English Bay is adjacent to the West End in downtown Vancouver. The name "English Bay" recalls the meeting here in 1792 of the British captain George Vancouver and the Spanish captains Valdes and Galliano. This meeting gave the name to the "Spanish Coast", overlooking the bay. English Bay is a favorite place for hikers, outdoor joggers, and cyclists. There are popular beaches along the bay: English Bay Beach,
Kitsilano Beach, Sunset Beach, beaches located on the Spanish Coast, etc. English Bay Beach began in 1893 with several beach houses, in 1898 white and soft sand was brought ashore, locker rooms were equipped. English Bay hosts a three-day international fireworks festival every summer. On New Year's Eve, a traditional swim dedicated to the polar bear is held.