Third Beach in Stanley Park, Vancouver: Guide with hours, parking & advice

Third Beach in Vancouver‘s Stanley Park is a naturally sandy beach on the western edge of the park that offers swimming, picnicking and sunset watching in a setting that feels quietly removed from the downtown buzz. This guide presents practical information for first-time visitors including how to get there, park access, facilities, and timing so you can plan your visit with confidence.

Details here cover transport options, parking, accessibility, and frequently asked questions that help you enjoy Third Beach without guesswork.

History and overview of Third Beach

Third Beach sits at Ferguson Point within Stanley Park’s extensive green landscape, providing a sandy waterfront with views across the water and skyline. It is one of several beaches along Vancouver’s Pacific shoreline maintained by the city’s parks system and lies on the Seawall walking and cycling route that circles the park’s perimeter. Third Beach’s natural character and tree-lined boundaries give it a more tranquil feel than some other urban beaches, and its westward orientation frames colourful sunsets over English Bay and the North Shore mountains. It’s part of what makes Vancouver one of the world’s best outdoorsy cities.

There is a concession stand, public washrooms and seasonal lifeguard service in summer, making Third Beach practical as well as scenic. Barbeques are permitted in designated zones, and the gentle slope into the ocean means many visitors come here for quiet bathing, wading or simply relaxing on the sand. On warm days the open space around the beach draws both locals and visitors alike, yet even in busy periods the size of the beach and surrounding parkland helps spread people out.

How to get to Third Beach

Third Beach is within Stanley Park, which is accessible by multiple modes of transport. From downtown Vancouver, walk or cycle along the Stanley Park Seawall heading west from Coal Harbour or English Bay toward Ferguson Point. The path is paved and popular with pedestrians and cyclists, offering scenic water views en route. Do the lap, and you’ll also pass the Stanley Park totem poles, the Prospect Point Lookout and Siwash Rock.

If you are using public transit, buses to the West End or Stanley Park area connect with walking routes that lead to the beach. Alternatively, driving into Stanley Park via Georgia Street and following Stanley Park Drive will bring you toward Third Beach, with parking available near the concession and beach access.

Parking at Third Beach

Paid parking is available in the EasyPark lot at Third Beach (Lot 62 on Stanley Park Drive near Ferguson Point). The lot typically operates between about 06:00 and 23:00 and offers spaces close to the beach and concession area. Parking rates vary by season with higher hourly fees in summer; check local signs or the EasyPark app before arrival to confirm current rates and payment options. A parking ticket from one park lot may be valid at others within Stanley Park if it covers the same zone and time.

On busy summer days and weekends this lot can fill early, so arriving before late morning often helps secure a space. If parking is full, you can use other Stanley Park lots and walk along Seawall or interior paths to reach Third Beach.

Opening hours at Third Beach

Third Beach is part of Stanley Park, and the park’s general public hours are from about 06:00 until 22:00. There is no separate fee or ticketing for access to the beach itself, but lifeguard patrols and concession operations are seasonal and typically active from late May through early September.

Best time to visit Third Beach

Early mornings bring softer light, cooler temperatures and quieter paths along the Seawall, making them ideal for a peaceful visit. Late afternoons and early evenings are also pleasant, especially when skies are clear for sunset views. Summer months see the highest number of visitors and busy parking lots, so weekdays outside peak hours tend to offer a more relaxed experience. Even outside summer, the beach’s coastal scenery and Seawall access make it a scenic stop on a park walk or cycle ride.

Facilities at Third Beach

Third Beach has public washrooms and change rooms near the concession stand up stairs from the sand, as well as outdoor showers for rinsing off after a swim. The concession offers light meals and drinks during operating hours in warmer months. There are picnic tables and grassy areas near the beach if you want to bring food, and barbeques are permitted in designated spots subject to park rules. Benches and shaded spaces along the Seawall provide spots to rest between activities.

Accessibility at Third Beach

The path from the Third Beach parking area down toward the beach includes paved routes and gentle slopes, supporting access for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Some paths, especially those from other parts of the park, may be steeper or narrower, so choosing the paved route from Third Beach lot is recommended for easier access. Public washrooms near the beach are designed for general accessibility but check specific facilities on arrival if you have particular needs.

Nearby attractions

• Second Beach and pool area
• Stanley Park Seawall scenic path
• Brockton Point and totem poles
• Prospect Point Lookout
• Vancouver Aquarium

Practical questions about visiting Third Beach