Spanish Banks beaches are sandy and a popular location for swimmers and sunbathers. The vast area of tidal pools available at low tide make Spanish Banks one of the best places in Vancouver for skimboarding.

Located along Northwest Marine Dr west of Tolmie St, Spanish Banks Beach is composed of three distinct sections, east, west, and extension. At low tide, the water is one kilometre off shore.

Amenities

Spanish Banks East

• On the Seaside Seawall system
• Concession
• Public washrooms
• Barbeques permitted
• Picnic tables
• Eight volleyball courts
• Free parking
• Lifeguards from Victoria Day to Labour Day (late May to early September)

Spanish Banks West

• On the Seaside Seawall system
• Designated quiet beach (amplified sound is not permitted)
• Concession
• Public washrooms
• Barbeques permitted
• Picnic tables
• Eight volleyball courts
• Dog off-leash area (200m west of the building)
• Free parking
• Lifeguards from Victoria Day to Labour Day (late May to early September)

Spanish Banks Extension

• On the Seaside Seawall system
• Barbeques permitted
• Free parking
• Lifeguards from Victoria Day to Labour Day (late May to early September) - weather permitting
• Dog off-leash area

First Nations Placename & History

The traditional name the Musqueam Nation gave for this area is šxʷsyiΦəm.

The Musqueam people used the peninsula (known as “Ulksen” or “the nose” as it described the shape of the extending portion of the peninsula) as a training site for their youth. The sea was used for canoe pulling and fishing, the forest for hunting and gathering, and the beaches for crabbing. The land itself was, and is, a place for education and growth.

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

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Spanish Banks and 8,000 other beaches.