When you live in British Columbia, nature is everywhere, from the mountains on the skyline to forests in your backyard to scenic coasts. It’s true, we’re spoiled. Surrey has all of this, and is uniquely positioned to benefit from both fresh and salt water shorelines. Dress for the weather, and step out for a day exploring Surrey’s diverse waters.

CRESCENT BEACH: This is probably Surrey’s most popular spot for some water one-on-one. A beautiful place for summer swimming or walking along the sand, Crescent Beach looks out to Boundary Bay and the Strait of Georgia beyond. Play a game of beach volleyball or spread out a blanket on the grass for a picnic. At low tide, search for shells, crabs, and other sea finds, and keep an eye out for seals and whales. You can also stretch your legs on the Ocean Park Shoreline that follows the coast beside the railway tracks.

1,001 STEPS PARK: There aren’t actually 1,001 steps down to this rocky seashore by Crescent Beach – there are only 228 treads. Clamber over the rocks, watch the sun melt into the ocean, and inhale that intoxicating scent of the sea.

BLACKIE SPIT PARK: Neighbouring Crescent Beach in South Surrey, this stunning spit extends into Mud Bay at the mouth of the Nicomekl River. If you’re a regular at the Surrey Sailing Club or the Crescent Beach Swim Club, you’ll know it well. The park is known for bird watching, nature trails, and community gardens, and there’s also an off-leash area for your dog to splash into the water.

MUD BAY PARK: This idyllic park lies just across the water from Blackie Spit Park in Newton, and is home to a 3-kilometre nature trail, shorebirds, mudflats, and eelgrass meadows. Enjoy the views spanning Boundary Bay as you amble through this destination.

SURREY BEND PARK: Perched on the banks of the Fraser River, this park is one of the few remaining undyked sections of the lower Fraser River. Spend some time strolling the trails that weave through forests and marshes, or watch your kids have an adventure in the nature playground.

Photo: Hello Travel

SERPENTINE FEN: This wildlife-rich, 176-acre park hugs the Serpentine River between Highway 99 and King George Boulevard. Birds and marshy landscapes are the main draw, with over 130 different species of birds visiting the area throughout the year.

Photo: City of Surrey

ELGIN HERITAGE PARK: On the banks of the Nicomekl River, these wetlands feature several ponds and marshes, with salmon swimming through its creek. While you’re here, pop by the Historic Stewart Farm for a glimpse of the pioneer way of life.

Surrey really does have it all – urban centres, connected transit systems, welcoming communities, dense forests, and picturesque shorelines.

Feature photo above: Blackie Spit Park by Scarlet Black