Once known as Greer's Beach, when it was owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), Kitsilano Beach is now Vancouver's most popular beach. The oceanside heated salt water pool opened as Canada's first and longest saltwater pool in August 1931 and attracts swimmers and sunbathers alike.

Kitsilano Beach, known as "Kits" Beach, is located on Cornwall Ave at the north end of Yew St. The Seawall runs along side the beach and Kitsilano Pool is at the west side.

First Nations Placename & History

Kitsilano Beach in the Squamish language is Xepxpáyem (Skwa-yoos), meaning “having red cedar”.

In the early 1930’s maps were produced to show the Squamish names for local beaches and landmarks, Kitsilano Beach was identified as Skwa-yoos. However, these maps contained place names that used English letters to represent sounds that are not found in English, but only in the Squamish language. The Squamish Nation updated Skwa-yoos to Xepxpáyem, to reflect the correct pronunciation.

Kitsilano Beach is located in the Kitsilano neighbourhood, which is named after Squamish Chief August Jack Khatsahlano (Xats'alanexw), who was a prominent Squamish Chief and notable Vancouver historian who shared Indigenous oral history with others.

Amenities

• Concessions
• Public washrooms
• Tennis courts
• Basketball courts
• Playground
• Lifeguards from Victoria Day to Labour Day (late May to early September)
• Pay parking
• Waterfront Restaurants

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Official Website
• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Kitsilano Beach and 8,000 other beaches.
• Wikipedia
• Google Maps