White Rock
Quick Facts
- Population (2006 Census)... 18,755
- Distance from Vancouver... 45 km (28 mi)
- Distance from Richmond... 37 km (23 mi)
- Distance from Whistler... 176 km (109 mi)
White Rock is located on the Semiahmoo Peninsula, about 45-minutes' drive south of Vancouver, and just minutes from the Peace Arch U.S. border crossing.
White Rock is a quaint, ocean-side community with a mild climate and relaxed, holiday atmosphere. White Rock beach is a tranquil 8 km (5 mi) sand playground along the Semiahmoo Bay and is popular with windsurfers, kite fliers and skim boarders. The paved promenade covering part of this distance is a well-known and scenic stroll. Take a relaxing walk along the White Rock pier, out into the bay and enjoy a great view of the town. On a clear day, the San Juan Islands and the impressive Mount Baker in Washington State are also on display.
White Rock is named after the enormous rock deposited on the beach when the glaciers receded thousands of years ago. According to First Nations' Coast Salish legend, the white rock was hurled across the Strait of Georgia by the son of a Salish sea god.
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2010 Host Cities
Venues & Visitor Centres
Transportation
Transportation
Visit www.travelsmart2010.ca for the latest information on travel during the 2010 Winter Games.
There will be no spectator parking at any Olympic venue.
To Richmond:
Richmond is approximately 35 minutes from White Rock by car. Public buses and the SkyTrain rapid rail system connect the two cities. Note that the journey may require multiple transfers.
The Richmond Olympic Oval can be accessed by the Canada Line rapid transit system and connecting public buses.
To Vancouver:
For those driving, the trip between White Rock and Vancouver is approximately 45 minutes, while transit passengers can make the trip via public buses and/or SkyTrain rapid transit system.
During Games time it’s best to take public transit as there will be road closures and limited parking. Extended transit service hours will be in place during February, 2010.
To West Vancouver:
West Vancouver is just over one hour by car from White Rock. Transit passengers can make the trip by public bus and/or SkyTrain to Vancouver then transfer to another public bus to West Vancouver.
Tickets holders can only access Olympic events on Cypress Mountain via the Olympic Bus Network. View travel information and reserve bus tickets here.
To Whistler:
Whistler is approximately 2.5 hours drive north of White Rock. The trip travels along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (Hwy 99). Note that driving restrictions will be in place during peak Games times.
Ticket holders to Olympic events in Whistler will be transported to and from their event location via the Olympic Bus Network. This bus network features departure points in Vancouver, Burnaby and North Vancouver.
There are no coach services to Whistler available from White Rock; however, transit passengers can take public buses and/or the SkyTrain to downtown Vancouver then transfer to a coach to Whistler.
White Rock provides higher-end accommodation including an oceanfront, boutique hotel overlooking the lovely Semiahmoo Bay, as well as ocean-view bed and breakfasts.
Budget accommodation can be found in several motels and RV parks, or in the more economical B&Bs. Additional accommodation can be found just outside White Rock in the South Surrey area.
Want to talk to an accommodations expert? We'll be happy to help you with your search over the phone. Call us directly at 1-800-HelloBC or 1-800-435-5622. If you're calling from overseas, dial 1-604-435-5622.
Things To Do
White Rock is an easy place to unwind in. Start with a stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade and pier, browse charming boutiques and numerous art galleries, or stop for a glass of local wine or an ice cream along Marine Drive. This seaside stretch contains many excellent restaurants and cafes, with the best tables enjoying a beautiful view over the bay.
To explore the history of the area, head to the White Rock Museum and Archives which is located in a historic train station. The museum has intriguing displays and exhibits highlighting the area's natural, First Nations, railway and settlement histories.
For winter adventure, don't miss the North Shore Mountains' three renowned ski areas (Cypress, Seymour and Grouse mountains) which are approximately an hour's drive from White Rock. One of the mountains – Cypress – will be the location of freestyle skiing and snowboard events during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
There are numerous golf courses within a 20-minute drive of White Rock, while those interested in going for a leisurely walk or hike can explore the trails in the community's many forested parks.
Read more about what's happening in White Rock.