White Pine Beach is a popular recreation area located in the city of Port Moody, British Columbia, Canada. The beach is situated on the eastern shore of Sasamat Lake, which is part of the Belcarra Regional Park. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with crystal clear water, sandy beaches, and surrounded by lush forested hillsides.
The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and hiking. The surrounding forested areas offer several hiking trails, such as the 8km-long Sasamat Lake Loop Trail, which takes visitors through the park’s diverse ecosystems of coastal rainforest, lakeside shoreline, and rocky outcrops.
There are several amenities available at White Pine Beach, including washrooms, changing rooms, picnic tables, BBQ grills, a playground, and a concession stand that sells food and drinks. The beach also has a designated area for boating, with canoe and kayak rentals available on-site.
In addition to its recreational offerings, White Pine Beach is also known for its historical significance. The area was once home to the Tsleil-Waututh First Nation, and visitors can learn about the local indigenous culture and history through interpretive signs and displays located throughout the park.
Overall, White Pine Beach is a beautiful and popular destination that offers a wide range of recreational activities and amenities, making it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Is there parking at White Pine Beach?
Parking fees apply at White Pine Beach and are enforced year-round. Visitors can pay for parking at the self-serve pay stations located in the parking lot using cash or credit card. The parking fee is $5.50 per vehicle per day, and there are also seasonal passes available for frequent visitors.
Note that parking may be limited or restricted during special events or other activities in the area, so it’s always a good idea to check the park’s website or contact the park office for the latest information on parking availability and restrictions.
What are the hours of operation at White Pine Beach?
Specific hours of operation for White Pine Beach can be found on the park’s website or by contacting the park office directly. It’s always a good idea to check the park’s website or call ahead before planning a visit, especially during the off-season or during inclement weather, as the beach may be closed or have limited hours.
Are dogs allowed at White Pine Beach?
There are also designated areas at White Pine Beach where dogs are not allowed, such as the swimming area and the playground. These areas are clearly marked with signs, and visitors are asked to respect the rules and regulations in place for the safety and enjoyment of all park users.
It’s worth noting that there may be additional restrictions on dogs at White Pine Beach during certain times of the year, such as during the summer months when the park is particularly busy. It’s always a good idea to check the park’s website or contact the park office for the latest information on dog-friendly policies and regulations before planning a visit with your pet.
Is the water cold at White Pine Beach?
The water at White Pine Beach can be quite cold, especially early in the summer season when the lake is still relatively cool. The water temperature typically warms up as the summer progresses, reaching its peak temperature in August.
The average water temperature at Sasamat Lake, where White Pine Beach is located, ranges from around 15°C (59°F) in May to 20°C (68°F) in August. However, it’s worth noting that the water temperature can vary depending on weather conditions, time of day, and other factors.
Despite the cool water temperature, many visitors still enjoy swimming and other water activities at White Pine Beach, especially during hot summer days. It’s always a good idea to check the current water temperature and weather conditions before planning a visit, and to use caution when swimming or participating in water activities.
About Sasamat Lake
Sasamat Lake, nestled in Belcarra Regional Park near Port Moody, British Columbia, is renowned for its warm, inviting waters, making it one of the warmest lakes in the Greater Vancouver area. This lake is a popular destination throughout the year, particularly from June to early September. At the south end of the lake, there’s a unique floating bridge, used for both fishing and swimming, adding to its charm.
The lake is surrounded by scenic trails perfect for easy hikes, picnics, and nature walks. The Sasamat Lake Trail, for instance, offers a gentle, 3.2 km loop around the lake with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible and enjoyable for hikers of all levels. The trail features a mix of gravel paths and wooden stairs, weaving through beautiful forested areas and providing serene lake views.
White Pine Beach, located at the north end of the lake, is particularly popular. This beach area has two sandy stretches ideal for swimming and basking in the warm weather. However, it’s important to note that the beach can become very busy during the summer, and there are times when the parking lot gets full, leading to temporary closure of the park gates.
For those interested in water sports, Sasamat Lake allows non-motorized activities like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. However, you would need to bring your own equipment as there are no rental facilities on site.
Access to Sasamat Lake is straightforward, with a parking lot available at the northeast end of the lake. There’s also seasonal transit service provided by TransLink to White Pine Beach, making it accessible for those who prefer public transportation.
While the lake is a family-friendly destination, it’s worth noting that there are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming is at one’s own risk. Facilities like change rooms, showers, and public bathrooms are available for visitor convenience.
For more information, you can visit the sources of this information: Vancouver’s Best Places and Vancouver Trails.
Sasamat Lake Parking
Yes, Sasamat Lake has a parking area available for visitors. The parking lot is located at the northeast end of the lake, providing convenient access for those driving to the area. It’s important to note that during peak times, especially in the summer months, the parking lot can become very busy, and there might be times when it gets full. In such cases, park staff may temporarily close the gates to the parking area. To avoid parking issues, it’s advisable to arrive early in the day or consider visiting during less busy times, such as later in the afternoon or early evening.
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