Something about sitting on a beach and watching the sun go down just says summer. A warm night, a good view, and and ocean breeze.
Vancouver is full of pretty spots to set up for a viewing party of the sun saying goodnight, but there are a few stand-out places in and around the city that are must-visits this spring in summer. They're where to go if you want to see the sky get painted in colour.
From small towns right outside of the city to secret spots close to downtown – here is where to watch the sunset in Metro Van.
Horseshoe Bay Lookout
Shhh – this is a "secret spot" that actually isn't that secret anymore, but still an unreal sunset viewing spot.
About 25 minutes from downtown, in West Vancouver, you'll find this little platform that overlooks Horseshoe Bay. It's just off the Sea-to-Sky highway and you'l follow a pathway to reach it.
The small platform makes for a nice place to sit, and you can watch BC Ferries pull in and out of the terminal. With mountains in the distance, the ocean stretching out in front of you, and little islands scattered around — the view is perfection.
White Rock
Road trip time! It's about an hour's drive away from Vancouver to reach this small city and you'll be rewarded with the beach town vibes dreams are made of.
It's complete with a long pier, which is actually the longest in Canada. It makes this spot extra idyllic in the summer. You can grab a scoop from a local ice cream shop near the waterfront and walk out into the pier, breathing in the salty air.
As the sun goes down you get unobstructed views of the sky lighting up with colour. When the show's over you can take your pick of the many restaurants near the water for a late dinner.
Sunset Beach
Sometimes an oldie is a goodie. This isn't a hidden gem — I mean, the name gives it away – but it doesn't change the fact that it's a beautiful spot for a sunset picnic.
Really, many of the city beaches are (English Bay, Kits, etc.), and there's something about going right before sunset and seeing your fellow Vancouverites all file in to watch with you.
A tranquil lookout tucked away in the woods has it's own quiet appeal, but there's a cozy community feeling at the more popular spots like this. The natural beauty is one of the reasons why people move to the city, and you really see everyone show up for it on a summer's evening at Sunset Beach.
Wreck Beach
This is another city beach, but giving a different vibe. At the ones closer to downtown you'll find people dropping by for a quick photo or look at the sunset, maybe still in work clothes or post-workout class outfits. Wreck is more of a journey to get to (those stairs are no joke), so once you're there, you are staying for a while. Also, the attire is more *clothing optional* at this beach.
It feels removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, and gives that sense of calm even though it's normally pretty busy. Logs are scattered around the shoreline, perfect for leaning back onto and watching the sun dip below the horizon. This beach also gives you a uniquely uninterrupted view of the wide open ocean — making the sunset that much for spectacular.
Lighthouse Park
West Vancouver is blessed with many sunset spots, and Lighthouse Park is arguably one of the best.
This park is like a lush oasis of nature with vibrant greenery, towering trees, and coastal beauty. You can go for a walk on the trails that wind throughout the park and get a little workout in before ending up at the lighthouse for sunset time. The rocky shoreline makes it easy to find a viewing spot, and you can listen to the water crash up onto the boulders as you take in the view.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Alright, nothing beats an oceanside viewing experience, but if you prefer a cityscape, then go to the lookout at Queen Elizabeth Park.
This is another spot you'll want to go early to, so you have time to roam the breathtaking gardens below. Once the sun starts to go down though head up to where you'll find an unreal view of the city, mountains, and of course – the sun setting over it all.
On a good night the sky is bright with reds and oranges, making the city skyline glow in a pretty breathtaking way.
It's time to get outside and make the most out of the warmer months – meaning catching every sunset possible.
