Spanish Banks Beach

Spanish Banks Beach stretches along Northwest Marine Drive at 4801 NW Marine Drive in the Point Grey area of Vancouver, British Columbia, about 10 km west of downtown. Its defining feature is the broad tidal flat: at low tide the water retreats a long way, leaving hundreds of metres of firm, wet sand and shallow pools that are popular for walking, kite flying and dog exercise, while at high tide the beach narrows and swimming becomes easier. The sand is mixed with small stones and the water is cold Pacific seawater, usually calm and shallow. The beach is long and open, facing English Bay with wide views of the North Shore mountains and passing freighters, and it can be breezy. The mood is spacious and easygoing, with families, joggers, cyclists and groups of friends rather than a party scene. The area is divided into sections including Spanish Banks East, Spanish Banks Extension and Spanish Banks West, and the western end includes an off-leash dog area. Amenities include lifeguards in season, public washrooms, a concession and parking along Marine Drive. TransLink bus 9 runs along Marine Drive, and the Point Grey cycling route connects the beach to Jericho and Locarno Beaches. Parking lots fill early on hot summer weekends, so arriving in the morning or taking the bus helps. Evening bonfires are not guaranteed, so visitors should check current park rules on the City of Vancouver site. Spanish Banks is rewarding for sunset walks, photography at low tide and relaxed afternoons, and offers more room to spread out than the central beaches. Its best months are June to September, though the long shoreline suits walkers in any season.