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We were so looking forward to spending the summer for the first time in Vancouver. Of course, British Columbia has so many beautiful things to offer, and we don’t want to miss out on all the summer fun. Even though we are busy at work and new in this place, we don’t want to make an excuse not to enjoy our life and explore beautiful places.
As a newbie in this place, our good friend is Google, and so the top 3 destinations I am sharing here are those with great Google reviews, so you can bet you’ll enjoy these places.
So here you go, the top 3 places you can go in the lower mainland Vancouver for a fun-filled summer with your family and friends are:
Coquitlam River Park
During the summer heatwave, my husband brought us to the Coquitlam River Park. The park provides a long stretch of forest walking trails of 9.8kms. The water is cool and offers soothing relief and tranquility in the summer heat.
We went there around 3 pm, and we nearly lost our way to the river. The walking trail is more spacious compared to the others we’ve been to. A car literally can fit in it. Since it was our first time going to the river, I became a little scared when I saw the sign that says, “Black bears live here..Beware..” Frankly, I’m not quite prepared to have a bear encounter. I could hear my daughter saying loudly, “ But mommy, this is a bear country…!”
Anyway, our first afternoon in the river was full of fun. We soaked ourselves in the cold water. We found a perfect spot for our bags and beach chair. The whole stretch of the river is packed with families talking to each other, teenagers in an inflatable boat, and kids playing in the water. It was a relaxing treat, and we enjoyed it so much that we returned to the river the following day and again on the next day.
Parking information:
There is a small parking lot just by the entrance, and many people park by the roadside.
White Pine Beach, Port Moody
White Pine Beach is part of Sasamat lake, located in Belcarra Regional Park, Port Moody, British Columbia. It was our first time here. We didn’t know there’s a beautiful beach near Old Orchard Park where I truly enjoyed the sunset. Our friend invited us over that day, and we just hopped into the car, and off we went. It was nearly 7 pm when we reached the beach. Still, there were several people on the shore and the lake. My husband and daughter enjoyed their time paddling while the sun is slowly setting. It was truly a great retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Parking Information:
White Pine Beach is a popular beach among Canadians, and while there are lots of parking spaces, you need to secure parking and a picnic spot early on. The parking fee is around $4 for two hours. Go early in the morning before 8 am or late afternoon so you can have a nice spot reserved.
Alouette Lake
This lake is probably one of the most beautiful lakes we’ve been to here in British Columbia. This lake is about 16 km in length and is part of one of the famous parks, the Golden Ears Provincial Park in Maple Ridge. Our friend invited us over last Sunday, and we were fortunate there were not many people in South Beach. The forecast said it would rain on Sunday but thank God the whole day was cloudy, and it was one of those perfect Sunday at the beach moment where we enjoyed swimming, barbecuing, and just chatting with new friends.
Every place we go to has its beauty and uniqueness. Alouette Lake is a perfect place to unwind, swim, do canoeing, and paddleboarding. Soak in the water, and you would be surprised the water is warm. If you want a relaxing, peaceful afternoon with a mesmerizing mountain backdrop, then Alouette Lake is the place to be.
Parking Information:
Before going there, you must secure a day-use pass one day before your planned date, and it is advisable to book as early as possible as it gets fully booked in the morning. Refer to the BC Parks for further information. You may reserve a free day-use pass here.
Things we brought:
- Inflatable boats
- Beach chairs
- BBQ griller
- Portable mini stove
- Towels
- Swimwear
- Extra Clothes
- Picnic mat
- Beach slippers
- Bottled Water & other drinks
- Foods
- Flashlight
- First-Aid Kit
Most of the items here were from Walmart. Also, please remember to bring lifejacket (…and coffee or tea) J
Do you have some place in mind you want to share for family getaway? Please share in the comment below. We would love to explore them next time!
