Second Beach Vancouver
A sandy beach in Stanley Park with a free heated pool, playgrounds, BBQ spots, and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Second Beach Vancouver
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sandy beach in Stanley Park with a free heated pool, playgrounds, BBQ spots, and stunning sunset views.
"Second Beach Pool is a major draw, especially on hot summer days. Tickets can sell out, so booking online in advance is highly recommended."
Pool Tickets: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Pool tickets often sell out, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
Check Water Advisories :warning:
Ocean water quality can vary. Check for E. coli advisories before swimming in the sea.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Second Beach Pool
Adjacent to the beach
A heated outdoor pool with water slides, perfect for families and lap swimmers. Free admission!
Sunset Views
Beachfront
Enjoy breathtaking sunset vistas over the water, a perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening.
Family Fun Zone
Near the beach
Playgrounds and ample sandy space make it ideal for children to play and explore.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at the Pool
Beach Water Quality Advisory
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pool Tickets: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Pool tickets often sell out, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
Check Water Advisories :warning:
Ocean water quality can vary. Check for E. coli advisories before swimming in the sea.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
There are BBQ spots and plenty of space to enjoy a meal with a view.
Swim Club Events :dancer:
Keep an eye out for unique community events like 'Swim Club' for a fun, local vibe.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pool Tickets: Book Ahead! :ticket:
Pool tickets often sell out, especially on weekends. Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
Check Water Advisories :warning:
Ocean water quality can vary. Check for E. coli advisories before swimming in the sea.
Pack a Picnic :sandwich:
There are BBQ spots and plenty of space to enjoy a meal with a view.
Swim Club Events :dancer:
Keep an eye out for unique community events like 'Swim Club' for a fun, local vibe.
Stanley Park Access :bike:
Easily accessible via Stanley Park's scenic bike and jogging paths.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Second Beach is praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, beautiful sunset views, and the fantastic, free Second Beach Pool. While the ocean water quality can sometimes be a concern, the pool and playgrounds make it a popular spot for all ages. Some visitors note it's smaller than other Vancouver beaches but appreciate its amenities and relaxed vibe.
"Second beach is a nice small beach, a smaller compared to English Bay and third beach. It’s more family oriented and it’s close to accessible bathrooms and multiple playgrounds.
Occasionally, it can be closed for E. coli, but that’s not very often. And there’s a pool on the right of the beach if you wanna go swimming."
Gabriel Dalton
"Evo Movie Night at Second Beach Park 🎬🌊
What an amazing experience! Watching a movie under the stars right by the beach was something special. The atmosphere was super relaxed, people brought blankets and snacks, and the vibe was just good energy all around. The screen and sound were great, and it felt like the perfect summer night. Definitely doing it again next time. A fun and unique way to enjoy the city!"
Arturo Sevein
"Such a nice long beach with lots of sand!!! Good to play around in summer in this beach with your family in Vancouver!!! Visit here if you are in Vancouver!!! (Or visiting Vancouver for sure!!!👍)"
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Second Beach is located in Stanley Park. You can reach it by car, bus, or by cycling along the Stanley Park Seawall. Parking is available, but can be busy during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available near Second Beach. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on sunny days and during events. Consider arriving early or using public transport.
Absolutely! The Stanley Park Seawall offers a beautiful and safe cycling path that leads directly to Second Beach. It's a popular route for locals and tourists alike.
Several bus routes serve the Stanley Park area, with stops a short walk from Second Beach. Check TransLink's website for the most current routes and schedules.
Second Beach and its surrounding pathways are generally accessible. The pool area also has accessible features.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, the Second Beach Pool requires tickets for entry. It's highly recommended to purchase them online in advance as they often sell out, especially for weekend sessions.
While online booking is preferred, there's a chance to purchase tickets in person if they haven't sold out. Arriving early for morning sessions might increase your chances.
No, access to Second Beach itself is free. The admission fee applies only to the adjacent Second Beach Pool.
The pool typically operates from morning to evening, with extended hours on weekends. Check the official Vancouver Parks website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, the pool often has different sessions, including lane swimming and general public swim times. Some early morning sessions might not be listed on the main hours but are sometimes available.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
While Second Beach is a sandy beach, swimming in the ocean is sometimes discouraged due to occasional E. coli advisories. It's best to check local water quality reports before entering the water.
Second Beach offers washrooms, playgrounds, BBQ pits, and ample sandy areas for relaxation and play. The adjacent pool provides a swimming alternative.
Yes, Second Beach is very family-friendly, with playgrounds, shallow pool depths, and plenty of space for kids to play on the sand.
The western-facing shoreline of Second Beach offers excellent vantage points for watching the sunset. Simply find a comfortable spot on the sand or a nearby bench.
Second Beach occasionally hosts events like outdoor movie nights and community gatherings such as 'Swim Club'. Keep an eye on local event listings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no permanent food vendors directly on the beach, there are BBQ pits available for picnicking. You can also bring your own snacks and drinks.
Yes, Second Beach has designated BBQ pits, making it a great spot for a cookout. Remember to follow park regulations for their use.
Bring your favorite picnic foods, drinks, a blanket or chairs, and any necessary serving utensils. Don't forget sunscreen and hats!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning sunset shots, family fun at the playgrounds, and the vibrant atmosphere of the Second Beach Pool. The Stanley Park Seawall also offers scenic backdrops.
The 'golden hour' before sunset provides beautiful, soft light for photography. Early mornings can also offer fewer crowds and lovely light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to book pool tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly. Bring a picnic to enjoy at the designated BBQ pits, or simply spread out a blanket on the sandy beach. The relaxed atmosphere and family-friendly amenities make it easy to spend a whole day here. Just be mindful of potential ocean water advisories and opt for the pool if you're looking for a guaranteed clean swim.
Budget Travelers
The biggest draw, the Second Beach Pool, also offers free admission, making it an incredibly affordable way to cool off and have fun. Pack your own snacks and drinks, utilize the free BBQ pits, and enjoy a day out without breaking the bank. Couples & Friends
It's a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a casual hangout with friends. Consider attending one of the outdoor movie nights for a unique evening experience. The nearby pool is also a fun way to spend a hot afternoon together. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Second Beach Pool
The fact that it offers free admission is a significant draw, though it also contributes to its popularity and the need for advance booking. Many visitors find the pool to be a well-maintained and enjoyable facility. It's a place where families can splash around, swimmers can get in their laps, and everyone can cool off. The pool's location right next to the beach also provides a dual experience, allowing visitors to enjoy both the sand and the water. Remember to check the operating hours and session availability, as tickets can sell out quickly, particularly during peak season.
Pro-tip: If you're aiming for a specific time slot and tickets are sold out online, try arriving early for morning sessions, as there's a chance of securing in-person tickets.
Second Beach: More Than Just Sand
The beach is also a popular spot for enjoying the outdoors, with BBQ pits available for those who wish to have a picnic or cookout.
It's important to note that while the beach itself is a great place to visit, swimming in the ocean here can sometimes be subject to water quality advisories due to bacteria.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit