Can You Swim In The Ocean In Vancouver? (Local’s Opinion)
Vancouver is on the southwest corner of British Columbia and is surrounded by the natural beauty of the mountains and ocean.
Many people who aren’t from Vancouver ask the locals, “Can you swim in the ocean in Vancouver?” As a local, I’d answer, “Yes, you can, but I wouldn’t swim in the ocean.”
If you’re wondering why you shouldn’t, there are reasons—not extremely bad reasons, more like why you don’t see many people swimming in the ocean compared to, say, Europe. But let me explain in more detail.
Can You Swim In The Ocean In Vancouver
We have many beaches, so I understand that many people would love to swim in the ocean. I love swimming in the ocean myself, mostly in tropical locations, though.
I previously mentioned that you can swim in the ocean in Vancouver. However, most locals say they don’t because the water is freezing cold and not as clean as you may think.
Since the beaches are primarily located in the Burrard Inlet area, large ships constantly travel in and out of the inlet daily or sit there for days when travelling into Vancouver’s port. It’s a large open area, but it’s also somewhat enclosed.
To put it into perspective, I’d rather swim in the ocean where it’s not close to an active harbour — I’d rather swim in the ocean when I’m on Vancouver Island if that makes sense because there’s more open water.
But if that doesn’t bug you, then by all means, go for a swim. But locals know that swimming in the ocean isn’t the cleanest, at least in Vancouver.
However, you can still enjoy a day at the beach whether you want to swim. The beaches are always packed with people tanning and playing sports like volleyball or spike ball. Plus, Vancouver’s beaches are in some of the best sunset spots.
Ocean Swimming Alternatives
In addition, there are alternative suggestions. Instead of swimming in the ocean in Vancouver, many locals like to swim in lakes or outdoor pools at a couple of beaches in Vancouver.
Outdoor Pool Locations
These two local Vancouver outdoor pools that are open to the public during the summer.
💡 Note: These two pools can quickly become crowded with families, and they’ll be extremely busy during the summer.
1. Kitsilano Pool
Kitsilano Pool, also known as “Kits Pool,” is a 137-foot heated saltwater pool near the shore at Kitsilano Beach. The pool is open to the public for most of the days during the summer. However, it can get crowded, or they turn away people if they’re at the capacity limit.
2. Second Beach Pool
On the south side of Stanley Park, Second Beach Pool is another outdoor pool spot for local families. The large pool has a shallow end for families with younger children.
Lakes Suggestions
Here are some lake suggestions for swimming around Vancouver. Many surrounding lakes are clean and close to the city or less than a 2-hour drive away.
💡 Note: Some lakes will or may have an undertow if you go out of swimming bounds. Parking may also be tricky to come by as spots are limited and first come, first served.
3. Lynn Canyon
Lynn Canyon is famous for its 30-foot pool, a popular fresh waterhole. During the summer, it offers a refreshing spot surrounded by forest. The water gets colder the longer you stay in it, as it is fed by glacial water.
The 30-foot pool derives its name from the waterfall that falls further upstream. Large rocks surround the area, so there is no flat area to sit on. It’s pretty quiet in winter, but the area is packed come summer, so keep that in mind if you plan on swimming here.
⚠️ There have been deaths and serious injuries from individuals who jumped off the rocks. So, if you want to jump off the rocks, think twice.
4. Sasamat Lake (White Pine Beach)
Located in Belcarra Regional Park, Sasamat Lake is a peaceful lake near Vancouver. With calm waters and scenic views, the lake is famous for outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming.
With two sandy beaches, White Pine Beach is one of the region’s most popular lake beaches in summer. It’s also one of the warmest bodies of freshwater near Vancouver.
Moreover, because it’s one of the region’s most popular spots, there’s a high demand to visit the lake, so the park rangers will close the parking lot when there is no parking left.
5. Buntzen Lake
Buntzen Lake is another stunning location. Also, as a reservoir and an hour’s drive away from Vancouver, it’s another favourite spot for water activities, hiking in the surrounding area, and swimming in the summer
Due to the water being controlled by the hydroelectric facilities, water flow can change without warning and cause underwater and surface currents. Keep within the designated swimming areas and always watch children.
6. Alouette Lake (Golden Ears Park)
Golden Ears Provincial Park is a popular outdoor recreation spot for locals in the summer. It’s home to Alouette Lake, surrounded by forest, and the crisp, cold, but refreshing lake is an excellent spot to swim.
The park features a public beach and private beach access for those camping at Golden Ears. There are many hiking trails to explore the surrounding area.
If you decide to spend the day at the lake, you’ll need to book online to reserve a spot.
7. Cultus Lake
Cultus Lake is one of the top summer destinations for many locals. Its fresh, clean waters are ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and sea-doos.
For those looking for something other than being at a lake, the Cultus Lake Waterpark provides a fun activity for children and families to slide down waterslides.
While I have swam at Cultus Lake a handful of times, the lake does have an undercurrent further out. So wear a life jacket if you plan to leave outside the designated swim area.
8. Harrison Lake (Harrison Hot Springs)
Harrison Hot Spring is less than 2 hours away from the city. The small village is located South of Harrison Lake, where you can partake in many water activities, such as the Harrison Inflatable Water Park.
As a bonus, there are natural hot springs on the east side of the lake. It will be too hot for a whole body to submerge, but you can dip your feet in the water.
There’s also a private beach spot if you’re willing to hike to it for a short distance. It can be slippery and muddy so watch where you step
9. Lindeman Lake
Lindeman Lake has become more of a touristy location during the summer and has become a popular spot. It’s one of the clearest and coldest lakes I’ve been in.
The Lindeman Lake hike is located in the Chilliwack area and takes an hour to reach. If you want to continue your hike, it takes an extra couple of hours to reach Greendrop Lake.
New Year’s Day Tradition
Vancouver did adopt the Polar Bear Swim tradition (not a swim, more like a plunge), where hundreds of people gather at English Bay Beach on New Year’s Day to throw themselves into the cold ocean.
Is Vancouver Water Safe To Swim?
If you’re wondering about water regulations, Vancouver Coastal Health and others responsible for maintaining Vancouver’s beaches regularly monitor their quality and safety.
And if you’re wondering about animals that may be in the ocean near Vancouver beaches, there’s nothing dangerous or anything animal-wise that will harm you in the water.
Which Beach Is Best For Swimming In Vancouver?
If I had to pick the best beach for swimming in Vancouver, it would have to be Spanish Banks, but also Locarno or Jericho, mainly because they’re the furthest away from the city.
Can You Swim In Vancouver In Summer?
Yes, you can swim in Vancouver in the summer; it is the best time of year to do so. The Pacific Ocean temperature changes slightly, but it will always be cold.
How Many Beaches Does Vancouver Have?
Vancouver has eight main beaches.
- Spanish Banks
- Locarno
- Jericho
- English Bay
- Kitsilano Beach
- Sunset Beach
- Third Beach
- Second Beach
Conclusion
As you can see, the question of “Can you swim in the ocean in Vancouver?” From a local’s perspective, it isn’t recommended. But there are plenty of other local hot spots and lakes for swimming during the summer. Either way, you can still enjoy a day at one of Vancouver’s beaches because the views are always stunning.
Have a good day 🙂
