It's likely not a surprise to anyone who's lived in Vancouver for more than a couple months, but Kitsilano is Canada's best urban beach according to Lonely Planet.
The massive travel publisher recently named their picks for the top 10 beaches in the country. Instead of ranking the beaches, Lonely Planet gave each a title and Kitsilano Beach was awarded best urban beach in the country.
They describe it as a "freewheeling nugget of Southern California chopped off and transported one thousand miles north."
"Backed by cool cafes and an attractive park, Kits exudes a sporty, laid-back vibe, especially in summer," writes Lonely Planet writer Brendan Sainsbury.
The beach's volleyball courts and pool are highlighted for those interested in the sporty side of things, while the views are praised.
Two other B.C. beaches are listed as well, both on Vancouver Island. The remote San Josef Bay was named the best wilderness beach while Chesterman Beach in Tofino was named the best beach for surfing.
B.C. was the province with the most beaches on the list.
Other beaches on the list were:
- P.E.I.'s Stanhope Beach - Best beach for avoiding the crowds
- Ontario's Wasaga Beach - Best beach for swimming
- New Brunswick's Parlee Beach - Best beach for families
- Newfoundland's Shallow Bay - Best beach for kayaking
- Alberta's Annette Lake - Best beach for wildlife
- Quebec's Plage de la Grande Echouerie - Best beach for kite surfing
- Ontario's Dunes Beach - Best beach for sand dunes
