9 Best things to do in Vancouver during the summer, according to someone who lived there
The rainy winter is starting to fade into the review mirror of our memories, leaving the hope of summer fun ahead. Vancouver comes alive at this time of year when you can take full advantage of the best that the city has to offer.
I got to live in the West Coast city for one summer and although I still have a long bucket list of things to do in Vancouver when I manage to visit again, I did have some memorable summer adventures while there.
Weather you have a trip planned or you're a local looking to make the most out of the upcoming season, listen up. Here are nine activities that made my summer in Vancouver incredible, and you need to add to your own bucket list ASAP.
An afternoon on Bowen Island
Pull up to the Horseshoe Bay BC Ferries terminal and either walk or drive onto the ferry, which will bring you to the shore of Bowen Island in 20 minutes.
The quick ride from West Vancouver is beautiful on its own, and the tiny community of Bowen Island will make you feel like you're far away from the bustle of city life.
Walk along the waterfront here and visit the rocky beaches, or take a hike up Dorman Point for a stunning lookout. Make sure to grab a coffee at Snug Cove Cafe and then wander around the cute boutiques and shops here.
Kayaking in Deep Cove
Deep Cove is a little community tucked away in North Vancouver and is about as picturesque as it gets. Me and my friends rented some kayaks and paddled along the shoreline here, pulling off onto a beach along the way for a quick dip.
The backdrop of mountains enclosing the calm waters of this area is something out of a movie and made for a beautiful afternoon.
After an adventure out on the water you can wander around the small village centre. Honey's Donuts is an iconic pit stop here, so make sure to grab a treat and enjoy it by the waterfront.
Hiking up Tunnel Bluffs
A short drive away from Vancouver, this was my go-to hike when the snow melted. It's a pretty steep climb up to the lookout but you're rewarded with a view of the ocean stretching out into the horizon with islands peppered throughout.
At the top there's a big area where you can sit out and enjoy the scenery from before heading back down the trail. If you want a relatively easy-to-access hike with a big payoff, this is the spot to go on a sunny afternoon.
North Vancouver's shipyards market
Going over to North Vancouver on the weekends was one of my favourite things to do in Vancouver. Cute neighbourhoods, incredible walking and hiking trails, and a picturesque waterfront are all in this smaller city right across the water.
The Shipyards Night Market runs every Friday night in the summer and is the perfect time to go and explore the area. They have live music, food vendors, and different artisans all taking over the waterfront here.
Visiting the area outside of the market night is also a fun activity on its own. Do some shopping, grab a treat from Earnest Ice Cream, and wander along the waterfront taking in the views.
An evening at the Richmond Night Market
I know, two night markets on this list, but both are definitely worth checking out. This is actually the largest night market in the country and makes for a fun summer evening.
Walking into the area you'll be greeted by the delicious smells from the food stands wafting through the night air. There's a slightly overwhelming amount of food choices, from sweet treats to flying noodles that look like a work of art.
After filling up you can go and play some of the carnival games they have, and just enjoy the fun atmosphere of the market.
Walking along the Lynn Canyon suspension bridge
People love the Capilano Suspension Bridge, but it's pricey and there's a free alternative not too far away.
Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver was my go-to spot on a sunny day when I was craving getting out into nature. There are walking and running trails winding their way through the lush greenery of the park, and a stunning suspension bridge that takes you over a rushing creek.
There's also a magical-looking emerald green swimming hole here, with chilly water that's refreshing on a hot day.
Watching the sunset at Lighthouse Park
There are lots of places you can watch the sun dip down below the horizon in Vancouver. The city beaches, the high point at Queen Elizabeth Park, oceanside restaurants – you name it. My personal favourite though was Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver, where you can sit out on the rocky shoreline and watch as the sky lights up with colour, unobstructed by city views.
This beautiful park also has trails running throughout so you can go for a little pre-sunset stroll and of course, see the picturesque lighthouse.
Renting a scooter or bike to explore the seawall
This might feel a little touristy, but I loved a day on the seawall. You can walk it, of course, but for me nothing beats renting a scooter from one of the many spots downtown and zipping around the waterfront path. It's a faster way to get around and also just way more fun.
Stanley Park in general never ceased to amaze me. Every time I even drove through I was taken aback by the beauty of the towering trees, the abundant nature, and the ocean views. Exploring the seawall around the park is the perfect way to feel like you're getting a break from city life, but you're still downtown.
It's definitely busy in the summer — especially on the weekends — but the ocean breeze, beach views, and mountainous backdrop make up for that and then some.
A pit stop at Brandywine Falls
Take a road trip up the Sea-to-Sky Highway, enjoying the classic West Coast views along the way. Whistler is the perfect day trip destination, and Brandywine is an easy stop along the way that'll be a highlight of the whole journey.
The thing I love about this spot is how easy it is to get here. Pulling off the highway you just walk about 10 minutes into the forest and you'll come upon this spectacular 70 metre high waterfall. Tucked away among the trees the massive cascade is a sight to behold, and it's hard to believe it's only a few minutes away from the road.
Happy exploring!
