Insider Itinerary: Aquatic Adventures
Wendy Underwood
Flanked by water on three sides, downtown Vancouver is spilling over with ways to get visitors to experience adventure on the high seas. Stick close to shore, or motor further out to get up close and personal with marine life. You’ll find plenty of amazing Vancouver water activities, whether you want to feel the sea breeze through your hair, the sand between your toes, or both. Spend a weekend on the water with our insider itinerary.
SATURDAY
Favourite Ferry
Start the morning off right with one of our favourite Vancouver water activities. Take a quick jaunt across False Creek on Vancouver’s Aquabus. Used by locals and visitors alike, these colourful little tug boats take passengers to and fro along False Creek. There are eight stops dotted along the waterway. Grab a coffee at Granville Island or wander the shops in the Yaletown and Olympic Village neighbourhoods.
Rent a Boat
From Granville Island, it’s easy to rent a boat and start exploring False Creek and Burrard Inlet yourself! Granville Island Boat Rentals has a number of craft that can be taken out without a boat license. Or venture further afield to explore seal colonies, waterfalls, Bowen Island, and Howe Sound. They’ll give you instructions on how to get there, and even where to stop for snacks and lunch!
Quaint Quay
Some of the best local shopping on Vancouver’s North Shore can be found at Lonsdale Quay. This waterfront market is filled with fresh produce, local artisan goods, restaurants, and plenty to keep the kids occupied. It’s easily accessed via the SeaBus, a commuter ferry taking you from downtown Vancouver to Lonsdale Quay in 12 minutes. The ferry passes through the Burrard Inlet and zips among the freighters, tug boats, float planes, and the occasional cruise ship. At the end of your day, enjoy dinner at nearby Tap & Barrel. Try a local craft brew from one of the largest selections of BC beers on tap, boasting 22 local options! The popular patio offers unobstructed views of the water and the downtown Vancouver skyline.
SUNDAY
Second Beach Swim
Is there a better Vancouver water activity than a beachside swim? Start the day right with a dip at one of the city’s most pictureque swimming spots, the Second Beach Pool. Located on the edge of Stanley Park, enjoy the morning sunshine while taking in ocean views or getting in a few laps. Guests at The Burrard can take advantage of our complimentary cruiser bikes and enjoy the easy and scenic pedal down to English Bay, right up to the pool. The heated pool features 50 metre lanes for lap swimmers, sloped entry, and a water park just outside.
Maritime Museum
Just over the Burrard Bridge from our hotel is the Vancouver Maritime Museum. For almost 70 years, the museum has worked to preserve and share the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and Arctic waters. This waterfront institution showcases an extensive collection of model ships including ones made from bone. You’ll also find historic maritime art and archives. Some of the biggest draws to the museum include a decommissioned NASA undersea research vessel, pieces of the first steamship to travel the Pacific Northwest, and the St. Roch—a historic Arctic exploration vessel.
Pacific Paddling
At the end of the day, explore the waters of False Creek and English Bay—under your own steam this time—with Vancouver Water Adventures on an urban sunset kayak tour. Starting at Granville Island, this tour will take you around the False Creek waterfront. As you navigate the calm waters of the inlet, you’ll learn about the history and culture of the area, and of course stop for some photo opps! This is the perfect way to finish off your watery weekend in the city.
Looking to hop aboard at The Burrard Hotel? We won’t leave you high and dry – check out our great rates!
PHOTO CREDITS:
- Feature Image of False Creek: Alan Bruce via Flickr
- Aquabus: Cocoabiscuit via Flickr
- Rental boat: Granville Island Boat Rentals website
- Lonsdale Quay Market: Lonsdale Quay Market Facebook Page
- Kids in the Pool: Canva
- Vancouver Maritime Museum: Vancouver Maritime Museum Facebook Page
- Sunset Kayaking: Tourism Vancouver / Nelson Mouellic
