Iona Beach

Just north of the Vancouver airport sits a long jetty of sand called Iona Beach that stretches out for 3 kilometers into the ocean. This rugged West Coast beach is a great place to go when one feels like escaping the busy city but doesn't have the time to travel too far. At the main section of the beach you'll find washrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, and more. From there you can see the driftwood-covered beach weaving it's way into the distance on your right. You can begin your walk here; while the path isn't marked very clearly, most people start out following the tide line on the beach. Public access is limited to the beach at this point, but more access opens up past the industrial area.

Iona Beach is very exposed, offering 360-degree views of the ocean, mountains and grasslands. The weather changes quickly out there, and it can often be extremely windy. At the end of the beach there is another rock jetty that sticks out where there are hundreds of old logs laying about. Watch your step on these if you decide to wander about. 

This area is very rich in wildlife and home to many species of birds, animals, and vegetation, ensuring that you always have something to look at. Leashed dogs are allowed here, but only in certain areas. Refer to the posted signs for further details. There is another paved jetty that sticks out 4 kilometers into the ocean just south of the beach. This jetty offers a path for hikers and bicyclists.