Which way to the beach? Well, in Vancouver you can find one everywhere you turn! Whether you are looking for a stretch of sand to stretch out and relax, a court to bump a volleyball, or a place to flaunt your stuff, Vancouver's got it. The following is a list of some top beaches in the city.

Kitsilano Beach

If Vancouver really is "Hollywood North," then Kitsilano Beach or "Kits" to the locals - must be our Venice Beach. Buff and bronzed bodies are sure to make their rounds, but don't be frightened, you're sure to fit in somewhere amidst the mix of joggers, stroller-pushing families, sun-worshippers and your everyday loungers. Grassy patches above the high tide line are perfect for tossing the disc, the tennis courts are always packed, and the beach attracts volleyball players from all over the city.

Take a dip into adjacent Kits Pool - almost three times the size of an Olympic pool, and open to swimmers of all levels.

Jericho Beach

When all the elements are right, fishing and a picnic at the Jericho Beach pier makes for a perfect evening. Enjoy the long long, sandy stretch with killer views of the North Shore mountains and downtown core. It's also a great spot for sailing, windsurfing and sea kayaking.

Jericho Beach

When all the elements are right, fishing and a picnic at the Jericho Beach pier makes for a perfect evening. Enjoy the long long, sandy stretch with killer views of the North Shore mountains and downtown core. It's also a great spot for sailing, windsurfing and sea kayaking.

Spanish Banks

To commemorate the discovery of the Spanish explorers in 1792, the British named this particular shore Spanish Banks. The least crowded of the beaches, Spanish Banks is a wonderful retreat for those who wish to escape from the pace of city life. Skimmers alert: this is the perfect place for skim boarding once you learn the optimal tidal conditions.

The southern edge of the West End is one of the most attractive waterfront urban environments English Bay and Sunset Beach. Amazingly, this large stretch of sand is no more than 30 minutes walk from the downtown core - with no commercial exploitation intruding on the peaceful environment.

Second Beach is a quick stroll north from English Bay into Stanley Park. Like Kitsilano Beach, Second Beach has an immense, heated freshwater pool. Farther along the seawall lies secluded Third Beach, which is due north of Stanley Park Drive. Locals tote along grills and coolers to this spot, a popular place for summer evening barbecues and sunset watching.

This six- kilometre long, wilderness-like beach is Canada's first and largest, legal, clothing-optional beach! It is located at the western tip of Vancouver adjacent to the university campus, down a long flight of steep stairs. On a summer weekend, over 14,000 visitors can flock to the beach which stretches from the Musqueam Reserve to Spanish Banks West. Vendors' Row, which stretches down the middle of the beach below Trail 6, offers snacks and refreshments.

www.wreckbeach.org

The long anticipated reopening of the Stanley Park Seawall is complete! The three-month closure allowed for a widening and resurfacing of a 2.3 km stretch. The aim of the project was improved condition of the walkway, drainage, and separation between pedestrians and cyclists. Be sure to check it out sometime this summer!