Looking for the best beaches in the Fraser Valley?

Whether you’re planning a full beach day, looking for a place to swim with the kids, or simply want somewhere scenic to enjoy the sunshine, the Fraser Valley has plenty of family-friendly beach destinations.

From sandy lakeshores to ocean beaches and hidden swimming spots, these are some of our favourite beaches for families in and around the Fraser Valley.

Jump To

• Cultus Lake
• Harrison Lake Beach
• White Rock Beach
• Crescent Beach
• Centennial Beach
• Whonnock Lake
• Hayward Lake
• Allouette Lake

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Cultus Lake (Chilliwack)

If you’re looking for the classic Fraser Valley beach experience, Cultus Lake is hard to beat.

Families will find sandy beaches, warm water, playgrounds, washrooms, picnic areas, and plenty of room to spend an entire day outdoors.

What families love:

• Sandy swimming areas
• Warm summer water
• Playgrounds nearby
• Washrooms and concessions
• Beautiful mountain views

Good to know:

• Arrive early on summer weekends
• Parking can fill quickly
• Lifeguards are often on duty during peak season

Harrison Lake Beach (Harrison Hot Springs)

Harrison Lake offers one of the most beautiful beach settings in British Columbia.

The long waterfront, mountain backdrop, playground, and nearby restaurants make it a favourite family destination.

What families love:

• Incredible mountain scenery
• Long beachfront promenade
• Playground nearby
• Restaurants and ice cream within walking distance
• Great for a full day trip

Good to know:

• The beach is primarily pebble rather than sand
• Water can be cooler than Cultus Lake

White Rock Beach (White Rock)

White Rock Beach combines a beach day with a lively waterfront atmosphere.

Families can stroll the promenade, visit the pier, enjoy fish and chips, or spend time along the shoreline.

What families love:

• Ocean views
• The famous White Rock Pier
• Restaurants and ice cream shops
• Waterfront walking paths
• Great family photo opportunities

Good to know:

• Check tide schedules before visiting
• Paid parking may apply

Crescent Beach (South Surrey)

Crescent Beach is one of Surrey’s most family-friendly beach destinations.

The calm water, sandy shoreline, and relaxed atmosphere make it particularly appealing for families with younger children.

What families love:

• Gentle water
• Flat sandy beach
• Walking paths nearby
• Great sunset views
• Less busy than White Rock

Good to know:

• Popular on sunny weekends
• Bring beach toys and a picnic

Centennial Beach (Delta)

Located in Tsawwassen, Centennial Beach offers one of the largest sandy beach experiences near the Fraser Valley.

At low tide, families can walk far out onto the sand and explore tidal pools.

What families love:

• Massive sandy beach
• Large Playground
• Warm shallow water
• Ice Cream on Site
• Excellent bird watching
• Picnic areas and washrooms
• Great for beach walks

Good to know:

• Tides dramatically change the beach experience
• Check tide charts before visiting

Whonnock Lake (Maple Ridge)

Whonnock Lake is one of the best hidden gems for families.

This small lake in Maple Ridge features a beach area, playground, walking trail, picnic tables, and washrooms all within a compact, easy-to-explore park.

What families love:

• Small beach perfect for young kids
• Easy lake loop trail
• Playground nearby
• Picnic tables and shade
• Beautiful forest setting

Good to know:

• Arrive early during hot weather
• Popular with local families

Hayward Lake (Mission)

Hayward Lake offers a quieter and more natural beach experience.

While smaller than some of the other destinations on this list, it is perfect for families who enjoy combining a beach stop with a scenic walk.

What families love:

• Beautiful scenery
• Calm water
• Family-friendly trails
• Picnic opportunities
• Less crowded atmosphere

Good to know:

• Bring your own snacks and supplies
• Limited services compared to larger beaches

Alouette Lake Beach (Maple Ridge)

Located within Golden Ears Provincial Park, Alouette Lake is one of the most popular summer destinations in Maple Ridge. The large sandy beach, clear water, mountain views, and nearby picnic areas make it feel more like a vacation destination than a local park.

What families love:

• Sandy beach areas
• Beautiful mountain scenery
• Clear swimming water
• Picnic tables and day-use areas
• Plenty of room to spread out

Good to know:

• Located in Golden Ears Provincial Park
• Day pass needed – sign up here
• Washrooms available
• Day-use area nearby
• Great for swimming, paddling, and beach days

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Beach Day Essentials

Before heading out, don’t forget:

• A water bottle
• A small backpack for snacks and towel
• A camera if you want your kids to capture moments from the day
• Sunscreen
• Beach Towel

We also like keeping a small “summer outing bag” in the car during spray park season so we are not scrambling every time the weather gets warm.

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Which Fraser Valley Beach Is Best?

Choose:

• Cultus Lake for the classic family beach day.
• Harrison Lake Beach for scenery and a full day trip.
• White Rock Beach for restaurants and waterfront fun.
• Crescent Beach for younger kids.
• Whonnock Lake for an easy family outing.
• Centennial Beach for the largest sandy beach experience.
• Hayward Lake for a quieter nature-focused adventure.

No matter which one you choose, there are plenty of ways to enjoy summer in and around the Fraser Valley.

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More Summer Family Ideas

Looking for more?

• Summer in the Fraser Valley
• Best Splash Parks in the Fraser Valley
• Things to Do This Weekend in the Fraser Valley
• Best Playgrounds in Langley
• Best Playgrounds in Surrey
• Things to Do in Chilliwack With Kids
• Fresh Air Friday: Whonnock Lake
• Fresh Air Friday: Crescent Beach

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Final Thoughts

Some of the best family memories are made with a towel, a picnic, and a day by the water.

Whether you’re building sandcastles, skipping rocks, swimming, or simply enjoying the view, these Fraser Valley beaches offer something for every family this summer.