Some outdoor plans are less about the destination and more about the feeling they leave behind—a riverside breeze, a little sunshine and an hour spent watching the water go by.
Set along the Fraser River in Richmond, McDonald Beach Park combines a waterfront setting with space for picnics, recreation and relaxing outdoors. Its beach areas and riverside surroundings offer an easy place to slow down, while the park's designated off-leash area gives dogs a place to enjoy the outdoors too.
A Simple Escape Along the River
Follow the waterfront, find a spot for a picnic or enjoy a relaxed afternoon beside the Fraser River and watch the activity along the water.
The park offers a riverside setting with beach areas, picnic spaces and room to enjoy the outdoors at an unhurried pace. Its waterfront location also makes it an easy place to spend time watching boats and taking in the surrounding scenery.
Dog owners can also make use of the park's designated off-leash area. Dogs may be off leash only within that designated area and must remain leashed elsewhere in the park.
McDonald Beach Park is not about dramatic scenery. Its charm lies in something simpler: river views, open space and the ease of spending an afternoon outdoors without needing a complicated plan.
Quick Details
Location: 3500 McDonald Road, Richmond, BC
Area: Sea Island
Best for: Riverside walks, picnics, beach views, boat watching, plane watching and dog walking
Features: Fraser River beach, informal trails, boat launch, piers and views of working boats and aircraft
Facilities: Picnic area, 14 picnic tables, public washrooms, drinking fountain, benches, trails and on-site parking
Parking: On-site parking available
Dogs: Off leash only within the designated off-leash area; dogs must be leashed elsewhere and remain under their owner's control.
Before You Go
Keep your dog leashed when entering and leaving the designated off-leash area. Inside the designated area, dogs may be off leash but must remain under their owner's control and within sight.
Dogs must be currently and visibly licensed, owners must carry a leash, and waste must be picked up and disposed of properly. Dogs must remain on leash outside the designated off-leash area.
The Fraser River has a strong current and the beach has no lifeguards, so swimming is not considered safe. The park and boat launch are open from sunrise to sunset, so plan your visit around daylight hours.
Plan Your Visit
Some of the loveliest local escapes are the ones that ask very little of us. The Weekender curates thoughtful ways to experience more of Richmond—one place at a time.
Image note: AI-generated editorial image