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This park is ok, nice scenery and there is a pool nearby as well. This park gets extremely busy (hence the 3 stars) in the summer months. The parking lot is almost always full. Doesn't bother me cuz I'm always on my bike but if you wanna have a picnic or something and don't get here early it's gonna be hell finding parking. They have restrooms and a concession stand as well.
We paid for parking in the lot. There were tennis players and people just lounging around because it was such a nice day (later on in the afternoon where the sun was shining). THere was a small playground area and a restaurant right along the beach.
Kitsilano is not like any of the beaches in California or Hawaii that I have visited. But it is comparatively good for a Pacific Northwest beach. There is actually a large area with sand. I would not call any land by the water as a beach. It needs to have a lot of sand by the water. I did not venture onto the sand though. I stayed in the grassy area of the park. In addition to the beach, there is a giant (Olympic-sized?) pool in the park. Unfortunately, it was closed and full of seabirds nesting on top of it. Parking is somewhat available. Was available to find a space on the street by the park. Though I think it might be more difficult to come by on warm and sunny days. For the neighborhood it is in, I think this is a great park to have. Kitsilano seems to be a pretty eclectic area and this place fits right in. It has a great view of downtown Vancouver and the West End. Though I found it to be so-so compared to all of the other beaches I have visited.
A wide beach with good views! Rows of logs are available for seating if you just feel like relaxing. There's a decently sized playground for children too. Sadly there is a bit of litter dispersed throughout the beach. Adolescent seagulls were fighting over a sock and attempting to swallow it. If you have the time and energy, definitely walk north along the trail past the washrooms. Not only will the direction expose you to more gorgeous views of downtown with a mountainous background, but you'll encounter the Hadden Park Dog Beach as well as the picture-worthy Elsje Point & Kitsilano Seawall!
3.5 stars ... I think it's definitely a spot to check out when you're visiting the city but depending on when you arrive, you may not get to go into the water or enjoy all facilities. If anything, you may get frustrated just trying to find parking and give up before stepping into Kits. Beaches in Canada are not that common especially ones with a view of the mountains like this. There's no denying how scenic and beautiful it can be for a beach that has the mountain ranges in the backdrop and still see Stanley Park and city skylines. I was lucky to arrive on a weekend and enjoy the sun and blue skies... picture perfect. The park itself is quite clean with nice big paths to share with the 1000s of other visitors. Many people are taking selfies at every angle or showing off their newest yoga move on the grass. I thought that was just a Vancouver trope or bad meme but nope... every 2nd person is in their Lululemon here doing some sort of pose. It's interesting as it brings a bit of a zen but every girl is checking another girl out between poses. At least they're not blasting Despacito while screaming like they did in San Diego. The beach itself is quite rocky and I'll have to admit not so inviting looking... it was low tide and the water was out 30 ft away. All I saw was TONS of broken mussel pieces from the seagulls dropping them from above to break open the shells. This was not a place to be stepping with bare feet. Would I call it family friendly beach... not really. I mean, the place is great to bring family but to use the beach on kid bare feet... uh no. Besides, I would say 95% of the people enjoying the beach was just sunning themselves and never stepping into the water. Further on the north part, you'll find beach volleyball courts (a rec tournament was going on), public bathroom, playground, sea activity rental spot, and even an off leash dog park. There is a sea salt pool on the south side but it looked closed and filled with birds when I went. Not so inviting. The unfortunate thing about this is the traffic and parking insanity. Since it is so popular, you're fighting with nearly everyone for a parking spot. The traffic is already crawling so slowly but its made worse with everyone attempting to snag a spot and do a 70 point turn to parallel park. Frustrating... absolutely. I do recommend instead to park a few street south closer to 4th Ave and walk here. Even then, you're still fighting to find a spot. Another option that requires a bit more of a walk is to park near the Burrard Marina and walk along the shores to here. There was a lot of parking available over there. I can see this being a great spot to be when the sun sets or during the week when you dont have to fight through traffic to find your own spot. During the weekend, it's bit crazy and could marr the experience. I do feel it's worthwhile to check out. Just find your inner zen when looking for parking.
