Delta

License plates identify British Columbia as “beautiful” and this B.C. town is certainly stunning, with abundant nature and loads of things for the family to do.

In the lower southwestern corner of British Columbia, the town of Delta has a steady flow of visitors year-round. Travel here to experience this region between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.

The town’s name is based on the location where the Fraser River flows into the ocean. Delta consists of the regions of Ladner, Tsawwassen and North Delta. Visit Ladner to see what life was like when farming and fishing were the principal livelihoods.

Ferry from Tsawwassen to Vancouver Island. Take a daytrip to see the stunning coastline and islands dotting the Strait of Georgia. Stay on deck to witness the skillful navigating of the captain and crew through a narrow portion known as Active Pass. Air taxis operating from Delta provide incredible aerial views of the jutted coastline and distant mountains.

Pursue many outdoor activities in some of mainland British Columbia’s best weather. Enjoy sunny days and water activities at Centennial Beach in Boundary Bay Regional Park. The tide goes out a long distance, making shell-hunting an enjoyable pastime.

Walk south along the sandy beach during low tide and you’ll eventually arrive at the next town, Point Roberts, in another country. This U.S. town is accessible by land only through Canada because it’s almost completely surrounded by water. Bring your passport.

Choose from several golf clubs or visit one of the many area parks. Tour the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary known as one of Canada’s top bird-watching sites, with nearly 300 recorded species. Walk or bike over a network of dikes on the Millennium Trail that partly winds its way along the banks of the Fraser River and eventually ends in Deas Island Regional Park. Trails throughout this region are extensive, well maintained and easily accessible.

Find Delta about 19 miles (30 kilometers) south of Vancouver and a 12 miles (20 kilometers) west of Surrey. The United States border is about 9 miles (14 kilometers) south.