B.C.'s Chesterman Beach and English Bay make Guardian's top 50 beaches in world

When you're heading for a vacation destination with beaches, Vancouver may not be one of the places that come immediately to mind.

However, The Guardian chose one of our city's beaches as being one of the top beaches in the world.

In their list of the top 50 beaches in the world, the top beach was Seychelles' Source d'Argent, a secluded cove on La Digue, which was also noted for the best wow factor.

All the expected countries are on the list, including beaches from Thailand, Panama, Mexico, Australia, and more, plus a handful from the U.K.

Vancouver's English Bay managed to just make the cut at number 47. Also known as First Beach, it's a focal point for the West End neighbourhood residents and visitors alike, particularly for events like the Celebration of Light fireworks in the summer, the annual Polar Bear Swim on New Year's Day, and the Vancouver Pride parade, which passes by the area.

Here's what they had to say about the beach:

By day, English Beach Bay sands are a mecca for families and volleyball players, but it really comes into its own at dusk. It’s then that Vancouverites stroll in to sit on the huge blanched logs that wash up here and gaze out at the sunsets, glass or guitar in hand. West End’s coffee shops and the iconic Stanley Park are within easy reach, and it’s a prime spot for watching the fireworks on Canada Day (1 July). The Beach Bay Cafe has locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, sustainable seafood and cocktails. 

Somehow Vancouver's famed clothing-optional Wreck Beach didn't make the list.

But there was a B.C. beach that ranked higher than English Bay: Chesterman Beach, near Tofino on Vancouver Island. It came in at number 33.

Here's The Guardian's take on it:

You could almost pick any beach off the ocean side of Vancouver Island, but Chesterman has the edge. It’s the kind of place where you might see kids pedalling along barefoot with a surfboard under one arm. With a bit of luck, and keen eyesight, you might spot orcas out beyond the breakers. Easier to find is the Carving Shed, where local craftsmen turn out exquisite sculptures and traditional canoes. At low tide a sandspit, the Tombolo, gets you out to Frank Island, with great views back to the beach. 

Interestingly enough, these two beaches were the only Canadian ones to make it on to the list.