Metro Vancouver Beach Parking Guide: Where to find free parking (2024)

Looking to explore some of Metro Vancouver’s beaches this summer? Look no further.

While some may choose to walk or take transit to their favourite beaches or waterfront parks, others may opt to venture out a little further and take the car. Or perhaps they have a horde of small humans — and their beach toys — to tote around.

Whatever the reason, be prepared to pay up to park at some of the more popular destinations.

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Here’s a rundown of Metro Vancouver’s beaches and waterfronts that offer on-site or nearby parking and all the details you need to snag a spot for your vehicle.

Vancouver beaches

Third Beach and Second Beach

These two beaches sit at the western edge of Vancouver’s world-famous Stanley Park. Paid parking is available throughout the park. Use the Pay by Phone app or credit card at a pay station. Cost is $4.25 an hour from April to September, $3.75 per hour at other times of the year. Don’t forget a ticket purchased at any of the pay stations throughout the park is valid for parking at any location within park boundaries.

English Bay / Sunset Beach

These beaches are located at the edge of Downtown Vancouver’s bustling West End, so you’re better off taking transit if you can. But if needed, there is street parking (wherever you can find it) or some paid lots in and around the south end of Denman Street or a few blocks north of Sunset. Just beware of posted signage if you park on a residential street.

Kitsilano Beach

This popular beach has two paved parking lots located just off Cornwall and Arbutus, for $4.25 an hour during the summer months, up to a daily maximum of $18. Note that there is no overnight parking, though the lot doesn’t close until 2 a.m. Use Easy Park and its associated apps (Zipby, Pay by Phone, HONK, Park Mobile) to park in Lot 66.

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Jericho Beach

Pay parking is available at Jericho and it’s managed by Easy Park. Just look up Lot 69 and pay $3.75 per hour during the summer months, up to a daily maximum of $14.24.

Spanish Banks

Pay parking is being implemented at Spanish Banks beginning July 1, 2024, as part of the city’s 12-month pay parking pilot project aimed at easing congestion at the popular spot. The $1 an hour fee is in effect from May through September, though city staff are still working to set a reduced fee for off-peak seasons. Spanish Banks was previously the only destination beach managed by the city’s park board that offered free parking. Use Zipby, Pay by Phone, HONK, or Park Mobile apps to pay, or credit card on site.

Wreck Beach

This beach is popular with students at the nearby University of B.C. but also draws visitors from across the region, for its beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and its reputation as a welcoming spot for nude sunbathers. Free parking is available along Marine Drive but those spots go quickly, so you’re better off with paid parking at the nearby West Parkade, which is open 24 hours. Pay using HONK Mobile.

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Richmond beaches

McDonald Beach Park / Iona Beach Regional Park / Gilbert Beach

Free parking is available at all three of these beaches, though each lot has different posted hours. Be mindful that some of the lots aren’t paved.

Garry Point

Free parking is available at this Richmond destination that is more park than it is beach. However, keep in mind there are also paid parking spots located throughout Steveston. Be sure to check signage if you plan to park in Steveston Village and then walk to Garry Point.

Delta and Surrey

Centennial Beach, Delta

Free parking is available at both ends of the beach but it does get busy in the summer, so be prepared to circle a few times during peak hours.

White Rock Beach and White Rock Beach East

There is pay parking available at White Rock Beach, though the hours of when fees apply tend to change based on the season. It can also get busy so be prepared to walk from your parking spot to the beach during high season.

North Shore

Cates Park, North Vancouver

Free parking is available but check for posted time limits. As well, it can get busy so be sure to visit early if you plan to drive.

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Ambleside Park, West Vancouver

Free parking is available but due to the park’s popularity, the lots can fill quickly and will be closed when full. Be sure to have a backup plan if your heart is set on visiting Ambleside. Ambleside is also serviced by public transit.

Dundarave Beach, West Vancouver

Free parking is available but it can fill quickly. If you’re lucky enough to get a spot, be sure to check posted time limits.

Whytecliff Park, West Vancouver

This park is among three West Vancouver parks that saw parking fees implemented earlier this year, much to the chagrin of park goers. The plan to implement pay parking at Whytecliff, Lighthouse, and Nelson Canyon has long been discussed, dating back to 1997. Pay parking is in effect, costing $3.75 an hour, plus taxes. You can use Hang Tag or Pay by Phone. West Vancouver residents, however, can purchase an annual parking pass.

Other Metro Vancouver beaches

White Pine Beach, Port Moody

Pay parking is in effect and it does get busy so brace yourself. Fees at this Metro Vancouver authority park is $3 an hour, up to a daily maximum of $17.50. You can use HONK or Pay by Phone.

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Buntzen Lake, Anmore

The popularity of this destination park prompted officials to implement a reservation system for parking. So while parking is free, if you didn’t snag a reservation for a parking spot, there’s a good chance your vehicle will be turned away if you’re visiting during the peak periods over the summer.

Is there a beach or park with a unique parking situation that you think should be added to our list? Let us know by emailing us at vantips@postmedia.com.

sip@postmedia.com

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