Robert WebbAre you into boats, dragons, or both? If so, the Vancouver Dragon Boat Festival can be your ultimate summer activity! Held every June, the Coal Harbour Seawall comes alive with dragon boat races, groovy live tunes, and lots of other awesome activities.
But let’s say you’re only craving a laid-back stroll along the seawall—no problem! There’s still plenty to see, do, and love here. Read on to explore the local vibes on this scenic destination walk!
What is the Coal Harbour Seawall known for?
The Coal Harbour Seawall is known for its jaw-dropping skyline, towering skyscrapers, and bustling harbor filled with boats.
It’s also popular for its picturesque seawall—a wide, smooth path that hugs the water, stretching from Stanley Park to the Vancouver Convention Centre.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to the Coal Harbour Seawall is during the day until sunset. Sure, it’s open around the clock, but it’s just way more enjoyable when there’s plenty of light and more folks around.
Plus, we’d skip the late-night strolls—it’s not as well-lit, and it can get pretty deserted after dark. Safety first, right?
Things to Know
Operating hours: The paved walkway is open 24/7. Anytime’s a good time for a stroll along the seawall!
Parking: Head to Jervis St. for the best rates, ranging from $7 to $11 per hour. The cheapest spot’s by the Coal Harbour Community Centre.
Alternatively, you can try the multi-level parking at Coal Harbour. The daily rate’s $15, but after 6 pm, it’s only $7—great for an evening stroll by the marina.
Washroom: Head to the right of The Mill Marine Bistro for public washrooms. You can also find other options in the Coal Harbour Community Centre, a bit further along the way.
Dogs: The seawall’s got a dog-friendly trail, complete with a few off-leash spots where they can be free. Still, we highly recommend keeping an eye on your furry friend to avoid any unwanted scuffles or mishaps with other pups.
How to Get Around
Trains: The nearest train station to Coal Harbour Seawall is Waterfront Station, and it’s about an 8-minute walk away.
Buses: Catch a bus with transit lines, like 19, 22, and 250, that pass near the Coal Harbour area. They have several stops conveniently scattered near the seawall.
Taxis: Taxis are cruising around downtown Vancouver, including the Coal Harbour area. Just flag one down or tap your way to a ride with a ride-sharing app.
Car: Driving is also a good option. There are many parking options near the Coal Harbour Seawall, from street ones to the lots with hourly rates.
What to Do at Coal Harbour Seawall
Burn Some Calories
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Address: 1199 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4T1, Canada
Want to stay active? Coal Harbour Seawall’s water walk is an awesome pathway where you can stroll, jog, or cycle while soaking in those scenic mountain views in Vancouver.
We think this circular route is also a must for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone who loves a good view. It’s about 5.77 km long, or roughly 7,572 steps of pure exploration!
Along the waterfront, you’ll spot some impressive buildings and lush green spaces. In our opinion, this urban trail is a perfect blend of natural beauty and human creativity, making it a hit with both kids and pets alike.
Play with Your Dog
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Coal Harbour’s green spaces are ideal for outdoor activities with your furbaby. Whether it’s getting some sun, taking a leisurely walk, playing frisbee, or simply enjoying the view of floatplanes against the backdrop of majestic mountains, you’ll find it all here!
Accessible via Bute Street or the seawall, the Harbour Green Park nearby also offers ample space for you and your furry companion to explore and enjoy.
Explore Some Public Art
Your stroll along the seawall could probably do with a splash of art and culture. It boasts an impressive array of public art pieces that we believe can capture your attention.
Now, make sure not to miss these 3 absolute gems: The Drop in front of Mahony’s Tavern, the Digital Orca in Jack Poole Plaza, and the LightShed near the marina at the bottom of Broughton Street. Snap lots of pics while you’re at it!
Visit the Vancouver Convention Centre
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Website: https://www.vancouverconventioncentre.com/
Address: 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0C3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-689-8232, [email protected]
Right by Jack Poole Plaza, you’ll find the Vancouver Convention Centre—a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. Take a stroll along the seawall, and you can explore the center’s restaurants, cafes, and bars.
