Kids In Vancouver: 5 Best Beaches To Build Sandcastles

White Rock Beach | Photo: Derek Law (Flickr)

Sandcastle on White Rock Beach | Photo: Derek Law (Flickr)

It doesn’t take much to build the perfect sandcastle. All you need is some soft sand, a healthy splash of water, and something to mold the mud, and you’re all set to build a beachside masterpiece. Add a dose of sunshine and your summertime beach day is complete.

Whether you’re a sculptor extraordinaire, or a sand stomper who prefers to squish the structures between your toes, a trip to one of these 5 best beaches to build sandcastles in Vancouver will have you building your own real estate like a pro.

White Rock Sandcastle Competition 1984 | Photo: Duffy'sTavern Flickr

White Rock Sandcastle Competition 1984 | Photo: Duffy’sTavern (Flickr)

East Beach (White Rock)

Many who grew up in the Vancouver area in the early ’80s will remember The Great Canadian Open Sandcastle Competition – an epic sand sculpting contest that drew crowds to the waterfront of White Rock in droves to witness some of the world’s best compete for prizes amounting to $10,000. While the competition came to a close in 1987, the memories live on. And while there are no longer prizes to be won, the sweeping shoreline and soft, moist sand gives this beach the top spot for sand sculpting with kids. Check out the upcoming White Rock Sea Festival, coming up on July 31st, and make a day of your visit.

Centennial Beach, Richmond | Photo: Bianca Bujan

Centennial Beach, Richmond | Photo: Bianca Bujan

Centennial Beach (Delta)

Space is aplenty at Centennial Beach, where if you catch the tides just right, you can walk for miles along the soft sandy surface of this hot spot. While it’s a bit of a jaunt from downtown Vancouver, Centennial Beach presents the perfect backdrop for a beach-side day trip. Spread a blanket, lunch on fish n’ chips, and prep your buckets and shovels for a day of muddy magnificence on the beach.

Spanish Banks | Photo: Tarrah Harvey Flickr

Spanish Banks | Photo: Tarrah Harvey Flickr

Spanish Banks (Vancouver)

A trifecta of interconnected beaches located in the westside of Vancouver, Spanish Banks is a perfect spot for building sandcastles with kids. With sweeping views of the city’s skyline, and lots of grassy and sandy areas, you can picnic, wade in the shallow water, and sunbathe as you watch your little ones play in the sand.

Jericho Beach | Photo: Kenneth R. Rowley (Flickr)

Jericho Beach | Photo: Kenneth R. Rowley (Flickr)

Jericho Beach (Vancouver)

One of Vancouver’s best picnic spots, Jericho beach is a local favourite for spending the day on the beach. Rich with amenities and sandy spots, this beach is a must-visit for sun-seekers and mud-slingers alike.

Kits Beach | Photo: vancouverbyte (Flickr)

Kits Beach | Photo: vancouverbyte (Flickr)

Kits Beach (Vancouver)

Possibly Vancouver’s most famous beach, Kits beach is a hot spot located in the centre of the city – often referred to as the Venice Beach of BC. Its neighbouring outdoor pool, playground, beach volleyball courts, and array of food options makes Kits beach a favourite amongst both locals and visitors looking to enjoy an all-inclusive day by the sea.

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