It’s been a hot one so far this summer, with temperatures climbing past 30 C on many a day this year.
With regional wading pools already closed due to water restrictions, it’s hard to know how much splashing around will happen this summer, so we’ve given you a list that includes options in, on and around the water. From fun in the pool to serene walks by the river to dining cruises, there is something here for everyone.
Toddlers will enjoy Burnaby and New Westminster spray parks, while older kids will love paddling around Deer Lake. Whatever the age or inclination, there’s a refreshing oasis tucked away in almost every neighbourhood in both Burnaby and New Westminster.
So here’s a list of the best places in both cities to stay calm, cool and collected this summer – whether you’re in or out of the water.
1 Burnaby pools: There are plenty of outdoor pools in Burnaby – the most scenic is Robert Burnaby outdoor pool, shaded and surrounded by trees. Another popular spot, particularly with Burnaby North Secondary students, is Kensington Park outdoor pool. And on the south side, take a dive at MacPherson Park or Central Park. Central Park has Burnaby’s largest outdoor pool, double the length of the other three, and there is also a spray park nearby. For more info such as schedules, locations and service updates, go to tinyurl.com/Burnabypools.
2 Deer Lake: Get out on the water and enjoy the summer breeze. Bring your canoe or kayak down to the lake or rent one at Deer Lake Boat Rentals. Pedal boats and rowboats are also available. For more information, go to deerlakeboatrentals.com.
3 Burnaby spray parks: There are currently five push-button spray parks open for the summer in the city. One of the most popular is the newly renovated playground and water play zone at Confederation Park. Others include spray parks in Charles Rummel Park, Ernie Winch Park, Keswick Park and Rene Park. The Suncrest spray park is currently being renovated and was not open at press time. For more information about city spray parks, go to tinyurl.com/Burnabysprayparks.
4 Burnaby Foreshore Park: If the thought of getting soaked dampens your mood, you can still enjoy the calm, peaceful nature of one of the best water attractions in the region, the Fraser River. Head down to Burnaby Fraser Foreshore Park and escape the crowds while still looking out over B.C.’s longest river. Walk along the sun-dappled trails for a break from the heat while contemplating the river.
5 Queensborough Beach: Life’s a beach in New Westminster’s Port Royal neighbourhood, where kids and grownups alike can wade through the waters of the Fraser River and dig their toes in the sand. For more info, go to tinyurl.com/PortRoyalBeach.
6 New West pools: Don’t be the last one in the pool at Moody Park. This popular hangout in New Westminster includes a playground and spray park as well, so there are plenty of opportunities to beat the heat while frolicking in the sunshine. Looking for an ideal place for the kids? Hume Park outdoor pool has a big shallow end, a toddle slide, and water toys and games. There is also a playground and spray park on site. For more info, including schedules, go to tinyurl.com/NewWestpools.
7 Queen’s Park: For the crown jewel of cool spots in New Westminster, look no farther than Queen’s Park. The super-cold spray park is a delight for squealing kids looking to get soaked. As an added bonus, the tall trees give adults some respite in the shade, whether they’re watching the kids run through the mist or go down the slide at the nearby playground. For more info on Queen’s Park, go to tinyurl.com/QueensParkSplash.
8 Westminster Pier Park: While the turf may not give people the chance to splash around in the surf, New Westminster’s riverside park does offer up an urban beach, hammocks, and a refreshing stroll along the Fraser River. And newly installed misters are also on hand to help everyone keep a cool head this summer.
9 New West spray parks: New Westminster has plenty of other fun spray parks as well, including a recently upgraded one at Hume Park, which includes a rubber surface from recycled tires. Other city spray parks are located in Ryall and Sapperton parks, so kids throughout the city can find a place near their neighbourhood where they can chill out. For more info, go to tinyurl.com/NewWestsprayparks.
10 Big wheel keeps on turning: To get out on the water instead of getting into the water, try a Paddlewheeler Riverboat Tour. There are dining and evening cruises, as well as informative tours along the Fraser River. See www.vancouverpaddlewheeler.com.
