Ready to turn on vacation mode? The sunshine and summer heat are here to stay, and there’s never been a better time to get out of the city and explore some of B.C.’s beautiful beaches and coastlines. So if your idea of a summer vacay involves being horizontal by the water, we’re here to help. Here are some of the most picturesque sandy beaches you’ll find across B.C., from coastal spots to lakeside beaches.
Known as one of the most “magical beaches” in Canada, Long Beach is situated in the famed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, boasting 22 km of sandy beaches, sun-warmed waters, and 12 km of forested trails to explore.
Where: Ucluelet, B.C.
Situated on the beautiful Skaha Lake is one of Canada’s top beaches – Skaha Beach. Consistently ranked among the best in the country, the sandy beach perfectly complements the calm, warm water, making it an ideal swimming and paddling spot.
There’s also a beachfront promenade for guests to stroll down and take in the sweeping views of the lakes, town, and mountains.
Where: Penticton, B.C.
With its expansive sandy shores, old-growth forests, and rich tide pools, Rathtrevor Beach Park is the ultimate getaway from the city. At low tide, the ocean can recede up to 1 km, leaving stretches of sand that heat up under the sun, warming the waters once it’s high tide again.
Note that this beach is wheelchair accessible, complete with a Mobi-Mat and a recently paved day-use parking lot for greater access.
Where: Central Vancouver Island, B.C.
Before heading to the popular white-sand beaches of Tofino or the famed Juan de Fuca trail, a stop through the quaint town of Qualicum Beach, B.C., is definitely warranted, as it has over 4 km of soft, sandy beaches to explore! A quick pit stop could very well turn into an impromptu weekend getaway if you’re not careful, though with so many picnic tables, shady trees, washrooms, and parking lots at your disposal, it wouldn’t be the worst thing!
Where: Qualicum Beach, B.C.
Located on the east side of Vancouver Island, this gem of a beach boasts shallower, warmer waters than what we’re used to on the mainland. BC Parks considers it to be one of the warmest saltwater swimming areas in the province. And its soft, white-sand beach certainly completes the paradise vibe!
This beach is accessible via the Denman Island Ferry from Buckley Bay.
Where: Hornby Island, B.C.
Located along the Juan de Fuca trail on Vancouver Island, the stunning beach is about halfway between Sooke and Port Renfrew. In addition to beautiful sandy shorelines, there’s a waterfall cascading over a sheer rock cliff, making it one of the most picturesque contrasts we’ve ever seen. What’s more, the beach is only accessible by a 2 km trail, so you won’t have to worry too much about overcrowding.
Where: Juan de Fuca Trail, B.C.
Cultus Lake Park offers one of the most accessible lake days near Vancouver, at just an hour and a half’s drive from the city. With crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and almost 300 front-country campsites to choose from, there’s plenty of fun to be had here!
Where: Chilliwack, B.C.
Located just south of Summerland, this beach is a must-visit if you’re in the Okanagan Valley. The name? A shortened version of “Sunny Okanagan,” which pretty much tells you all you need to know. The park boasts stunning stretches of sand, clear water, and sweeping views down Okanagan Lake. Plus, there are more than enough picnic spots to go around.
Where: Okanagan Valley, B.C.
A popular choice for lake days in the summer, Sasamat Lake offers visitors wide sandy shores to explore and an extensive hiking trail network if you want to work up a sweat before taking a dip into its clear waters.
Where: Belcarra Regional Park, B.C.
Situated between Courtenay and Campbell River, Miracle Beach Park offers visitors 192 reservable front-country campsites and 202 car-accessible sites. Visitors can lounge on an extensive sandy beach that permits dogs while on leashes.
Note that the best spot for swimming is at the south beach day-use area, where the sand is soft and the crystal blue water beckons you in. However, there are no lifeguards on duty, so exercise caution when out in the water.
Where: Comox Valley, B.C.
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