wreck beach in vancouver" width="1200" height="900" />Wreck Beach is a massive clothing-optional beach near the University of British Columbia. This western-facing beach has some of the most incredible ocean views in all of Vancouver, and the towering sand cliffs and dense forest that surround this beach set it aside from other Vancouver beaches. It is certainly one of the most picturesque, and unique beaches in the city.
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Wreck Beach is located at the westernmost point of the UBC Peninsula. The trailhead is on NW Marine Drive just off University Boulevard. The beach faces west with entirely unobstructed ocean views all the way to Vancouver Island. If you don’t live in the UBC area it can be a bit of a journey to get to this beach, but the area is still easily accessed by car and bus.
Getting to the UBC area by car or bus is quite simple, with several major streets leading to the area, and several bus lines going here as well. The most difficult part is getting to and from the beach itself. The trail to Wreck Beach from NW Marine Drive is a long and winding wooden staircase, about 240 meters. The only way to access the beach is by stairs, or by boat, so this can limit access for some. There are benches along the stairs for you to stop at and take a rest or enjoy the view, as the stairs take you right through the forest. While getting down the stairs isn’t so much of a problem, getting up certainly can be. Make sure you bring enough water to last you for the trip back up the stairs at the end of the day!
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Because Wreck is a clothing-optional beach, it’s important to respect the rules of the beach and people’s privacy. You are absolutely not required to visit this beach in the buff, but the majority of people who visit here do. You should never take photos of other folks on the beach. If you do take photos, direct them away from crowds, like out onto the ocean. Be respectful, don’t stare, don’t photograph others, and take care of the beach by packing out all trash and recycling to the garbage cans located near the outhouses.
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Clothing-optional beaches aren’t for everyone, but if you don’t have a problem with a bit of nudity, I highly recommend you visit Wreck Beach. It is one of the few naturally sandy beaches in Vancouver, and because of this it is great for swimming and sunning. The views are incredible, and you get extended hours of sun because of how far west, and how unobstructed the beach is. This also makes for some amazing sunsets. I always try to come here at least once a year. There is a large community of Wreck Beach “lifers” who look after beachgoers and foster a sense of community here. You can also check out all the cool vendors on the south end of the beach.
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While Wreck Beach is a naturally stunning beach, it doesn’t come without its flaws. First of all, the accessibility of this beach is limiting. The only way to get to Wreck is by going down, and then back up the stairs, which makes it completely inaccessible to wheelchair users. It’s also quite the workout getting back up, so if you’re not physically fit definitely take your time.
In addition, while the community at Wreck Beach is generally very positive and safe, some people do take advantage of the fact that it is a nude beach. I personally cannot recommend that solo women visit this beach, as you may receive unwanted attention from spectators. I recommend that women come here in pairs or in groups. If you do come alone I would stick to the more crowded areas of the beach.
This can be perceived as a pro or as a con for some, but Wreck Beach is definitely a party beach. In the summer after the sun goes down you can expect loud music, and parties which can be fun for some, but disappointing for others if you’re looking for a tranquil beach experience. If you’re looking for some privacy and peace and quiet, head to the right down the beach after you come down the stairs. Wreck Beach stretches quite a ways, all the way to Tower Beach (technically still part of Wreck) which is much quieter and more isolated.
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There is no parking at the beach or trailhead, but there are several parkades throughout the UBC campus and street parking in the area.
Yes, there are outhouses at the top of the stairs, and several more at the bottom.
There isn’t a formal concession stand, but for the past several years Paradise Grill, a food vendor has been serving up hot dogs, burgers, and Jamaican cuisine at Wreck Beach. They are located on the left-hand side of the stairs.
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Wreck Beach is safe, but that doesn’t mean it is completely free of some less-than-savory characters. Because it is a nude beach, some people come to the beach simply to ogle. I always suggest that women come here with a friend, or in a group, or stay in more crowded areas.
In the summer on any given day, Wreck Beach is very busy. During the off-season, Wreck is much calmer and is a popular spot for hiking and beach walking. If you’re looking for a more tranquil clothing-optional beach in the area, I recommend Tower Beach.
