Old Orchard Park from Shoreline Trail
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Old Orchard Neighborhood Courtenay

4.5
·907 reviews·Port Moody, Canada

A scenic waterfront park in Courtenay offering a sandy beach, playground, picnic spots, and beautiful sunset views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Old Orchard Park from Shoreline Trail

Old Orchard Neighborhood Courtenay

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic waterfront park in Courtenay offering a sandy beach, playground, picnic spots, and beautiful sunset views.

4.5
(907 reviews)

"A lovely oceanside park perfect for swimming, picnics, and enjoying peaceful surroundings."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Watch Your Step on the Beach

The seabed has rocks and shells; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming.

🐶 Dog-Free Beach Zone

Dogs are not permitted on the beach area itself, but are welcome in other parts of the park.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Views & Relaxation

Waterfront Views & Relaxation

Shoreline

Enjoy peaceful ocean vistas, gentle breezes, and stunning sunset views. Perfect for unwinding.

Family-Friendly Playground

Family-Friendly Playground

Near picnic areas

A basic but fun playground for younger kids, making it a great spot for families.

Picnic & Green Spaces

Picnic & Green Spaces

Throughout the park

Ample picnic tables and grassy areas for gatherings, games, or simply lounging.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit

Weekends and sunny afternoons can get busy. For a more serene experience, aim for weekdays or early mornings. Be mindful of potential goose droppings on grassy areas, especially after rain.

Beach Access & Water Safety

The beach offers a sandy entry but has rocks and shells underwater. Strong swimmers will enjoy the saltwater. Keep an eye on younger children and be aware of potential sharp objects on the seabed.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon weekdays
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Beautiful sunsets
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come with me to Old Orchard Park 🌍 #fyp #travel #trendingvideo #beach #photography #summervibes #portmoody #bc #views #nature #photography
@kevokillzvlogs
28 likes • 1.5K views

🥾 Watch Your Step on the Beach

The seabed has rocks and shells; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Free Beach Zone

Dogs are not permitted on the beach area itself, but are welcome in other parts of the park. Reddit

I love leaving the house #summer #summervlog #vancouverbc #vancouver #portmoody #lowermainland #beachvibes
@khadija_8015
16 likes • 663 views
El secreto mejor guardado de Port Moody: un lago que parece sacado de una postal 📸💙 Guarda y visítalo antes que se termine el verano ✨🇨🇦 #mividaencanada #buntzenlake #lagosencanada #vivirencanada #visitandocanada
@narci_carrasco
231 likes • 11.6K views

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be scarce on busy days; consider street parking further down if needed. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of picnic tables and open space make it ideal for a leisurely meal outdoors.

🇪🇬✨ Vancouver foodies, you’ve got to try this hidden gem! Koshari Zooba is serving Egypt’s national dish — the Koshari Bowl — right here in Port Moody. It’s a flavour bomb: fluffy rice, pasta, lentils, and chickpeas layered together, topped with crispy onions, and finished with Da’ah — a garlic-lemon-vinegar drizzle — plus rich tomato sauce or their fiery hot sauce if you’re brave. 🔥 Everything he...
@mainmenus
14 likes • 403 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Watch Your Step on the Beach

The seabed has rocks and shells; wear water shoes for comfort and safety when swimming. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Free Beach Zone

Dogs are not permitted on the beach area itself, but are welcome in other parts of the park. Reddit

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be scarce on busy days; consider street parking further down if needed. Reddit

🧺 Pack a Picnic

Plenty of picnic tables and open space make it ideal for a leisurely meal outdoors.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Connect to trails like the Shoreline Trail for scenic walks with inlet views.

What Travellers Say

4.5
(907 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Old Orchard Park is a beloved local spot praised for its scenic waterfront, family-friendly playground, and ample picnic areas. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sunset views. However, some caution is advised regarding the rocky seabed for swimmers, and parking can be limited during peak times.

"Lovely oceanside park. The beach is good for swimming, there are many picnic tables, and lots of grass. Watch out for goose droppings though! There’s a basic playground for younger kids, a covered picnic area, a foot wash station and fountain for humans and dogs."

Jennifer Bee

"Scenic and Family-Friendly Spot by the Water

Old Orchard Park is a fantastic spot for a relaxing day out, especially for families. The park offers a beautiful waterfront view, with plenty of open green spaces and picnic areas. It’s great for walking, biking, or just sitting by the shore to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The playground is a hit with kids, and there’s easy access to trails like the Shoreline Trail, which provides lovely views of the inlet. The park can get busy on weekends, but there’s still plenty of space to spread out.

Overall, Old Orchard Park is a perfect place for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone looking to enjoy a day by the water."

