North Shore Beaches for Families
The North Shore is not short on stunning places to get your feet wet. From rocky coves with tide pools to long sandy stretches with full amenities, there's a beach here for every kind of family day out. We've rounded up all eight of our favourites — with a special nod to a few that don't always get the attention they deserve.
Stearman Beach — Caulfeild, West Vancouver
If you haven't been to Stearman, add it to your list. Tucked away in a quiet residential pocket of West Vancouver, this beach is genuinely large, especially at low tide, and packed with things to explore: driftwood, tide pools, and Willow Creek trickling right across the sand — perfect for little feet to wade in on a hot day. You can also walk west along the shoreline almost all the way to Caulfeild Beach when the tide is low. Water shoes recommended. No washrooms, so plan ahead.
Caulfeild Beach — Caulfeild, West Vancouver
Another one that rewards the families willing to do a little homework. You'll need to check the tide table before you go — at low tide, Caulfeild transforms into one of the sandiest beaches on the North Shore, with a wonderfully gradual entry into the water that's ideal for young swimmers. At high tide, the sandy strip shrinks significantly. Access is via a gravel path and stairs (not stroller-friendly), and there are no food options nearby, so pack your snacks.
Sandy Cove Beach — Sandy Cove, West Vancouver
Quiet even on the nicest summer days — that's the appeal here. Sandy Cove is a small, peaceful beach reached via a long staircase down from Marine Drive (look for the Sandy Cove Park sign). No stroller access, no washrooms, and the beach has a noticeable tilt toward the water, so leave the toy trucks at home. But if you want space, calm, and a beach that feels genuinely off the beaten path, this is it. The driftwood at the entry acts as a natural semi-barrier for little runners, which parents tend to appreciate.
Whytecliff Beach — Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver
Worth the drive to the far west end of West Vancouver. The beach itself is on the smaller side — mostly pebbles with pockets of sand — but the setting is spectacular: a protected cove with great swimming, a tidal path out to Whyte Islet at low tide, cliffside scrambling, and the occasional sea lion sighting. It's a Marine Protected Area and a popular scuba diving spot, so there's always something interesting happening. Pair it with the rest of Whytecliff Park and you've got a full afternoon. Parking fills fast on sunny weekends.
Panorama Beach — Deep Cove, North Vancouver
Right in the heart of Deep Cove, this sheltered rocky beach looks out over Indian Arm and is one of the most scenic spots on the North Shore for a family outing. The beach is great for exploring in all seasons, and the surrounding Panorama Park gives you plenty of room to roam beyond the shoreline. Best of all, you're steps away from Deep Cove's cafés, donuts, and sushi — so no one goes home hungry.
Cates Park Beach — Deep Cove, North Vancouver
The North Shore's largest seaside park delivers on pretty much every front: a long, expansive shoreline on the unceded territory of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, two playgrounds, washrooms, a seasonal concession stand, and a walking trail (Malcolm Lowry Trail) that connects to Little Cates Park with beach access points along the way. During low tide you can scramble rocks and explore the intertidal zone. Even on busy weekends you can find quieter spots if you venture past the main parking area. Water shoes are a good idea.
Dundarave Beach — Dundarave, West Vancouver
Smaller than its neighbour Ambleside, but with its own charm: a pier, a playground, a restaurant right at the park, and easy access to Dundarave Village. The beach runs about 50 metres of coarse grey sand, good for building and summer splashing. It's stroller accessible, and if you want more, just hop on Centennial Seawalk east toward Ambleside or west toward John Lawson Park.
Ambleside Beach — Ambleside, West Vancouver
The one everyone knows, and for good reason. Long, sandy, and set within a sprawling park that has almost everything: washrooms, picnic tables, a playground, a pier, a pond with ducks and swans, basketball courts, a skate park, and food nearby in Ambleside Village. Stroller-friendly via Centennial Seawalk. Wheelchair access at the beach. It gets busy — go early or on weekdays in summer — but it earns its reputation.
Whether you're after a full day at a busy beach or a quiet cove that feels like your own little secret, the North Shore has it. Pack the water shoes, check the tides, and go explore — there's a lot of coastline out there waiting for you.
Check current tide tables for West Vancouver before you head out — lower tides mean more beach to explore.
https://www.tideschart.com/Canada/British-Columbia/Metro-Vancouver-Regional-District/West-Vancouver/