Spanish Banks

Spanish Banks sit along the shore of English Bay between Locarno Beach and the grounds of the University of British Columbia, with broad sand flats backed by grassy fields. The shoreline is divided into three sections commonly called Spanish Bank East, Spanish Bank West and Spanish Bank Extension, each with a slightly different character and facilities.

The name recalls encounters between early Spanish and British explorers in the Strait of Georgia in the 1790s and was applied locally by the Hudson’s Bay Company before Captain Richards recorded it during his 1859 survey. The beaches were once considered as a possible site for Vancouver Airport but that plan was abandoned.

Visiting Spanish Banks feels more like a park-beach hybrid: there are extensive grassy areas for picnics and games, a separated bike path and a long walking route next to the water. At low tide the mudflats and shallow pools are exposed, which attracts skimboarders and kite surfers on windier days, while lifeguards patrol parts of the beaches in summer and dogs are allowed off leash in much of the Extension.

• Low-tide flats: Wide shallow sand and tidal pools exposed at low tide are great for exploring, skimboarding and watching shorebirds.
• English Bay sunsets: Wide western views make Spanish Banks a popular spot for evening light and sunsets over the bay.
• Volleyball courts and picnic fields: Spanish Bank East and West feature sand volleyball courts and large grassy areas used for picnics and casual sports.
• Kitesurfing and wind sports: The western sections catch stronger winds and are frequented by kitesurfers and windsurfers when conditions are right.
• Dog off-leash area: Spanish Bank Extension is largely a designated off-leash area where dogs can run on the narrower sandy shore.

Spanish Banks are in Vancouver’s West Point Grey neighbourhood; the nearest major airport is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The beaches are adjacent to the University of British Columbia campus and a short drive or bike ride from downtown Vancouver.

The final stretch is commonly covered by local buses, cycling along the seawall and Northwest Marine Drive, or by taxi and rideshare; there is street and park parking but spaces can fill quickly on busy days so check local transit options and allow extra time.

• Check the tide times before you go because the most extensive sand flats appear at low tide and change quickly with the tide.
• Spanish Bank West is designated a quiet beach where amplified music is not permitted; expect a calmer atmosphere there than at the East section.
• Bring wind protection and a wetsuit if you plan to kitesurf or skimboard, as water and onshore winds can be cool.
• Spanish Bank Extension is largely an off-leash dog area; keep dogs under control near other beach users and wildlife.
• Lifeguards are on duty at designated parts of the beaches during the summer season, but always supervise children and watch conditions.