The May long weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and whether you’re visiting from out of town or exploring your own backyard there are lots of ways to have fun and kick off summer in Surrey!
Play a round (or two) of golf
What if we told you it was possible to experience world-class golf, right here in Surrey? In fact, we have the highest number of golf courses of any community in Metro Vancouver or the Fraser Valley! And we’re proud to say that our courses are able to accommodate any skill level, price point or course style preference. So, polish your clubs, grab your lucky golf shoes and see for yourself.
Go for a bike ride
Wherever you find yourself in the city, there’s no shortage of nature trails and green spaces – and what better way to experience them than by hopping on your bike. Head to the Guildford neighbourhood and ride the scenic greenway that connects the four-kilometre bike path at Tynehead Regional Park with the two-kilometre loop of Green Timbers Urban Forest. The route is mostly flat and appeals to every level of rider.
Check out Cloverdale Rodeo & Country Fair
A May Long Weekend tradition for many involves strapping on those cowboy boots and heading over to the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair! That’s right … the Cloverdale Rodeo is back after a 3-year hiatus! The Rodeo is far from a one-trick pony, there’s SO much to do and see. When you’re not cheering on the world’s top cowboys and cowgirls as they compete in classic ‘rough stock’ rodeo events such as bareback, saddle bronc and bull riding, there’s plenty else to keep you occupied over the course of the long weekend: RibFest, live entertainment, BC’s largest travelling Midway, the World Freestyle Round-Up Skateboard Competition and the West Coast Lumberjack Show.
Enjoy some patio time
Patio season is upon us and Surrey is home to some great ones! Choose from patios with spectacular ocean views, bustling sidewalk patios and quiet patio oases, then gather your household and enjoy a great meal and a cheeky drink in the sunshine this May long weekend.
Go for a walk
Tucked away in the northeast corner of Surrey along the Fraser River is the 860-acre oasis of Surrey Bend Regional Park. Boasting incredible views of surrounding mountain ranges, the mighty Fraser and Barnston Island, Surrey Bend offers five kilometres of easy walking trails through floodplain forests, marshes and thickets. Kids will love the nature discovery area and be sure to bring binoculars to watch for birds and wildlife.
Go bird watching
Did you know that Surrey is on the BC Bird Trail and at certain times of the year, is home to more than 300 species of migratory birds? So, grab your binoculars, camera, notebook and a field guide and head out on a birdwatching adventure. It’s a great way to appreciate Surrey’s winged wildlife in their natural habitat and get a little exercise at the same time. Here’s a little information about where to go and what to look for.
Learn about honeybees
Visit the Honeybee Centre on May 20 for the drop-in Open Honeybee Classroom! Explore the bee space on May 20 and check out the bee and insect-themed puzzles, games, and crafts. The classroom will be open to explore. Try on a beekeeping suit, plant some bee-friendly seeds, and so much more.
Go for a picnic
On sunny, warm days, there’s nothing like a picnic in the park. And with over 200 parks and 6,000 acres of parkland, it’s easy to find somewhere in Surrey to spread out a blanket and enjoy dining al fresco. Choose from wide-open green spaces, “secret” woodland forests or a beach with a view. And don’t forget to pack some tasty treats in your picnic basket!
Go whale watching
Did you know that you can go whale watching from Surrey? White Rock Sea Tours depart daily from the Crescent Beach Marina in South Surrey. Hop on board their state-of-the-art rigid hull inflatable boat and get ready for an adventure-seeking out transient killer whales, humpback whales, grey whales, minke whales, sea lions, porpoises and more on the Salish Sea!
Go fishing
Drop a line year-round at Green Timbers Lake, which is stocked with Rainbow trout each year by the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the lake, but don’t forget that all provincial freshwater fishing regulations apply.
Wine tasting
No need to head to the Okanagan, Surrey’s bourgeoning wine country is living proof that you don’t need to leave your own neighbourhood for a truly sophisticated tasting experience. Stop in for a wine tasting at Vinoscenti Vineyards, located along the Serpentine River, sample Napa Valley style wines at Cavallo Winery, enjoy the highly drinkable wines at Storehouse Winery or try the award-winning varietals at 1st R.O.W. Estate Winery.
Photo Credit: Cat Lin from For Two, Please