This is the summer in Surrey we’ve all been waiting for, and we’re making up for what feels like lost time by heading outdoors as much as possible to enjoy the warm temperatures, sunshine and activities. This summer we invite you to head out and discover Surrey all over again. Not sure where to start? We’ve pulled together some of our favourite things to do in Surrey, starting with the perfect summer day in South Surrey.
First up breakfast and coffee! Kickstart your day of adventure with a visit to Islands Cafe (40, 16041 24 Avenue) for a cup of authentic Hawaiian coffee (roasted locally) and a taste of the islands. Whether you want a refreshing morning acai bowl or a hearty breakfast sandwich, the calm, welcoming atmosphere with a nod to a tropical paradise is the perfect spot to get your day of exploring started.
No summer day is complete without the beach. On your way to Crescent Beach (12160 Beecher Street), stop in at Delitalia Fine Foods (1629 128th Street) and pick up some picnic essentials. This Italian deli offers imported charcuterie and cheeses, peppered with local ingredients and house-made menu items. Select a freshly made sandwich or charcuterie board to enjoy beachside!
With the Pacific Ocean at our toes, water activities are essential to fully experience a Surrey summer. Stop by the Crescent Beach Paddleshack to rent paddleboards or kayaks and head out on the water to explore Boundary Bay and the Nicomekl River. Watch for the many varieties of birds and wildlife who call Blackie Spit, a protected environmental area, home.
Or, just spend your time enjoying the sunshine and playing on the beach. When the tide is out, it’s perfect for sandcastles and skimboarding, and watch for newly revealed tidepools with lots of marine life to discover! Known inhabitants of Crescent Beach include starfish, jellyfish, small crabs and sand dollars.
When the “surf” and sand have satisfied your summer craving, pack up and head to the charming Ocean Park neighbourhood (16th Avenue & 128th Street). Pop into one of the many coffee shops like Dudes Coffee House (1558 128th Street) for a quick iced coffee as you stroll the charming streets. Browse through the lineup of independently owned, boutique shops. Some of our favourites include 7 Rooms Emporium (1637 128th Street), Ethical Addiction (1558 128th Street), JJ Whiskey Boutique (1631 128th Street) and Madeline Bee – The Home Store (1653 128th Street).
Dinner calls for exploring the new Surrey Spice Trail. Try your hand at authentic Korean BBQ at Woo Korean BBQ, enjoy family-style dining at Afghan Kitchen or go on a culinary journey with food celebrity Vikram Vij at My Shanti. Or, if it’s a little bit of everything you want to try, we recommend booking a South Surrey Spice Trail Tour. Local culinary tour operator Chew on This Tasty Tours will set up a delicious self-guided dining experience and you’ll sip, taste and discover a world of flavour at five different Spice Trail restaurants.
ENTER TO WIN – All summer we’ll be giving away gift cards to some of our favourite Surrey businesses, and all you need to do to enter is upload a photo of Surrey using the form below and share your #DiscoverSurreyBC moments!