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Everything You Need to Know about Marine Drive in Vancouver

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As I cruised along Marine Drive in Vancouver, the city’s charm unfolded with every turn. My journey began with a leisurely drive from West Point Grey, where the coastal views took my breath away. 

I remember stopping at Ambleside Beach, where the sun dipped into the ocean, painting the sky in hues of pink and orange. 

Marine Drive offers more than just a picturesque route; it’s a gateway to the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and hidden gems. Join me as I share the highlights and must-see spots of this iconic Vancouver drive!

Where is Marine Drive in Vancouver?

marine-drive-google-map

In Vancouver, Marine Drive is divided into three parts: West Vancouver, North Vancouver, and South Vancouver, with each section starting with a direction in its name.

The road starts at West 4th Avenue in West Point Grey, goes around the University of British Columbia (UBC) campus, and then heads southeast, leaving UBC and traveling through Kerrisdale and Marpole.

When it meets Granville Street, Granville turns southeast and becomes part of Southwest Marine Drive. At Ontario Street, the road’s name changes to Southeast Marine Drive, and it goes through the Sunset neighborhood. 

Southeast Marine Drive runs alongside Marine Way as a smaller road through Champlain Heights. After it crosses Boundary Road, it enters Burnaby and becomes Marine Drive.

From there, Marine Drive continues as a regular street. It goes through the southwestern part of Edmonds, crosses into New Westminster, and ends just after 7th Avenue.

Why is Marine Drive famous?

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Marine Drive is famous because it’s a key road in West and North Vancouver. The name “Marine Drive” probably comes from its location along the coast. Coastal roads are often called Marine Drive.

It’s the main road leading to and from the Lions Gate Bridge, so most people use it when traveling to or from downtown Vancouver.

Driving Tips for Marine Drive in Vancouver

Marine Drive in West Vancouver

What to Do and See in Marine Drive in West Vancouver

Relax at Ambleside Beach with Oceanfront Views

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Address: 1150 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-925-7275

Operating hours: Open 24 hours

Website

Ambleside Beach is a must-visit spot if you’re into watching ships sail by while enjoying some beachside fun. It’s perfect for families—kids will have a blast at the playground, which is conveniently close to the beach.

Nearby, you’ll find the Ambleside Par 3 pitch and putt, a fun little golf course that’s just steps away from the beach. It’s a great spot to enjoy a casual round of golf with a fantastic view.

 Plus, there’s a fenced walkway along the park that offers a safe and dog-friendly space, so your furry friends can join in on the adventure without disrupting other park-goers.

Explore Dundarave Village

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Address: Dundarave Village

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Dundarave is a charming seaside village in West Vancouver that’s perfect for a leisurely visit. It has a quaint shopping street, a fun children’s play area, and a scenic seawall that stretches all the way from Dundarave to Ambleside.

If you work up an appetite, make sure to check out the Beach House restaurant. Housed in a historic building, it boasts an outdoor patio with stunning water views and serves up delicious seafood, steaks, and regional wines.

The highlight of Dundarave is definitely Dundarave Park. It features over 50 meters of wide sandy beach with breathtaking views of the Lion’s Gate Bridge, downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, and UBC.

Drop by Horseshoe Bay

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Address: Horseshoe Bay

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Horseshoe Bay is definitely a spot you’ll want to check out, especially if you love soaking in the outdoors and watching the ferries come and go. As the gateway to Howe Sound on the North Shore, it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy some beautiful scenery.

You can explore the charming assortment of cafes, restaurants, shops, and boutiques that line the streets, adding a touch of local flavor to your visit. If you’re an outdoor-sy person, there’s a wide range of activities to do here.

This includes sea kayaking, scuba diving, boating, hiking, and even skiing in the winter months.

Enjoy a Drink at Millennium Park

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Address: At the intersection of 15th Street and Argyle Avenue

Phone: +1 604-925-7275

Nestled by the sea, Millennium Park is a top-notch choice for a stroll year-round. Situated between John Lawson Park and Ambleside Park, it links effortlessly with these neighboring spots via a picturesque seawalk.

Inside the park, you’ll find picnic tables, a generous open lawn, a community vegetable garden, and a rocky beach area. While the beach may be elusive at high tide, it has large boulders and logs perfect for climbing when the tide is out.

Where to Eat and Drink in Marine Drive in West Vancouver

Carmelo’s Ristorante Italiano

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Address: 1448 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-922-4719

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday: 5pm to 9pm
  • Friday: 11:30 am to 9pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 5pm to 9pm

Good to know: Good choice for Italian cuisine and pies

Website

Carmelo’s Ristorante Italiano is an Italian restaurant. Known for its amazing sauces, particularly the Alfredo, this cozy spot is a local favorite for both dine-in and takeout.

