Alan ‘Bo’ Borenstein*Did you know the Vancouver Seawall spans 28 kilometers and is North America’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path? No wonder it’s a haven for relaxation and outdoor enthusiasts!
If you want insider tips on accommodations, dining, and activities along this iconic route, we’ve got you covered! Check out our Vancouver Seawall Guide below!
What is the Vancouver Seawall?
The Vancouver Seawall is the world’s longest continuous waterfront path and boasts a remarkable history spanning over a century. Back in 1910, the construction of this iconic route began, ultimately reaching completion in 1980.
Heading the project until 1955, Jimmy “James” Cunningham, the master stone mason of the Park Board, continued overseeing the Seawall until his passing, successfully completing three miles of its expanse.
In 1971, the final stone was laid at the Stanley Park Seawall, marking a significant milestone between Prospect Point and Siwash Rock. Regrettably, Cunningham, wasn’t present at the ceremony, having passed away in 1963.
The official declaration of the Seawall’s completion was on September 21, 1980, as the last paving took place between Third Beach and Second Beach. In honor of Cunningham, a plaque was erected at Siwash Rock, commemorating his vital role.
Today, the Seawall stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of its builders. Serving as more than just a scenic route for walkers, joggers, and cyclists, it embodies the rich history and natural beauty of Stanley Park.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to the Vancouver Seawall is from late June to early September. The weather is just right, with an average temperature of 20° to 22°, and there are numerous things to do, including swimming, biking, sight-seeing, and many others.
Things to Know About the Vancouver Seawall
Parking
You can find paid parking throughout Stanley Park, covering all roadways. To streamline your parking experience, consider downloading EasyPark, the management service for parking lots in the city’s parks and beaches.
With a total of 2,311 parking stalls, availability extends from 6 am to 10 pm. Parking passes are up for grabs on an hourly, daily, seasonal, or yearly basis, with rates ranging from $3.25 to $4.25 per hour.
Additionally, for electric vehicle users, there are two charging stations conveniently located outside the Vancouver Aquarium.
Walking and Cycling Pathways
The Seawall’s 28-kilometer pathway is designed for activities like walking, jogging, cycling, and inline skating. Cyclists, take note: the path operates as a one-way-only route from Coal Harbour in a counter-clockwise direction towards English Bay.
Walkers and joggers are also advised to stay alert as there may be a high volume of cyclists using the pathway. Check out a detailed map of the Seawall to plan your route.
Restrooms
Public washrooms along the Vancouver Seawall are open year-round, and they’re actual bathrooms not porta potties. Check out the Stanley Park Services Map to find the exact locations of these convenient facilities.
How to Get to the Vancouver Seawall
By bus: Take bus 250 from downtown Vancouver and get out at Marine Dr. and 24th St., then walk downhill to the waterfront.
By car: From downtown Vancouver, head to Seymour Street and turn left onto Dunsmuir Street. Then, take another left at W Pender Street and take the Stanley Park exit. From there, take the 1st exit onto Stanley Park Drive.
By bike: Head to Seymour Street and turn left on Dunsmuir Street. Keep pedaling onto Jervis Street and take a left toward Coal Harbor Seawall and turn right at Menchion Mews. Finally, turn left toward Stanley Park Drive.
What to Do at Vancouver Seawall
Rent a Bike at Denman Street
Address: 730 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2L5, Canada
Phone: 1 604-623-2837
One of the most popular activities next to walking and jogging at the Vancouver Seawall is biking. No bike? No problem! Just hit up Denman Street, and you’ll find loads of places renting out all kinds of bikes—city bikes, mountain bikes, tandems, and even e-bikes.
Check out these spots to kick off your biking adventure:
- Yes Cycle Bike Rental: They’ve got single, kid, and e-bikes up for grabs. Plus, they’ve got cool extras like bike attachments for the little ones and even a child seat.
