With easy access to the Fraser River backwaters and the Strait of Georgia from Boundary Bay, Delta caters to all sorts of water-related activities from boating to fishing to long, seaside paddles.
Boundary Bay is a magnet for skim, kite and paddle boarders as well as windsurfers. Its shallow waters and sandy bottom are ideal for beginners and breezes can whip up enough speed to satisfy more experienced water artists. Keep a look-out for the occasional jelly fish.
At low tide the sands stretch so far into the horizon, that a walk to the water's edge feels quite remote. There are usually plenty of dunlin and sandpipers chasing the rippling surf and the sunset from here, overlooking Mt. Baker in Washington State, is quite breathtaking.
Paddle the Fraser River Backwaters
Although the Fraser River's three main arteries are busy thoroughfares for tugboats, log booms and freighters, its many backwaters are much quieter affairs. Launch car toppers at Deas Slough at the regional park to explore its full length and nearby Ladner Marsh, then head on to the South Arm Marshes Wildlife Management Area. The tall grasses have created quite a labyrinth of paddle-ways.
Ladner Harbour: Fish, Water-ski, Jet Boat
Picturesque floating homes, fish boats and old canneries lie along the shores from Ladner Harbour. The slough is a training site for members of the Delta Rowing Club and host to several regattas. Anglers, water-skiers and jet boats as well as kayaks and canoes launch at the north end of Ferry Road. Purchase tidal water sport fishing licenses from Still Water Sports Club in Ladner Village
Only experienced boaters should venture into the Fraser River's South Arm. Not only is it a busy channel, but currents here can reach almost 11km/7mi per hour.
Kaymaran Adventure Tours
Based on Elliott Street Wharf in Ladner Harbour, Kaymaran Adventure Tours offer a wide range of paddling experiences for all ability levels. Favourite excursions are guided kayak tours of Ladner Marsh, the South Arm Islands and the Lower Fraser River Estuary.
Kaymaran also offers lessons and clinics, and will rent craft out to independent paddlers provided they are proficient in safety issues such as paddle float recovery.
Splashdown Water Park
For teens and toddlers alike, it's hard to beat this water-themed amusement park. Well-equipped with ramp, tube and wavy body slides, alongside splash pools and play sprays, the park also has areas to play volleyball, badminton and basketball so families often make a day of it. It is located just north of the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and parking is free.
For more information about water activities in Delta, drop by the Visitor Centre at 6201 - 60th Avenue.
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