Their fungi pizza is a must-try, featuring generous mushroom toppings and just the right amount of truffle oil. The Caesar salad, homemade red sauce, crab and lobster ravioli, and steelhead are all expertly prepared and bursting with flavor.

Ancora 

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Address: 1351 Bellevue Avenue

Phone: +1 604-926-0287

Pricing: $$$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 10pm

Good to know: Great seafood choices

Website

Ancora, nestled along the West Vancouver seawall, offers a cozy dining experience with a unique blend of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. Its strategic location makes it easily accessible by boat or a quick taxi ride.

The fish here is expertly prepared with a perfectly crisp batter, and the Czar salad is a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and balanced with a delectable dressing and crunchy croutons.

Cindy’s

Media credit: restaurantcindys

Address: 1850 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-925-2880

Pricing: $

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday: 8am to 3pm
  • Sunday: 9am to 4pm

Good to know: Brunch spot

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Cindy’s is a charming and cozy brunch spot that’s easy to miss unless you’re in the know. Once you find it, you’ll be rewarded with amazing food and a welcoming atmosphere. 

Order the French toast with eggs and turkey sausage—it’s a hearty breakfast that hits the spot. And don’t forget, they offer free-flowing syrup to make your meal even sweeter!

Where to Shop in Marine Drive in West Vancouver

Park Royal Shopping Centre

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Address: 2002 Park Royal South Admin, Office – Level 2

Phone: +1 604-922-3211

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:  

  • Monday to Wednesday: 10am to 7pm
  • Thursday and Friday: 10am to 9pm
  • Saturday: 10am to 8pm
  • Sunday: 10am to 6pm

Website

Park Royal Mall is a fantastic shopping destination that offers much more than the typical mall experience. Alongside a variety of brand-name stores, you’ll find a food court, an Asian grocery store, and a movie theater. 

What sets Park Royal apart is its blend of indoor and outdoor shopping. After exploring the mall’s interior, you can step outside and enjoy a refreshing stroll through the outdoor shopping area.

Marine Drive in North Vancouver

What to Do and See in Marine Drive in North Vancouver

Shop at Lonsdale Quay

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Address: 123 Carrie Cates Court

Phone: +1 604-985-6261

Pricing: $$

Operating hours:  

Website

Lonsdale Quay offers stunning waterfront views that truly showcase Vancouver’s natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for dining, strolling, and soaking in scenic vistas.

On a sunny day, it’s a perfect retreat, especially if you’re looking for a peaceful weekday escape. You can take a leisurely walk along the dock, enjoy the calming water views, or simply relax in one of the many outdoor seating areas.

At night, you can grab a coffee, pick up a blueberry scone or spinach garlic focaccia from Cobbs Bread, and sit outside to watch the impressive yachts and ships go by.

Discover the Shipyards District

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Address: 145 Chadwick Ct Suite 220

Phone: +1 604-790-9779

Pricing: $$

Operating Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Website

The Shipyards District is an ideal spot for a full day of exploration in North Vancouver. If you’re looking for a blend of nature and local flavor, this is the place to visit. You’ll find an array of dining options, shopping, and places to enjoy a drink.

Once a bustling industrial shipyard, this area has been beautifully transformed into one of the North Shore’s top hangout spots. The Shipyards District spans four blocks up Lonsdale Avenue and extends two blocks east and west.

Where to Eat and Drink in Marine Drive in North Vancouver

Smoke and Bones BBQ

Media credit: smokeandbonesbbq

Address: 999 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-770-1394

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Wednesday: 12pm to 8pm
  • Thursday to Sunday: 12pm to 9pm

Good to know: Good for families

Website

Smoke and Bones BBQ is a spacious, laid-back barbecue spot in North Van that excels in every meat dish on its menu, including the often hard-to-find sausage.

The smokiness of the meats is perfectly balanced—just the right amount without being too overpowering or charred. Don’t miss out on their delicious fries as a side.

Angry Otter Tap and Forno

Media credit: anrgyottertapandforno

Address: 1015 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-984-1842

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday and Tuesday: 11am to 9pm
  • Wednesday and Thursday: 11am to 10pm
  • Friday and Saturday: 11am to 11pm
  • Sunday: 11am to 9pm

Good to know: Tons of great beers on tap

Website

Angry Otter Tap and Forno is a fantastic spot for local craft beers and pizza. Unlike many other local brewpubs that source from just a few breweries, they offer an extensive selection of brews from a wide range of local craft breweries.

