Summary
Part of the Greater Vancouver area, Delta is a city well-suited for outdoor enthusiasts, bordered by water on three sides and enriched by breathtaking natural landscapes. The city is divided into three distinct geographical regions; the suburban Delta North, the historic fishing village of Ladner, and the upscale residential area of Tsawwassen.
There is a wealth of activities available in each community of Delta, particularly for nature lovers. Hikers, bird watchers, cyclists, food enthusiasts, and shoppers will all find their interests catered to in Delta.
Whether you are exploring the area, passing through, or residing nearby, here are the 15 foremost activities to engage in while in Delta.
1. Bird Watching
Delta is situated within the Pacific Migratory Flyway, rendering it one of the premier locations for bird watching in Canada. Regardless of the season, do not miss the opportunity to observe a variety of remarkable bird species.
From October through April, you can witness migratory birds, while various waterfowl reside in Delta throughout the remainder of the year. Expect to see species such as the harlequin duck, sandhill crane, American robin, marsh wren, red-winged blackbird, and bald eagle.
The prime locations for bird watching in Delta encompass Brunswick Point, the South Arm Marshes Wildlife Management Area, the Tsawwassen ferry causeway, and Boundary Bay Regional Park. Be sure to include the George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary in your itinerary, as it is among the premier spots in the area.
2. Cycling
Cycling is a fantastic way to experience Delta, as the city boasts a myriad of cycling paths, both on-road and off-road. Riders can explore parks, enjoy scenic waterfronts, navigate twisting back-country roads, or travel through the city center.
Cycling paths are abundant throughout Delta, catering to enthusiasts for days of exploration. Nonetheless, beginners can also relish the beauty of the scenic trails in Watershed Park or along the Ladner Millennium Trail.
If you visit in July, enhance your cycling experience by participating in the three-day Tour de Delta event, which attracts participants from across the globe to join in the exhilarating competition.
3. Beach Day
Given Delta’s waterfront location, it is only fitting that it features a beach. This beach, known as Centennial Beach, is situated in the southeastern part of Delta within the community of Tsawwassen.
Centennial Beach is part of Boundary Bay Regional Park and is accessible by vehicle or via hiking along designated trails. Families can enjoy its extensive sandy beach and children’s playground.
A small café operates onsite; however, a delightful way to embrace your visit is to bring a picnic lunch. Please remember to take all refuse with you, as the beach serves as an important habitat for birds.
4. Water Park Fun
If visiting Delta during the summer with children, a trip to Big Splash Water Slide Park is essential. This expansive 2.8-hectare water park features a wide range of slides, hot tubs, a splash pad, and a large outdoor swimming pool.
For adventure seekers, the Boomerang tube slide presents an exhilarating challenge, while those preferring a gentler experience can opt for Eddy’s Eagle Run. Numerous other slide options, including twisting open slides and smaller slides for younger guests, are also available.
Following a fun-filled day of splashing, you may savor a meal at the onsite café, restaurant, or bar. Alternatively, you may reserve a cabana for a day of relaxation, complete with stylish seating and even private raised decks that provide panoramic views of the pools and hot tubs.
5. Flight Experience
The Canadian Flight Centre offers an opportunity to take control of an aircraft and soar above the Greater Vancouver area. Known as a ‘familiarization flight’, participants start with a pre-flight and pre-take-off inspection alongside an instructor, followed by take-off from the pilot’s seat.
Once airborne, you will have the chance to pilot the aircraft for a thrilling 30 minutes, providing an extraordinary experience. Families can join in the fun, as children can enjoy one of the flight simulations, available in durations of 30 or 60 minutes, featuring a selection of 40 different options.
6. Historical Exploration
Delta boasts nearly 50 properties that are registered in the National Heritage Register, providing an opportunity for visitors to step back in time. Embark on a self-guided tour around the city to explore these remarkable sites.
Notable historic locations include the Annieville Cannery, East Delta Oyster Plant, Butler’s Corner, and St. David’s Anglican Church. Additionally, a visit to the Early First Nation Settlement and the Tsawwassen First Nation Reserve is highly recommended.
The city also features stunning residences on this registry, including the Nesbitt Residence, Johnson Residence, Iverson Residence, and Stegavik Residence. A guidebook and a map marking all historic sites can be obtained from Delta’s public libraries, Municipal Hall, and Boundary Bay Park.
7. Golfing
Golf enthusiasts, both experienced and novice, will find ample opportunities to enjoy a round in Delta, which is home to six golf courses. Among these, only one is private — Beach Grove Golf, while the remainder are open to the public.
