✍️ By Karalee Greer | WBN News – Kitsilano | April 26, 2025

I'm a dog-lover and having off-leash dog parks close to where I live is a bonus for local dogs as well as their owners.

Kitsilano, renowned for its vibrant beach culture and community spirit, is also one of Vancouver’s most dog-friendly neighbourhoods. Kitsilano’s off-leash parks offer some of the city’s most spectacular dog-walking settings, from oceanfront beaches to quiet leafy paths. Whether your dog is a swimmer, a sprinter, or a social butterfly, there’s a perfect spot in Kits for every pup. Here’s a closer look at the off-leash areas in Kitsilano and those in planning:

1. Kitsilano Beach Park Off-Leash Area

Located at the western end of the iconic Kitsilano Beach, this area is a true gem for city dogs. With panoramic ocean and mountain views, the off-leash zone stretches along Arbutus Street near the tennis courts, blending grassy lawns and sandy beach. Dogs can roam, dig, or even splash in the water during off-leash hours (all day from October through April; mornings and evenings in summer). This area has a lively, social vibe—especially on sunny days, when dozens of dogs and owners gather to enjoy the setting sun. The popularity of Kits Beach’s off-leash section means you’ll always find canine companions for a game of fetch. https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/dog-off-leash-areas.aspx

2. Hadden Park Dog Off-Leash Area

Tucked between Kits Beach and Vanier Park at 1905 Ogden Avenue, Hadden Park’s off-leash area is a true destination for dog lovers. Open 24/7 year-round, this large grassy expanse borders a quieter stretch of beach, giving dogs room to run and easy water access for swimming. With historic roots going back to the early 20th century—when Harvey Hadden gifted the land to Vancouver for public use—this park offers a tranquil escape, with fewer crowds but ample space and stunning views of English Bay and downtown Vancouver. https://thedognetwork.ca/parks/canada/british-columbia/vancouver/off-leash-dog-parks/hadden-park-off-leash-dog-beach-vancouver-bc/

3. Spanish Banks Off-Leash Dog Area (close to Kits)

Further west of the Kitsilano Beach Park is one of Vancouver’s largest and most popular dog-friendly destinations. Established in the early 2000s as part of the city’s growing commitment to pet-friendly spaces, it stretches across expansive sandy beaches and grassy fields at the western end of Spanish Banks. Dogs can run, swim, and play off-leash, especially at low tide when the beach seems endless. With breathtaking views of the mountains and downtown skyline, it attracts dog owners from across the city, particularly on weekends and sunny days. The area is well-used year-round, fostering a vibrant, welcoming community of dog lovers.

Upcoming Off-Leash Areas Near Kitsilano

Granville Park

Heather Park

  • Location: 702 West 18th Avenue.
  • Status: Similar to Granville Park, Heather Park is set to receive a new fenced off-leash area to better serve local residents and their dogs. ​City of Vancouver+1City of Vancouver+1

For the most current information on off-leash areas, including maps and regulations, you can visit the City of Vancouver's official dog off-leash areas page: City of Vancouver.​

Kitsilano’s off-leash parks are more than just play areas—they’re a hub for community, connection, and West Coast fun for dogs and people alike. https://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/dog-off-leash-areas.aspx

Karalee Greer - Publisher

Tags: #WBN News -Kitsilano #Karalee Greer #Kitsilano #Dog Friendly Vancouver Parks #Dog Lovers #Dog Parks

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