Their pizza is top-notch, with the herb pizza being a standout. Don’t miss the Truffle Fries and the Springboard Burger—it’s packed with vibrant flavors and truly exceptional.

Where to Shop near Marine Drive in North Vancouver

Go Shopping at Capilano Mall

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Address: 935 Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-980-8561

Pricing:

Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 6pm

Website

Capilano Mall in North Vancouver provides a well-rounded shopping experience with a mix of local shops and brand-name stores. It’s appreciated for its straightforward layout and convenience.

Inside, you’ll find a diverse range of options including a food court, Visions, Walmart, a government liquor store, Telus/Koodo, jewelry stores, and several clothing retailers.

Marine Drive in South Vancouver

What to Do and See in Marine Drive in South Vancouver

Capture Stunning Views from Spanish Banks

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Address: 4707 NW Marine Drive

Website

Spanish Banks is a sprawling beach that extends nearly 2 km, including Locarno Beach and the Jericho Sailing Centre, so there’s always plenty of room to spread out. You’ll also find spots under trees and barbecue stands for a perfect beach day.

Located farther from downtown, Spanish Banks tends to be less crowded, making it a peaceful escape. It’s known for offering some of the best sunsets in the city. Plus, every Wednesday during the summer, you can catch beach volleyball games.

Check out Wreck Beach

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Address: SW Marine Drive

Website

Wreck Beach is a one-of-a-kind destination, known as the only nude beach in the Lower Mainland, located right next to the largest university in the province. 

Getting here is part of the adventure—you’ll need to be ready for a bit of a workout, as accessing the beach requires tackling a long staircase carved into the embankment.

Stroll through the Peaceful Trails at Pacific Spirit Regional Park

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Address: 5495 Chancellor Blvd

Phone: +1 604-224-5739

Website

Pacific Spirit Regional Park is a stunning natural escape, just a short walk from UBC. The park features a network of trails perfect for walking, jogging, or running. 

With a variety of paths—some leash-optional and others leash-required—it offers flexibility for dog owners. Most of the trails are shaded, making it a comfortable choice for both long and short walks, depending on your mood.

Watch the Sunset from Riverfront Park

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Address: located south of South East Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-873-7000

Website

Riverfront Park is a scenic gem along the Fraser River, perfect for a relaxing day out. With picnic tables, a nearby kids’ playground, and plenty of space, it’s ideal for family outings or company gatherings.

Whether you’re looking to unwind in the evening or get active with a morning walk or jog, the park offers a pedestrian and bike path that runs along the riverfront, making it a lovely spot for exercise or leisure.

Where to Eat and Drink in Marine Drive in South Vancouver

Dublin Crossing

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Address: 466 SW Marine Drive

Phone: +1 604-428-8577

Pricing:

Operating hours: 

  • Monday and Tuesday: 11am to 10pm
  • Wednesday and Thursday: 11am to 11pm
  • Friday and Saturday: 11am to 1am
  • Sunday: 11am to 10pm

Good to know: Perfect for a night out

Website

Dublin Crossing brings an authentic Irish vibe to the Marine Drive neighborhood, making it a must-visit spot. Whether you’re grabbing a bite before catching a movie or hopping off the SkyTrain, this pub is in the perfect location.

For food, you can’t go wrong with the chicken tenders and wings. Plus, you’ve got options—regular potato fries or yam fries to pair with your meal.

Neptune Palace

Media credit: galient

Address: 470 SW Marine Drive, Unit 308

Phone: +1 604-423-3386

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday: 10:30am to 9:30pm
  • Saturday and Sunday: 9:30am to 9:30pm

Good to know: Good for families

Website

Conveniently located near the Canada Line’s Marine Drive Station, Neptune Palace is a spacious Chinese restaurant known for its dim sum. It has colorful chairs and crystal chandeliers.

Be sure to try the king crab menu—the steamed crab is a standout. Other favorites include the steamed egg with crab roe and the sweet and sour pork chop. Just keep in mind that the restaurant prefers cash or debit payments, and there’s a 2% fee if you use a credit card.

Where to Shop in Marine Drive in South Vancouver

Marine Gateway

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Address: 497 SW Marine Dr #447

Phone: +1 604-423-5445

Pricing: $$

Operating hours: Monday to Friday: 8am to 4pm

Website

Marine Gateway is a fantastic one-stop hub for all your needs! With the SkyTrain right at your doorstep, it’s super convenient, and there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

From a movie theater and stores like Winners and Shoppers, to a variety of restaurants to satisfy your cravings, it’s got it all. The area is also perfect for people-watching, coffee, or picking up essentials at the market or liquor store. 


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