We’ve found New Westminster’s hidden date spots that’ll make you both fall head over heels for our city.

Ocean Views and Wildlife

Nestled along New Westminster’s coastline, Boundary Bay Regional Park gives couples a magical mix of ocean views and quiet moments that locals have loved for years. Walk the sandy beach when the tide goes out, and you’ll see why we call it New Westminster’s secret spot. The shoreline stretches on for what feels like forever, giving you room to wander without bumping into crowds.

What You’ll See	When to Spot Them
Harbour seals	Morning hours
Migrating birds	Spring/autumn seasons
Bald Eagles	Year-round
Snowy Owls	Winter months

Keep an eye out for playful harbour seals; seeing wildlife together makes memories you’ll never forget.

Dyke Trail Walks

The Boundary Bay Dyke Trail runs for 17 kilometres from Centennial Beach to Mud Bay Park. This wide gravel path is perfect for romantic bike rides or leisurely walks where you can chat without distractions. The views sweep across the bay to the mountains beyond, and the sunsets here are absolutely stunning. You’ll find benches along the way where you can sit and watch the water, or venture down to the beach access points for a closer look at the tidal pools.

Bird Watching at George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

We’ve found something truly special on Westham Island, George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary has completely changed how couples spend their afternoons in New Westminster. This 300-hectare sanctuary turns your regular date into something memorable, giving you both a chance to connect with nature whilst walking five kilometres of forest trails and marshland paths.

Nearly 300 species of birds call this place home at different times of year. Black-capped chickadees will land right in your hand to eat sunflower seeds (you can buy them at the gift shop), which makes for brilliant photos and sweet moments. Snow geese arrive by the thousands in late autumn, creating one of the most impressive natural spectacles in the region.

The best part? It’s peaceful, beautiful, and encourages you to slow down and enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re serious birders or just want a quiet walk through stunning scenery, this sanctuary delivers. Admission is $8 for adults, and you’ll want to allow at least two hours to explore properly.

Riverside Walks at Deas Island Regional Park

Deas Island Regional Park sits along the Fraser River between New Westminster and Richmond, offering couples a peaceful escape with well-maintained trails through cottonwood forests. The Island Tip Trail takes you to a small beach with river views that are especially beautiful at sunset. What makes this spot different is its quiet atmosphere; even on busy days, the trails feel spacious and calm.

You can literally walk over the George Massey Tunnel on these trails, which creates an interesting contrast between nature and the busy world passing beneath you. There’s something romantic about finding this pocket of wilderness whilst thousands of cars zoom through the tunnel below, completely unaware of what they’re missing above.

The park has covered picnic areas that you can reserve, or you can simply spread out a blanket near the water. Heritage buildings dot the park, including a beautiful Victorian home that adds character to your visit. Fisher’s Field in the centre provides the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon picnic.

Dinner and Entertainment at Cascades Casino New Westminster

Cascades Casino New Westminster brings together dining and entertainment under one roof at 6005 Highway 17A. MATCH Eatery & Public House offers the welcoming feel of a neighbourhood pub with proper food and craft beers. Their multi-season patio means you can dine outside even when it’s chilly, with heaters keeping things comfortable.

The Buffet serves international dishes Friday through Sunday, perfect for couples who can’t agree on cuisine. Summit Bar provides a more casual option with appetisers and drinks whilst you watch the game on big screens. Live entertainment pops up regularly, from DJs to special events that keep things interesting.

Whether you try your luck at the gaming floor or simply enjoy a meal with views, Cascades creates a complete night out without leaving New Westminster. The property opened in 2022 and has quickly become a go-to spot for locals who want Vegas-style entertainment close to home.

Heritage Walks and History

New Westminster’s heritage sites offer a different kind of date experience. The three historic buildings at Deas Island Regional Park, including Burrvilla, a Victorian home from the 1890s, tell stories of early settlers and the salmon cannery that once operated here. Walking amongst these restored buildings whilst learning about John Sullivan Deas, who established the largest Fraser River cannery in 1873, adds depth to your outdoor adventure.

The viewing tower at Deas Island gives you panoramic views of the Fraser River whilst interpretive panels explain local history. It’s the kind of date where you learn something new together, which always gives you more to talk about.

Q&A

Where to Go for a Date in New Westminster?

New Westminster offers brilliant date spots that create real connections.

We’ve found some fantastic local spots for you! George C. Reifel Bird Sanctuary gets you close to nature, whilst Centennial Beach at Boundary Bay brings stunning ocean views. Deas Island’s riverside trails provide peaceful walks, and Cascades Casino New Westminster combines dining and entertainment perfectly.

How Do You Make a Date Night Special?

You make date nights special by stopping the pressure to be perfect.

The best dates happen when you both forget you’re trying to impress each other. We’ve found that shared activities work better than formal dinners—think feeding chickadees together at the bird sanctuary, walking the beach at sunset, or exploring forest trails side by side.

Your local area probably has spots you’ve never tried. We often suggest that couples pick something slightly outside their comfort zone that requires teamwork. When you’re both figuring out which bird you’re looking at or laughing about getting lost on the trails, the conversation flows naturally.

The magic isn’t in the location or how much you spend. It’s in doing something together that creates stories you’ll laugh about later.

How Do You Do a Lowkey Date?

A low-key date keeps things relaxed and genuine. We like walking the Boundary Bay Dyke Trail at sunset, packing a picnic for Deas Island, or grabbing a casual meal at MATCH Eatery whilst the sun goes down. Your neighbourhood’s tucked-away trails and waterfront spots work brilliantly for easygoing meetups that don’t feel forced.