Swim, surf or soak up some rays on the golden sandy beaches of English Bay.
Vancouver has a vast array of attractions to offer every type of traveller but, with approximately 18 kilometres of urban beaches surrounding the city centre, it is a particular magnet for sunbathers, swimmers and surfers, as well as those who just want to kick back and relax by the water with a good book.Synonymous with stunning views and spectacular sunsets, English Bay sits just off the north-west coast and is made up of a number of top-quality beaches. Named in honour of a colonial collaboration between eminent British Navy Captain, George Vancouver, and his Spanish counterpart, Captain Dionisio Galiano, English Bay and the nearby Spanish Banks have become enduring havens for Vancouver's sun worshippers.Sitting prettily along Beach Avenue, between Gilford Street and Bidwell Street, the vibrant English Bay Beach is the destination de rigueur for any sun seeker worth their salt. Equally popular with locals and tourists, this beach is a great spot for people-watching, as an endless parade of exhibitionists strut their stuff and provide oodles of free entertainment.Basking on sandy beaches may not be everybody’s cup of tea so visitors will be pleased to know that there is more to English Bay than just golden sand and fabulous views. If you want to get active, you could learn the art of skim-boarding at Spanish Banks, go sea kayaking at Jericho Beach or join a game of volleyball at Kitsilano Beach. The Stanley Park Seawall is a popular biking and jogging route which runs along the east side of English Bay Beach, and there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and shops just a stone’s throw away on Denman Street.Throughout the year, English Bay plays host to a number of ever-popular public events. If you’re brave enough, take the plunge with thousands of other swimmers at the Polar Bear Swim, held every New Year’s Day. If even the thought of this sets your teeth chattering, try holding out for the annual Celebration of Light Festival, which is held over two weeks every summer. This unique musical fireworks competition is the largest off-shore fireworks display in the world and is definitely worth your time.
