Beaches & Swimming
Kids swimming (Picture BC photo)
Although White Rock's beach stretches for 8km/5mi.
The beach is divided into East Beach and West Beach for the sake of orientation, separated by a slight rise in the shoreline which locals refer to as The Hump.
Grand Chief Bernard Memorial Plaza at the edge of Lions Lookout Park on East Beach is one of the more picturesque access points. The Ka'Kan totem pole represents the Coast Salish spiritual belief of the Semiahmoo Aboriginal peoples, that raising a house post provides protection and love of the Creator. The adjacent Haida Gya Ana pole is a historical document of family heritage and status. The poles commemorate 125 years of RCMP service to the area.
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 that can be seen through the clear waters, scurrying across the sea floor.
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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. When the tide goes out, look for eelgrass, a flowering marine plant related to lilies. Its ecological value to bay pipefish, great blue herons and the 300-plus bird species found in the area is one reason why White Rock restricts dog access to the water. Clam digging is also prohibited. Note that neither East nor West beach has a lifeguard 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, sun 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 not allowed on the beach, the promenade or anywhere south of the parking lots. However, for a good off-leash run, head to Dogwood Park in South Surrey at 20th Avenue and 136th Street.
Crescent Beach
The smaller and sleepier community of Crescent Beach is a great alternative for families. Located in South Surrey (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, lifeguard 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 a full service marina. Dogs are allowed only in designated areas.
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