Crescent Rock Beach

Crescent Rock Beach runs for about 6.5 kilometers along the coast between Crescent Beach and White Rock in South Surrey. It’s named after a 120-ton granite boulder left behind during the last ice age. The clothing-optional area sits below tall cliffs and thick Douglas fir trees, hidden from nearby roads and houses.

For more than 50 years, the beach has been a popular naturist spot. It offers wide views across Mud Bay toward Tsawwassen and the Gulf Islands. The area is rich in wildlife—bald eagles and ospreys nest in the trees, herons feed in the shallows, and seals are often seen close to shore. Sometimes, orcas or gray whales pass through the bay.

The shore has both rocky and sandy areas. The best sand and easiest access are near the large Crescent Rock boulder. Old wooden beach beds from the railway era still stand along parts of the beach, and active train tracks run nearby, with trains passing several times a day.

The beach has a calm, friendly atmosphere and a small community that helps keep the clothing-optional tradition alive, even though it’s not officially recognized by the city.

By car: From Vancouver, take Highway 99 south to Exit 10 for Highway 99A toward White Rock/Crescent Beach.

Take the Highway 99A South ramp, then the Crescent Beach exit. Park on residential streets near the end of Bayview Street, which provides the closest access.

Parking fills quickly during summer, and residents enforce strict rules—avoid blocking driveways or parking in restricted zones. Alternative access points include the Christopherson Steps at the west end of 24th Avenue or the 1001 Steps staircase at 15A Avenue.

By public transport: Take TransLink bus route 350, which connects Crescent Beach to White Rock Centre.

The nearest stop is Eastbound Beecher Street at Taylor Lane, about a 3-minute walk from the main beach area. Service from Vancouver requires significant travel time, so plan accordingly.

By foot: From the end of Bayview Street, follow the trail that runs alongside the railway line. Walk past the overpass until you reach the nude beach area (the painted rock sign marking the entrance is no longer visible).

The trail brings you close to active train tracks—use extreme caution when crossing and avoid walking alongside the tracks for extended periods. Alternatively, walk south along the shore from Crescent Beach past the elevated metal staircase until you reach the massive Crescent Rock boulder.

The clothing-optional area begins once you're out of sight from the main Crescent Beach area.

Is nudity mandatory or optional at this beach? Nudity is optional. Visitors can choose to be fully nude, partially clothed, or remain in swimwear. The beach welcomes all levels of clothing, and the community respects individual comfort levels.

Is this an officially designated nude beach? No. While the RCMP has acknowledged that nude sunbathing and swimming are legal here under Canadian case law (as the area is out of sight from public parks), the City of Surrey has not officially endorsed or designated it as clothing-optional. The beach remains outside city jurisdiction, making it legal but unofficially recognized.

What's the best time to visit to avoid crowds? Weekdays during spring and fall offer the most solitude. Even on hot summer days, the beach remains less crowded than Vancouver's Wreck Beach. Early mornings provide the quietest experience, while late afternoons attract those seeking the spectacular sunsets.

Is the beach open year-round or only in certain seasons? The beach remains accessible year-round, though most visitors come during warmer months from May through September. Hardy naturists visit during shoulder seasons when the area offers even greater privacy.

Is there an entrance fee or parking charge? No entrance fees exist. Parking on residential streets near Bayview Street is free, but space is limited during peak summer months.

How do I get to the beach—by car, public transport, or foot? All three options work. Driving offers the most convenience with parking at the end of Bayview Street. TransLink bus route 350 serves the area. Walking from parking areas requires following trails alongside active railway tracks—a 10-15 minute walk depending on which section you're heading to.

Is the path to the beach easy to walk or does it require hiking? The path is relatively flat but requires caution. The trail runs close to active railway tracks, which you'll need to cross carefully. The terrain is uneven in places, and sturdy footwear helps navigate the rocky sections before reaching the beach.

Is there parking nearby, and how far is it from the beach? Parking is available on residential streets, with the closest spot at the end of Bayview Street. From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk along the railway trail to reach the main nude beach area near the Crescent Rock boulder.

Are there signs indicating the nude area? Not officially. A large rock with a spray-painted "nude beach" sign existed for years but is no longer visible. The nude section begins once you're out of sight from the main Crescent Beach area, past the giant Crescent Rock boulder. Local naturist groups have lobbied for official signage similar to Vancouver's Wreck Beach, but none has been installed.

Are there public restrooms or showers? Limited facilities exist at the main Crescent Beach area (north of the nude section), where showers help wash off feet and legs to prevent swimmer's itch. The nude beach section itself has no facilities—plan accordingly and practice leave-no-trace principles.