- Bikes and Blades: Offering a wide range of city and e-bikes. You can also snag tag-along bikes so your kiddos can cruise alongside you.
- Jo-E Bike: Whether you’re into regular or electric bikes, they’ve got you covered. And guess what? Prices include a lock, helmet, and a map of Stanley Park.
- Freedom Bike Rentals: Take your pick from a fantastic selection of city bikes available for hourly, half-day, or full-day rentals.
- E-NIC: If you’re all about e-bikes, they’ve got rentals by the hour or for the whole day.
Marvel at the Stanley Park Totem Poles
Address: Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
The totem poles at Stanley Park are a stunning showcase of incredible craftsmanship and rich heritage. Installed in 2008, these nine totem poles beautifully narrate the history of the First Nations.
The evident diversity in styles and carvings within these towering works of art, along with the profound legacy they embody, makes a visit truly worthwhile.
Drop by the Vancouver Convention Centre
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-8232
Make your way to the Vancouver Convention Centre for a delightful waterfront stroll, treating yourself to unmatched views of the harbor and mountains. Inside, catch some cool events like art exhibitions, expos, auto shows, and many more.
And when it’s time to chill, explore the diverse range of restaurants and cafes with waterside seating. Don’t forget to hit up the north side of the building for that top-notch view.
Go for a Swim at English Bay
Address: Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-873-7000
Hang out at English Bay along Beach Avenue, where Vancouver’s shores meet the mighty Pacific Ocean. This spot, one of the city’s historic recreational hubs, invites you to take a dip, catch some rays, and dive into various recreational activities.
Just a heads up, it can get pretty bustling, especially when summer hits. But hey, if you’re into a more laid-back vibe, the winter months offer a less crowded but equally enjoyable experience.
Check Out Exhibitions at the Museum of Vancouver
Address: 1100 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada
Phone: +1 604-736-4431
If you’re an art enthusiast, don’t miss out on the Museum of Vancouver when planning your Seawall adventure. Although not massive, this museum is meticulously curated, highlighting local history and artists through thoughtfully designed exhibits.
You won’t need a ton of time to cover the entire museum—it’s just one floor. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate and explore the exhibitions, thanks to screens with videos that give you the lowdown on the art.
Where to Stay at the Vancouver Seawall
Rosellen Suites At Stanley Park
Address: 2030 Barclay St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1L5, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-4807
Pricing: $
Rosellen Suites is this cool spot, right in the heart of the West End. If you crash here, you’re basically a stone’s throw from Stanley Park (just 492 feet away).
Once you’re indoors, you score these kick-ass suites with everything you need—full kitchens, free WiFi, a super cool welcome basket, and a sweet bonus: free access to the Vancouver Aquatic Centre. How awesome is that?
The Westin Bayshore
Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 2V4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-682-3377
Pricing: $$$
Get a load of the Westin Bayshore, with its killer panoramic view of the harbor and North Shore mountains. This place is the real deal— the rooms in this modern spot are top-notch, with flat-screen TVs, WiFi, and coffee makers.
Feeling a bit fancy? Go for the upgrade, and you’ll score a room with a balcony and a chill separate living area. Plus, this place is all about the social scene—with a classy rotisserie restaurant that pumps out live music on weekends.
Riviera Hotel on Robson
Address: 1431 Robson St #1, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C1, Canada
Phone: 604-685-1301
Pricing: $$
Check out the Riviera Hotel on Robson, a mere 2,625 feet from Stanley Park. They’ve got these cozy suites with classic vibes, featuring flat-screen TVs, WiFi, and handy kitchenettes equipped with stove tops, mini fridges, and microwaves.
Now, here’s the scoop: the front desk is open 24/7, but fair warning, they’re not rolling in amenities. No pool or gym action happening here, just so you know.
Times Square Suites Hotel
Address: 1821 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E4, Canada
Phone: 1 604-684-2223
Pricing: $$
The real gem of Times Square Suites Hotel is the location. Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Stanley Park, surrounded by bike rental spots, and a bounty of restaurants.
