Growing up in a small town definitely comes with a few perks. There is a greater sense of community, and you get to know the people and the places around you well. I grew up in White Rock, BC, a small town on the water filled with character and beauty. Even though I may not live there anymore, I am constantly going back. Not only to visit my family, but because it reminds me of childhood memories. What is there to explore in White Rock? The cute cafes, the shops, the beach and everything in between.

So I thought I would walk you through an afternoon in White Rock! I had a chance to spend the day out there last month and visit some of my favourite spots.

What to Explore in White Rock

First stop was The Mason Jar on Thrift Avenue. This gorgeous little retail store is a family business run by three generations of women. Cathy and her family carefully select items that are almost all sourced from local brands.

Warning: You will want to buy everything in The Mason Jar!!! They offer a variety of gifts, home goods, decor, personal wellness, clothing and accessories. The space is beautiful and inviting. I was building my wish list of home decor items in my head as I walked through the shop!

To give you a sense of the community feel, my photographer Erin met me at The Mason Jar to work with me for the day. I didn’t inform Cathy who I had hired for photos, but when Erin walked through the door, no introduction was needed. They greeted each other with open arms! Erin is a friend and customer, as is her mom. I just love the small town feel that comes with shopping in a store like this one.

I was very impressed with the carefully curated collection of women’s clothing. Brands that I recognized like Brunette The Label, Maccs The Label and Smash & Tess, and a few brands that I was happy to discover! I gravitated towards this linen tunic dress (featured above) by Linen Farm. An easy-to-wear linen summer dress that is well made and timeless.

On to the next stop, which conveniently was just around the corner. The Handpicked Home is a lifestyle store that features handpicked and locally sourced items that are meant to “warm the heart and home” ♥.

The Handpicked Home is filled with fun and unique home decor and gift items. When we stopped in and chatted with Piya (one of the owners) she was so sweet and accommodating. Of course Erin knew her as well, because that is just how it is in White Rock! It has been 17 years since I moved away, and in some ways it feels like nothing has changed!

The perfect place to find a thoughtful gift! Or you could always treat yourself too 😉 I loved seeing so many local labels for sale in the store.

After shopping, it was time for a bite. We headed down Johnson Street to another local gem, Islands Cafe.

Islands Cafe is a privately owned cafe and roaster, run by husband and wife team Rob and Jalene. They were inspired by the years they spent living in Hawaii, and immersing themselves in the culture.

Their menu focuses on clean, healthy food and good coffee. Items they are known for are the Acai bowls, and Kahuku poke bowls.

I found a spot on their street side patio, and indulged in an iced coffee and a poke bowl. Naturally I started talking to the people at the table next to me, and shared some good small chat. Everywhere you go in White Rock, there are friendly people to talk to.

Am I making you hungry yet?? 😉

It was time to make our way to the beach! This is what White Rock is know for. A beautiful 2.5km promenade along the shoreline where you can take in the stunning views. I hold this place very close to my heart. It is not only a huge part of my childhood, it reminds me of my brother. We used to live by the water, and we would walk across to the beach and sit there for hours talking. It is such a peaceful and beautiful place to visit.

Moby Dick is an iconic spot in White Rock. They have been serving up fish and chips on Marine Drive since 1975, both dine-in and take-out. It is a must see when you visit. They almost always have a line up, and for good reason! It is a local tradition to pick up fish and chips from a take-out and have a picnic on the beach.

White Rock Beach is a very popular spot in the summer. There are endless activities to do, including water sports. Feral Beach Life is keeping busy these days!! With several options to choose from, you can spend time on the water either on your own, in a group or in a lesson. I personally LOVE paddle boarding. It is easy to learn, fun and a great core workout!

For $40 you and a friend can rent SUP and head to the beach to take in those gorgeous views on the water! Feral has everything you need. Their staff are friendly and knowledgeable.

Once you’re all done and need to cool off, head back to the drive (as us locals call it ;-)) and grab an ice cream!

I made my way to Crazy Cows for an ice cream. They make their ice cream with organic milk, and it’s delicious!! I decided to also get a bit of a caffeine boost and tried the espresso chip, in a CHARCOAL cone!! Yes I said it. These are made with activated charcoal to give it the black colour.

It isn’t a complete trip to White Rock Beach until you have walked the pier!!! This landmark dates back to 1914. Watch the boats, take in the sunset, and feel the ocean breeze. There are even events that happen on the pier, including the Picnic on The Pier.

Fun/Random Fact: I stood in this very spot at the foot of the pier on the night of my highschool grad!

So whether you are a local, visiting from out of town or you live in surrounding cities in the greater Vancouver area, go explore White Rock and all it has to offer!! It is just under a 60 minute drive from downtown. This gorgeous place is sure to impress you!

I am teaming up with Explore White Rock and the following businesses for a very fun giveaway!! See details below and be sure to enter at the end of this post.

• The Mason Jar – $75 gift certificate
• Feral Board Sports – SUP rental for two
• Moby Dick Fish & Chips – $20 gift certificate
• Crazy Cows Ice Cream – $45 gift certificate

Stay up to date with events, things to do and where to go on Explore White Rock.

In partnership with Explore White Rock / Photography by Idlewild Photo Co.

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