It seems like only yesterday that we were anticipating the warm weather and long lazy evenings of summer, and now we are already being bombarded with back to school deals and rainy afternoons. But instead of looking too far ahead and dreading the gray skies looming around the corner, let’s revel in the moment and create a last minute Summer Bucket List. Here are our five Kits summer must-dos that you absolutely have to make time for in the next couple weeks:
Kitsilano Summer Bucket List
1) Ice Cream for Dessert
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: go get ice cream at Rain or Shine. Don’t let the long line outside scare you off. The hustle and bustle of the shop is a great place for chit chat with your neighbours, and the wait is well worth it once your turn rolls around and you get to sample as much as your heart desires. Make sure you try the waffle cone; what better way to celebrate summer than with a drippy mess of ice cream down your hand? And this homemade cone is to die for.
2) Yoga on the Beach
Semperviva hosts a complementary Hatha yoga class on Kits Beach at 6:00pm every Sunday until September 14. Located on the grass behind Kits Pool and the Showboat, the class is free for everyone. Just make sure to bring a towel or mat if you don’t want to rest your face in the dirt during inevitable Child’s Pose. And arrive at least ten minutes early to ensure a spot and get settled. I can’t think of any better way to spend a Sunday evening.
3) Evening Patio Drinks
Whether as a cool down with friends after yoga or as a romantic date, drinks always taste better in the great outdoors. Patios offer the perfect mix of civilized comfort with a breath of fresh air, and we’re lucky enough to have a bunch of great ones to choose from in Kits. Check out my top patio picks before we go undercover the rainy season.
4) Swim at Kits Pool
One of Vancouver’s four outdoor swimming pools, Kits Pool is the only saltwater pool in the city. It’s the perfect place to get a great work out, lounge waterside in the sun, or splash around for fun. With a great view of the ocean, trees, mountains, and Downtown Vancouver, you have to take advantage of this treasure in our backyard before it shuts down on September 14 for the winter months.
5) Stroll to Granville Island
Starting out at Kits Pool and walking along the water takes you through Kits Beach and Vanier Park, straight to Granville Island. You can take in the sights and sounds of the Showboat, the playground, and Bard on the Beach, as you meander through the crowds on a lovely summer evening in the best neighbourhood in our city. Your final destination offers a smorgasbord of restaurants and bars if you want to eat out, or a market bursting with fresh fruit if you want to stock up and head back home for a night in.
Last modified: August 18, 2014
