Vancouver beachgoers can once again drink at select beaches this summer, thanks to the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation approving the relaunch of its Alcohol on Beaches pilot program. From June 1 to September 30, 2024, adults over 19 can bring and consume alcohol at the following beaches between 11 am and 9 pm:
- Jericho Beach
- Spanish Banks
- Locarno Beach
- Second Beach (Stanley Park)
- Kitsilano Beach
- John Hendry/Trout Lake Beach
- New Brighton Beach
However, drinking alcohol will not be permitted at the following beaches, based on guidance from the Vancouver Police Department and the Park Board’s analysis of last year’s pilot:
- English Bay Beach
- Sunset Beach Park
- Third Beach (Stanley Park)
- CRAB Park Beach
- Beaches along the Fraser River
This year’s program builds on findings from last year’s pilot. While much feedback from both the community and staff was positive, there were challenges, such as disorderly behaviour at English Bay and increased levels of garbage at beach sites, including Kitsilano Beach. Beaches pilot program.
To address these concerns, City Council approved additional resources and funding for this summer’s pilot. This year’s program includes more VPD members and Park Rangers on beaches, including English Bay, and an expanded communications campaign focusing on responsible behaviour when drinking at the beach.
The success of the Alcohol on Beaches program relies on beachgoers acting responsibly and considering others. Please avoid entering the water when intoxicated. Respect other beach users and help keep green spaces clean. Properly dispose of trash or take it away with you. When consuming beverages in parks and beaches, avoid bringing glass bottles or containers. Instead, use cans, reusable, plastic, or paper-based containers.
After this summer’s pilot relaunch, staff will review data and feedback to determine if legal alcohol consumption on Vancouver’s beaches can be implemented permanently or if further analysis is needed.
For more information on the Alcohol in Parks and Beaches program, visit vancouver.ca/alcohol-in-parks.
Photo by Levi Guzman on Unsplash