Finding the perfect gift for that special someone doesn’t have to mean driving into the city, or braving a big box store. In White Rock, you’ll find charming shops and services full of unique gift ideas. From local handmade treasures and cosy home decor to craft beer and experiences, there’s something for everyone on your list … even if the person on the list is you. Check out our White Rock Gift Guide and start ticking off that list!
The White Rock Museum & Archives (14970 Marine Drive) is the perfect spot to pick up a unique gift from a local artisan or crafter before or after your walk on the historic White Rock Pier. Browse the gift shop and pop into the Christmas Craft Market that is running until December 22. Look for beautifully crafted jewellery and locally made pottery items. Browse the book selection and children’s items for great gift ideas for any occasion.
For the tea lover in your life pick up a gift certificate for the High Tea Experience at Clancy’s Tea Cosy. Guests enjoy choosing their tea from over 50 varieties and then tucking into 3 tiers of decadence, including savoury bites, warm buttermilk scones with cream and jam, and tasty mouth-watering desserts. (15223 Pacific Avenue)
Have a friend who is interested in the metaphysical or spiritual worlds? White Rock is home to the Happy People Gift Shop (14877 Marine Drive) where you’ll find exactly what you need, including a multitude of different stones and crystals, each purported to have healing powers. Round out your gift with a set of tarot or oracle cards.
Love local and unique? Whether you’re shopping for your best friend (the one with impeccable taste), your child’s teacher (no #1 Teacher mugs here) or your wife (or husband), let the lovely people at The Handpicked Home help you pick out a thoughtful, and maybe a thought-provoking gift. Some faves that we spotted are gorgeous resin-dipped cutting boards, adorable wooden signs and super cute toques! (1406 Johnston Road)
For the décor lover in your life, be sure to visit The Mason Jar for a beautifully curated collection of farmhouse-style décor items. The shop is full of wonderful gift ideas like rustic signs, trendy prayer beads, delicious-smelling candles, and gorgeous jewellery. We love this apothecary-inspired advent calendar … and if you’re lucky they still have some in stock! (15245 Thrift Avenue)
One Love Refill & Fashion Store (991 Stayte Road) is another must-visit spot for locally created artwork, postcards, shea butter and cocoa-infused skin care products, Mukasi Coffee and stunning clothing and accessories from Naa Sheka Fashion.
For truly one-of-a-kind gifts, pop into The Shop Next Door. Located right next door, and coincidentally owned by the same family, to the popular Five Corners Cafe in Uptown White Rock, The Shop Next Door is a “local community collective of artists, craftspersons and creative people, all gathered in one place, dedicated to showcasing, sharing and selling their creations.” You’ll find beautiful paintings, unique scarves & cushions in colourful patterns, exquisite jewellery, up-cycled vintage clothing and accessories, and so much more!
You can’t go wrong with a spectacular bouquet or a stunning wreath, and one of our favourite spots to pick up flowers for a loved one, or yourself, is Flowers and Company, with their beautiful, naturally styled arrangements. And when you pop into the shop, take a minute and browse their beautifully curated collection of household items.
Give the gift of live entertainment with a gift certificate to a local theatre company or live music venue. The White Rock Players Club and Peninsula Productions put on a wonderful lineup of live theatre throughout the year. And music lovers will be thrilled with the opportunity to catch one of the incredible musical performances put on by the acclaimed Blue Frog Studios.
The craft beer lover on your list will appreciate a growler and a fill or two from one of White Rock’s local craft breweries. White Rock Beach Beer Company‘s beers are named after White Rock landmarks, 3 Dogs Brewing names their brews after, well, their favourite dogs and White Rock’s newest brewery, Galaxie Craft Brewhouse is all about outer space! How awesome would it be to pair a growler with a stylish branded pint glass, a toque or a ballcap? Gift cards are always appreciated, or why not fill a growler caddy with beer from all three breweries for a true made-in-White Rock gift?
Is there a retro snack lover on your list, or looking for fun stocking stuffers? Be sure to visit Ricardo’s Kandy Korner (14909 Marine Drive) and pick up everything you need to create a truly delicious basket of candy and snacks. From classic candies, gummies and jelly beans to imported chocolate bars, salty snacks and hard-to-find cereals these sweet shops have exactly what you need for that next sugar fix!
A gift basket is perfect for those you may not get to see in person this Christmas, but still want to spoil. With dozens of different baskets to choose from, it can be tough to find the right one, but whether you’re looking for a basket full of chocolate, savoury snacks, wine and cheese, or something unique like a games night basket or gluten-free treats, the White Rock Gift Basket Company has got you covered. Baskets can be pre-ordered and picked up in-store. (1381 George Street, Unit 5A)