Once a booming resort destination, Crescent Beach has a long history in sunny South Surrey. Settled in 1871 (just four years after Canada’s inception as a nation), what once started as a single-family farming community expanded to a hot summer getaway with the development of the Great Northern Railway in 1909. By 1912 the Crescent Beach Development Company was promoting the beach community as a wonderful place to plant your roots and call home as the shoreline became defined.
Camp Alexandra was a major addition to the neighbourhood in 1918. The camp’s beautiful location at Crescent Beach provided a break from the hard times brought on by World War I, and really took advantage of all that Crescent Beach had to offer, and is still in business today, offering summer camps and a variety of resources for Metro Vancouver residents. The charm that initially brought vacationers to Crescent Beach certainly has not washed away over the years, as it continues to be a summer hot-spot for beach-goers from all over the region.
Things to Do
Crescent Beach is still an extremely popular summer spot for locals. Its large sandy beaches provide a fantastic place to go swimming and relax on the sand with a good book. There’s even a family friendly swimming area for all ages that’s roped off and overlooked by a life guard. The beach also boasts volleyball nets and paddle board rentals for those wanting to experience the water in a whole new way. When the sun sets on the day, the West facing beach provides the perfect view of the sunset each night.
Take in some of what the locals have to offer at Dunsmuir Community Gardens. The Community Garden is home to plots of land which community members plant the produce, blooms, or shrubbery of their choice. It’s a beautiful place to meet some locals and experience nature. Beyond the gardens is a trail out onto Blackie Spit, a park that features self guided tours where you can follow along the signs through that depict the area’s history.
Good Eats & Treats
After a long day of swimming and sand-dollar hunting, you’re going to need some food to keep you fueled up! Look no further than shops and restaurants along Beecher Street like The Cabin. The Pacific Northwest style cuisine features Fresh Seafood, Steak, Gourmet Pasta, and many gluten free options. End the evening off right with their signature cocktails, craft beers, and award-winning wines.
Looking for a quick treat to keep the energy levels high? Why not make a pit stop at Fieldstone Artisan Breads. Located at at the entrance of this quaint community, this bakery in addition to original artisan breads features sweets such as cakes, tarts, and scones that are absolutely heavenly. Peppered along the main strip are a variety of ice cream shops that are bound to have your favourite flavour available in a waffle cone, of course.
Crescent beach isn’t just for the summer season! Throw on those boots and layer up to be rewarded with sparkling ocean views and a quiet scenic walk along the beach in all seasons. There are coffee shops and restaurants along the boardwalk to warm you up along your journey as well as beautiful historic homes to enjoy a taste of old small town charm.