Written by Ash

Jericho Beach: What to See + How to Get There

08 July 2025 | 0 comments

Jericho Beach in Vancouver is the kind of place that surprises people who think they’ve already seen the best of the city.

But is it just another patch of sand, or does it actually deliver something different?

Let’s walk through what to see at Jericho Beach—and why it’s one of my quiet favourites.

What Is Jericho Beach?

Jericho Beach sits along the coast in Vancouver’s West Point Grey neighbourhood, where city skyline meets mountain backdrop. It’s named after a settler named Jeremiah Rogers—locals just shortened “Jerry’s Cove” to Jericho.

People come here to slow down.

You won’t find the packed energy of Kitsilano. This one’s got its own vibe—more relaxed, more local, and far less filtered.

⚠️ Warning ⚠️: The average attraction in Vancouver is booked 42 days in advance.

Especially in high season, booking online is the only way to avoid sellouts.

⛰️ Buy now: Grouse Mountain Admission + Skyride (book now/pay later)
🌁 Buy now: Capilano Suspension Bridge + free downtown shuttle (free cancellation)
🚌 Buy now: Capilano Suspension Bridge + Grouse Mountain combo (all transport included)
🐳 Buy now: Vancouver’s top rated killer whale tour (plus free photo and beverage)

All the links above offer the chance to book now/pay later, allow free cancellation, and guarantee you the best price – or you’ll be refunded the difference 🤝

People who visit love it for:

✅ Wide open views of the North Shore mountains across the bay
✅ Soft, quiet sand that doesn’t get crowded even in summer
✅ A calmer, more peaceful feeling than Vancouver’s other urban beaches
✅ A nature-meets-city balance with sailboats, trails, and skyline in one frame
✅ Sunsets that feel personal, with fewer phones and more presence

This beach is perfect for quiet seekers, picnic people, and low-key sunset fans.

If there’s one downside to Jericho, it’s that the water can be a bit chilly—even in July. But honestly? I’d rather have cool water and no crowds.

Let’s keep going.

What to See While You’re at Jericho Beach Park

Jericho Sailing Centre: Affordable gear rentals and a true locals’ hangout by the sea
The Jericho Pier: A peaceful spot for watching seals and sailboats glide by
Jericho Park Trails: Grassy paths with birds, benches, and hidden picnic zones
The Wooden Log Benches: Classic West Coast vibes with a million-dollar view
Locarno Beach Extension: Just next door, a little quieter, and very photogenic
Community-run Cafe at Jericho Centre: A casual snack spot with ocean air
Wildlife Lookouts: Herons, ducks, raccoons… and sometimes a curious coyote
Sunset Viewing Zones: Fewer selfie sticks, more peace
Soft Sand Zones: Great for laying out with a book or a baguette
Festival Space: Sometimes used for low-key music or outdoor cinema nights

Jericho Beach Vancouver: The Must Sees

Jericho Sailing Centre

This place has been part of Vancouver’s coastal culture since the 1970s. It’s not fancy—but that’s the charm.

I remember watching a beginner windsurfer completely wipe out here. No shame—just laughter and cheers from strangers. That’s the vibe. It’s community-run, casual, and real.

✨ Don’t leave without trying the paddleboard rentals, even if you fall in.

The Jericho Pier

Originally a military dock, this little wooden pier has mellowed into a lookout for wildlife watchers.

One morning I stood out there with a thermos of coffee, watching a seal lazily bob near the boats. You can hear water lapping against the posts and birds rustling in the bushes. It’s almost meditative.

✨ Don’t leave without pausing at the very end—just be still for a few minutes.

weathered wood, quiet tides, and the old-school charm of jericho beach’s sailing club—it’s got that slow west coast vibe tucked right into vancouver’s edge

Jericho Park Trails

The trails curve through a mix of grassland and shoreline forest. There’s this one section with a wooden bridge where the birds sound louder than the city.

