Kids In Vancouver: 5 Best Beaches To Build Sandcastles

July 28, 2016

4 min read

Intricate sand sculpture with tall spires and curved shapes on a beach near a wooden pier over water.

It doesn’t take much to build the perfect sandcastle. All you need is some soft sand, a healthy splash of water, and something to mold the mud, and you’re all set to build a beachside masterpiece. Add a dose of sunshine and your summertime beach day is complete.

Whether you’re a sculptor extraordinaire, or a sand stomper who prefers to squish the structures between your toes, a trip to one of these 5 best beaches to build sandcastles in Vancouver will have you building your own real estate like a pro.

Group of people building a large octopus-shaped sand sculpture on a beach surrounded by water channels.

East Beach (White Rock)

Many who grew up in the Vancouver area in the early ’80s will remember The Great Canadian Open Sandcastle Competition – an epic sand sculpting contest that drew crowds to the waterfront of White Rock in droves to witness some of the world’s best compete for prizes amounting to $10,000. While the competition came to a close in 1987, the memories live on. And while there are no longer prizes to be won, the sweeping shoreline and soft, moist sand gives this beach the top spot for sand sculpting with kids. Check out the upcoming White Rock Sea Festival, coming up on July 31st, and make a day of your visit.

Four children playing on a black sand beach near calm water under a blue sky with wispy clouds.

Centennial Beach (Delta)

Space is aplenty at Centennial Beach, where if you catch the tides just right, you can walk for miles along the soft sandy surface of this hot spot. While it’s a bit of a jaunt from downtown Vancouver, Centennial Beach presents the perfect backdrop for a beach-side day trip. Spread a blanket, lunch on fish n’ chips, and prep your buckets and shovels for a day of muddy magnificence on the beach.

Multiple small and large sandcastles built on a sandy beach with mountains and water in the background.

Spanish Banks (Vancouver)

A trifecta of interconnected beaches located in the westside of Vancouver, Spanish Banks is a perfect spot for building sandcastles with kids. With sweeping views of the city’s skyline, and lots of grassy and sandy areas, you can picnic, wade in the shallow water, and sunbathe as you watch your little ones play in the sand.

Sandy beach curving along calm blue water under a partly cloudy sky with distant hills and trees.

Jericho Beach (Vancouver)

One of Vancouver’s best picnic spots, Jericho beach is a local favourite for spending the day on the beach. Rich with amenities and sandy spots, this beach is a must-visit for sun-seekers and mud-slingers alike.

Wide beach with people playing and walking, city skyline in the background, and mountains under a partly cloudy sky.

Kits Beach (Vancouver)

Possibly Vancouver’s most famous beach, Kits beach is a hot spot located in the centre of the city – often referred to as the Venice Beach of BC. Its neighbouring outdoor pool, playground, beach volleyball courts, and array of food options makes Kits beach a favourite amongst both locals and visitors looking to enjoy an all-inclusive day by the sea.

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