This is one busy crazy beach especially in the summer time. Lots of people. Its nice to go for a walk. For all ages. Parking is a bit of a hit and miss. There are some along the street. There is also pay parking lot. Most of the people who come here are locals. there is the Boathouse restaurant beside the park as well, if you need food.
The only time I really come here is to watch the fireworks during the 'Celebration of Light', but was finally able to come through here in the daytime to see how this beach has changed over the years. I have to say that it is not as pretty as what it used to be. The sand is rough, almost gravel like in some areas. There seems to be more trash here now, as walking around, I noticed alot of litter, which is really unfortunate. Also the water quality, frankly was green and smelly. Maybe I was here a bad day of the summer. Other than the above, it is a pretty nice area to walk around. The houses around here are quite unique. The restaurant on the beach (Watermark) is a nice place to go to. And there are some pretty nice restaurants just across the street, from Hapa to Local, and of course a Starbucks for your crazed coffee fix. The parking situation is way better than going to English Bay, but be warned, the parking patrol is out, and you will be ticketed if you do not follow the signs, and after being ticketed you will be towed quite quick.
Breathtaking views, fresh ocean breeze, easy to get there by bus. Starbuck, Pizza, Sushi, Thai, hamburger & fries. Nothing you need here any more.
I enjoy this beach! They even have a dog beach. I take the sea wall to this location while riding my back. Very beautiful in the summer time.
I think I'm spoiled by San Diego, Orange County, and Monterey/Carmel/Half Moon Bay beaches. How can you expect to find a beach like that in the north? So I won't be too harsh on Kitsilano Beach, but don't expect an awesome beach here if you're from California or Hawaii. That said, Kitsilano Beach is a pretty cool place to hang out and people watch...when I came there was a guy doing crazy balancing acts. That was kinda fun. Beautiful place to watch the sunset as well. And it's very close to some great restaurants.
Good things- It is beautiful, there is a nice playground for the kids beside the concession, the fries at the concession are very yummy, Kits pool is right there Not so good things- the parking fees are exorbitant, it is very, very busy on a hot day, the scene is well...not for me...attention seeking, self-indulgent, oiled-up twenty-something's with their tribal tattoos and pit-bulls...I'll pass and head on over to Spanish Banks or downtown to English Bay
2 months ago
Took my son to the kitsilano pool and he loved it! We didnt wait long at all to go in. Very fun day! read more
Came to this gorgeous park with my family on a chilly and sunny afternoon. The weather was gorgeous the scenery was amazing. Vancouver is such a naturally beautiful place. This park has everything, walking/bike paths, beach, mountain views and more. A perfect place for a family outing. read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
This park is ok, nice scenery and there is a pool nearby as well. This park gets extremely busy (hence the 3 stars) in the summer months. The parking lot is almost always full. Doesn't bother me cuz I'm always on my bike but if you wanna have a picnic or something and don't get here early it's gonna be hell finding parking. They have restrooms and a concession stand as well. read more
4 years ago
We paid for parking in the lot. There were tennis players and people just lounging around because it was such a nice day (later on in the afternoon where the sun was shining). THere was a small playground area and a restaurant right along the beach. read more
Kitsilano is not like any of the beaches in California or Hawaii that I have visited. But it is comparatively good for a Pacific Northwest beach. There is actually a large area with sand. I would not call any land by the water as a beach. It needs to have a lot of sand by the water. I did not venture onto the sand though. I stayed in the grassy area of the park. In addition to the beach, there is a giant (Olympic-sized?) pool in the park. Unfortunately, it was closed and full of seabirds nesting on top of it. Parking is somewhat available. Was available to find a space on the street by the park. Though I think it might be more difficult to come by on warm and sunny days. For the neighborhood it is in, I think this is a great park to have. Kitsilano seems to be a pretty eclectic area and this place fits right in. It has a great view of downtown Vancouver and the West End. Though I found it to be so-so compared to all of the other beaches I have visited. read more
