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I was initially a little hesitant to write reviews for “English Bay” and “English Bay Beach,” thinking of both as one and the same, but I suppose on a technical level they’re different. For example, one could say that the latter is but a small component of the former. A beach versus the general area. It’s kind of like “Inner Harbour” and “Victoria Pier” in, well, Victoria. The Victoria Pier is but a small segment of the beautiful Inner Harbour. Thus, this review won’t focus so much on the beach (that’s a separate review) and instead will comment upon the general area known as English Bay. What we know as English Bay basically consists of the south side of Burrard Inlet, extending from Point Grey to Prospect Point. Vancouver’s Best Places puts this within the context of nice, flowery language when they say English Bay is “the body of water where the shores of Vancouver meet the Pacific Ocean.” Beautiful! But did you ever wonder where “English Bay” gets its name? Well, the name harkens back to the days of the British Empire and celebrates the “meeting” of captains Vancouver, Galiano and Valdes in the area (1792). I’m actually surprised there’s been no social movement, or discussion at the city level (that I’m aware of, anyway), to have the “colonial” name changed to something more reflective of this place and space. But then, time has to take its time ;) Even though English Bay is very much an urban setting, it remains one of my favourite places in the city. With its picturesque views, palm trees, lovely beach and desirable amenities, there’s plenty to keep you coming back for more. Indeed, as part of Vancouver’s West End (see my earlier review), it is home to a literal mosaic of people and restaurants – cultural diversity at its best. For my part, I’ll readily admit that English Bay Beach, while lovely, has never really been my focus whenever I’ve visited this area. Instead, I’ve been more interested in the shops and restaurants. There’s Cactus Club on the beach; Three Quarters Full in bustling Denman Place Mall; the newly opened and fantastically named Chicken World; good eats in the historic Sylvia Hotel and a whole host of others. I’m still sad that the Boathouse Restaurant – their flagship location at the time – closed up shop in the Fall of 2018. Many a beautiful sunset, meal and memory were had there. Beyond good eats, English Bay has much culture and art to offer us. As you walk along the Seawall from Stanley Park, you’ll inevitably come upon the Expo ’86 Inukshuk and, a short distance further, Oppenheim’s interesting “Engagement” sculpture. Just across the street from English Bay Beach, in Morton Park, you’ll come across Minjun’s “A-maze-ing Laughter” sculpture which is sure to make you smile . . . before you “awake” to its more serious message and undertone. For much of November, you can also experience the lovely Lumiere at night. The installations help to provide moments of “light” in these challenging times. My personal favourite from this year’s exhibit was the “Eugenia” tree. I’m sure “Davie” the grizzly would’ve been impressive, but he wasn’t lit during the two evenings I visited (boo). There’s also the Celebration of Light fireworks in July and August . . . In short, English Bay is so much more than a popular beach. It’s a place rife with history and culture. In many respects, I’d say it demonstrates – along with the West End – some of Vancouver’s best qualities.…
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Date of experience: November 2020
1 Helpful vote
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This is probably my favourite beach in Vancouver. It's got an exciting vibe with lots of nice places for taking photos.
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Date of experience: October 2019
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In Sept is the best time to enjoy Vancouver sunsets. Middle of the bay and behind numerous large ships anchored. Local music talent. Loud native drumming this time till 330AM! Restaurant on the beach, nearby streets, attractions. Buses, taxi, rent a electric bikes, pictures area, walking distance to Grenville Is. or Stanley Park. Safe area, busy with all sorts of activities and people. Nice beach walking area. …
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Date of experience: September 2020
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Could have spent a lot more time enjoying the scenery here. Walk as much as you can here. Sunset would be wonderful from here.
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Date of experience: September 2020
1 Helpful vote
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When you leave the concrete jungle that is the West End and happen upon this panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean, you are probably not thinking of local history. However, perhaps next to the Gastown neighbourhood, this is where it all began. The "English" in English Bay refers to a "meeting" in the late 1700's between British and Spanish explorers: Vancouver, Valdes, and Galiano are all names that dot the area. One of my favourite stories from the past is Joe Fortes - not the restaurant, the swimming coach and mentor. Read up on these people if you are interested in history, and imagine what this beach was like when they were here. Oh, and marvel at the sunset, too!…
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Date of experience: August 2020
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