English Bay Beach, otherwise known as First Beach, is located in Vancouver’s West End along Beach Avenue between Gilford St and Bidwell St. It’s location in the most densely populated neighbourhood in Canada means it’s busy year round. The Stanley Park Seawall, a popular running and biking route, runs along the east side of the beach.
The beach features public washrooms, volleyball courts, kayak rentals, wheelchair access and a swimming raft in the summer. Food options include a concession stand, food trucks and the Cactus Club Cafe.
The annual Polar Bear Swim on January 1st and the ‘Celebration of Light’ fireworks festival during late July are held here.
