Richmond

A quick 20-minute drive south of downtown Vancouver is Richmond - BC's fourth-largest city and home to the Vancouver International Airport. The city's flat terrain lends itself to a great mix of outdoor experiences. Enjoy cycling along the waterfront dykes or go bird-watching amid the sandy dunes at Iona Beach Regional Park.

Located on the city's north-western edge, Iona Beach is a bird watcher's delight with eagles, blue herons, osprey and other species known to visit the area. Hiking opportunities also abound, as unique trails and boardwalks wind through verdant bushes along the eastern edge of Iona Beach.

Along with remarkable bird-watching and hiking, the park boasts sandy shores, grassy beaches, marshes, panoramic views of the mountains, ocean and coastline as well as stellar star-gazing opportunities. Indeed, the distinctive setting of this treeless park - sitting at a distance from the city limits - offers tremendous night sky views.