a day in White Rock




Drive an hour outside Vancouver’s downtown core, and you’ll discover a beachy oasis that feels like a breath of fresh air. South Surrey’s waterfront community of White Rock is known for its slow tempo and nostalgic atmosphere. Characterized by sandy beaches, Cape Cod architecture, and Canada’s longest public pier, White Rock conjures images of carefree summers filled with ice cream trucks, bare feet and sunburns. 

Whether you plan to make White Rock your home base or weekend escape, here are some of our favourite ways to explore this idyllic seaside enclave. 



    1.    Islands Café
Part coffee shop and part roaster, this beloved café was inspired by the times its owner spent living on Oahu’s North Shore. Its laid-back atmosphere and Hawaiian motifs feel entirely authentic given White Rock’s resort-like nature. Come for the fresh Hawaiian coffee topped with homemade coconut whip, and stay for the towering acai bowls drizzled with honey.


   2.     Wooden Spoon
This popular destination serves up cozy brunch staples like eggs benedict and french toast alongside craft beer and cocktails in an inviting, family-friendly environment. Wooden Spoon accepts a limited number of reservations, so those apprehensive about brunch-time rush hour need not worry. 


    3.     Five Corners Cafe
A retro counterpart to Wooden Spoon, Five Corners Cafe is a vintage fifties-style diner that will satisfy anyone in search of traditional breakfast fare. Take a seat at the lunch counter or slide into a vinyl booth to enjoy three egg omelettes accompanied by toast and bacon, hot coffee, and maybe even a milkshake. 


    4.    The Yoga Bar
The Yoga Bar is a warm and welcoming studio that offers a wide variety of fitness classes based on yoga and pilates principles, including sweaty workouts in a heated room to low-intensity alternatives like barre class. 


     5.   Looby Doo
Looby Doo is a clothing boutique for babies and children located only a few blocks from the beach. A muted palette, soft fabrics, and independent labels make this store a destination for anyone looking to build a children’s wardrobe that is equal parts stylish and sustainable.



     6.  Charlie Don’t Surf
Colloquially known as Charlie’s, this beachfront institution opened in 1985 and has been delighting White Rock residents with organic produce, fresh-caught seafood and frosty pints of beer ever since. Its accessible and varied menu will suit even the pickiest eater, but the fish & chips are the stars of the show.



    7.   Primo’s Mexican Grill
This third-generation family-owned restaurant is a local’s favourite for delicious Mexican staples like tacos, enchiladas, and, of course, margaritas. While the fun atmosphere might make Primo’s a natural choice for a Friday night outing, the food invokes a celebration any night of the week. 

     8.  Ocean Rock Ice Cream
No matter the season, ice cream is always a wonderful way to end the day. Since 2007, this family-run business has been scooping nostalgic flavours for everyone in town. Grab a seat in one of their vinyl booths, or in warmer months, take your cone to go as you meander along White Rock Pier. 





     9.   Altus White Rock
With spacious floorplans, luxurious amenities and panoramic ocean views, Altus is an urban resort that embodies White Rock’s serene atmosphere. Altus operates by the design philosophy of “every square inch,” meaning that its spaces are purposeful and effortlessly liveable. In addition to its well-appointed interiors, residents can make use of the 3000 SF multipurpose space and admire White Rock’s splendour from the rooftop patio lounge. 


White Rock evokes a unique sense of calm that appeals to families at all stages of life. If you daydream about fresh ocean air, a friendly community, and easy access to the Bellingham Trader Joe’s, sign up to learn more about living at Altus White Rock.