Top 11 Dog Friendly Beaches in Vancouver in 2023: On & Off-Leash Places to Go

Vancouver is known for its mild climate and gorgeous mountain and ocean views, which makes it a popular place to live or visit. And because Vancouver is on the west coast of Canada, this provides many beach and swimming opportunities!

And luckily, Vancouver has a host of beaches that are most definitely dog-friendly. Therefore, we’re listing the top 11 beaches in Vancouver (although a few are a bit of a drive) that welcome dogs.

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The Top 11 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Vancouver, British Columbia

1. Ambleside Beach

🗺️ Address:	📍 West Vancouver, V7T 1C1
🕐 Open Times:	Sunday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
💲 Cost:	Free
🐕 Off-Leash:	Yes, in designated areas

Located in West Vancouver.
Off-leash dog park in the east section of the park.
6 acres of trails, grass, and beach.
Scenic views of Stanley Park and the Lion’s Gate Bridge.
Beautiful seawall walking paths.

2. Buntzen Lake

Located close to Anmore, roughly 30 minutes from Vancouver.
Features a fenced-off swimming area for your dog.
Gorgeous views and hiking trails.
Parking is free but must be booked in advance through BC Hydro.
It’s a long hike, but check out the Diez Vistas for an incredible view!

3. CRAB Park

Off-leash grassy and beach area for some play and cooling-off.
Quiet park located close to Gastown.
Also has playgrounds, a spray/water park, and picnic areas.
Lots of benches to choose from for a rest or to take in the view.

4. Devonian Harbour Park

Next to the Coal Harbour area.
The park is almost 11 acres large.
Off-leash areas include a partially fenced-off grassy space and the beach.
Very nice walking trails.
Features a large pond and some statues.

5. Fraser River Park

Off-leash dog area includes the beach and grassy area, as well as walking along the boardwalk. Just keep an eye out for signs for leashing your dog.
Quiet spot great for relaxing and having a picnic.
Plenty of driftwood logs to sit or even walk on.
Not as accessible as other parks, so it tends to be quieter.
Found near the quiet neighbourhood of Marpole.

6. Hadden Park

Hadden Park is between Granville Island and Kitsilano Beach.
Kits Dog Beach is off-leash and features grassy areas to run and a sandy beach to explore.
Take a look at the 100-foot totem pole carved by Kwakiutl Chief Mungo Martin from an old (600 years!) cedar tree while you’re there.
Gorgeous scenic views of the North Shore mountains and English Bay.
Lots of driftwood logs to climb and sit on.

7. John Hendry Park

John Hendry Park is also known as Trout Lake and is found in East Vancouver.
The shores of the lake are sandy, and dogs are allowed off-leash at the north end of the lake.
Look for meetups posted by other dog owners for socializing and events.
There’s a Saturday Farmer’s Market in the summer that welcomes on-leash dogs.
There are picnic areas, and BBQs are permitted.

8. McDonald Beach Park

26-acre park found in Richmond.
The beach is several kilometres and gets bigger at low tide. More space for your dog to get some exercise.
There are a number of wooded trails to hike.
A large field for running and playing fetch is available as well.
You can watch airplanes as well as working boats on the river.

9. New Brighton Park

Located in the Hastings-Sunrise area.
Small beach area to the right of the park is for dogs.
There’s an additional very large, enclosed dog park for your pup to enjoy.
There are a number of great hiking and walking trails.
There is a concession stand, playgrounds, and a picnic site.

10. Spanish Banks Beach

Large off-leash area for dogs can be found at the farthest west part of Spanish Banks.
Generally quiet, pebbly beach with a rocky shoreline.
Great spot to watch the sunset.
Concession stands are available for snacking.
A number of trails are available, including the Canyon Trail loop, which will take you into the woods.

11. Sunset Beach Park

This quiet beach is found in the West End of Vancouver.
Not a surprise that this is a beautiful spot to take in the sunset.
Lots of sand and a great place for dogs to swim and socialize.
You can access the seawall for an extended walk – just be sure to leash your dog.
There are lifeguards at this location from late May to early September.

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Conclusion

You really can’t beat the views in and around Vancouver, and what better way to enjoy the scenery than unwinding at a beach with your dog!

It’s quite important that you follow the rules – know what beaches allow dogs and when to put the leash on. Fines can be pretty hefty if you get caught breaking any of the city’s rules.

Remember to bring everything you need for a day out with your best friend, which means poop bags are essential, as are water, toys, snacks, and a leash. This way, you’ll both enjoy a beautiful and stress-free day at the beach!

Featured Image Credit: everydoghasastory, Shutterstock