Whether you’re a beach bum or BBQ boss, Spanish Banks in the Kitsilano neighbourhood is the ideal spot to soak up the rays during the dog days of summer. Offering unrivalled views of the coastal mountains across the water, this long stretch of sandy beach is lined with picnic benches where, in the summer months, Vancouverites go to enjoy a day at the beach among family and friends. There are shaded picnic spots but it’s best to bring a beach umbrella and plenty of sunblock if you’re to sit in the sand.