The West Side (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The West Side?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: School-age children can build sandcastles, net crabs at low tide, swim in lifeguarded Kits Pool, and bike safe seawall; however, limited shade and long beach walks may tire them.
Positives:
- Multiple free activities: You can combine beach play, forest walks and heritage stops without extra fees.
- Short travel distances: All sites lie within a 10-minute drive or 20-minute bus ride.
Challenges:
- Limited parking: Beach lots fill quickly on sunny days; arrive early or use transit.
- Changeable weather: Pack rain jackets and layers as coastal weather shifts rapidly.
What is The West Side?
- A predominantly residential district on Vancouver’s western peninsula, extending from Kitsilano through Point Grey to the University of British Columbia
- A built environment of Edwardian and Craftsman-style homes lining tree-canopied avenues interspersed with low-rise commercial corridors on West 4th and West 10th Avenues
- A coastal greenbelt encompassing Jericho Beach, Spanish Banks tidal flats and the 763-hectare Pacific Spirit Regional Park
What is so special about The West Side for with kids?
- Golden sandy beaches with crab hunting and playgrounds
- Stroller-friendly forest trails for easy family hikes
- Kayak rentals in a sheltered bay past colorful sailboats
- Historic tea shop in a restored garden setting
- Short distances let you pack varied activities into one visit
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy the beach, a short forest trail and a kayak session without tiring younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The West Side
Jericho Beach Play Zone:
3 km of golden sand with playground, shallow water and Lions Gate Bridge views.
Tip: Bring buckets to catch red rock crabs at low tide and swim near the lifeguard stations.
Spanish Banks Sand Flats:
Wide tidal flats form mirror-like surfaces ideal for kids to run and take sunset photos.
Tip: Visit about an hour before low tide for the best reflections and easier crab hunting.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park Trail:
Stroller-friendly cedar forest trails with picnic spots.
Tip: Take the flat Salish–Spanish Trail and pack snacks for a forest scavenger hunt.
Jericho Sailing Centre Kayaking:
Rent kayaks and paddle around the bay past colorful sailboats.
Tip: Reserve kayaks online, ensure every child wears a life jacket, and limit sessions to 1–2 hours.
TWG Tea Gallery:
Historic tea shop in a restored garden setting with hot chocolate and tea tastings.
Tip: Stop for a warm drink after beach play and ask for non-caffeinated options for kids.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The West Side
- Use transit passes: Buy a day pass to hop buses between beaches and parks without extra fares.
- Check tide charts: Consult BC Tide Tables online to plan low-tide crab hunting at Spanish Banks.
When is the best time to visit The West Side (Vancouver, Canada)?
Summer offers swimming and sailing rentals; fall shows colorful forest leaves; winter brings bald eagles—dress in layers and check rental hours.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Kayak rental (2 kayaks, 1 hr) | CAD 60 |
| Parking (2 hrs at beach) | CAD 8 |
| TWG Tea treats (4 cups) | CAD 40 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 108 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of The West Side
Address: West Side, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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