Exploring Spanish Banks in Vancouver
Located between Locarno Beach to the east and the University of British Columbia (UBC) to the west, Spanish Banks consists of a series of beaches on the westside of Vancouver. This area, close to Kitsilano and UBC, is popular among hikers, dog-walkers, sporty beachgoers, and sunbathers alike. The views from here are exceptional, offering sweeping vistas of the North Shore mountains, downtown’s skyline, the lush greenery of Stanley Park, and the nearby Gulf Islands.
History of Spanish Banks
Spanish Banks was named by the Hudson’s Bay Trading Company and later formalized by Captain Richards in 1859. The name references the sandbanks shown in Spanish explorer Galiano’s maps while famously absent in the maps of British Captain George Vancouver. It’s interesting to note that both the English and Spanish were present in the region at the same time in 1792.
Today, Spanish Banks’ beaches are renowned for their expansive sandy flats that appear at low tide. Consequently, while swimming is less favored due to the long trek to the ocean, skimboarding has become a popular activity here.
Beaches at Spanish Banks
Spanish Banks is divided into three distinct areas: East, West, and the Extension. Each of the East and West areas features eight volleyball courts available on a first-come, first-served basis, along with a lifeguard present during the summer months, from Victoria Day in late May through Labor Day in early September. Spanish Banks East is particularly busy, being the first beach encountered when approaching from Kitsilano/downtown. It is also one of the few places where barbecues and amplified music are permitted.
The West area has an off-leash dog area located 200 meters (650 feet) west of the concession and restroom facilities. Unlike the East beach, this area is a designated quiet zone where amplified sounds are not allowed. Further west is the Extension area, which includes another off-leash dog area and a launch site for kiteboarding.
What to Do
Spanish Banks is a favored spot for beach gatherings, especially on the East beach where music and festive celebrations are welcome. As summer approaches, sunbathers flock to the sandy shores while dog-walkers and leisurely strollers enjoy the scenic seawall path that runs along the grassy areas behind the beaches. The western portion, Acadia Beach, marks the beginning of the three-mile Foreshore Trail, inviting those looking for a pebbly beach hike all the way to the clothing-optional Wreck Beach.
Selecting Spanish Banks for swimming can be challenging due to the extensive sandy flats at low tide. However, these shallow waters make it a hotspot for skimboarding and kiteboarding enthusiasts. A designated launch site is available on the western extension area, part of a one-year pilot scheme to enhance this beach experience.
Visiting during sunset offers breathtaking views of downtown Vancouver, the North Shore mountains, and the Gulf Islands, including Bowen and Vancouver Islands, making for a memorable experience.
Facilities
Barbecues are allowed, and picnic tables are scattered throughout the grassy areas adjacent to the beaches. Public washrooms and concessions can be found at both East and West beaches, complementing the available parking options. Furthermore, Spanish Banks is conveniently located near the University of British Columbia, which offers an array of dining options.
How to Visit
Spanish Banks is delightful to visit year-round, but the summer months from May through September draw the largest crowds for sunbathing, watersports, and volleyball. Nevertheless, you will find dog-walkers and hikers enjoying the area throughout the year.
Parking is a paid service between April 1 to September 30 at a rate of $3.50 per hour or $13 per day, in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. (no overnight parking allowed). Parking spaces are available along the beach edges.
For public transit users, the #4 or #14 bus can be taken, and it’s advisable to visit Translink for further trip planning from your location. The proximity of the University of British Columbia also provides ample bus services commuting to downtown.
If you’re seeking alternative transportation, Evo and Car2Go car sharing options are available throughout the city, making it easy to explore Vancouver.
