Robert WebbFun fact: Ambleside Park has been around since way back in 1918. Yep, it’s got some serious history! And by 1964, they’d even filled in much of the marshy area to create the beautiful Ambleside Beach—talk about a transformation!
Fast forward to today, and there’s so much to do at the park. This goes from regular picnics to watersports. So go nuts!
If you want in on the fun, keep reading and enjoy Ambleside Park to the fullest!
What is Ambleside Park in West Vancouver known for?
Ambleside Park in West Vancouver is known for its awesome beach with killer views of Stanley Park. It’s also got a dog park, a water park, sports fields, and picnic areas—like a one-stop-shop for fun in the sun!
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Ambleside Park is during the summer, when you can soak up beach vibes and enjoy scenic strolls throughout the year.
Things to Know
How to Get Around
What to Do in Ambleside Park, West Vancouver
Show off Your Moves at the Skate Park
Ambleside Park is a skateboard haven buzzing with energy. For many visitors, this is a good place to skate, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.
From tackling the mini-ramp to shredding the street area, we like that there’s no shortage of challenges to keep you on your toes.
You’ll also find a bit of everything here—boards, blades, and baskets galore. So if street-style skating or rollerblading isn’t your thing, you can always lace up your skates and hit the pavement for some roller hockey action.
Challenge Your Friend to a Tennis Match
Ready to serve up some fun? Ambleside Park has cool tennis courts where you can challenge your friend to a match they won’t forget!
With 3 courts up for grabs on a first-come, first-served basis, we believe there’s ample opportunity to show off your skills. But if there’s a lineup forming, be sure to keep your game snappy (around 30 minutes or so), so everyone gets a shot.
And if you’ve got lessons lined up, be a champ and stick to the court reservation times. For us, it’s all about being a good sport, on and off the court!
Take a Refreshing Dip at the Pool
Want to beat the heat on a sunny day? Ambleside Park has some cool, sandy beaches where you can just unwind and take a refreshing dip!
The park’s got a special swim area where lifeguards keep watch during those scorching summer months. This place is pretty much your ultimate chill-out spot!
But don’t forget the golden rule: safety first! Keep a watchful eye on the kiddos, and make sure you’ve got a buddy to swim with.
Enjoy a Round of Golf at a Scenic Course
Ambleside Park is a green oasis, perfect for enjoying friendly rounds of golf. Tee off amid the lush surroundings at the stunning waterfront pitch and putt course!
As you make your way through the 18-hole, par-3 course, don’t miss the jaw-dropping views. And don’t underestimate the challenge, either. Though the course may be small, we think those tee boxes tucked among the trees can keep you on your toes!
Take Your Furbaby for a Fun Walk
Looking for the “pawfect” spot to stretch your legs with your furry friend? Well, West Vancouver’s Ambleside Park is where you and your pup can run free with glee!
Here’s a special treat: go to the east end of the park, closest to the Lions Gate Bridge. Along the seawall, past the pond and the golf course, you’ll find an off-leash area where your doggo can run around and maybe even dip their paws in the beach!
Yet in other areas, we advise keeping your fur baby on a leash and looking out for signs showing this rule.
Where to Eat near Ambleside Park
The Village Taphouse
Website: http://www.villagetaphouse.com/
Address: 900 Main St, West Vancouver, BC V7T 2Z3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-922-8882, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The Village Taphouse is a spot near Ambleside Park where you can kick back and enjoy some good eats. Imagine cozy tavern vibes, patio seating, and sports on the big screen. It’s also a beer haven, with 20 craft beers on tap and daily happy hour specials!
Now, let’s dish about the food. We’re talking tasty truffle potatoes, crispy, juicy chicken, and flavorful burgers. And for the pizza, we recommend trying out the flavor “Notorious” with pickled jalapeños—it’s pure yum!
Just a heads up that their bacon can sometimes be a bit tough to chew. But with ice-cold beer and giant TV screens to keep you entertained, we reckon you might not notice it too much.
Caffè Artigiano
Website: http://www.caffeartigiano.com/
Address: 925 Main St J5, West Vancouver, BC V7T 2Z3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-913-1400, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
On the hunt for a comfy spot near Ambleside Park to get your caffeine fix? Caffe Artigiano is an amazing place to chill, study, or catch up with pals over a hot beverage.
We believe they’ve got everything you need to kickstart your day: espresso for a quick boost, group brewed coffee for happy get-togethers, and even London Fog (Earl Grey tea latte) to keep you warm while you’re burying your nose in a good book.
But if you’re not all about the caffeine boost, we suggest getting their rich hot chocolate drink—it’s organic and a crowd-favorite! And for us, these drinks go well with their butter croissant and vegan banana bread.
Cactus Club Cafe
Website: https://www.cactusclubcafe.com/locations/park-royal/
Address: 855 Main St, West Vancouver, BC V7T 2Z3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-922-1707, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
After a fun-filled day at Ambleside Park, nothing beats some al fresco dining, right? Well, Cactus Club Cafe has some seriously scenic outdoor seating and a tasty menu for you to feast on!
We recommend getting the steak and mushrooms—it’s well-cooked! And if you’re vegan, you’ve got to try their bacon cheeseburger. Other goodies here also include their sushi rolls, which we think pair well with their killer cocktails!
But if you’ve got the whole family in tow, no worries. This place is super kid-friendly, so you can also bring the little ones along for a fantastic meal.
