8 things to see, do, eat and fall in-love with in White Rock, B.C.

The centre of White Rock is shifting, ushering in a new era of upscale, seaside living on the West Coast.

The city of White Rock has always been the top choice for those seeking a relaxed lifestyle and a meaningful sense of community. In recent years, the area has expanded upon these quaint offerings and is now boasting more food, entertainment, recreational activities and cultural experiences than ever before.

Discover upscale boutiques, waterfront dining, holistic living and world-class local wine and beer, all within steps of the city’s historic beach and pier.

Explore White Rock’s oldest gems and get excited about what’s to come.

1. The Wooden Spoon Brunch & Bistro

Photo: Wooden Spoon Facebook

A chic rustic bistro with enough charm to perk-up even the laziest weekend brunches. The Wooden Spoon’s food philosophy is simple; dishes are fresh, simple and inspired by locally sourced ingredients. Their “sweet and salty” French toast is a brunch must, while the Taste of White Rock menu celebrates local cuisine with fresh B.C. salmon and cast-iron seared flank steak. Best of all, each of the Wooden Spoon’s offerings are made in-house. 15171 Russell Ave.

2. The Hand Picked Home

Photo: Hand Picked Home

Located in the heart of uptown White Rock, The Handpicked Home carries a stunning collection of handpicked and locally designed home décor items and gifts. From reclaimed furniture and gourmet foods to luxury bath and body products, this gorgeous little shop gives you the perfect opportunity to find something truly unique for you and your home. 1406 Johnston Rd.

3. White Rock Beach Beer Company Tasting Room

Photo: Shutterstock Beer/Shutterstock

White Rock Beach Beer Company has been a local favourite since the microbrewery first opened in 2013. With no background experience in brewing, co-founders, Peter Adams and Bill Haddow (who both pull double duty as secondary school teachers), have earned an excellent reputation for their delicious craft beer. With notes of citrus and grapefruit, their White Rock West Beach Fruit beer is perfectly representative of the area. 15183 Russell Ave.

4. Live Yoga

Photo: Live Yoga

Known for its active lifestyle, White Rock is home to a number of yoga and fitness centres, including Live Yoga (voted the best Yoga studio in White Rock and Surrey). With a strong community focus, great teachers and a passion for make yoga accessible to everyone, Live Yoga is a must-visit for those who love to stretch their way into feeling their best. 15186 Buena Vista Ave.

5. Charlie Don’t Surf

Photo: Charlie Don't Surf Photo: Charlie Don’t Surf

Situated almost directly in front of White Rock Pier, Charlie Don't Surf has been a fixture on the White Rock strip for over 30 years. Enjoy fresh, wild seafood, served with local organic vegetables and soak in the sun with a pint of one of their many craft beers. Complete with ocean views, this casual eatery is a White Rock must. 15011 Marine Dr.

6. Blue Frog Studios

Imagine experiencing a live concert with the pitch perfect sound of a world-class recording studio. Well, that’s a typical show at White Rock’s Blue Frog Live, Canada’s hottest live web streaming concert series. In the style of Austin City Limits, the 4800 sq. offers 100 lucky audience members a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with local and touring artists. 1328 Johnston Rd.

7. White Rock Pier and Beach

Landmark's Picnic on the Pier Landmark’s Picnic on the Pier

Vancouverites are blessed with beaches throughout the city, but few of them have the same breezy charm of White Rock’s. With 8 km of sand and warm shallow waters you’re sure to find that perfect spot to lay out your blanket and take in the gorgeous views of the coastal mountains and the San Juan Islands. White Rock Beach is divided into “East Beach” and “West Beach”, separated by a rise in the shoreline that the locals call “the hump”. Among the best beaches in the region, the warm, protected, water of Semiahmoo Bay provides a safe area for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking. Of course, no trip to White Rock is complete without a visit to the historic pier!

8. White Rock Commons

Here’s something to look forward to. White Rock Commons will be White Rock’s new year-round town centre. Complete with restaurants, services and amenities that compliment the area’s reputation for breezy coastal living, White Rock Commons will offer an exceptional blend of sophistication and urban connectivity. Anchored by an elegant new residential building, (featuring stylish architecture and ocean views from every balcony), White Rock Commons aims to contribute to the area’s thriving urban community, providing residents with everything they need for mind, body and soul.