‘Herds of men’ make Wreck Beach users uncomfortable: petition

The current layout of log rows along Vancouver’s Wreck Beach has led to less privacy — and more casualness — at the popular clothing-optional sunbathing spot, a new petition has found.

In 2022, the regional government changed the placement of the tree trunks. Some smaller tree trunks were removed and the larger ones were rearranged to create more open space. This means there is less shelter for the nudists who visit the beach.

The petition claims that this has led to a series of ‘voyeuristic behaviour’.

“Whores and men in city clothes come to the beach, intimidate visitors and film women and children,” reads the petition, which has already been signed more than 800 times on Wednesday.

“Correcting the error of removing the larger tree trunks and safe spaces is a simple and effective answer.”

The organizer also accused Metro Vancouver of making the changes without consulting the community and urged authorities to “have a genuine conversation with beachgoers” going forward.

When asked if the government would bring back the old layout, Metro Vancouver responded that the new placement was determined based on advice from emergency services.

Metro Vancouver said in a statement that the logs “have been rearranged in a manner that provides more open space for the public to enjoy the beach, makes it easier to get around, clears the view for park patrols and perimeter controls, and ensures that emergency responders have wide paths and ample space to do their work.”

Crews have traditionally removed some logs and other debris from winter storms each year to prevent fire and safety hazards. The largest logs will still be left behind, but under the new arrangement, Metro Vancouver said.

A 68-year-old beachgoer who signed the petition admitted that the number of voyeurs has increased since authorities removed some of the privacy screens for nude visitors.

“There has been a noticeable shift in the lack of respect shown by some who go to this beach,” she commented on the Change.org petition. “The women and children there should NOT be a source of entertainment for those seeking a peep show. PLEASE PROTECT our safety and privacy.”

Wreck Beach has long been a favourite spot for local and international naturists, and earlier this year topped a ranking of urban nudist beaches from around the world.

The rankings described the beach, located near the main campus of the University of British Columbia, as a “naked oasis,” partly because of its remote location.

“Canada’s largest nude beach feels like it’s a million miles away from civilization,” reads the Nude Beach Map rankings. “Eagles soar above the beach and the view of Vancouver Island is completely devoid of buildings or homes.”