Last week I presented readers with a few events directly connected to UBC that are worth checking out. Today, a week closer to the start of the next UBC semester, I thought I'd recommend a few activities in the area surrounding the university campus. While this is by no means a comprehensive list of "things to do" near UBC (that would require an entire website itself) it showcases activities and attractions that you can enjoy at your own pace. For those of you newly arrived in the area and have settled into your new UBC condo it's important to enjoy every last dog day of summer. Pretty soon either you, your kids, your spouse, friends and/or companions will be immersed in books and lecture halls. Better get out there and make the remaining summer a memorable one.

 

Things to do Near UBC in the Late Summer:

 

1. SUP, Sail, Skim, Windsurf, & Kayak

 

The beaches near the base of the UBC region offer an innumerable amount of summer activities. If you're new to Vancouver and have stepped anywhere near the water you'll have noticed by now that everyone seems to have caught Stand Up Paddle (SUP) fever. If you're looking to rent a board or take a lesson/tour then Jericho Beach is the place to be. Contact Eco-Marine for SUP and Kayak options. If windsurfing or sailing is more your ocean speed then the very same location will suit you fine by visiting the Jericho Sailing Centre.  Skimboard enthusiasts can also find rental options (for those that don't own one) within the Jericho Beach activity compound.

 

2. See the Bunnies

 

The ecological zone behind Jericho Beach Park has been taken over by bunny rabbits. I kid you not. Within 5 minutes of walking the beautiful bushed area between the marsh and the tennis courts you will come across a cotton tail (or dozens). Bring a camera and some carrots and make a few fluffy friends.

 

3. Sidewalk Shopping on West 10th, Broadway, & 4th

 

Summer is for sidewalk shopping. No sunny day in Vancouver should be spent indoors in a mall but I do understand that many of you still need a retail fix. I can safely state that sidewalk shopping along West 10th, West Broadway, and West 4th Avenue offers access to some of the BEST boutique shopping (from fashion to children's stores to quaint bookshops) in Greater Vancouver. All three "rows" are near to UBC with easy access via transit, car, bike, or even a long stroll.

 

4. Patio Dining on West Broadway & West 4th

 

Before, during, or after the aforementioned sidewalk shopping near UBC I highly recommend outdoor dining along West Broadway and West 4th Avenue. Both streets collect an eclectic and non-pretentious assortment of cafes and eateries that draw people to their expansive patios from the UBC area looking to people watch and mingle while having a bite.

 

5. Wreck Beach for the Risqué

 

Greater Vancouver's only clothing optional beach is a fringe gathering place for hundreds of both clothed and unclothed individuals looking to escape the more glitz and glam beaches of Kitsilano and English Bay. Whether you dare to bare or wear swimwear instead you'll have a blast at this unique beach. Wreck is the closest beach to UBC, located a multitude of makeshift steps down from the Lower Mall parking lot and Place Vanier Residence of UBC.

 

As mentioned above this list barely scratches the surface of all the activities and attractions near UBC but it does offer something for everyone and I recommend that you try them all (well, maybe you can skip Wreck Beach depending upon your threshold for such a thing). It's also a testament to why so many prospective home owners are considering UBC real estate above all else in the Greater Vancouver area. If you are in the market to place yourself near the above amazing activities and attractions then please to feel free to contact my UBC Realtor office anytime.