Wreck Beach

The wild, pebbly headquarters of Vancouver's nudist community

Talk of the town: The University of British Columbia had to abandon expansion plans in 2008 after nudists successfully argued that the proposed construction would invade their privacy.
Noteworthy for: If you're feeling energetic, sign up for annual Bare Buns Run held at Wreck Beach in July.

On the edge of the city's huge University of BC campus in South Vancouver, Wreck Beach is the name commonly used to refer to the seven kilometre-long stretch of coastline from Tower Beach, round past Point Grey and down to the Foreshore Park. Wreck Beach itself is pebbly, but it's not the sand most people come for, as this is Vancouver's primary naturist spot.
This 'clothing-optional' beach has long-been a destination for the city's more confident sunbathers, but there's no pressure to join them. Anyone can come here, clothes or not, and it's not uncommon to see families and university staff and students happily eating their picnics amongst a sea of birthday suit'ers.

Licensed vendors have stalls near the beach steps and sell souvenirs, drinks and snacks. Unofficial hawkers also roam the rocks selling contraband alcohol and other merchandise. Take any bus heading to the university and find the beach trail near UBC gate six.