You can play a challenging 18-hole round at Tsawwassen Springs Golf, King’s Links By the Sea, Delta Golf Course, or Sunshine Woods Golf Centre. Cove Links Golf Course offers a more compact 9-hole course for an efficient game.
Children can also engage in golfing activities at the Sunshine Woods Golf Centre, which features a par 3 course along with golf lessons, a putting green, and a driving range.
8. Local Wineries
While Delta may not be recognized as a prominent wine region, it is home to several quaint wineries. Tour these local vineyards to sample excellent, locally produced flavors.
Visit the award-winning Angel Estate Winery to try their blueberry, blackcurrant, or tayberry wines, or choose from raspberry, strawberry, or red currant options. Wellbrook Winery is known for its cranberry and blueberry wines, which are also available in sparkling varieties.
If beer is more your preference, visit the Four Winds Brewing Company for tastings of their locally crafted selections. Alternatively, relax at their bar, enjoying a pint accompanied by delicious house-made Mexican dishes.
9. Markets
Delta features three vibrant markets, each located in its three distinct communities. These markets showcase fresh produce, food trucks, live entertainment, and handcrafted products by local artisans.
The Ladner Village Market operates every other Sunday during June, July, and August, renowned for its exceptional produce and artisanal foods. The Tsawwassen Farmers Market is open every Saturday from mid-June through September, offering a delightful array of food trucks, handicrafts, and live performances.
The North Delta Farmers’ Market, the largest of the three, occurs every Sunday from mid-May until the beginning of October, boasting over 30 local vendors presenting everything from jewelry to homemade baked goods.
10. Shopping
Whether searching for the latest styles or unique home decor, Ladner Village offers a plethora of shopping opportunities. This historic area is lined with diverse shops catering to every taste, even for pets!
Delta also features multiple shopping malls, including Tsawwassen Town Centre Mall, Scottsdale Centre, and Tsawwassen Mills, which house well-known brand retailers as well as various fast food establishments.
For those interested in locally crafted goods, visit the Nordel Centre, which features home decor shops, hardware stores, and several casual dining options.
11. Garden Strolling
Located within McKitrick Park, McKitrick Garden serves as a tranquil oasis suitable for the entire family. This lovely garden is enriched with walking trails, picnic tables, and an array of beautiful native plants.
For an immersive experience, consider attending a workshop to learn about cultivating a flourishing garden, establishing a vegetable garden, or enhancing your knowledge of composting. The park also provides classes on natural pest control.
Bring a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon wandering through the garden while soaking in the serene environment. Be sure to explore the community garden located here as well.
12. Gelato Delights
A few artisanal gelato shops in Delta are essential for anyone who enjoys gelato or ice cream. All offerings are locally crafted using 100% natural ingredients.
If visiting Tsawwassen, make sure to stop by ‘On The Go! Gelato’ at the ferry causeway to taste delicious gelato, sorbet, or frozen yogurt. While shopping at Tsawwassen Mills, do not miss a visit to ‘popbar’ for a gelato, sorbet, or yogurt bar dipped in your choice of toppings, from chocolate chips to pistachios.
13. Virtual Reality Adventures
Virtual Land transports you to uncharted territories and extraordinary experiences. Delve into the realm of virtual reality, engaging all your senses.
Experience exhilarating pursuits such as escaping from zombies, riding thrilling roller coasters, or exploring Jurassic Park. You can also ride a fitness bike, compete in a car race, or pilot a fighter jet.
Located within Tsawwassen Mills, Virtual Land is an ideal respite while exploring the expansive mall and serves as a fantastic destination for families, especially on rainy days.
14. Art Exhibitions
The Tsawwassen Arts Centre is committed to promoting local artists, featuring rotating visual arts exhibits approximately every three to four weeks. The centre also facilitates art classes for enthusiasts.
In addition to the Tsawwassen Arts Centre, Delta is home to Gallery 1710, operated by the South Delta Artists Guild. This gallery provides local artists the opportunity to exhibit their work.
Gallery 1710 hosts various shows throughout the year and offers workshops and courses. Be sure to visit their website to discover what events are taking place during your visit.
15. Farm Visits
Delta features several local farms, accompanied by farm stores and farmers markets. For a genuine agricultural experience, engage in picking your own products at Emma Lea Farms, which has been in operation since 1885!
Visit Westham Island Herb Farm to gain insight into herb cultivation, and depart with homemade raspberry honey, freshly picked herbs, or a beautiful bouquet of flowers. A variety of blooms including sunflowers, daisies, and zinnias are cultivated here.
If you seek certified organic vegetables, Snow Farms is the ideal destination. They offer seedlings that allow you to cultivate your own organic produce within your home garden.
