Sun-kissed skin, salty hair, and the gentle rhythm of waves lapping at the shore – who doesn’t love chilling at the beach? But Dundarave Beach offers much more than just a perfect spot to unwind!
There’s much more to do beyond just relaxing by the shore. Trust me, you wouldn’t want to miss the hidden adventures and exciting activities waiting to be discovered.
In this guide, I’ll share all the hidden gems and action-packed fun waiting for you near Dundarave Beach. Dive into this guide and plan your perfect itinerary!
- 1. Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
- 2. Explore West Coast Native Art at the Spirit Gallery
- 3. Stroll along the West Vancouver Seawall
- 4. Learn about Coast Salish People at Brockton Point Totem Poles
- 5. Laugh Out Loud at the Comedy Department
- 6. Dive into Refreshing Fun at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre
- 7. Cycle along the English Bay Seawall
- 8. Cycle across the Lions Gate Bridge
- 9. Hike through Towering Douglas Firs at Lighthouse Park
- 10. Overcome Your Fear and Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge
1. Cycle the Stanley Park Seawall
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park.aspx
Address: Stanley Park, Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada
Contact details: +16046816728
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Stanley Park is a 1,000-acre peninsula featuring old-growth forests, gardens, beaches, and diverse wildlife. The park’s highlight is the nearly nine-kilometer Seawall, which offers dedicated lanes for cyclists, walkers, and rollerbladers.
Cruising along the Seawall provides stunning vistas, from verdant forest canopies to rocky bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Look for freighters, sailboats, and playful sea otters among the kelp beds below.
Pro tip:
Be sure to stop at Brockton Point, a rocky outcrop located at the western tip of Stanley Park. This scenic spot is home to a collection of First Nations totem poles, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Coast Salish people.
2. Explore West Coast Native Art at the Spirit Gallery
Website: http://www.spirit-gallery.com/
Address: 6408 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2H1, Canada
Contact details: +16049218972
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
The Spirit Gallery, nestled near the scenic waterfront of Howe Sound in Horseshoe Bay, has been celebrating art since 1991. Showcasing a collection of contemporary and traditional works, the gallery is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Aboriginal art.
Visitors to the gallery can marvel at the intricate carvings, many portraying animals with deep cultural significance. The stunning jewelry on display ranges from delicate silver pendants to bold statement pieces, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a unique and authentic souvenir to bring home from your trip to Vancouver, the Spirit Gallery is the perfect place to shop. You’ll find various items, all handmade by talented artists.
3. Stroll along the West Vancouver Seawall
Address: 2240 Bellevue Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1C6, Canada
Operating hours: 24/7
West Vancouver Seawall is a picturesque local favorite for walkers, joggers, cyclists, and rollerbladers. The route offers fresh ocean air and a constantly changing coastal vista.
The Dundarave Beach area adds to its charm, with waterfront cafes for a leisurely break and colorful flowers lining the path. Look out for seabirds and consider a refreshing dip in the ocean at Dundarave Pier.
Pro tip:
Rent a bike and explore the entire length of the seawall, going to Ambleside Park. It’s a great way to see more of the coastline and get some exercise at the same time.
4. Learn about Coast Salish People at Brockton Point Totem Poles
Address: Brockton Point Trail, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Operating hours: 24/7
The Brockton Point Totem Poles feature intricate carvings depicting various animals, mythical creatures, and spiritual figures. They serve as a form of communication and a way to honor ancestors.
The most recent pole, “The Great Canoe,” was carved by Squamish Nation artist Robert Yelton and added in 2009. Standing at Brockton Point, it offers stunning views of the Lions Gate Bridge, the harbor, and the North Shore Mountains.
Pro tip:
The Stanley Park Brockton Point Visitor Centre offers a self-guided audio tour of the totem poles, providing detailed information about the history, symbolism, and stories behind each carving.
5. Laugh Out Loud at the Comedy Department
Website: https://www.thecomedydepartment.com/
Address: 1755 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1W5, Canada
Contact details: +16049994638
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Comedy Department is a not-for-profit theatre that has been a staple in Vancouver’s entertainment scene since 1991. It offers a variety of improv comedy shows throughout the week, featuring both up-and-coming and veteran improvisers.
