Summer in Vancouver is a season of warmth, vibrancy, and outdoor fun. With its stunning natural beauty and bustling city life, there’s no shortage of things to do. Here are 12 must-do activities that will make your summer in Vancouver unforgettable.
- Explore Stanley Park: Start your summer adventure with a visit to Stanley Park, Vancouver’s largest urban park. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the seawall for breathtaking views of the city and ocean. Stanley Park | City of Vancouver
How to reach Stanley park
- Bus: #19 bus, 8-9 minutes, $4 CAD.
- SkyTrain/Sea Bus: Transfer to #19 bus or walk.
- Walking/Biking: Seawall, 2 km, 26 minutes.
- Driving: Main entrance via Georgia Street, parking available.
- Taxi: 3 minutes, $10-$13 CAD.
- Visit Granville Island: Known for its public market, art studios, and performance spaces, Granville Island is a hub of culture and creativity. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies at the food market! Granville Island – Vancouver, BC
Granville Island is accessible through various modes of transportation:
- Car: Drive via Granville St. Bridge, 4th Avenue, or Burrard St. Parking is limited but available.
- Bus: Take the #50 Waterfront St/False Creek South/North bus, which stops near the island.
- Boat: Use Aquabus or False Creek Ferries for a scenic arrival.
- Bike: Utilize bike paths leading to the island.
- Walking: Enjoy a stroll along the seawall.
- Go Whale Watching: Experience the thrill of seeing orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Several tour companies offer whale watching tours from Vancouver. Prince of Whales Adventures – BC’s Best Whale Watching
- Hike the Grouse Grind: For the fitness enthusiasts, tackle the Grouse Grind and reward yourself with stunning panoramic views of the city from the top.
- Relax at Kitsilano Beach: Spend a day soaking up the sun at ‘Kits’ Beach, one of Vancouver’s most popular summer spots. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, a game of beach volleyball, or a refreshing swim. Kitsilano Beach | City of Vancouver
Commute Options to Kitsilano Beach
- Bus: Routes 2, 16, 99, 9, N17, and 33 serve the area, with frequent service .
- SkyTrain: Canada Line, with transfers to buses or a short walk.
- Taxi: A quick ride from downtown Vancouver, costing around $12-$18.
- Walking: Approximately a 38-minute walk from downtown Vancouver.
- Ferry: Aqua bus and other local ferries provide scenic routes to nearby docks.
These options offer flexibility based on your starting point and preferences.
- Discover the Museum of Anthropology: Learn about the indigenous peoples of British Columbia at this world-renowned museum, which houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. Home – Museum of Anthropology at UBC
- Stroll Through VanDusen Botanical Garden: This 55-acre garden is home to plants from all over the world. It’s a tranquil spot for a summer stroll. VanDusen Botanical Garden | Yosef Wosk Library & Resource Centre (vandusengarden.org)
- Take a Day Trip to Whistler: Just a two-hour drive from Vancouver, Whistler offers a range of summer activities, from mountain biking and golfing to zip-lining and bear viewing tours. Official Destination Website – Whistler BC | Tourism Whistler
- Enjoy a Patio Meal: Vancouver’s food scene comes alive in the summer. Enjoy the city’s diverse culinary offerings on a sunny patio.
- Attend a Festival: From music and film to food and art, Vancouver hosts a variety of festivals throughout the summer. Check out the local events calendar for details. Upcoming Concerts in Vancouver, Canada in 2025 – Concertful
- Paddle Around False Creek: Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the calm waters of False Creek, taking in views of the city skyline and mountains. FCRCC | A multi-disciplinary Vancouver-based paddling club on Granville Island
- Watch a Sunset at English Bay: End a perfect summer day by watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean from the shores of English Bay. English Bay Beach | City of Vancouver
Commute Options to English Bay
- Bus: Routes 5, 6, 19, 23, and N10 serve the area, with frequent service.
- SkyTrain: Canada Line and Expo Line, with transfers to buses or a short walk.
- Taxi: A quick 2-3 minute ride from downtown Vancouver, costing around $10-$12.
- Walking: Approximately a 28-minute walk from downtown Vancouver.
- Ferry: Aquabus and other local ferries provide scenic routes to nearby docks.
Remember, the best way to experience Vancouver is to immerse yourself in the city’s unique blend of nature and culture. So get out there and make the most of your summer in Vancouver!
