Third Beach Vancouver
A sandy haven in Stanley Park, perfect for sunset picnics and vibrant Tuesday drum circles.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant drum circle magic
Third Beach Vancouver
Best Time
Vibrant drum circle magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sandy haven in Stanley Park, perfect for sunset picnics and vibrant Tuesday drum circles.
"This particular place gives a very cool vacation vibe."
🎯 Arrive early for drum circle
Secure a prime spot for the Tuesday drum circle before it gets packed. Bring a blanket and snacks!
🚲 Bike the Seawall
Cycle to Third Beach via the scenic Stanley Park Seawall for stunning views. Remember it's one-way bike access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Third Beach Drum Circle
Third Beach, Stanley Park
Experience Vancouver's vibrant summer tradition with live drumming, dancing, and sunset energy. A truly unique beach experience.
Stanley Park Seawall Views
Adjacent to Third Beach
Enjoy breathtaking ocean and mountain vistas along the scenic Stanley Park Seawall, perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
Sunset Spectacle
Third Beach
Witness stunning golden hour light paint the sky and water. A perfect, relaxing end to a day at this beautiful Vancouver beach.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Drum Circles
Water Quality & Geese Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for drum circle
Secure a prime spot for the Tuesday drum circle before it gets packed. Bring a blanket and snacks! 
🚲 Bike the Seawall
Cycle to Third Beach via the scenic Stanley Park Seawall for stunning views. Remember it's one-way bike access.
💧 Check water quality
Be aware of potential E. coli advisories before swimming. Showering afterward is recommended.
☀️ Sunscreen is a must
This beach is often in full sun. Pack plenty of sunscreen to avoid getting burnt!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for drum circle
Secure a prime spot for the Tuesday drum circle before it gets packed. Bring a blanket and snacks!
🚲 Bike the Seawall
Cycle to Third Beach via the scenic Stanley Park Seawall for stunning views. Remember it's one-way bike access.
💧 Check water quality
Be aware of potential E. coli advisories before swimming. Showering afterward is recommended.
☀️ Sunscreen is a must
This beach is often in full sun. Pack plenty of sunscreen to avoid getting burnt!
🎶 Embrace the vibes
The drum circle is a highlight! Go with an open mind, enjoy the music, and connect with others.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Third Beach is a beloved spot for its relaxed atmosphere, beautiful sunset views, and the vibrant Tuesday drum circle. While it may not boast the most stunning scenery or top-tier facilities, its laid-back charm and community vibe make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Concerns about water quality and occasional crowds are noted, but overall, it's a highly recommended Vancouver beach experience.
"Third Beach is a pleasant spot, especially in the late afternoon during July. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the sun, music, and occasional drum circles. While it's not the most stunning beach in terms of scenery or facilities, it has a laid-back charm that makes it worth a visit. Great for catching sunsets, but not necessarily a must-see if you're short on time."
Dimitar Manolov
"Third beach is a larger beach than second beach. It’s always in the sun and it has a nice third beach concession stand up a few flights of stairs.
There are connecting bike routes so you can go through Stanley Park or go on the seawall if you prefer but remember that it is only single way bike access."
Gabriel Dalton
"Very beautiful beach with logs to seat on it,
plenty of parking spaces for bikes. Clean and refreshing water. Life guard on duty."
Lilia Flores
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Third Beach is located in Stanley Park. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby, though it can be expensive. Cycling is a popular option via the Stanley Park Seawall, which offers beautiful views. Public transit is also an option, though it might require a bit more walking.
Yes, you can reach Third Beach via public transit, though it may involve a walk from the nearest bus stops. Check TransLink schedules for routes serving Stanley Park.
The seawall from the harbor area near the rowing club to Third Beach is approximately 10 km.
Yes, there is parking available near Third Beach, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! Third Beach is easily accessible by bike via the Stanley Park Seawall. There are also plenty of bike parking spots available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Third Beach is a public beach within Stanley Park and there is no entrance fee. The drum circle is also a free event.
