The flat sand at Parksville’s popular Rathtrevor Beach stretches out as far as the eye can see at low tide, creating plenty of tide pools safe for little ones. Add a shady campground with hiking and biking trails, and you have an unforgettable family getaway.

Part of Cape Scott Provincial Park on the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, near Port Hardy, San Josef Bay is a secluded spot made for adventurers. The bay is accessible only on foot, or by boat or helicopter, so there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself.

Kitsilano Beach Park features sandy beaches, a large grassy play area, tennis courts, basketball courts, a fully accessible playground, and a huge outdoor heated saltwater pool, all with views of the downtown Vancouver skyline and the North Shore Mountains.

This warm lake in Vernon is as popular with photographers as it is with swimmers and stand-up paddleboarders in the summer months. When the water warms up, it turns a remarkable blue-green colour, a result of limestone crystals that reflect the sunlight.

Operated by the Osoyoos Indian Band, sẁiẁs Provincial Park (Haynes Point) sits on a peninsula that extends into one of the warmest lakes in the province. Learn about local Indigenous culture and the area’s unique desert ecosystem.

One of BC’s most stunning and remote beaches, Agate Beach extends along the rugged coast of northern Haida Gwaii in Naikoon Provincial Park. Keep an eye out here for wildlife and surfers as you gaze out toward the open ocean.