White Rock is a bedroom community well known for its beaches and beautiful natural landscapes. It is bordered by Bergstrom Road (136 Street)on the west, North Bluff Road (16 Avenue) to the north, Stayte Road (160 Street) in the east and 8 Avenue in the south. It was named for the 486 ton granite boulder, a glacial deposit from the Coastal Mountains. It is an easy commute to Vancouver, the US border, airport, ferries, ski hills and world class golf courses. It has long been a popular retirement spot, but it more and more becoming a place for young families and professionals. Many residents are drawn to the natural beauty and housing that is less expensive than Vancouver.
The entire length of the city of White Rock is ocean front with a 2.5km beach promenade. It is the sunniest place in the Greater Vancouver area, receiving less rainfall than any other community. Each of White Rocks three beaches offer a unique atmosphere. West Beach is a favourite summer spot for many people. There is always a lot to do from sandcastle contests, buskers, vintage car parades on summer evenings. The 1,500 foot long White Rock Pier, built in the 1920s, is located at West Beach. East Beach is quieter and more family oriented. During low tide, you can walk half a mile out on the sand. When the tide comes in over the hot sands, the shallow waters are briefly the highest temperature on the west coast. There is a playground, picnic area, tennis courts, volleyball nets and kite flying. Pubs and bistros offer live music, fish and chips, take out and casual and fine dining. Crescent Beach is shared with the Crescent Beach community of South Surrey. It has a marina, dike trails, a promenade and beautiful heritage homes. Beecher Street is the “Marine Drive” of Crescent Beach. There are many bistros, ethnic foods, ice creameries and much entertainment. It is sometimes even possible to spot a seal sunning itself from Crescent Beach.
White Rock has something for everyone, regardless of their interests. Beach combing, strolling along the beach, fishing, crabbing, sunbathing, swimming, kayaking and sailing, hiking, recreation activities, sports, golfing, nightlife, arts and culture and live music can all be found in White Rock. Every year there are many festivals, including a Kite Festival, Tour de White Rock cycling race and Salmon Festival.
