Top 10 Places to Paddleboard in Vancouver  

 

1- English Bay

English Bay is a popular paddleboarding destination with its calm waters and stunning views of the city skyline and North Shore Mountains. It’s perfect for beginners and those looking for a leisurely paddle in a picturesque setting.

Location: Located on the southern shore of downtown Vancouver.

How to Get There: Easily accessible by car, bike, or public transit from downtown Vancouver.

Starting Point: Launch from the sandy shores of English Bay Beach, near the Inukshuk statue.

Water Type: Calm ocean waters, ideal for beginners and gentle touring.

Amenities: Nearby restrooms, showers, and plenty of places to rent gear or take a lesson. Numerous cafes and restaurants are within walking distance.

 

2- Jericho Beach

Jericho Beach offers flatwater conditions, making it an ideal spot for beginners and those interested in SUP yoga. The scenic backdrop of mountains and cityscapes adds to the experience.

Location: Situated on Vancouver’s West Side.

How to Get There: A short drive or bike ride from downtown Vancouver, with ample parking available.

Starting Point: Launch from the sandy shores directly off Jericho Beach.

Water Type: Relatively calm ocean waters, great for flatwater paddling.

Amenities: Rental shops and paddleboarding schools are nearby, along with restrooms, picnic areas, and a beachside café.

 

3- False Creek

False Creek offers an urban paddling experience, with the chance to explore under bridges and past parks while taking in the city’s iconic skyline.

Location: Runs through the heart of downtown Vancouver.

How to Get There: Easily accessible from various points downtown, with several public transit options nearby.

Starting Point: Launch from one of the many public docks or marinas along the creek, such as the Olympic Village or Science World.

Water Type: Calm, protected waters within the city’s inlet.

Amenities: Numerous rental shops along the creek, as well as parks, restrooms, and nearby restaurants and cafes.

 

4- Deep Cove

Deep Cove is a serene escape just outside the city, offering crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush forests and towering cliffs. It’s perfect for a

peaceful paddle or a more challenging adventure.

Location: Located in North Vancouver.

How to Get There: About a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

Starting Point: Launch from the beach at Panorama Park.

Water Type: Calm ocean inlet with some areas of current, suitable for paddlers of all levels.

Amenities: On-site rentals, restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby cafes and shops. Deep Cove Kayak Centre offers guided tours and lessons.

 

5- Belcarra Regional Park

Belcarra Regional Park is known for its stunning views and easy access to the calm, protected waters of Indian Arm. It’s a great spot for exploring peaceful shorelines and hidden coves.

Location: Located in Port Moody, BC.

How to Get There: Approximately a 40-minute drive from downtown Vancouver.

Starting Point: Launch from Belcarra Bay or nearby Sasamat Lake.

Water Type: Calm, protected ocean waters and lakes, ideal for paddlers of all levels.

Amenities: Picnic areas, hiking trails, restrooms, and a sandy beach. Nearby parking is available, though it can fill up quickly on weekends.

 

6- Kitsilano Beach

Kitsilano Beach is a popular spot for beginner paddleboarders due to its relatively calm and sheltered waters. The views of the city and mountains make it a scenic place to practice and gain confidence on the water. 

Location: Located in Vancouver’s Kitsilano neighbourhood.

How to Get There: A short drive or bike ride from downtown Vancouver, with parking available nearby.

Starting Point: Launch from the beach near the Kitsilano Pool.

Water Type: Calm, sheltered bay waters, ideal for beginners.

Amenities: Nearby rental shops, paddleboarding schools, restrooms, and plenty of cafes and restaurants along the beach.

 

7- Deer Lake

Deer Lake is a peaceful spot just outside the city, offering a calm lake surrounded by parkland. It’s a great place for a relaxed paddle with a friendly and welcoming community.

Location: Located in Burnaby, just on the outskirts of Vancouver.

How to Get There: About a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, with ample parking at the park.

Starting Point: Launch from the boat rental area at Deer Lake Park.

Water Type: Calm freshwater lake, perfect for a leisurely paddle.

Amenities: On-site rentals, restrooms, picnic areas, and walking trails. Reservations are recommended during peak times.

 

8- Bowen Island

Bowen Island offers a tranquil escape from the city, with stunning coastal scenery and plenty of opportunities for exploration. It’s a great spot for both peaceful paddles and more adventurous outings.

Location: A short ferry ride from Vancouver.

How to Get There: Take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Snug Cove on Bowen Island.

Starting Point: Launch from the dock at Snug Cove.

Water Type: Calm ocean waters with some areas of current, suitable for paddlers of all levels.

Amenities: Cafes and shops are available in Snug Cove, along with restrooms and picnic areas. Plan for a full day of exploration.

 

9- Spanish Banks

Spanish Banks is a beautiful stretch of beach offering expansive views of the ocean, mountains, and city skyline. It’s an ideal spot for a tranquil paddle, especially at sunset.

Location: Located on Vancouver’s west side.

How to Get There: A short drive from downtown Vancouver, with plenty of parking available.

Starting Point: Launch directly from the sandy beach.

Water Type: Calm ocean waters with gentle waves, suitable for all skill levels.

Amenities: Restrooms, picnic areas, and nearby cafes. Ample space for launching and a wide beach for relaxing after your paddle.

 

10- Chilliwack Lake

While a bit of a drive from Vancouver, Chilliwack Lake is worth the trip for its stunning scenery and clear waters. It’s an excellent spot for a full-day paddle adventure or a weekend camping trip.

Location: Located in Chilliwack, BC.

How to Get There: About a 2-hour drive from downtown Vancouver.

Starting Point: Launch from the beach area at the lake’s day-use site.

Water Type: Calm freshwater lake, perfect for a peaceful and scenic paddle.

Amenities: Campsites, picnic areas, restrooms, and hiking trails are available. Bring your gear as rentals are not available on-site.

 

Vancouver offers an incredible variety of paddleboarding locations, each with its own unique charm and set of amenities.

Whether you’re looking for a quick urban paddle or a full-day adventure in nature, these top 10 spots provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the beauty of Vancouver by water. Grab your board and start paddling!

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