Where to Stay in Surrey
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Our pick for families
Stay in Guildford
Centred around a large mall with extensive shopping and dining, plus proximity to parks and family-friendly amenities.
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting Surrey
Guildford
Mid-rangeA large suburban hub centered around a major shopping mall and residential areas.
- +Excellent shopping and dining at the mall
- +Family-friendly atmosphere
- +Good access to parks and green spaces
- -Less vibrant nightlife
- -Can feel very car-dependent outside the mall area
🛡️ Generally safe during the day, especially around the mall. Nighttime is quiet with minimal activity outside of residential areas, making it feel secure.
Cloverdale
Mid-rangeA historic village feel with a charming downtown, known for its equestrian roots and community events.
- +Charming historic downtown
- +Strong community events calendar
- +More residential and quieter atmosphere
- -Further from Vancouver and requires driving for most activities
- -Limited hotel options
- -Public transit is less frequent
🛡️ Very safe during the day with a strong community presence. Nighttime is exceptionally quiet and safe, with minimal concerns.
Newton
BudgetA diverse and rapidly growing community with a strong cultural presence and commercial strips.
- +Authentic and diverse culinary scene
- +More affordable dining and shopping
- +Community-focused atmosphere
- -Limited high-end hotels
- -Less developed public transit compared to Whalley
- -Can feel spread out
🛡️ Daytime is generally safe with active community spaces. Nighttime can be quieter in residential areas, but some commercial strips may have less foot traffic; remain aware of your surroundings.
Whalley
Mid-rangeSurrey's bustling downtown core with a mix of urban development and community services.
- +Excellent transit connectivity
- +Wide range of dining options
- +Central location for exploring the region
- -Can feel very urban and busy
- -Visible homelessness and social issues
🛡️ Daytime is generally safe with moderate foot traffic, but be aware of your surroundings, especially near transit hubs. Nighttime requires increased vigilance due to potential for petty crime and encounters with vulnerable individuals.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
CAD 250/day
Hidden Gems in Surrey
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Tynehead Park
FREEThis expansive park boasts beautiful walking trails along the Serpentine River, perfect for a peaceful escape. You can often spot salmon in the river during spawning season, and the park's natural beauty is a local favorite for recreation.
Historic Stewart Farm
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 1920s farmhouse. It offers a glimpse into Surrey's agricultural past with its period furnishings and exhibits, providing a charming and educational experience.
Surrey Central Farmers Market
FREEOpen on Saturdays, this vibrant market is where locals gather for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. It's a great place to mingle with the community and discover local flavors.
Green Timbers Urban Forest
FREEThis large urban forest offers a network of trails for walking, jogging, and biking through a mature forest setting. It's a surprisingly wild and tranquil escape within the city, popular with nature lovers and dog walkers.
Safety in Surrey
SafeSolo Female Travel
Generally safe, especially in well-lit, populated areas during the day. Exercise standard precautions at night, stick to main routes, and be aware of your surroundings, particularly around transit hubs in Whalley.
At Night
Main commercial centers are generally safe. Be cautious in less populated areas or industrial zones. Whalley's downtown core requires increased awareness due to social issues.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Distraction thefts in busy shopping areas.
- 2Overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers (use rideshare apps for predictable pricing).
- 3Fake charity collectors.
1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Surrey