As British Columbia’s top convention hub, it hosts over a whopping 500 events annually, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors (and boosting the local economy!).
Don’t miss the lobby hall, where a giant globe hangs from the ceiling! We also recommend checking out its unique grass-covered roof—it’s the largest in Canada and the biggest non-industrial living roof in North America!
Ride a Carriage at Stanley Park
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Website: http://vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/stanley-park-seawall.aspx
Address: Stanley Park Dr, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-873-7000
Stanley Park is where to seek more adventure after exploring the Coal Harbour Seawall. This iconic park isn’t just any green space—it offers endless discoveries across its sprawling 4 square kilometers!
From therapeutic walks to hidden gardens and sandy beaches, we think there’s something for everyone.
In addition, don’t miss the summer entertainment, like live theater and outdoor movies. You may also rent a bike or hop on the mini train. Or, better yet, even take a carriage ride! Because how often could you do such a thing?
Where to Eat near Coal Harbour Seawall
Stanley’s Bar and Grill
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Website: https://stanleysbargrill.com/
Address: 610 Pipeline Rd, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-602-3088, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Craving an early dinner? Stanley’s Bar & Grill offers Coal Harbour Seawall adventurers a warm cabin vibe complete with a cozy fireplace and an expansive outdoor patio boasting views of the park’s gardens.
Here, you’ll enjoy their top craft beers and wines while digging into our favorites, like the Wagyu beef burger and chicken wings. Don’t forget to treat yourself to the parmesan truffle fries too—we think they’re perfect for those who dream of eating big portions!
Got dietary preferences? Just choose from the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, including the roasted beetroot salad, black bean and corn burger, and black forest cheesecake.
Cardero’s Restaurant
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Website: https://www.vancouverdine.com/carderos/
Address: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E7, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-669-7666, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Cardero’s Restaurant is where the lively marina-side patio sets the stage for seafood, burgers, and classic comfort dishes. Here, you can sip on the signature cocktails while enjoying happy hour specials and beautiful waterfront views by the seawall.
Hungry? Dive into our recommended dishes, like Mediterranean scallops and prawns, as well as the crème brûlée for dessert. The menu also includes gluten-free BBQ ribs and Thai curry prawns, ensuring no one misses out on the deliciousness.
And the cherry on top: Cardero’s is perfect for the whole family! With live music nights and a laid-back, wholesome vibe, we’re convinced it’s the ultimate spot for any get-together.
Lift Bar Grill View
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Website: https://www.liftbarandgrill.com/
Address: 333 Menchion Mews, Vancouver, BC V6G 3H2, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-689-5438, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Need a pick-me-up after strolling the Coal Harbour Seawall? Lift Bar Grill View is the spot where Vancouver’s lively vibes collide with awesome West Coast cuisine.
Here, you’ll bask in a menu featuring regional specialties and fresh catches from the Pacific Ocean. We suggest getting the signature oysters on the half shell, yellowfin tuna, and sablefish. But if that’s not your vibe, other picks include chicken and waffles.
Nero Waffles
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Website: http://www.nerowafflebar.com/
Address: 1703 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C8, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-839-1239, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate waffle experience near the seawall, look no further than Nero Waffles. This brunch place specializes in crafting Liège and Brussels-style treats that strike a good balance between crispy and fluffy goodness.
Plus, we’re in awe that it offers tons of options, from sweet to savory and everything in between. Whether you’re a fan of classic ice cream toppings or prefer stuff like the avocado Benedict waffle, Nero Waffles has tons of delights to know about.
Tavola
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Website: https://tavolavancouver.com/
Address: 1829 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1E4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-606-4680, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Tavola is a cozy Italian dining destination offering homemade pastas and shareable plates. We’re happy with its welcoming space, which features a heated patio, ensuring comfort all year round.
The staff makes pastas and mains made with seasonal produce sourced from local farmers. Think creamy burrata cheese paired with savory prosciutto ham or hearty Rigatoni topped with pork ragù—each dish is a flavor-packed adventure!
