The City of White Rock borders Semiahmoo Bay (named after Surrey’s Semiahmoo First Nations community) and borders South Surrey on the remaining three sides. The city is named after the unique large white boulders that sit on its beach.
The city was established on April 15, 1957 – it was this day the provincial government issued a special warrant to create the current boundaries of White Rock.
White Rock, commonly referred to as a city by the sea is most notably known for its pier (longest in Canada) and promenade. The White Rock pier was originally built in 1914 to be used as a dock for steamships during the start of operations for the Great Northern Railway, which is directly connected to British Columbia by White Rock to Washington state. On December 20, 2018, the pier was severely damaged during a devastating wind storm. Fortunately, it has been renovated and reopened as of September 21, 2019 after millions in repair and it is said to be better than ever!
Things to do in White Rock
Other than White Rock’s beautiful beach and pier, the city also has many other amenities and benefits to offer as it is rapidly becoming an urban hub for people to comfortably retire or raise families:
White Rock offers several places to eat and drink. Explore popular local grocers, breweries, bars, brunch spots, cafés, bakeries, restaurants, fine dining and gelato shops. White Rock promises you’ll always be satisfied when it comes to food!
Most of White Rock bus routes run through the White Rock Centretransit exchange connecting to the rest of the lower mainland either by bus routes or our rapid transit SkyTrain lines.
Every year during the first weekend of August, the White Rock Sea Festival is held on the beach. It usually includes a parade, fireworks, music stages, a sandcastle competition, and various other beach-related activities. The festival originally began in 1949.
White Rock’s Population is Growing
The popularity of the beachside community can be seen from the population increase in the 2011, 2016 & 2021 Census data.
The population of the city was at 19,952 residents as of 2016 with a 3.2% increase since 2011 according to White Rocks’ Census Data.
In fact, White Rock is one the fastest growing communities in the Greater Vancouver region, far outstripping the surrounding communities.
Population Growth = Good Returns for White Rock New Condos
Our clients have done well investing in White Rock presales both in terms of capital appreciation perspective and a rental returns. The city is popular among renters and owner occupiers who typically are empty nesters and those looking for beachside urban amenity.
