Centennial Beach Delta

Centennial Beach: Boundary Bay's Warm-Water Beach

Category: Beaches & Parks | Area: Tsawwassen, Delta | Cost: Free | Best for: Families, wading, kite flying, bird-watching, long walks

Centennial Beach is the sandy heart of Boundary Bay Regional Park in Tsawwassen. Set in a sheltered bay, its shallow water warms up in summer, and at low tide the sea pulls back to reveal huge tidal flats. With dunes, a playground, a café and Mount Baker on the horizon, it is one of the best family beaches south of the Fraser.

Where Is Centennial Beach?

The beach is in Boundary Bay Regional Park at 570 Boundary Bay Road in Tsawwassen, close to the US border. It is managed by Metro Vancouver Regional Parks.

Things to See and Do

Wade the Tidal Flats

At low tide you can walk far out across the sand. Keep an eye on the incoming tide.

Fly a Kite

Wind across Boundary Bay makes Centennial Beach one of the best kite-flying spots in the region.

Walk or Cycle the Dyke Trail

The 12 Avenue Dyke Trail starts at the Centennial Beach parking area and follows the bay north, with viewpoints along the way.

Watch the Birds

Boundary Bay is a major stop for migrating shorebirds and raptors, especially in spring and autumn.

Picnic and Play

The beach area has picnic spots, a children's playground, beach volleyball and a café.

Getting There

By car: Take Highway 17 toward the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, turn left at 56 Street, left on 12 Avenue, then follow Boundary Bay Road to the park.

By transit: Bus 601 from Bridgeport Station stops on Boundary Bay Road, about a 0.5 km walk from the park entrance.

Good to Know

• Dogs must be on leash in the park to protect sensitive bird habitat.
• Washrooms are near the parking lot.
• Parking restrictions apply in summer, and lots fill on hot weekends.
• There are no lifeguards.

Best Time to Visit

Summer afternoons on a rising tide for the warmest water. On New Year's Day, the Delta Polar Bear Swim takes place here.

More Beaches Nearby

Head east around the bay to Crescent Beach and White Rock Beach, or north to Garry Point Park in Steveston. Compare all of them in our guide to the best beaches in Vancouver and Metro Vancouver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the water warm at Centennial Beach?

It is shallow and sheltered, so it warms up more than most Metro Vancouver ocean beaches in summer.

Are dogs allowed at Centennial Beach?

Yes, on leash.

Can you get to Centennial Beach by transit?

Yes, take bus 601 from Bridgeport Station to Boundary Bay Road.

Photo: Boundary Bay Regional Park in Tsawwassen by GoToVan, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.