Photo Essay: Fun In The Summer Sun In White Rock BC

Last Updated on June 29, 2017

Growing up near Vancouver, in beautiful British Columbia, it has always been great having so many beaches and lakes close by, especially since the beach has always been our happy place. One of the closest beaches to us is White Rock beach, known for its sandy beaches, stunning sunsets and fair weather.

White Rock is named for a distinctive large white boulder on its beach near the promenade, a glacial erratic that migrated south during the last glaciation. Back in the day, the 486-ton granite boulder was kept white by shellfish-eating seabirds whose guano covered the rock, making it possible for 19th-century sailors to use it as a beacon. Today, it is kept white through monthly applications of white paint by the city parks department, and is a popular graffiti target and popular for kids to climb all over.

A popular attraction is the 1,500 ft. long pier, where you can go crabbing, set off on your water sports, or jump off the pier railings into the water below, if you’re a bit of a daredevil. There is a 2.5km long beach promenade that is a nice little walk and it also connects East and West beach. East and West beaches are separated by a rise in the shoreline that locals refer to as the “hump”. At West beach you’ll find ocean view bistros, fine restaurants, and unique little shops. East beach is the quieter side where you’ll find the best fish and chips, many more restaurants to choose from and is more appealing to families as it is a little away from the party scene at West beach.

White Rock beach has 8kms of sand and warm shallow waters. It is among one of the best beaches of the region and is a safe area for swimming or getting out on the water within Semiahmoo Bay. We love when the tide goes out, giving the opportunity to explore tide pools, fly a kite and build a sand castle.

There’s tons to do while you have fun in the summer sun in White Rock, BC. White Rock beach is seasonal, however. It is best to visit during the summer months when it is most lively. A lot of the restaurants and shops will close down during the off season months as there just isn’t enough visitors.