49.28 | -123.22
Spanish Banks is a long sandy beach on Vancouver's west side, on the south shore of English Bay facing the North Shore mountains. It's one of the few Vancouver spots where kitesurfing is tolerated, under certain conditions. The beach stretches for several kilometres with vast sand flats at low tide — similar to Boundary Bay, you need high tide to ride. Stunning views of the mountains and Lions Gate Bridge.
Open all year round
Intermediate
Shallow water over sand flats at high tide. Sandy bottom. Moderate chop in W/NW winds. Water is cold (mix of Fraser River freshwater and Pacific) — 4/3 wetsuit in summer, 5/4 in winter. At low tide, the beach extends hundreds of metres and water is inaccessible.
Kitesurfing is subject to municipal restrictions — check current regulations before riding. Shared area with swimmers, kayakers, and walkers in summer. Highly tide-dependent: flats dry out quickly on dropping tide. Marine traffic (cargo ships, ferries) in English Bay. Airport proximity (YVR approach path).
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