Barnet Marine Park Burnaby

Barnet Marine Park: Burnaby's Saltwater Beach

Category: Beaches & Parks | Area: North Burnaby, below Burnaby Mountain | Cost: Free | Best for: Swimming, picnics, kayaking, crabbing, sunsets

Barnet Marine Park is Burnaby's only saltwater beach. The long, narrow park stretches about 1.5 km along Burrard Inlet at the foot of Burnaby Mountain, with a sandy beach, picnic lawns and a fishing pier facing the forested shore of Belcarra and the mountains around Indian Arm.

Where Is Barnet Marine Park?

The park is at 8181 Barnet Road, off the Barnet Highway between North Burnaby and Port Moody. Turn into the park at Takeda Drive.

A Bit of History

A century ago this was a busy logging mill camp. The old mill's scrap burner and the pilings of its wharf still stand in the water, giving the beach its distinctive look.

Things to See and Do

Swim and Sunbathe

The sandy beach at the west end of the park is the best spot for swimming on warm days. Outdoor showers and change rooms are nearby.

Fish and Crab From the Pier

The pier is a popular spot for shore fishing and crabbing. A valid fishing licence is required.

Launch a Kayak

From the hand-launch area, paddle across to Belcarra, up Indian Arm or east to Rocky Point Park in Port Moody.

Picnic by the Water

The park has picnic sites, some of which can be reserved through the City of Burnaby.

Getting There

By car: Travel east on Hastings Street, keep left onto Inlet Drive and Barnet Road, and turn left into the park at Takeda Drive.

By transit: Use the TransLink Trip Planner for buses along Barnet Highway.

Good to Know

• On busy summer days the park sees more than 1,900 visitors, and the City applies parking restrictions. Arrive early.
• The park is long and narrow, so some parking lots are a walk from the beach.
• Dogs have an off-leash area but are not allowed on the swimming beach.
• Washrooms, outdoor showers and change rooms are on site. There are no lifeguards.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons in summer are quieter. Evenings bring great sunset light over Burrard Inlet.

More Beaches Nearby

Across the water is Cates Park, and a short drive east are Old Orchard Park and White Pine Beach at Sasamat Lake. Explore more in our guide to the best beaches in Vancouver and Metro Vancouver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Barnet Marine Park?

Yes, at the sandy beach. There are no lifeguards, so swim with care.

Are dogs allowed at Barnet Marine Park?

Yes, in the designated off-leash area, but not on the beach.

Is there parking at Barnet Marine Park?

Yes, but lots fill early in summer and parking restrictions apply.

Photo: Barnet Marine Park, 15 sept 2007, 1 by Philippe Giabbanelli, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.