Sagar Ghevde

"A real treasure in Port moody. A mini Stanley park without a sea wall. A peaceful picnic spot. A wonderful sunset vantage point."

duane r neufeld

What People Like

Beautiful waterfront views
Family-friendly playground
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Rocky seabed
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Orchard Park is located in Courtenay, British Columbia. Access is typically by car, with parking available within the park. If you're looking for quiet spots to park and relax, consider areas slightly away from the main beach access points during peak times. Reddit

Information on direct public transport routes can vary. It's best to check local transit schedules for Courtenay to see if there are bus routes that service the area near the park. Reddit

Parking is available within the park, but it can become limited, especially on weekends and during good weather. Visitors have noted that street parking is an option if the main lot is full. Reddit

Yes, biking is a great way to access the park, especially if you're coming from nearby areas. There are often bike racks available, and the park itself is good for cycling. Reddit

While the park itself is generally peaceful, if you're seeking very secluded parking for quiet time, exploring side streets or less-used access points might be beneficial. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Old Orchard Park is a public park and typically does not have an entrance fee for general access. Enjoying the beach, playground, and green spaces is usually free. Reddit

As a public park, Old Orchard Park is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms might vary. Reddit

While there are many picnic tables, booking is usually not required for casual use. For larger group events, it's advisable to check with local park authorities about reservation options. Reddit

The main restriction noted is that dogs are not allowed on the beach area itself. Otherwise, it's open for public enjoyment. Reddit

Yes, swimming is permitted at the beach. However, be aware of the rocky and shelly seabed, and it's recommended for good swimmers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can swim, sunbathe, picnic, walk along the trails, enjoy the playground, and simply relax by the water. It's a great spot for families and nature lovers. Reddit

Absolutely! The park features a playground suitable for younger kids, ample green space for them to run around, and a beach area for supervised play. Reddit

Yes, the park typically offers basic facilities including restrooms, a foot wash station, and a fountain. Reddit

The beach is sandy at the entry but has a rocky and shelly seabed. It's great for swimming, especially for those who are comfortable in saltwater. Reddit

Dogs are welcome in most areas of the park, but they are not allowed on the beach itself. Ensure your dog is leashed where required. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The shoreline offers beautiful ocean views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The grassy areas and playground also provide scenic backdrops for family photos. Reddit

Late afternoon and early evening provide the best light for photography, with the 'golden hour' creating stunning sunset views over the water. Reddit

The contrast between the sandy beach, the rocky seabed, and the calm inlet waters can make for interesting shots. Keep an eye out for local wildlife too. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance the water and sky. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with local authorities or park management regarding any restrictions on drone operation before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Orchard Park is a gem for families. The playground is a major draw for younger children, and the expansive grassy areas are perfect for them to burn off energy. Pack a picnic to take advantage of the numerous tables, making mealtime easy and enjoyable. Remember that dogs aren't allowed on the beach, but they can join you in other parts of the park. Reddit

When heading to the beach, consider bringing water shoes for the kids, as the seabed can be rocky and shelly. The park's amenities, including restrooms and a foot wash station, add to the convenience for families. The nearby Shoreline Trail also offers a pleasant, easy walk for those with strollers or little legs. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Photographers

For those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty, Old Orchard Park delivers. The waterfront views are stunning, especially during the golden hour leading up to sunset, offering incredible photo opportunities. The park is a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal environment. Reddit

Explore the Shoreline Trail for a peaceful walk with picturesque vistas of the inlet. While the beach is lovely, be mindful of the rocky seabed if you plan to swim. The park's relatively quiet atmosphere, particularly on weekdays, makes it ideal for sketching, reading, or simply soaking in the natural surroundings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Shoreline and Water Activities

Old Orchard Park boasts a lovely waterfront that's perfect for a variety of activities. The beach offers a sandy entry, making it accessible for wading. However, visitors should be aware that the seabed transitions to rocks and shells, which can be sharp. This makes it particularly suitable for strong swimmers who can easily enter and exit the water without extensive walking on the bottom. The saltwater here is known for its buoyancy, adding to the swimming experience. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the gentle breeze coming off the inlet. Reddit

For those who prefer to stay dry, the shoreline is ideal for leisurely strolls, beachcombing, or simply sitting and enjoying the views. The park's location also makes it a prime spot for watching the sunset, painting the sky with vibrant colors. While the beach itself is a highlight, remember that dogs are not permitted in this specific area, though they are welcome elsewhere in the park. Reddit

Family Fun and Park Amenities

Old Orchard Park is a fantastic destination for families. The park features a playground that is a hit with younger children, providing a safe and engaging space for them to play. Beyond the playground, there are numerous open grassy areas perfect for running around, playing games, or setting up a picnic. The abundance of picnic tables makes it easy for groups to gather and enjoy a meal outdoors. Reddit

In addition to the playground and picnic facilities, the park offers essential amenities like restrooms and a foot wash station, which is convenient after a day at the beach. For those looking to extend their visit, the park connects to trails, such as the Shoreline Trail, offering opportunities for scenic walks and exploration. The combination of play areas, open spaces, and natural beauty makes it a well-rounded family outing destination. Reddit

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