What makes The Comedy Department special is its commitment to creating original and unforgettable comedic experiences. No two performances are ever the same. Many of Vancouver’s most successful comedians have honed their skills on this stage.
Pro tip:
Take part in the fun. The Comedy Department often has audience participation elements in its shows, so don’t be shy—let your suggestions inspire the next hilarious scene!
6. Dive into Refreshing Fun at the Vancouver Aquatic Centre
Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/facilities/west-vancouver-community-centre-aquatic-centre
Address: 2121 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7V 4Y2, Canada
Contact details: +16049257270
Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Vancouver Aquatic Centre offers a wide range of aquatic activities, including an Olympic-sized pool, a diving tank with platforms up to 10 meters, a leisure pool with a rope swing and slide, and a well-equipped weight room.
Beyond aquatic activities, the center provides stunning waterfront views. It is conveniently located in downtown Vancouver, making it a refreshing break from the city buzz for locals and tourists alike.
Pro tip:
Check the schedule beforehand to avoid peak hours, especially if you’re aiming for lap swimming. Then, dip in the 50-meter lap pool and soak up the breathtaking views of English Bay.
7. Cycle along the English Bay Seawall
Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/english-bay-beach.aspx/
Address: Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC V6C 3C1, Canada
Contact details: +16048737000
Operating hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
The 2.5-mile English Bay Seawall provides a picturesque path for cycling, allowing riders to take in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the North Shore Mountains, and the city skyline at a leisurely pace.
Cycling along the seawall also provides opportunities for people-watching. After the ride, visitors can refuel at the numerous restaurants and cafes along the seawall or simply relax and soak up the sun while admiring the stunning views.
Pro tip:
Be sure to rent a bike with gears, as a few hills are along the seawall. Take a moment to stop and admire the Inukshuk monument, a large stone sculpture that symbolizes the Inuit people.
8. Cycle across the Lions Gate Bridge
Website: http://www.th.gov.bc.ca/ATIS/lgcws/index.html
Address: Lions Gate Bridge Rd, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Operating hours: 24/7
The Lions Gate Bridge opened in 1938 and is a Vancouver landmark known for its stunning views and impressive engineering. Cycling the bridge allows you to take in the sights at your own pace and capture panoramic photos from a unique perspective.
Once across the bridge, you can explore the lush forests of Stanley Park, a 1,000-acre peninsula with towering trees and scenic beaches. There’s plenty to do in North Vancouver, from visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park to hiking the Grouse Mountain.
Pro tip:
If you’re not comfortable cycling on a busy bridge, consider renting a bike and exploring Stanley Park instead. Time your visit for sunset.
9. Hike through Towering Douglas Firs at Lighthouse Park
Website: https://westvancouver.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/lighthouse-park
Address: 4902 Beacon Ln, West Vancouver, BC V7W 1K5, Canada
Contact details: +16049257275
Operating hours: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Lighthouse Park protects a dramatic coastline with rocky bluffs and secluded beaches. The park’s trails weave through a temperate rainforest with towering old-growth trees.
Lighthouse Park boasts several viewpoints, offering breathtaking vistas of the Gulf Islands and Howe Sound. For a more intimate experience, explore the many smaller coves and beaches tucked away along the park’s coastline.
Pro tip:
While Lighthouse Park is open year-round, the trails can get quite muddy during the wet season (November to March). Opt for waterproof hiking boots with good traction to safely navigate slippery trails.
10. Overcome Your Fear and Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge
Website: https://www.capbridge.com/
Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada
Contact details: +16049857474
Operating hours: 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a wobbly 450-foot-long pathway hanging 230 feet above the Capilano River, offering a thrilling and immersive experience in a temperate rainforest.
The park features attractions such as the Treetops Adventure, with seven suspended walkways providing breathtaking views of the forest canopy, and the Cliffwalk, a cantilevered walkway offering unparalleled perspectives of the canyon below.
Pro tip:
For a truly unforgettable experience, visit the Canyon Lights event held during the holiday season. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, illuminated by thousands of twinkling lights that drape the trees, bridge, and Cliffwalk.