Can I buy food or drinks nearby? No vendors operate on the nude beach. The closest options are in Crescent Beach village, about a 15-20 minute walk north, which offers fish and chip shops and cafes. Bring your own food and water for a full day at the beach.

Are sunbeds or umbrellas available to rent? No rental services exist. The beach offers minimal natural shade from driftwood logs and the occasional tree near the bluffs. Bring your own beach chair, towel, and portable shade if needed.

Should I bring my own towel, chair, or sunshade? Absolutely. Pack everything you need—towel, chair, umbrella or beach tent, and plenty of water. The rocky shoreline makes water shoes essential. Some visitors use the historical raised beach platforms as seating areas.

Can I bring my dog? Yes. Crescent Rock Beach is one of the rare clothing-optional beaches where dogs are welcome. This makes it popular with naturist pet owners. Keep your dog under control and clean up after them, as the beach sees regular foot traffic.

Is the beach suitable for children and families? While families do visit, the beach attracts primarily adults. Canadian law allows nudity in secluded public spaces, making family visits legal. Parents should use their judgment based on their family's comfort level with naturism. The rocky terrain and lack of facilities make it less ideal for young children compared to the main Crescent Beach.

Is there shade on the beach or should I bring my own cover? Natural shade is scarce. Large driftwood logs provide some shelter, and the bluffs create shadows during certain times of day. Bring a beach umbrella, tent, or other portable shade for extended stays, especially during peak summer sun.

Is it okay to stay partially clothed or wear a swimsuit? Yes. The beach welcomes all clothing levels. Many visitors keep swimwear nearby for the walk in or when cooling off in the water. No pressure exists to be fully nude—comfort matters most.

Can I take photos or use my phone? Use extreme discretion. Taking photos of other beachgoers without explicit permission is inappropriate and potentially illegal. Photograph landscapes, wildlife, or yourself, but never capture identifiable images of others. Many visitors come specifically for privacy.

What's the etiquette around staring or interacting with others? Respect personal space and avoid staring. Brief, friendly greetings are welcome, but prolonged gazing or unwanted attention is inappropriate. This is a space for relaxation, not voyeurism. The regular community helps maintain appropriate behavior standards.

Can I walk nude outside the beach area (like on the trail or at the café)? No. Nudity is only legal in areas out of sight from public spaces. Cover up when walking the access trails near the railway tracks and definitely before reaching residential areas or Crescent Beach village. Violating this can result in complaints and police involvement.

Are lifeguards on duty? No lifeguards patrol Crescent Rock Beach. The main Crescent Beach area (north of the nude section) has lifeguards at Sullivan Point from late June through early September, but the clothing-optional section is unguarded. Swim at your own risk.

Is it safe to swim here? Swimming conditions vary with tides. At high tide, the water deepens quickly and provides good swimming. At low tide, the water recedes dramatically, requiring a long walk through seaweed and over sharp rocks to reach swimmable depth. Check tide tables before visiting. The water warms during summer months but remains cool in spring and fall.

Are there any dangerous sea creatures or sharp rocks? Sharp rocks dominate the shoreline—water shoes are mandatory for safe navigation. Swimmer's itch can occur from waterborne parasites, though the condition is temporary. No dangerous sea creatures pose significant threats, though jellyfish occasionally appear during certain seasons.

Can I camp overnight or stay nearby? No camping is permitted on the beach. Nearby accommodation options include hotels and bed and breakfasts in Surrey and White Rock. Bare Creek B&B in Surrey offers clothing-optional accommodation for those seeking a naturist-friendly place to stay.

Is it safe to leave my belongings unattended? Use caution. While the regular community generally watches out for each other, theft can occur anywhere. Bring only essentials and keep valuables with you when swimming. The relative isolation means fewer eyes on your belongings compared to busier beaches.

What's the general vibe—quiet and relaxed, or social and active? The atmosphere leans toward quiet and relaxed. Regular visitors create a friendly, welcoming environment, but the beach isn't a party scene like parts of Wreck Beach. Expect peaceful sunbathing, occasional conversations, and stunning sunsets. Some visitors enjoy beach fires at sunset when fire bans aren't in effect.

Are there regular visitors or local naturist groups? Yes. A core community of regulars frequents the beach, and Surrey's United Naturists actively advocates for the beach's clothing-optional status. These regulars help maintain the welcoming atmosphere and appropriate etiquette standards.

Are single visitors welcome? Yes. Singles, couples, and groups all visit. The community welcomes anyone who respects naturist etiquette and others' privacy. Solo visitors will find the atmosphere inclusive and non-threatening.

Is the beach LGBTQ+ friendly? The beach maintains an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere for all visitors regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The naturist community values body positivity and respect for all.