Looking for new places to beat the heat?
If you're looking for a beautiful place to take a dip this summer, a new report lists the top ten spots in B.C. and Metro Vancouver.
While B.C. is home to some of the most stunning natural bodies of water in the world, some locations offer a decidedly idyllic escape. Of course, the province's ocean-side beaches are nothing to scoff at, either.
From valley lakes complete with warm, clear waters to lush forests lining B.C.'s breathtaking coastline, there are a variety of breathtaking places to enjoy a cool dip on a hot summer's day.
To find out the best spots in the Lower Mainland and in B.C., Zolo — an online real estate marketplace — analyzed almost 60 freshwater lakes, inlets, bays, swimming holes, rivers and waterfalls. After that, the company asked over 400 Canadians to rate the best lakes for swimming.
"It’s a very popular choice with both locals and tourists."
Report authors noted that Chilliwack's Cultus Lake offers a picturesque blend of sandy beaches, clean freshwater swimming and close proximity to food and amenities.
"This easy access to exceptional beaches and swimming also means it’s a very popular choice with both locals and tourists. The weekends get busy — really busy — and, as a result, paid parking is in full effect," explained Zolo.
Despite the crowds and costs, Cultus Lake had nearly an 80 per cent approval rating — the highest in the Lower Mainland list of swimming lakes. Zolo noted that "a particular favourite is Main Beach" with two handy parking lots.
The popular Lower Mainland lake was the fan favourite across the province, too.
Have a look at the top 10 best spots for a swim in B.C. and in the Lower Mainland.
Top 10 swimming spots in B.C.
| Rank | Best Swimming Lakes (and spots) in BC | Total Vote |
| 1 | Cultus Lake (Cultus Lake) | 79.07% |
| 2 | Okanagan Lake (Kelowna) | 76.62% |
| 3 | Kootenay Lake (near Nelson) | 76.19% |
| 4 | Harrison Lake (north of Chilliwack) | 74.36% |
| 5 | Windermere Lake (Invermere) | 74.07% |
| 6 | Shuswap Lake (near Salmon Arm) | 73.91% |
| 7 | Cordova Bay Beach (Victoria) | 73.53% |
| 8 | Christina Lake (near Grand Forks) | 73.02% |
| 9 | Kitsilano to Wreck Beach (Vancouver) | 72.62% |
| 10 | Lost Lake (Whistler) | 72.22% |
Top five swimming spots in the Lower Mainland
| Rank | Top 5 Swimming Spots in the Lower Mainland | Total Vote |
| 1 | Cultus Lake | 79.07% |
| 2 | Vancouver West Beaches – Kitsilano & Wreck Beach | 72.62% |
| 3 | Alouette Lake (Golden Ears Provincial Park) | 71.05% |
| 4 | Buntzen Lake (Belcarra) | 68.00% |
| 5 | Lynn Canyon 30-foot pool (North Vancouver) | 66.67% |