The suites are like little apartments, decked out with classic vibes, full kitchens, washers and dryers, and some rooms even have pull-out sofas. Don’t miss out on their rooftop patio—cushioned loungers, picnic tables, BBQs, and killer city views.
Loden Hotel
Address: 1177 Melville St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0A3, Canada
Phone: 604-669-5060
Pricing: $$$
Loden Hotel is this boutique spot right on Coal Harbor. The rooms are stylish, decked out with modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows you can actually open. Go for the upgrade, and you’ll score your own terrace with a view of a reflection pond.
But that’s not all—the hotel hooks you up with free yoga mats and Nintendo Wii gaming systems. And if you’re feeling a bit peckish, there’s a laid-back bistro serving up a French-inspired menu.
Where to Eat at Vancouver Seawall
Stanley’s Bar and Grill
Address: 610 Pipeline Rd, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-602-3088
Pricing: $$
Head over to Stanley’s Bar and Grill at the Stanley Park Pavilion, and your hunger issues are sorted. This laid-back spot gives you a killer view of the entire park and serves up a range of comfort food along with local beers and wines.
Don’t miss out on the seafood chowder—it’s loaded with big chunks of salmon, clams, and shrimp in a rich, creamy broth. And hey, if you’re into vegan eats, they’ve got plenty of options on the menu too.
Yasma
Address: 550 Denman St, Vancouver, BC V6G 3H1, Canada
Phone: +1 604-566-0493
Pricing: $$
If you’re craving a delicious bowl of hummus and dips, Yasma is the spot to hit up. Nestled near the north side of the seawall, it’s a bit tucked away, just off West Georgia by the marina.
Their baba ganoush is our top pick— thanks to the pure eggplant goodness and the generous sprinkle of pomegranate that takes the flavor to the next level. And don’t forget to load up on bread—you’ll want to soak up every bit of those tasty dips and sauces.
Lift Bar Grill View
Address: 333 Menchion Mews, Vancouver, BC V6G 3H2, Canada
Phone: +1 604-689-5438
Pricing: $$
Make your way to Lift Bar Grill View for a seafood, sushi, and steak experience that’s seriously on point. Picture this: a lively rooftop bar with sweeping views of Stanley Park and coastal mountains.
Sip on some top-notch cocktails and savor fantastic mussels with a side of baguette. But let’s talk about the real star—the crab mac and cheese is out of this world. Honestly, it’s one of the best mac and cheeses we’ve ever had, no doubt about it.
H2 Kitchen + Bar
Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 2V4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-691-6966
Pricing: $$
Hidden away in the Westin Hotel, H2 Kitchen + Bar is your go-to spot for some serious Southern-style eats, especially when it comes to smokehouse favorites like steak, lamb sirloin, ribeye, and tomahawk.
You’ve got to try the beef brisket and Nashville chicken sandwich—they’re fantastic. Don’t even get me started on the cornbread with the housemade honey butter—absolutely divine.
H Tasting Lounge
Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 2V4, Canada
Phone: +1 604-691-6962
Pricing: $$
H Tasting Lounge is all about bringing the taste of the sea to your plate. Picture this: a classy interior with plush velvet that makes you feel like you’re dining in a magical hideaway, especially if you snag a seat on their seaside terrace.
Now, onto the good stuff—the miso glazed sablefish, the butternut squash salad, and the baked oysters stole the show for us. Just a heads up, it leans a bit on the sweeter side, so spice enthusiasts, be prepared.
Apps to Download for a Trip to the Vancouver Seawall
Transit: real-time information of bus stop times and routes around Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, Surrey, Coquitlam, and Richmond.
Uber: book a ride on your phone and track the driver’s arrival in real-time and pay for the ride through the app.
Street Food Vancouver App: Find the closest food trucks on a map, along with their operating hours.
Tiggy: buy groceries with no minimum order and delivery fee.