Third Beach is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The drum circle typically runs on Tuesday evenings from 6 PM until sunset during the summer months.
No, tickets are not required for the Third Beach Drum Circle. It's a free, open-air event that anyone can join.
Yes, lifeguards are typically on duty at Third Beach during the summer season.
To avoid the biggest crowds, visit on a sunny weekday morning or early afternoon. Tuesday evenings during summer are very popular due to the drum circle.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The water quality at Third Beach can vary. While generally considered one of the cleaner beaches near the city, there can be periods of high E. coli readings, especially after rain. It's advisable to check the Vancouver Coastal Health website for current advisories before swimming. +1
Third Beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and enjoying the sunset. The popular Tuesday drum circle offers music and dancing.
Yes, there are washrooms and a concession stand located a short walk up the stairs from the beach.
Bring sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, snacks, and a blanket. For the drum circle, bring your own percussion instruments if you'd like to join in!
Yes, Third Beach is generally considered family-friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and space for kids to play.
📸 📸 Photography
The sunset at Third Beach is spectacular and a prime photo opportunity. The drum circle also provides vibrant, energetic scenes. The surrounding Stanley Park scenery offers beautiful backdrops.
Golden hour, just before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. The drum circle in the late afternoon/early evening also provides dynamic subjects.
Drones are generally not permitted in Stanley Park without special permits due to park regulations and to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
A camera with good low-light performance and a versatile lens (e.g., 24-70mm) would be ideal. A tripod can help with stability in lower light conditions.
While it's a public event, it's always respectful to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Tuesday drum circle is lively, it can get crowded. For a more peaceful family outing, consider visiting on a weekday. The adjacent Stanley Park offers playgrounds and open spaces for kids to explore, making it a well-rounded destination for a family outing.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Pack your own picnic and snacks to save money on food, as concession prices can add up. Cycling to the beach via the Stanley Park Seawall is a cost-effective and scenic way to get there, especially if you have your own bike or can find affordable rentals.
couples
For a truly memorable evening, time your visit for the Tuesday drum circle. The rhythmic beats and communal atmosphere create a unique and lively ambiance, perfect for couples looking for a fun and engaging experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Famous Third Beach Drum Circle
+2If you plan to attend, arriving a bit early is recommended to find a comfortable spot on the sand. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and perhaps even your own percussion instrument if you feel inspired to join the jam. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience a unique slice of Vancouver's local culture and connect with the community in a relaxed, joyful setting. Many visitors describe it as a highlight of their summer trip.
+1While the drum circle is a major draw, it also means the beach can get quite crowded on these evenings. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on a different day or earlier in the afternoon. Regardless, the drum circle is a testament to the spontaneous, creative spirit that thrives in Vancouver.
Navigating Stanley Park and Beach Access
For those driving, parking is available near the beach, but it's important to note that it can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Public transit is also an option, though it might require a walk from the nearest bus stops. The journey to Third Beach often involves passing other beautiful spots within Stanley Park, making the trip itself a scenic experience.
Once you arrive, you'll find amenities like washrooms and a concession stand, making it convenient for a day of relaxation. The beach is known for its sandy shores and the beautiful logs that often line the water's edge, providing natural seating. Lifeguards are typically on duty during the summer months, adding an extra layer of safety for swimmers.
Water Quality and Safety at Third Beach
While jellyfish are not a common concern at Third Beach, the water quality is a more significant factor for swimmers. The beach is generally considered cleaner than some other urban beaches, but it's always best to check the latest advisories on the Vancouver Coastal Health website before heading in for a dip.
Safety is also enhanced by the presence of lifeguards during the summer season. However, there have been discussions among locals about the removal of swim buoys in some areas, which previously marked designated swimming zones. This has raised concerns about potential conflicts between swimmers and watercraft like jet skis.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit