Why I'll Miss Vancouver: Wreck Beach

I discovered the pleasures of Wreck Beach long after I had moved to the west coast. For reasons all my own, the prospect of being completely naked, surrounded by hordes of other completely naked people terrified me. I am neither shy nor prudish, just add a dash of self-consciousness and expecting a nude beach to be like those featured in travel programs, boasting bronzed gods and goddesses akin to the sun worshippers to be found at other local Vancouver Beaches, and there you have my unwavering, irrational fear of Wreck. I have friends who had been going to wreck for years and I always had an excuse as to why I couldn't join them, preferring instead to soak up the rays lounging on my front porch with some ice tea and a book. This past summer, however, due to the insistent harassment of said friends, and my slowly fading negative attitude about my own body, I finally pedaled my way out to Wreck.

I'm not going to pretend I discovered the place, but realizing how rejuvenating a day at Wreck can be for me was a one of the highlights of my summer and of my whole Vancouver adventure. Every moment of a day spent at Wreck was deeply satisfying. Climbing the staircase was akin to knowing the secret handshake that granted entry to a childhood clubhouse. The knowing smiles and camaraderie exchanged between sun lovers sharing the excitement of reaching the hot sand and the feeling of absolute contentment and wonder that would wash over me each time I heard the crowd cheer for the setting sun, these are the moments I will remember most fondly when bemoaning the blistering wind and inch upon inch of snow that will highlight the next six months of my existence in Southern Ontario.

(photo: www.ece.ubc.ca.com)