 White Rock Pier, Kent Kallberg photo
West Beach White Rock's famous pier is on West Beach where it's not unusual to see children diving from the lower-level docks, dangling a line for sculpin or flounder, or even dropping a trap for crabs which can be seen through the clear waters, scurrying across the seafloor. Purchase crab traps and fishing licenses at the Marine Market. West Beach also has a boat launch at its westernmost point and is where Natural West Coast Adventures' kayaking tours depart. Swimmers are fewer because of the eelgrass, a flowering marine plant related to lilies. Its ecological value to bay pipefish, Great Blue Herons and more than 300 other bird species is why White Rock restricts dog access to the water. Clam digging is also prohibited. Note that neither beach has a Life Guard on duty.
East Beach  Bordering the natural forest on Semiahmoo land, East Beach tends to attract more families by day and a livelier crowd by night. The grassy verge invites picnicking and when the tide goes out, often as far as half a mile, the vast expanse of sands fill with people flying kites, building sandcastles, exploring tidal pools, bathing and generally having fun along the water's edge. And when the tide turns, the gentle waves sweep over the hot sands making the water especially warm and safe for swimming. Skim boards, buckets and shovels can be purchased at East Beach corner stores and at Marine Market on West Beach. Dogs are allowed however, for a good off-leash run, head to Dogwood Park at 20th Avenue at Bergstrom.
Crescent Beach The smaller and sleepier community of Crescent Beach is a great alternative for families. Lying just a 15 minute drive west of White Rock, and therefore away from the seaside bustle, here's where to find plenty of free parking, sandy beaches and waters that are calm and safe. Nevertheless, Life Guard patrols are on duty in July and August. It also offers a swimming dock, easy cycling and walking paths – some to neighboring Blackie's Spit Nature Preserve, kayaking, sailing, beach volleyball and full service marina. Dogs are allowed.
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