Second beach is located in Stanley Park, between Third Beach and English Bay. Because it is close along the Stanley Park Seawall and has bunch of family-friendly features, it is a popular beach in the city.
Where Is Second Beach Located?
Things to do at Second Beach
Sun Bathing
Unlike English Bay, Second Beach is not as busy. But there is still ample room on the beach to lay down and logs to sit around. You’ll find others on Second Beach doing the same.
Swimming
Yes you can swim at Second Beach. The waves are mild and the water temperature is best during the summer months. Due to some rocky areas at Second Beach, you’ll find ropes to indicate not go beyond and where it is safe to swim out to.
There is also a heated outdoor swimming pool next to the beach (735 Stanley Park Drive). It is 80 metres long and is heated freshwater. A lifeguard is present during peak season.
To access the heated swimming pool, there is an admission fee. See full rates here.
Park and Playground
Right behind Second Beach you’ll find Ceperley Park, a large open green space within Stanley Park. Because it is a large grassy area without much elevation, it is popular field used for events (ie. Movies in Stanley Park, Terry Fox Run, Celebrations of Light), picnics and sports.
Aside from the field, there is 2 large children’s playgrounds, a basketball court, a picnic area and parking lot.
Features of Second Beach:
- Concession stand
- Public washrooms
- Playground area
- Stand-alone barbeques allowed at nearby Ceperley Meadow
- Picnic shelter (reservation required)
- Pay parking
- Lifeguards (late May to early September)
- Water wheelchair (two attendants needed to operate, available Victoria Day to Labour Day)
- Heated, outdoor pool
See full details about Second Beach from the City of Vancouver here.
Can you swim in second beach?
Yes you can swim at Second Beach. The waves are mild and the temperatures are best during the summertime. There is also a heated swimming pool with fresh water.
When was Second Beach pool built?
The heated Second Beach pool was built in 1995. It is an outdoor heated swimming pool with a slide and lifeguard on duty. It is open during the summer months and requires an admission fee to enter.
What People Say About Second Beach
Nice beach at Stanley Park, central to some other activities in this area. Lots of parking at the lot here. There are some logs you can sit on, a mountain view, some benches to sit on, paths to walk on along the waterfront, and some sand. Peaceful area, worth a visit.
Marta Borowska
Beautiful beach in Stanley park. There are ample parking spots nearby along with kids play area. The beach is right next to public swimming pool. The washrooms close to the beach were clean.
If the beach is crowded, there are other picnic spots in Stanley park to spend time.
Amit Sharma
Great spot with a beautiful swimming pool and park surrounding the beach. It was not completely crowded and the sand/beach is very clean and family/kid friendly. Will be back for sure!
Aneta Jakuszyk
One of Vancouver’s best beaches. Sunnier than most parts too. Wonderful views of the shore, Stanley Park and the Vancouver city skyline. Lots of space for family and friends. Very active Beach.
Shawn of the Sheep
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