Spanish Banks Off-Leash Dog Park (Vancouver, BC)
Spanish Banks is one of the best off-leash dog beaches in Vancouver, offering a rare combination of open shoreline, shallow water, and massive space to explore.
Located along NW Marine Drive near UBC, the designated off-leash area sits on the far west side of Spanish Banks, where dogs can run freely on both grass and sand.
What makes this spot truly special is the low tide experience — when the water recedes, the beach stretches hundreds of meters, creating a huge, flat playground perfect for running, splashing, and exploring.
Dog Area
The off-leash dog area at Spanish Banks is:
- Large and unfenced
- A mix of grassy field + sandy beach
- Direct access to the water
- One of the few true dog-friendly beaches in Vancouver
Dogs are allowed off-leash only within the designated area — all other parts of Spanish Banks require dogs to be leashed.
This area is ideal for:
- Dogs that love water and swimming
- High-energy dogs that need space to run
- Social dogs that enjoy meeting others
What Makes This Beach Unique
Spanish Banks offers a very different experience from typical dog parks.
Low Tide = Massive Space
At low tide, the shoreline expands dramatically, giving dogs:
- Room to run long distances
- Shallow water for safe splashing
- Tons of space for fetch and play
Scenic Views
- Mountains across the water
- Stunning sunsets
- Open sky (great for photos + Pinterest)
Social Atmosphere
This is a very popular spot, especially on warm days — expect lots of dogs and activity.
Other Areas & Amenities
- Parking available along NW Marine Drive
- Washrooms and concessions nearby
- Access to the Seaside Greenway (great for walks)
- Picnic areas and open grass spaces
⚠️ Things to Know Before You Go
- Off-leash is only allowed in designated areas
- Dogs must be under control at all times
- This area gets very busy in summer
- Limited shade — bring water for your dog
- Tide changes dramatically — check tide times before visiting
👉 Important:
Outside the off-leash zone, dogs are not allowed on the beach, even on leash.
Our Experience
Spanish Banks is one of the most fun and high-energy dog spots in Vancouver.
It’s not a quiet park — it’s a place where dogs:
- sprint through the water
- chase each other across the sand
- and burn off serious energy
If your dog loves the beach, this is easily one of the top places in the city to visit.
