Welcome to summer in Whistler: Beaches and Boating Safety tips

The RMOW manages 31 community and neighbourhood parks, which are connected by Whistler's Valley Trail, a paved, three-metre wide, 40-kilometre multipurpose trail. Whistler’s parks, beaches and lakes are considered public areas and as such the consumption of alcohol is not permitted as per provincial legislation.

Whistler's parks and beaches are open from dawn until dusk and late night use is prohibited. Along with safety risks, night time usage of Whistler's parks increases noise disturbances for surrounding neighbours

"Whistler's community parks offer great outdoor experiences for all ages. Whether enjoying a pleasant stroll along the Valley Trail or a picnic at Rainbow Park, Whistler has something for everyone," said Whistler Mayor Nancy Wilhelm-Morden. "In particular, we want to remind both residents and visitors to respect parks hours to ensure all users have a positive, welcoming experience in Whistler."

Boating Safety

Transport Canada’s Safe Boating Guide provides information on safe and responsible boating practices.
Transport Canada states that you must have a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) while on area lakes in a boat, inner tube, paddle board, raft or other flotation device. The maximum fine for violation is $500.
If you are on the lake, bring extra gear as required by Transport Canada: a life jacket, bailer, whistle and flashlight if on the lake after sunset.
Boating safety is important, and residents and visitors should be aware of boating speed limits: Alta Lake has a speed limit of 12 km per hour and Green Lake has sections were the limit is 10 km per hour. Towing is restricted to specific areas of Green Lake. Alpha Lake and Nita Lake only allow electric motors. Green Lake has a large population of non-motorized watercraft which have the right-of-way at all times. Be aware that floatplanes land regularly on Green Lake.

Beaches and Water Safety

Local beaches are safe to swim in and the water quality of Whistler's major beaches is monitored closely. Weekly samples are sent to the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority for analysis and posting. For Whistler specific information, visit whistler.ca/beachwaterquality.
Lakeside Park, Lost Lake Park, Rainbow Park, and Alpha Lake Park all offer sandy beaches, and the latter three have special designated areas for dogs.
Obey all rules and posted signs. Be aware that Whistler’s beaches are not monitored by lifeguards.
The Canadian Red Cross has several water safety tips to keep your family safe this summer. The most basic: learn to swim! Take some lessons and always swim with a buddy. Visit redcross.ca for more information.
To reduce the potential of swimmer’s itch, take these precautions:
Wear waterproof sunscreen, which acts as a protective film on your skin, and apply often.
Avoid areas with lots of weed growth. There tends to be more larvae near shore, so swimming off a dock may help.
Towel off vigorously or shower immediately after leaving the water, although this will not remove larvae that have already entered the skin.
For your convenience, the municipality has installed outdoor showers at Lost Lake, Wayside, Lakeside and Rainbow beaches.