This 'Secret Island' Hike Will Take You To A Crowd-Free Swimming Spot Near Vancouver
Unleash your inner mermaid. Are you craving a lazy day at the beach? Well, we know the perfect place where you can splash in the waves. This Jug Island hike will take you to a swimming spot near Vancouver less crowded than Third Beach.
Let's face it on a gorgeous sunny day, places like Kitsilano and Jericho get crowded fast. But, an hour from Vancouver, you can enjoy a blissful day on the water at Belcarra Regional Park.
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To get there, you'll need to follow an easy 5.5-kilometre roundtrip path through a lush forest to Jug Island Beach.
While that might sound long, it goes surprisingly quickly. On average, it takes people between 35 minutes and one hour to arrive.
Before you depart, we suggest you pack a picnic lunch in addition to your swimsuit and towel. As this coastline is so dreamy, you'll want to spend the entire day.
From the parking lot, follow the sign making the trail to Jug Island. The route will be a mix of gravel and stairs as you slowly climb uphill.
Along the way, you'll get to enjoy a fantastic lookout of Bedwell Bay through the trees. Then you'll begin to descend towards the Indian Arm.
The beach here may be rocky, but that doesn't take away from its charm. You'll get to beat the heat by floating in the bright blue water.
If you are lucky, you might even see some adorable seals playing nearby.
For those of you who burn after five minutes in the sun, you'll be happy to lounge in one of the many shady areas. Along the shore, there are ample tall trees that help filter the harsh sun rays.
Sitting in the cool shade, you can enjoy a picnic feast with your friends and enjoy living your laid-back staycation.
Once it is time to go, return the way you came. It will take another 35 minutes to one hour to get back to your car.
Do you need something to do this weekend? Why not give this hike a try?
Jug Island Beach
Price: Free
Address: 2375 Bedwell Bay Rd., Belcarra, BC
Why You Need To Go: You can find this lesser-known local swimming with sparkling water.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.