Take an Ocean Dip in Vancouver

Immerse yourself in nature in Vancouver... literally. Take an ocean dip at beaches around the city to experience an invigorating cold plunge.

Health and wellness experts agree that the invigorating practice of cold water immersion can enhance circulation, mental clarity, and immune system function while reducing inflammation and muscle soreness.

Summer is beach season in Vancouver, but this is Canada, not the Caribbean. While the ocean isn't as chilly as it is in winter, it's not bathwater warm either. In July and August, you can expect water temperatures to range from 9 to 13°C (48 to 55°F).

Ocean Dip Tips:

Where to Ocean Dip Around Vancouver

Kitsilano Beach

Known as Kits Beach to locals, Kitsilano Beach is a popular cold dipping location for locals year-round. The setting is gorgeous, with a great view of the North Shore Mountains across Burrard Inlet.

Afterwards, head across the street to Viva Cafe to warm up with coffee. Or grab a seat on the patio at LOCAL Public Eatery to bask in the sunshine while you munch on appies and people-watch.

Third Beach

Quiet Third Beach is surrounded by the forest of Stanley Park. While you can get to this little pocket of soft sand by car, arriving by bike or on foot via the Seawall path is far more scenic. Third Beach faces due west, so it's one of the best places in Vancouver to enjoy a sunset after your dip.

Stop at Stanley Park Brewing on your way out of the park for drinks or dinner. They have lots of craft beer on tap alongside elevated takes on pub-style fare like burgers, pizza, and chicken wings.

Wreck Beach

If you really want to embrace nature, go "au naturel" with an ocean dip at Wreck Beach, Vancouver's only clothing-optional beach. The beach is part of Pacific Spirit Regional Park and has great views of the Georgia Strait. Getting to the beach is also a nature-focused experience: you'll have to hike down a steep trail that includes almost 500 stairs to reach the ocean.

After your dip, continue the zen feeling with a trip to the nearby Nitobe Memorial Garden. This tranquil space is considered one of the most authentic Japanese gardens outside of Japan.

Deep Cove

The village of Deep Cove in North Vancouver has a picturesque setting sandwiched between the North Shore Mountains and the waters of Indian Arm. The pebbly beach is a great place to swim. Before your ocean dip, work up a sweat on the short hike to Quarry Rock, a granite bluff with great water views.

And don't miss a stop at Honey's Doughnuts. These legendary treats are popular with locals and celebrities like Kate Winslet.

Pro tip: There isn't much parking in Deep Cove. Instead, take the #211 bus from Burrard Station in downtown Vancouver.

Ambleside Beach

Head to West Vancouver to swim in the ocean while you enjoy views of the Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park at Ambleside Beach.

After your dip, walk a few blocks to Thierry to indulge in some of Vancouver's most decadent French-style chocolates and pastries. The macarons are prepared fresh daily.

Whytecliff Park

Enjoy an ocean dip in a classic West Coast setting at Whytecliff Park in West Vancouver. The rugged coastline includes granite bluffs and old-growth trees. Whyte Islet, just offshore, makes a great photo op. At low tide, you can scramble across a rocky peninsula to explore. Just be sure to make it back before the tide comes back in if you don't want to swim that far!

After your swim, head to nearby Horseshoe Bay to watch the BC Ferries coming and going while you chow down on fish and chips at Troll's Restaurant. This local institution has been serving up fish and chips here since 1946!