McDonald Beach Park
A sprawling riverside park with a vast off-leash dog beach, picnic areas, and stunning Fraser River views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm and peaceful walks
McDonald Beach Park
Best Time
Calm and peaceful walks
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling riverside park with a vast off-leash dog beach, picnic areas, and stunning Fraser River views.
"Amazing views of the Fraser River and a great place to fish locally with a boat launch nearby."
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Lots of sand, especially at low tide. Good shoes are a must for comfortable walking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Doggy Fun Zone
The sandy beach is completely off-leash for dogs. They'll love it! :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Off-Leash Dog Beach
Sandy shoreline
A vast sandy expanse where dogs can run, swim, and play fetch freely. A true paradise for furry friends!
+2
Fraser River Views
Riverside causeway and trails
Spectacular vistas of the Fraser River, North Shore mountains, and passing boats. Perfect for a peaceful moment.
Picnic & Watersports Hub
Near boat launch
Ideal spot for picnics with tables available, plus a boat launch for enjoying watersports like jet skiing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dog-Friendly Paradise
+2Waterfront Fun & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
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👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Lots of sand, especially at low tide. Good shoes are a must for comfortable walking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Doggy Fun Zone
The sandy beach is completely off-leash for dogs. They'll love it!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to get here early. :car:
🚤 Boat Launch Access
There's a boat launch and pay-by-the-day parking for trailers.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Lots of sand, especially at low tide. Good shoes are a must for comfortable walking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Doggy Fun Zone
The sandy beach is completely off-leash for dogs. They'll love it!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim to get here early. :car:
🚤 Boat Launch Access
There's a boat launch and pay-by-the-day parking for trailers.
🧺 Picnic Spots Available
Picnic tables are scattered throughout, some in sun, some in shade.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McDonald Beach Park is a beloved spot for its expansive off-leash dog beach and scenic Fraser River views. Visitors appreciate the ample parking, well-kept washrooms, and opportunities for watersports and picnics. Some wish for more picnic tables, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"Lovely beach park nearby the vancouver International Airport YVR, it has a reasonably large parking lot with washroom provided, there is a beach area that's completely off leash for dogs and trails for walking if not walking to walk on the beach. Many also bring their boats and jetski to the area, enjoying different types of watersport"
Luke L'sk
"This place is amazing !! Such awesome views of the Fraser River and a great place to fish locally. There is a boat launch as well and a pay-by-the-day parking lot for the trailers and towing vehicles. Lots of regular parking also with nicely kept washrooms. There are picnic tables right on the causeway between the Boat-launch and the River. Some in shade and some in the sunshine. There is also a walking trail that runs along the River and its perfect for dogs to go for a swim and cool off."
Neighbour Sam
"Great place to bring your dogs, lots of trails to discover, huge sandy area to play fetch & of course the shoreline to throw sticks/balls/buoys etc into the river for your furbaby to swim. Just needs more picnic tables."
Chris M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McDonald Beach Park is located at 3500 McDonald Rd, Richmond, BC. It's accessible by car, with a reasonably large parking lot. Public transport options might require transfers and longer travel times.
Yes, there is a parking lot, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is advised.
Absolutely! There's a boat launch available, with pay-by-the-day parking for trailers and towing vehicles.
Yes, McDonald Beach Park is located on Sea Island, which is where Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is situated. It's a relatively short drive from the airport.
From Vancouver, take the Arthur Laing Bridge to Sea Island. Follow signs for the airport and then look for McDonald Road. The park is at the end of McDonald Road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, McDonald Beach Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Parking is also generally free, though there might be a fee for boat trailer parking.
As a public park, McDonald Beach Park is generally accessible from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like washrooms may vary.
No booking is required for general park entry. However, if you plan on using the boat launch with a trailer, there might be a daily fee.
The main restriction is related to dogs being off-leash in designated areas. Always be mindful of park signage and local bylaws.
Yes, you can enjoy a quick walk or a short picnic. However, to fully appreciate the beach and trails, dedicating a few hours is recommended.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, running, picnicking, fishing, and watersports like jet skiing. It's also a fantastic spot for dog owners to let their pets play off-leash on the beach. +2
Yes, it's highly recommended for dogs! There's a large sandy area that's completely off-leash, perfect for fetch and swimming. +2
Yes, the park has washrooms that are generally well-maintained.
You'll get beautiful views of the Fraser River, passing boats, and the North Shore mountains. It's a scenic spot for relaxation.
Yes, BBQs are permitted in designated areas. It's a popular spot for picnics and gatherings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the Fraser River, boats, and the North Shore mountains. The sandy beach offers great opportunities for dog photography and sunset shots.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful soft light for photography. Sunsets can be particularly spectacular over the water.
The causeway between the boat launch and the river, the sandy beach itself, and the general riverfront provide scenic backdrops.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. Always check current restrictions before flying.
You might spot various seabirds along the river. The main subjects are often the boats and the natural landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The shallow areas of the river can be suitable for supervised wading on warmer days. Pack a picnic and utilize the available picnic tables for a fun family meal amidst nature. While the park is primarily known for its dog-friendly nature, families without pets can still enjoy the scenic views and open spaces. The walking trails provide opportunities for gentle exploration, and the chance to watch boats on the river can be captivating for children. Remember to bring sun protection and plenty of water, as there isn't much shade on the main beach areas.
🐶 Dog Owners
+2 The trails are also dog-friendly, offering more space to explore. Be prepared for sandy paws and happy dogs! Bring plenty of water for your pets, especially on warm days. The park's popularity means you'll likely encounter other dog owners, creating a social atmosphere for both you and your furry friends.
Active & Outdoorsy Types
If you enjoy fishing, the Fraser River here can be a productive spot. The open fields are also suitable for activities like frisbee or catch.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Dog-Friendly Adventures
+2 Many visitors rave about the joy their dogs experience here, with ample space for fetch and swimming. Beyond the main off-leash beach, the park offers various trails that are also dog-friendly, allowing for extended exploration. While the sandy terrain is fun, it's advisable to wear sturdy footwear, especially during low tide when the sand can be firmer but still requires good grip.
This park is a testament to Richmond's commitment to providing excellent recreational spaces for pets and their owners. The combination of open space, water access, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit for anyone with a dog in the Vancouver area.
+1Waterfront Recreation and Views
The area is also popular for fishing, offering a chance to cast a line and enjoy the river's bounty. Visitors can take advantage of the numerous picnic tables situated along the causeway, offering picturesque views of the river and passing boat traffic. Whether you prefer dining in the sun or shade, there are options to suit your preference.
The walking trails that run along the river are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering constant scenic beauty and opportunities to watch the maritime activity.Beyond the immediate riverfront, the park provides expansive views of the North Shore mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for any visit. It's a place where you can relax, enjoy the natural beauty, and engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits.
Practicalities for Your Visit
Facilities at the park are generally well-maintained, including washrooms that are conveniently located.
The sandy nature of the beach means sturdy footwear is a must for comfortable exploration. While the park is a fantastic spot for a day out, it's worth noting that it's a popular destination, so expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak times. The combination of amenities and natural beauty makes it a worthwhile visit for many.
Social
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