With its position along the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver has 11 miles of public beaches that visitors can enjoy for free year-round. Three of these beaches are deemed "quiet" and are meant for peaceful reflections on the water, sunbathing and other activities with no amplified music permitted; these beaches are Locarno Beach and Spanish Bank West Beach on Northwest Marine Drive and Sunset Beach on Beach Avenue between Thurlow and Bute Streets. Windsurfing and kayaking are permitted at designated areas, and each of the city's 11 public beaches has special areas reserved for swimming.
Granville Island is a peninsula located at the center of Vancouver. Home to a bustling market place, the area serves as an ideal location for window shopping and people watching. Called the Public Market, this shopping district features fresh produce, bakers, florists and a courtyard, where you can sit and watch the passersby. Granville Island is also known for its lively street performers, called bruskers. These men and women play musical instruments, sing, tell jokes, juggle and perform numerous other feats along the sidewalks each day. Art galleries also line the streets in Granville and are open for free browsing. The area is accessible via car by way of Granville Street. While exploring, keep on the lookout for the red information boxes, which contain maps of Granville Island to help you plan your visit.
The Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre and Park are public facilities in North Vancouver, which are free to visit. The park is known for its suspension bridge, which allows you to view the Twin Falls waterfalls and the gorge the park is located around from 15 stories above the ground. For hikers, two primary trails are available: the 45-minute Twin Falls Loop Trail and the 20-minute Thirty Foot Pool Trail, which includes the suspension bridge.
While at the park, pay a visit to the Ecology Centre. Established in 1971, this free natural science museum has exhibits on plant and animal biomes, food chains, Canadian bears and man's impact on the environment. The Ecology Centre is open daily, year-round with the exception of some major holidays.
