This itinerary takes you from stunning mountain top views, through lush rainforests, and to the seaside village of Horseshoe Bay and beyond.
1. Lonsdale Quay Market is the perfect place to taste fresh local produce and unique culinary treats. Drive, take the SeaBus, hop on public transit, or walk depending on what direction you come from. Stroll inside the market, then grab a cappuccino and head outside to the plaza to enjoy views of Vancouver’s skyline. Continue west to the seawall at Waterfront Park to walk seaside.
Tip: If you arrive on a weekend, check out the Shipyards Night Market at Shipbuilder’s Square open: 5 to 10 pm throughout the summer and enjoy the live entertainment.
2. The Lower Lonsdale area is known as the “Shipyards District” and it’s a great place to eat. Eat Greek at Anatoli, fresh seafood at Fishworks, or contemporary dining at Pier 7 or The Lobby.
3. Finally, not to be missed is Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. It is a quintessential BC experience. There’s a lot to do including a Treetops Tour, swinging Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk.
Explore more: Lower Lonsdale is home to a depth of local history in The Shipyards, and the North Shore’s newest art gallery The Polygon.
3. Head to Grouse Mountain (also accessible by public transit) and take the Skyride tram to the top where you can enjoy a number of activities, depending on the time of year they can range from snowshoeing and skiing, the Lumberjack Show and ziplining, to sleigh rides and breakfast with Santa. The range of activities as well as regular events and eateries means that you can easily spend the whole day on the Peak of Vancouver.
4. If you prefer to drive to a mountaintop, drive up Cypress Mountain or Mt. Seymour. Stop at scenic lookouts along the way and enjoy stunning vistas of Vancouver. When you arrive, take a walk or hike through the pine-scented mountain trails, but don’t wander off marked areas as bears and other wildlife live here.
5. Want a ride on the wild side? Book a Sewell’s Sea Safari. Sewell’s Marina Sea Safari is an unforgettable two-hour adventure exploring the spectacular scenery coastline and wildlife which makes coastal BC world famous. You might see: Bird sanctuaries, seal colonies bathing or at play, eagles soaring overhead, river otters, and coastal cliffs and caves. Your host will share interesting facts about local ora and fauna found within Howe Sound. Or if you prefer, rent a boat and be the captain of your own adventure. Just ask the friendly staff for directions to close by Bowen Island and Snug Cove, where you can dock and explore a small local island town.
6. It wouldn’t be a day at the seaside without finishing it with some fish and chips. Troll’s has been around since 1946 and is world-famous for its salty fresh fish and chips.
Explore more: Enjoy the boutique shops and small galleries in the neighbourhood of Horseshoe Bay, visit the natural marine sanctuary of Whytecliff Park.