I like getting lost here. Sometimes I bring takeout and find a bench in the shade. You’ll spot older couples walking dogs, joggers, and maybe a guitarist or two just chilling.

✨ Don’t leave without veering off the main trail to find your own picnic spot.

Where is Jericho Beach in Vancouver?

Jericho Beach is about 7 km west of downtown Vancouver, tucked between Kitsilano Beach and Spanish Banks. It sits in a mostly residential area, with views stretching across English Bay to the North Shore.

It’s far enough out that you lose the tourist buzz—but still close enough that you can see the skyline.

On an ease-of-reach scale, I’d give it an 8 out of 10.

It’s simple to get to if you’re already in Kits or UBC. And if you’re coming from downtown, it’s a chill half-hour that doesn’t feel like a trek.

How to Get to Jericho Beach Park from City Centre

🚗 By Car: 25 minutes, estimated cost $10 (fuel + 2-hour metered parking)
🚌 By Bus: 40 minutes, estimated cost $3.15, operated by TransLink
🚇 By SkyTrain + Bus: 45 minutes, estimated cost $3.15, SkyTrain to Broadway-City Hall + bus west
🚲 By Bike: 35 minutes, scenic route through Kitsilano or Point Grey
🚶‍♀️ By Foot: Not recommended from downtown—too far unless you love walking

Easiest Way to Get to Jericho Beach

Biking is the winner here.

You can cruise along the Seaside Bike Route past Kits Beach, with ocean views the whole way. That ride feels like part of the trip, not just the transport.

If biking’s not your thing, the bus from downtown is direct and cheap. I’ve done it plenty of times—it drops you close enough, and the walk from the stop is breezy and flat.

Driving is fine too, but in peak summer the lot fills up fast and parking can be annoying.

If you’re with a group and carrying picnic stuff, a car might still be the smoothest way to go.

Is a Visit to Jericho Beach Vancouver Worth It? My Experience

Yes—and it’s not just because it’s pretty.

What I love about Jericho is that it doesn’t try too hard. It’s not trying to be “Instagrammable.” You get natural views, casual energy, and space to just… exist.

One time I spent a whole afternoon there doing absolutely nothing. Just watching birds and sailboats, chatting with strangers, and eating a cold sandwich that somehow tasted perfect.

The crowd is mostly locals. Families, older folks, university students.

There’s no thumping music, no shouting, no pressure to buy anything. It’s a reset button.

If I had to nitpick, I’d say the sand has a bit more seaweed than other beaches. But honestly? I’d trade that for peace and space any day.

My Tips for Visiting

Bring your own snacks or drinks.
The on-site café is basic. If you want something better, grab food on 4th Ave before coming.
Pack a sweater or light jacket.
Even in summer, the ocean breeze can get cool—especially at sunset.
Rent gear early in the day.
Jericho Sailing Centre offers rentals, but they can run out during sunny weekends.
Check for events ahead of time.
Sometimes there’s a local music fest or free movie night. Vancouver’s event calendar has updated listings.
Use the wooden logs as your sunset spot.
They’re oddly comfy and give you that classic “Vancouver chill” scene without trying too hard.

Jericho Beach FAQ

What’s the best time to visit Jericho Beach?

Late afternoon to early evening is best—cooler weather, prettier light, and fewer crowds.

Can you swim at Jericho Beach?

Yes, but the water’s cooler than you might expect. It’s clean and swimmable, just not tropical.

Is Jericho Beach dog-friendly?

Yes, there’s an off-leash area west of the main beach, but dogs must be leashed elsewhere.

Are there bathrooms at Jericho Beach?

Yes, public washrooms are available near the Sailing Centre and the parking lot.

What makes Jericho Beach different from Kitsilano Beach?

Jericho feels more relaxed, with fewer crowds and more nature. Kits is busier and more social.

Can you picnic at Jericho Beach?

Absolutely. There are grassy areas, picnic tables, and plenty of space to spread out.

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