Kitsilano Pool reopens mid-June after repairs; Vancouver’s outdoor swim season begins May 17 with lifeguards, concessions, and beachside activities.
After enduring multiple seasons of closures and complications, Vancouver’s iconic Kitsilano Pool is set to reopen in mid-June, just in time for the heart of summer.
The Vancouver Park Board confirmed the news on Wednesday, stating that while the aging 137-metre outdoor pool continues to face infrastructure challenges, seasonal preparations are well underway.
“Kitsilano Pool is more than 50 years old and in its end-of-life phase,” a Park Board spokesperson explained. “As soon as weather conditions permitted, staff began annual maintenance—but infrastructure issues were discovered that require further work before reopening.”
Other Pools and Beaches Kick Off on May 17
While Kits Pool will open slightly later, the city’s other beloved outdoor swimming spots are gearing up for an earlier start. New Brighton and Second Beach pools will open to the public on May 17, followed by:
- Maple Grove wading pool: June 14
- Hillcrest outdoor pool: June 30
On May 17, Vancouver’s Park Board will also begin staffing nine popular beaches with lifeguards, including:
- English Bay
- Jericho
- Kitsilano
- Locarno
- Spanish Banks (East & West)
- Sunset
- Second Beach
- Third Beach
- Trout Lake
Lifeguards will monitor marked areas daily from noon to 8:30 p.m., with hours adjusting later in the season.
Seasonal Amenities and Programs Also Return
Park-goers can also expect the return of key summer facilities and programs. Concession stands will reopen on May 17, offering refreshments at key locations.
Supervised spray parks, wading pools, and playground programs will be available from July 2 to August 31, with staff present during peak attendance hours to ensure safety and engagement.
Sipping in the Sun: Alcohol Allowed at Select Beaches
In a policy continued from last year, the Park Board has confirmed that alcohol consumption will be permitted at designated beaches between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. from the May long weekend through September 30. Approved locations include:
- Jericho Beach
- Spanish Banks
- Locarno Beach
- Second Beach
- Kitsilano Beach
- Trout Lake Beach
- New Brighton Beach
However, alcohol remains prohibited at English Bay, Sunset Beach Park, and Third Beach in Stanley Park.
With pools reopening, beaches staffed, and seasonal programs rolling out, Vancouver’s summer scene is heating up. Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest on your city’s parks and public spaces.