A wide beach with good views! Rows of logs are available for seating if you just feel like relaxing. There's a decently sized playground for children too. Sadly there is a bit of litter dispersed throughout the beach. Adolescent seagulls were fighting over a sock and attempting to swallow it. If you have the time and energy, definitely walk north along the trail past the washrooms. Not only will the direction expose you to more gorgeous views of downtown with a mountainous background, but you'll encounter the Hadden Park Dog Beach as well as the picture-worthy Elsje Point & Kitsilano Seawall! read more
3.5 stars ... I think it's definitely a spot to check out when you're visiting the city but depending on when you arrive, you may not get to go into the water or enjoy all facilities. If anything, you may get frustrated just trying to find parking and give up before stepping into Kits. Beaches in Canada are not that common especially ones with a view of the mountains like this. There's no denying how scenic and beautiful it can be for a beach that has the mountain ranges in the backdrop and still see Stanley Park and city skylines. I was lucky to arrive on a weekend and enjoy the sun and blue skies... picture perfect. The park itself is quite clean with nice big paths to share with the 1000s of other visitors. Many people are taking selfies at every angle or showing off their newest yoga move on the grass. I thought that was just a Vancouver trope or bad meme but nope... every 2nd person is in their Lululemon here doing some sort of pose. It's interesting as it brings a bit of a zen but every girl is checking another girl out between poses. At least they're not blasting Despacito while screaming like they did in San Diego. The beach itself is quite rocky and I'll have to admit not so inviting looking... it was low tide and the water was out 30 ft away. All I saw was TONS of broken mussel pieces from the seagulls dropping them from above to break open the shells. This was not a place to be stepping with bare feet. Would I call it family friendly beach... not really. I mean, the place is great to bring family but to use the beach on kid bare feet... uh no. Besides, I would say 95% of the people enjoying the beach was just sunning themselves and never stepping into the water. Further on the north part, you'll find beach volleyball courts (a rec tournament was going on), public bathroom, playground, sea activity rental spot, and even an off leash dog park. There is a sea salt pool on the south side but it looked closed and filled with birds when I went. Not so inviting. The unfortunate thing about this is the traffic and parking insanity. Since it is so popular, you're fighting with nearly everyone for a parking spot. The traffic is already crawling so slowly but its made worse with everyone attempting to snag a spot and do a 70 point turn to parallel park. Frustrating... absolutely. I do recommend instead to park a few street south closer to 4th Ave and walk here. Even then, you're still fighting to find a spot. Another option that requires a bit more of a walk is to park near the Burrard Marina and walk along the shores to here. There was a lot of parking available over there. I can see this being a great spot to be when the sun sets or during the week when you dont have to fight through traffic to find your own spot. During the weekend, it's bit crazy and could marr the experience. I do feel it's worthwhile to check out. Just find your inner zen when looking for parking. read more
This is one busy crazy beach especially in the summer time. Lots of people. Its nice to go for a walk. For all ages. Parking is a bit of a hit and miss. There are some along the street. There is also pay parking lot. Most of the people who come here are locals. there is the Boathouse restaurant beside the park as well, if you need food. read more
4 years ago
The only time I really come here is to watch the fireworks during the 'Celebration of Light', but was finally able to come through here in the daytime to see how this beach has changed over the years. I have to say that it is not as pretty as what it used to be. The sand is rough, almost gravel like in some areas. There seems to be more trash here now, as walking around, I noticed alot of litter, which is really unfortunate. Also the water quality, frankly was green and smelly. Maybe I was here a bad day of the summer. Other than the above, it is a pretty nice area to walk around. The houses around here are quite unique. The restaurant on the beach (Watermark) is a nice place to go to. And there are some pretty nice restaurants just across the street, from Hapa to Local, and of course a Starbucks for your crazed coffee fix. The parking situation is way better than going to English Bay, but be warned, the parking patrol is out, and you will be ticketed if you do not follow the signs, and after being ticketed you will be towed quite quick. read more
