honda Celebration of Light.
Vanier Park
Vanier Park is also a great place to watch the fireworks. It is located on the opposite side of English Bay, in Kitsilano, offering a stunning view of the North Shore Mountains. This beach is kid-friendly and you can often spot people playing volleyball. Additionally, it serves as the host venue for the Shakespearean theatrical play, Bard on the Beach, which is showing until September 30th.
Boat Cruise
Experience the ultimate celebration on a magnificent cruise ship, where you can immerse yourself in pure luxury and witness a breathtaking spectacle of fireworks. Here are three of the cruises offering unique and extraordinary views of the fireworks display: 1) Vancouver Fireworks Dinner Cruise, 2) Harbour Cruises and 3) Prince of Whales. Enjoy dancing to the tunes of a talented DJ while feasting on a delectable multi-course menu.