After many summer visits to Crescent Beach, we know it ranks among BC’s best coastal spots for day trips.
The 2.7km beach path gives you brilliant ocean views, and Hooked Fish Bar does excellent fish & chips on their sunset patio.
There’s plenty more to see once you’ve covered these basics.
Beach Activities and Water Sports
When you’re planning your beach day at Crescent Beach, get in the water during the swimming season from late June through early September. There are two roped-off swimming areas. If you fancy some adventure, grab a kayak or paddleboard and head beyond Blackie Spit to the Nicomekl River, you can paddle right under the rail bridge to reach Elgin Heritage Park. Pop over to the volleyball courts at Sullivan Point for a quick game, or spend time building sandcastles at low tide when the wet sand’s just right for shaping.
Wildlife Watching and Nature Exploration
Wildlife watching at Crescent Beach offers you something special, particularly around Blackie Spit where tidal marshes create vital stopover points along the Pacific Flyway. You’ll see sandpipers, northern flickers, and pileated woodpeckers throughout the year, though migration seasons bring your best viewing opportunities. Harbour seals and their pups frequently surface near Wickson Pier during our wildlife tours. Walking or paddling the Nicomekl River shoreline trails rewards you with brown creeper and yellow-rumped warbler sightings. From April through October, our marina whale-watching trips give you chances to see orcas and humpbacks. Sullivan Point Park provides additional birdwatching spots that complement your Blackie Spit visits perfectly.
Scenic Walks and Cycling Trails
Looking for a peaceful oceanfront walk or an energising bike ride? We’ve got coastal trails that bring gorgeous seaside views straight to you. The 2.7km Crescent Beach Path offers spectacular ocean vistas and links directly to the Nicomekl River shoreline routes.
Our favourite local paths:
- Beach Path – Take the Crescent Beach Greenway for unbeatable waterfront scenery
- Historic Cycling Route – Try the 3km return trail to Elgin Park, where you’ll pass Stewart Farm’s heritage buildings
- Hidden Spot – Check out 1001 Steps park’s wooden staircase that leads down to quiet cobble beaches and historic dykes from 1913
Dining and Local Treats
After working up an appetite on those coastal trails, you’ll want to see what makes the local food scene so popular. We suggest starting at Hooked Fish Bar – their fish & chips and seafood chowder taste incredible when you’re watching the sunset from their patio. For the perfect beach day treat, pick up gelato from Bravo or choose from Martino’s amazing 110 flavours. Ice cream walks along the shoreline are basically required here. Planning a picnic? Delitalia’s antipasto or Sunflower Café’s relaxed options make Blackie Spit dining even more enjoyable.
Family-Friendly Fun on the Sand
After refuelling with good food, you’re ready to enjoy beach time with your children. Crescent Beach gives your family plenty of ways to have fun, and we know exactly where to go for the best experience.
Our local tips for sandy activities:
- Create amazing sandcastles when the tide is low – the wet sand near the high tide line works perfectly for building
- Keep children safe whilst swimming by always keeping them close and being mindful of your child’s level of swimming ability
- Search the shoreline for interesting shells and sea creatures
Questions Often Asked
What Are the Best Parking Options Near Crescent Beach?
For the best parking near Crescent Beach, we suggest Beecher Street or nearby residential roads.
We recommend using the free street parking on Beecher Street or the quiet residential streets just behind the beach. Get there early on weekends, though – locals fill these spaces quickly during summer months!
Are There Public Washrooms and Shower Facilities Available at the Beach?
Yes, there are public washrooms at the beach. You’ll find clean facilities near the main beach area by the parking lot. However, shower facilities aren’t available. We suggest bringing wet wipes to clean sandy hands and feet after your visit to the beach.
What Is the Cost of Admission or Parking Fees for Crescent Beach?
Crescent Beach has no admission fees or parking charges.
Good news – you won’t pay anything to visit Crescent Beach. We can confirm that both entry and parking are completely free. Simply arrive and enjoy this beautiful coastal spot without any costs.
Are There Nearby Accommodations if I Want to Stay Overnight?
Yes, you have brilliant options for staying the night! Most visitors don’t know about the lovely beachfront inns right in White Rock or the Airbnbs in Surrey. Both give you quick access to the beach, so you can wake up and be back on the sand in minutes for your morning walk.
