Written by KidApprovedBC 20/08/17
White Rock is a classic summer destination. The Pier and Promenade at West Beach offers the quintessential experience of cruising with an ice cream cone along the pier. And more laid back East Beach is popular with families for the shallow tidal pools and miles of sand. But both can be busy! And circling for parking with cranky kids quickly loses its appeal on a hot day. Well, we have a little secret for you….
Getting There
Just slightly further east of the official East Beach is known to the locals as “Dog Beach”. Accessed just off of Marine Drive by a narrow lane next to the Washington Avenue Grill, find a large, gravel parking lot. This is perhaps the best kept secret with $6 for all day, and it rarely fills up.
The Beach
This beach is ideal for families. Shallow for miles with smooth sand. And as the water rolls in over the warm sand, it creates balmy tidal pools for splashing and swimming. Sandcastles and shell searching are perfect activities to while away a sunny afternoon.
Spot trains thundering by on the nearby tracks.
For board sport enthusiasts, this is a great launching point for kayaks or stand up paddle boards. And a popular spot for skim boarding as well with long, shallow pools. Bring your own or rent at nearby Feral Boardsports.
Local Eats
Pack a lunch if you plan to spend the day. The White Rock Farmers’ Market is a great place to load up on local staples. It is open every Sunday from 10-2, May to September, and boasts a large selection of baked goods, cheeses and produce for a perfect picnic basket.
Or the Washington Avenue Grill is a pleasantly upscale option for beach eats, and conveniently located at the main access point to the parking lot. Enjoy west coast fare on the breezy patio.
And the many classic favs of East Beach like Moby Dick’s Fish & Chips are only a short stroll away.
Know Before You Go
This is an designated dog beach and many dogs will be running around off leash. If your little is particularly timid around furry beasts, it may not be the best place to hang.
There are well maintained porta-potties in the parking lot at the beach access point. Bring full water bottles and some extra juice boxes as there is no running water. There is a convenience store directly across the street if needed.
And the beach is beautifully sandy and smooth, but the short trail and upper part of the beach are rocky. Wear crocs or runners over flip flops.