But what excites us most is their sticky toffee pudding. For us, enjoying this dessert on the dog-friendly patio adds an extra layer of joy to the experience.
Where to Stay near Coal Harbour Seawall
Loden Hotel
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Website: https://www.theloden.ca/
Address: 1177 Melville St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0A3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-669-5060, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Feeling a bit fancy? The Loden Hotel, an award-winning boutique gem near the Coal Harbour Seawall, offers some luxurious amenities in a central and serene setting.
Here, we think it’s the little things that make your stay so posh. From personalized turndown service to complimentary morning coffee or tea, every detail seems carefully considered.
Loden’s rooms are also roomy and chic, with personal touches like handwritten notes and jars of lemon water. Plus, the comfy slippers, fluffy pillows, luxe amenities, and big towels make it extra cozy, we’d say.
Paradox Hotel Vancouver
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Website: http://www.paradoxhotels.com/vancouver
Address: 1161 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0C6, Canada
Contact Details: +1 236-900-6001, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Paradox Hotel Vancouver, right on downtown Vancouver’s Golden Mile, is your golden ticket to the best shopping spots and attractions—it offers a combo of convenience and luxury near the seawall.
We find it handy that the hotel provides spacious rooms, some with large balconies and stunning city views, ensuring a comfy retreat.
If you’re looking for a romantic escape, we think this hotel is for you. In our opinion, the staff nails it with personalized experiences, sorting everything from allergy accommodations to planning your special event.
Now, families might find the nightclub and lounge not to be their speed. But if you’re a couple or part of a lively group, we feel you might dig the vibrant pulse of the nightlife.
Times Square Suites Hotel
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Website: https://www.timessquaresuites.com/
Address: 1821 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-684-2223, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The Times Square Suites Hotel is your snug little nest near the Coal Harbour Seawall. You’re right in the heart of Vancouver’s action, with easy access to the Coal Harbour Seawall, parks, shopping, and dining spots galore.
First of all, we’re stoked about the clean and spacious rooms. And with free, speedy Wi-Fi, in-suite laundry, and more, the hotel seems to have everything you need.
And did we mention the Safeway grocery store right across the road? In our opinion, cooking in your suite or on the rooftop grill couldn’t be easier!
Rosellen Suites at Stanley Park
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Website: https://www.rosellensuites.com/
Address: 2030 Barclay St, Vancouver, BC V6G 1L5, Canada
Contact Details: 1 604-689-4807, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Rosellen Suites at Stanley Park is another pleasant retreat just minutes away from the seawall. The hotel may be small, but for us, it’s big on charm.
The way we see it, this hotel’s spacious suites are great for extended stays. It offers fully equipped kitchens and room for up to 8 guests. You can also use the free Wi-Fi and get free access to the indoor pool and fitness center.
Another thing we like is that it’s pet-friendly, so bring your furry friends! What’s more, don’t forget to grab your complimentary welcome basket upon arrival. We appreciate that it’s packed with many goodies, like coffee, tea, bottled water, and popcorn.
The Listel Hotel
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Website: https://www.thelistelhotel.com/
Address: 1300 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-684-8461, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
If art’s your jam, we think you’re going to like The Listel Hotel. For us, the gallery art on the walls adds a cool, magical vibe to the halls. With 129 boutique rooms sporting original artwork, you can soak up culture while chillin’ in comfort.
They’ve also got these nice little touches, like on-tap sparkling water and morning coffee delivery, to make your stay feel extra special. And did we mention they’re pet-friendly? Yep, so you can bring the whole fam along.
Moreover, it’s super quiet at the hotel, so you can catch some Z’s without any disruptions. As a bonus, the hotel is close enough to walk from the Canada Line and Expo Line transit, making getting around here a cakewalk.
Apps to Download Before Going to Coal Harbour Seawall
Transit: Discover nearby transit options, departure times, and schedules
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AllTrails: See maps and reviews for hiking, biking, running, and walking routes
