A person lifts a can from their bag on the beach

Vancouver’s Alcohol on Beaches Pilot to return this summer

May 7 2024 –

Vancouver beachgoers will once again be allowed to drink at select beaches this summer, following approval by the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation to relaunch its Alcohol on Beaches pilot program.

From June 1 to September 30, 2024, adults over the age of 19 will be able to bring and consume alcohol at the following beaches between the hours of 11am - 9pm:

  • Jericho Beach
  • Spanish Banks
  • Locarno Beach
  • Second Beach (Stanley Park)
  • Kitsilano Beach
  • John Hendry / Trout Lake Beach
  • New Brighton Beach

Beaches not included in the pilot

Following guidance from the Vancouver Police Department and the Park Board’s own analysis of last year’s Alcohol on Beaches pilot, drinking alcohol will not be permitted at the following beaches: 

  • English Bay Beach 
  • Sunset Beach Park
  • Third Beach (Stanley Park)
  • CRAB Park Beach
  • Beaches along the Fraser River

An enhanced Alcohol on Beaches program

This year’s program builds on findings from last year’s pilot (1.7 MB) . While much of the feedback from both the community and staff was largely positive, we heard of challenges concerning disorderly behaviour at English Bay, and increased levels of garbage at beach sites including Kitsilano Beach.

To address these concerns, City Council today approved the allocation of additional resources and funding towards this summer’s pilot. This year’s program will see funding for more VPD members and Park Rangers on beaches, including English Bay , and an expanded communications campaign focusing on responsible behaviour when drinking at the beach. 

Responsible drinking 

The success of the Alcohol on Beaches program is dependent on beachgoers doing their part to act responsibly at the beach and be considerate of others. Please avoid entering the water when intoxicated. We also ask visitors to respect other beach users and help keep greenspaces clean by properly disposing of trash or taking it away with them. 

When consuming beverages in parks and beaches (alcoholic or not), do not bring any glass bottles or containers, and instead bring cans, reusable and/or plastic or paper-based containers.

Next steps

Following this summer’s pilot relaunch, staff will review data and feedback to determine if legal alcohol consumption on Vancouver's beaches can be rolled out in the future on a permanent basis, or if further analysis is needed.

For more information on the Alcohol in Parks and Beaches program, visit vancouver.ca/alcohol-in-parks