Kitsilano Beach

Kitsilano Beach, known locally as Kits Beach, lies at 1499 Arbutus Street in the Kitsilano neighbourhood of Vancouver, British Columbia, about 5 km south-west of downtown. It is one of the busiest beaches in the city, with a long strip of sand and logs facing English Bay and a clear view across the water to the downtown skyline and the North Shore mountains. The sand is fairly fine and the water is cold Pacific seawater, shallow near the shore and generally calm, with no real surf. The shoreline is open and gently curved, and the beach is wide enough at low tide for walking and games. The vibe is social, active and youthful: beach volleyball courts are in near-constant use in summer, and the broad lawns behind the sand fill with picnickers. Kitsilano Pool, a large heated saltwater outdoor pool beside the beach, offers an alternative to swimming in the cold sea. Amenities include lifeguards in season, public washrooms, a concession and cafe, a playground and the volleyball courts, and the Kitsilano shopping streets with many restaurants are a short walk away. Access is easy by TransLink bus 2 or 22 to Cornwall and Vine followed by a short walk, or by Mobi bike share and the seaside cycling routes. Parking exists around Arbutus Street and Cornwall Avenue but is competitive in summer, especially on weekends. Beyond Kits Beach, visitors can follow the waterfront path east toward Vanier Park and Granville Island or west toward Jericho Beach. The beach is busiest from June to September, and sunset draws crowds who gather with picnics to watch the light change over the bay and the mountains beyond.