White Rock
White RockIntroduction
This seaside city near the BC/Washington border has blossomed since its early days as a weekend getaway and retirement mecca! Postcard views frame the historic pier and iconic white boulder. Surrounded by Surrey on three sides, White Rock's boundaries are Bergstrom Rd. (136 St.) west, North Bluff Rd. (16 St.) north, Stayte Rd. (160 St.) east, and Marine Dr. south.
Lifestyle
Sunsets and seaside views. Two scoops of gelato. Fish and chip dinners serenaded by a symphony of seagulls. Simply put, White Rock is living the beach life with a dash of prestige. Many locals grew up vacationing here, and stayed to raise their own families. A close-knit, small town vibe. People shop local, stop to chat on the oceanfront promenade and love annual events like the Sea Festival.
The Vibe
Truth be told, White Rock was once nicknamed "the town of newlyweds and nearly dead." While its mild sunny climate continues to attract active retirees, its upmarket real estate has priced out most young people. Seniors on scooters claim the sidewalks, while SUVs take to the roads transporting kids to their math tutors and hockey practices.
Meet the Neighbours
Based on 2011 Census data, median age of White Rock residents is 54 compared to the national average of 41. Average household income is $68,481. Of the 20,000 people who call White Rock home, half are married, 80% state English as their mother tongue, followed by German, Mandarin and Korean. Neighbouring White Rock is the 90-member Semiahmoo First Nation community.
In the Area
Whether tennis, curling, soccer, hockey or lawn bowling is your game, you're covered at Centennial Park and Arena on North Bluff Rd. White Rock's best secret? The ravine behind the Leisure Centre — nature's own Stairmaster! Two elementary schools, White Rock Elementary (fine arts program) and Peace Arch Elementary (French immersion) are in SD 36. Peace Arch Hospital is located Uptown.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Getting around is as easy as hopping on the bus, calling a taxi or navigating your own wheels — as long as it's not a skateboard...they're outlawed in White Rock! TransLink operates community buses (C50 Ocean Park/Peace Arch Hospital and C52 Seaside) and Express Routes to Downtown Surrey and Vancouver. Transit Exchange is at intersection of Johnston and North Bluff Rd.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
More sunshine and less rain," means more days for kayaking, pier jumping or scaling the legendary white rock (glacier deposit) that sits on the 5km stretch of sandy beach. Locals appreciate the small-town feel, spectacular sunsets and accessibility to neighbouring Ocean Park. What's not to love? Beach traffic along Marine Dr. on a sunny Sunday afternoon and high property taxes.
Dollars & Sense
Expect to pay more for everything from coffee to dry cleaning. That said, White Rock is a treasure trove of thrift shops, including World Serve on Johnston and Peace Arch Hospital Auxiliary on Prospect — often selling contents of local estates. Rent can be as high as $2500/month for a two-bedroom condo with view, but there's many basement suites under $800/month.
Featured Homes for Sale in White Rock
A hand-picked selection of new home and condos for sale in White Rock. For those who love the thrill of anticipation of getting into a brand new home or condo.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
WHITE ROCK BEACH, PIER and PROMENADE
Fly kites, build sandcastles or wave at the passing trains. The promenade spans from the paddle board rentals at East Beach to the souvenir shops and restaurants at West Beach.
more infoSEMIAHMOO SHOPPING CENTRE
At the hub of 152 St. and 16 Ave., this mall is technically in Surrey, but meets the residents' essential needs — groceries, banks, restaurants, dentists and variety of shops.
more infoBEAN AROUND THE WORLD
Enjoy the panoramic views from the corner of Johnston and Thrift. This newbie serves a yummy iced caffe Americano. Love the building architecture too — best low-rise building of 2014.
more infoWASHINGTON AVENUE GRILL
Locals call it "The WAG," and it's a very popular lunch and dinner-date destination at East Beach. "The WAG" is known for its martinis, prime rib specials, live music and breathtaking sunsets.
more infoTHE BREAD BOX
Always busy, this is where locals talk politics, debate proposed high-rises and swap recipes. Great prices on fresh fruit and veggies, and friendly service for the family with lollipops for the kids.
more infoWHITE ROCK CONCERT SERIES
The hottest ticket in town! It's a privilege to move off the epic wait list and attend this delightful series of Classical concerts — from virtuoso piano works to choral ensembles.
more info