Third Beach Vancouver: Stanley Park's Sunset Beach & Visitor Tips

Third Beach: Stanley Park's Wild and Peaceful Sunset Spot

Category: Beaches & Parks | Area: Stanley Park | Cost: Free | Best for: Sunsets, quiet beach days, seawall walks, nature lovers

Third Beach feels like a secret even though it's one of Vancouver's best-loved beaches. Tucked into the west side of Stanley Park, it's backed by tall trees instead of buildings, and the only things between you and the horizon are English Bay, passing ships, and the mountains beyond. There's no pool or playground here, just sand, driftwood, forest, and some of the best sunsets in the city. Locals come here to slow down.

Where Is Third Beach?

Third Beach sits on the western shore of Stanley Park, north of Second Beach and just below Ferguson Point. It's about a 15 to 20-minute walk along the Seawall from Second Beach, or around 30 minutes from English Bay Beach. Siwash Rock is a short walk further north along the water. The beach is managed by the Vancouver Park Board.

A Bit of History

Stanley Park sits on the traditional territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples, and the land around Third Beach is rich with cultural history. Just above the beach at Ferguson Point stands a memorial to E. Pauline Johnson, also known as Tekahionwake, the celebrated Mohawk poet and performer who lived in Vancouver and is buried near this spot. Her book Legends of Vancouver shared stories she learned from Squamish leader Chief Joe Capilano, including the legend of nearby Siwash Rock. The beach's name comes from the old practice of numbering beaches as people headed west from downtown, with English Bay once known as First Beach.

Things to See and Do

Watch the Sunset

Third Beach faces west over open water, and sunset here is a Vancouver ritual. On summer evenings, people gather on the logs and lawns to watch the sky glow behind the ships and the mountains of Vancouver Island. Bring a blanket and arrive early on warm nights.

Relax on a Natural Beach

The beach is sandy, sheltered, and framed by forest, with driftwood logs for seating. It's generally quieter than English Bay or Second Beach, making it a good choice for reading, picnicking, and unhurried afternoons. Lifeguards supervise the swimming area during the summer season.

Enjoy the Summer Drum Circle

On summer evenings, an informal drum circle has long gathered at Third Beach, with drummers, dancers, and onlookers welcoming the sunset together. It's an easygoing, community-driven tradition, and anyone is welcome to listen or join in.

Visit Siwash Rock

A short walk north along the Seawall brings you to Siwash Rock, a tall sea stack rising from the water just offshore, with a small tree growing from its top. Known in Squamish as Slhx̱i7lsh, it's one of Stanley Park's most iconic natural landmarks and is tied to Squamish oral history.

Walk or Cycle the Seawall

Third Beach is a highlight of the Stanley Park Seawall loop, roughly nine kilometres around the park. Continue north past Siwash Rock toward Prospect Point and the Lions Gate Bridge, or head south to Second Beach and English Bay. Cyclists ride the Seawall in a counter-clockwise direction around the park.

Explore the Forest Trails

Inland from Third Beach, Stanley Park's trail network winds through towering cedars, firs, and hemlocks. Short walks lead up to Ferguson Point and deeper into the forest, offering a quiet escape from the busy Seawall.

Getting There

On Foot

Walk north along the Seawall from Second Beach, about 15 to 20 minutes, or from English Bay Beach, about 30 minutes. It's one of the most scenic walks in the city.

By Car

Stanley Park Drive runs one way around the park in a counter-clockwise direction. A pay parking lot is located near Third Beach and Ferguson Point, but it fills quickly on summer evenings, especially around sunset. Check posted signage and the Park Board website for current parking rates.

By Transit

Buses run along Denman Street and Davie Street near the park entrance, and seasonal transit service sometimes operates within Stanley Park. Check TransLink for current routes and schedules.

By Bike

Third Beach sits directly on the Seawall, and bike racks are available near the beach. Bike rentals are available on Denman Street, close to the park entrance.

Food and Drink Nearby

A seasonal concession stand at Third Beach sells snacks and drinks during the summer. Up the hill at Ferguson Point, a restaurant set in a heritage building offers sit-down dining with sweeping ocean views, popular for brunch and sunset dinners. Many visitors simply pack a picnic and enjoy it on the sand. For more options, the cafés and restaurants on Denman Street are a short walk or bike ride away.

Beach Rules and Good-to-Know Details

Smoking and vaping are not permitted on Vancouver beaches or in parks. Dogs aren't allowed on Third Beach, but leashed dogs are welcome on the Seawall and many Stanley Park trails. Beach fires and personal barbecues are not permitted. Rules around alcohol in Vancouver parks have changed over time, so check the City of Vancouver's current guidelines before bringing any. Washrooms are available near the beach.

Water Quality

Vancouver Coastal Health regularly tests water quality at Third Beach during swimming season. Advisories are occasionally issued, often after heavy rain, so check the latest beach water quality reports before swimming.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June–September): Warm weather, lifeguards on duty, long evenings, and the sunset drum circle.
Spring and fall: Quiet beaches, mild temperatures, and beautiful light for photography.
Winter: Dramatic storm-watching and peaceful, near-empty Seawall walks.
Any time of year: Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset on clear evenings to find a good spot and parking.

Nearby Attractions

Third Beach is surrounded by Stanley Park highlights. Walk north to Siwash Rock and Prospect Point, or south to Second Beach, Second Beach Pool, and Lost Lagoon. Elsewhere in the park, you'll find the Vancouver Aquarium, the Brockton Point totem poles, and miles of forest trails. English Bay Beach and the West End are about a 30-minute walk away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Third Beach good for sunsets?

Yes. Third Beach faces west over English Bay and is widely considered one of the best sunset spots in Vancouver.

Can you swim at Third Beach?

Yes. Lifeguards supervise the swimming area in summer. Check water quality reports before you swim.

Is there parking at Third Beach?

Yes, there's a pay parking lot near Third Beach and Ferguson Point, but it fills quickly on summer evenings.

Are dogs allowed at Third Beach?

Dogs aren't allowed on the beach, but leashed dogs can walk the Seawall and many park trails.

When is the drum circle at Third Beach?

An informal drum circle has traditionally gathered on summer evenings around sunset. Because it's community-run, timing can vary from year to year.

What is the difference between Third Beach and Second Beach?

Third Beach is quieter and more natural, with a forest backdrop and fewer facilities. Second Beach is more family-oriented, with a heated pool, playground, and more amenities.

How do you get to Third Beach from downtown?

Walk or cycle along the Seawall through the West End and Stanley Park, drive around Stanley Park Drive to the Third Beach parking lot, or take a bus to the park entrance and walk the rest of the way.