6 years ago
8 years ago
Breathtaking views, fresh ocean breeze, easy to get there by bus. Starbuck, Pizza, Sushi, Thai, hamburger & fries. Nothing you need here any more. read more
12 years ago
I enjoy this beach! They even have a dog beach. I take the sea wall to this location while riding my back. Very beautiful in the summer time. read more
I think I'm spoiled by San Diego, Orange County, and Monterey/Carmel/Half Moon Bay beaches. How can you expect to find a beach like that in the north? So I won't be too harsh on Kitsilano Beach, but don't expect an awesome beach here if you're from California or Hawaii. That said, Kitsilano Beach is a pretty cool place to hang out and people watch...when I came there was a guy doing crazy balancing acts. That was kinda fun. Beautiful place to watch the sunset as well. And it's very close to some great restaurants. read more
11 years ago
Good things- It is beautiful, there is a nice playground for the kids beside the concession, the fries at the concession are very yummy, Kits pool is right there Not so good things- the parking fees are exorbitant, it is very, very busy on a hot day, the scene is well...not for me...attention seeking, self-indulgent, oiled-up twenty-something's with their tribal tattoos and pit-bulls...I'll pass and head on over to Spanish Banks or downtown to English Bay read more
I love Kits Beach. Sure, it's nothing like the beaches I grew up with in Southern California, but you just can't beat the view of the mountains, West End and Stanley Park. Seriously gorgeous! It's probably my favourite view in the city. If you hate dogs you'll probably want to avoid Kits Beach. There is a designated section of dog beach, but plenty of people have their pooches off leash all over the place. Despite the sheer amount of dogs, the beach is pretty well kept. Kits Beach is a great place to people watch. If it's a sunny day in the winter, you can bet there will be lots of beach goers enjoying this beautiful beach. read more
15 years ago
I needed a place to go to relax my mind, to relax my body, to renew my soul... But, where to go? I decided to take a 20 minute or so walk to Kits Beach and found myself in the perfect place. I sat on the bench and let the wind blow pass my body, blowing away the worries and stress in my being. I watched as the people walked by wondering who they were and thought, "I wonder what was their story?" I watched as the waves beat upon the sands of the beach. I watched as three dogs ran along the beach playing games as they ran from the beach to the water. I watched the bird fly just above the water and splash ever so gracefully onto the water. What a relaxing couple of hours. Note: I went on a mid-afternoon weekday, which was far less crowded. Take a light jacket as the wind can be quite cooling... And as always... Have Fun!!! read more
We threw a couple of picnic blankets down on the grass in Hadden Park just up from the beach and sat half in the sun and with the shadows of the trees protecting us from any possible sun-burn. It was perfect! I took a walk on the beach and enjoyed the crunching gravel and crushed shell sounds underfoot, even with the perfect weather the beach wasn't crowded at all. I walked toward the Marine Museum and past to the dog off leash park. Twenty dogs were out there enjoying a doggy club med. Heavenly fur-family enjoying their freedom. I'd come back here with a picnic anytime! There are toilets nearby too. read more
14 years ago
10 years ago
Such a beautiful place! Amazing view of the bay, mountains and the city. It's amazing to have such a fantastic view while soaking up the sun. There's a nice cool breeze while you laze around. You can lay on the beach or up on the grassy areas. There are vendors down by the beach. A Starbucks and a restaurant/bar up by the road. I love all the logs you can perch yourself against or just lay your towel flat where ever there is space (there's lots space)! There is a place to play volleyball but I think you need to bring your own net. I didn't see anything but it is still early in the season so if they are provided, they just aren't up yet! There is also a couple courts for other sports. I believe I saw a tennis and basketball court. The bus also drops you off pretty much right in front of the beach entrance which is pretty awesome. I love this beach. Such a beautiful view, I really can't get over that! I will be here all summer long! read more
8 years ago
Just perfect! We come here like everyday and there is always a lot of things to do! I like the gelato man at the beach, too! read more
14 years ago
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1499 Arbutus Street
Vancouver, BC V6K 1B5
Canada
Kitsilano
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