Highlight • Beach
Jericho Beach
Hiking
5.0
(14)
Jericho Beach is a beloved public beach and park situated in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Nestled on the northern shore of English Bay, just west of the vibrant Kitsilano neighbourhood, this expansive coastal area offers stunning panoramic views of downtown Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, and the majestic North Shore Mountains. Historically known as iy'a'l'mexw by the Squamish people, Jericho Beach remains a significant natural and recreational landmark at sea level.
Visitors consistently praise Jericho Beach for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas, especially as evening approaches. Many enjoy watching the city lights of Vancouver begin to twinkle in the distance, creating a magical backdrop. The beach's soft sands and the vast, grassy areas of Jericho Beach Park are popular for picnics and barbecues, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and social gatherings.
Before heading out, it's good to know that Jericho Beach offers various facilities for a comfortable visit. Pay parking is available, along with public washrooms and concessions. During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty, and a water wheelchair is provided for accessibility. While the iconic Jericho Pier was unfortunately damaged by storms and is currently closed, the beach itself remains a hub of activity.
The best time to visit Jericho Beach is often during the warmer months, from late May to early September, when the weather is pleasant for swimming and water sports. It's a fantastic destination for a wide range of activities, including sunbathing, swimming in the calm waters of English Bay, kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing through the Jericho Sailing Centre. The surrounding Jericho Beach Park also provides ample space for walking, cycling, and sports like beach volleyball, with designated off-leash areas for dog-friendly outings.
Many visitors cherish the opportunity to witness spectacular sunsets over the Pacific, painting the sky with vibrant colours. The park's duck ponds and natural areas also offer chances for wildlife spotting, adding to the tranquil experience. Whether you're enjoying a quiet moment on the soft sands or joining friends for a barbecue on the lawn, Jericho Beach provides memorable moments.
For those looking to explore the area further, a variety of walking and cycling routes connect Jericho Beach to other scenic spots along the Vancouver coastline. Hikers, cyclists, and trail runners can discover numerous paths within Jericho Beach Park and beyond. You can find and plan your next adventure using komoot, ensuring you make the most of the beautiful surroundings and diverse activities available.
Tips
June 22, 2023
Hiking
The well-known 'Jericho Pier' or 'Discovery Pier' from the 1940s was badly damaged by several storms in 2021 and 2022 and has not been open to the public since then. Even before that, there were considerations to renew the pier, which was getting on in years.
vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/jericho-pier-renewal.aspx
•
June 22, 2020
Hiking
•
August 20, 2023
Hiking
•
In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!
Sign up for free
Nearby routes
Best routes near Jericho Beach
55
hikers
10.6km
02:43
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
hikers
11.4km
02:56
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
hikers
5.15km
01:20
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Today
Saturday 13 June
26°C
14°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 7.0 km/h
Most visited during
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best ways to get to Jericho Beach using public transport?
Jericho Beach is well-served by Vancouver's public transit system. You can typically reach the beach by taking a bus that connects from downtown Vancouver or other major transit hubs. Look for routes that service Point Grey Road or the surrounding Kitsilano area, as the beach is located at the west end of Point Grey Road.
How accessible is Jericho Beach for visitors with mobility challenges or wheelchairs?
Jericho Beach strives to be accessible. During the summer months, typically from late May to early September, a water wheelchair is provided to assist visitors with mobility challenges in accessing the water. The park also features paved pathways, making it easier to navigate the grounds.
Are there specific trails or routes recommended for walking or cycling within Jericho Beach Park?
Jericho Beach Park offers numerous walking and cycling paths. The main trails are generally flat and paved, connecting the beach area with the grassy fields, duck ponds, and other recreational facilities. These paths also link to the Vancouver Seawall, allowing for longer scenic rides or walks along the coastline towards other beaches like Kitsilano or Spanish Banks.
What is the current status of the Jericho Pier, and can visitors still access it?
The Jericho Pier, also known as Discovery Pier, was unfortunately badly damaged by storms in 2021 and 2022. As a result, it has been closed to the public since then. While there are considerations for its renewal, visitors should be aware that the pier is currently not accessible.
Are dogs allowed at Jericho Beach, and are there off-leash areas?
Yes, Jericho Beach Park is dog-friendly! There are designated off-leash areas within the park where dogs can run and play freely. However, dogs must be kept on a leash in other areas of the park and on the sandy beach itself, especially during peak hours or lifeguard supervision periods.
What facilities are available at Jericho Beach for visitors?
Jericho Beach offers a range of facilities to enhance your visit. These include pay parking, public washrooms, and concessions for food and drinks. During the summer, lifeguards are on duty, and the Jericho Sailing Centre provides equipment rentals for various water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
How crowded does Jericho Beach get, especially on weekends or during peak season?
While Jericho Beach is a popular spot, it generally maintains a more laid-back atmosphere compared to some of Vancouver's other beaches. However, it can get busy on sunny weekends and during the peak summer months (June to August), especially the grassy areas for picnics and barbecues. Arriving earlier in the day can help secure a good spot and parking.
Are there any good viewpoints at Jericho Beach for photography or enjoying the scenery?
Absolutely! Jericho Beach is renowned for its stunning panoramic views. From the sandy shores, you can capture breathtaking vistas of downtown Vancouver's skyline, the vast Burrard Inlet, and the majestic North Shore Mountains. The beach is particularly cherished for its spectacular sunsets, offering incredible photographic opportunities as the sky lights up with vibrant colors.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted at Jericho Beach or in Jericho Beach Park?
Jericho Beach Park, with its duck ponds and natural areas, offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. You can often see various bird species, including ducks and geese, around the ponds. The marine environment of English Bay may also reveal seabirds and, occasionally, marine mammals further offshore.
What activities are available for families and children at Jericho Beach?
Jericho Beach is an excellent destination for families. Children can enjoy playing on the spacious sandy beach, swimming in the calm waters of English Bay, or exploring the grassy fields of Jericho Beach Park. The park also features picnic areas, and during the summer, families can rent equipment for water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking from the Jericho Sailing Centre.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options near Jericho Beach?
Yes, there are several options nearby. The Jericho Sailing Centre has concessions, and the surrounding Kitsilano neighborhood, just east of the beach, offers a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs. For accommodation, the Hostelling International Vancouver Jericho Beach is located right within the park, and there are other hotels and guesthouses in the wider Vancouver area.