Milestones
Website: https://milestonesrestaurants.com/
Address: 1096 Main St, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-925-9825, +1 416-593-9667, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Milestones is one of our top picks for a delicious grill and bar experience. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or opting for delivery, we love that they’ve got all the bases covered.
Their eggs are pretty darn good, but we think their roasted potatoes also deserve the spotlight. But if you’re in the mood for something more substantial, we figure the salmon and portobello chicken are worth considering too.
Oh, and here’s a little insider tip: unlike other places, Milestones actually serves breakfast until 2 pm on weekdays! So if you happen to oversleep or get carried away at the park, you can still treat yourself to their delicious eggs Benedict.
Nando’s PERi-PERi
Website: https://www.nandos.ca/find/park-royal-west-van/
Address: 722 Park Royal S, West Vancouver, BC V7T 0A5, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-926-1400
Pricing: $$
Looking for a spicy feast? Nando’s is an Afro-Portuguese gem near Ambleside Park, famous for its legendary flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken and mouthwatering sauces.
Now let’s get down to the food. We’re stoked about the chicken—it’s so flavorful and tender, we think you’ll be coming back for seconds! Their sauces are also addictive, whether you like them mild or extra spicy.
As for the other perks, kids eat free on Wednesdays. If you wish to escape the mid-week dinner chaos, just spend a minimum of $10 and watch those little ones devour their meals on the house.
Where to Shop near Ambleside Park
Park Royal Shopping Centre
Website: http://parkroyal.ca/
Address: 2002 Park Royal S, West Vancouver, BC V7T 2W4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-922-3211, [email protected]
Need some retail therapy? Park Royal Shopping Centre is like a blast from the past, being Canada’s first indoor shopping mall way back in 1950. But don’t worry, it’s had quite the glow-up since then!
The way we see it, this mall is where all the good stuff is. You’ve got all your favorite brands, shops, restaurants, and services all in one place!
On top of that, you can treat yourself to some grub at one of the many dining spots or catch the latest blockbuster at the fancy new Cineplex VIP Cinemas.
The Oracle Emporium
Website: http://oraclelove.ca/
Address: 1425 Marine Dr #115, West Vancouver, BC V7T 1B9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-984-9098, [email protected]
Whether you’re diving deep into the mystical realm or just casually browsing, The Oracle Emporium is a fascinating spot for all things metaphysical near Ambleside Park.
We were in awe of their large collection. From crystals to oracle cards, they’ve got some interesting goodies you might want to take home.
But if that’s not enough to get your inner witch excited, there are also weekly psychic circles and workshops you can join. This covers topics like tarot, palmistry, and tea leaf reading. In our book, it’s like going to a divination class at Hogwarts!
At Home
Website: http://www.athomewestvancouver.com/
Address: 3122 Edgemont Blvd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 2N6, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-922-3282, [email protected]
Hey, home decor enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for some timeless home goods near Ambleside Park, At Home is where it’s all at.
From what we’ve seen, it’s got everything you need to turn your humble abode into a stylish sanctuary. Think trendy decor pieces and fancy Farrow & Ball paint and wallpaper.
And here’s the kicker: the store is conveniently located smack dab in the heart of Ambleside Beach. After basking in the sun or enjoying a stroll, you can easily pop into this fantastic store for some fresh home decor and gifts.
Spirit Gallery
Website: http://www.spirit-gallery.com/
Address: 408 Bay St, West Vancouver, BC V7W 2H1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-921-8972, [email protected]
Fancy getting your hands on some historic items near Ambleside Park? Owned by indigenous folks, Spirit Gallery is a warm and welcoming space that has curated an impressive collection of Northwest Coast Native art.
Here, you’ll find a bunch of contemporary and traditional artwork. From stunning jewelry crafted from silver, gold, and copper to intricately carved totem poles and masks, we reckon there’s something for everyone.
In our opinion, this store is the perfect place to find unique gifts for weddings and other special occasions.
Where to Stay near Ambleside Park
The Sylvia Hotel
Media from thesylviahotel
Website: https://sylviahotel.com/
Address: 1154 Gilford St, Vancouver, BC V6G 2P6, Canada
Contact Details: +1 877-681-9321, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The Sylvia Hotel is a great accommodation near Ambleside Park, blending old-world charm with cozy modern comforts. Plus, with English Bay Beach and Stanley Park nearby, we’re certain you’ll be in for a treat!
With 120 cozy rooms, there’s something to suit every traveler’s needs, whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a business trip.
Moreover, we particularly love the hotel’s dining scene! The coastal-inspired cuisine and impressive wine list make every meal memorable. And dining on the outdoor patio with those bay views? For us, it’s simply pure bliss.
The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/yvrwi-the-westin-bayshore-vancouver/overview/
Address: 1601 Bayshore Dr., Vancouver, BC V6G 2V4, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-682-3377, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
The Westin Bayshore is a nice getaway hotel, just 10 to 15 minutes from Ambleside Park. With Stanley Park as your neighbor and stunning mountain views, we’d say it’s a delightful blend of nature and city life.
What we like about Westin is that its all about well-being, with signature wellness programs and top-notch food. We also love the free bike rental, which makes exploring nearby areas super easy and efficient!
Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel by APA
Website: https://www.coasthotels.com/coast-coal-harbour-vancouver-hotel-by-apa
Address: 1180 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6E 4R5, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-697-0202, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
The Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel is where it’s at for a modern stay in downtown Vancouver. You’re just a stone’s throw away from major attractions like Ambleside Park, the Vancouver Convention Centre, and Stanley Park.
What’s amazing for us are the modern and pet-friendly rooms, with unique amenities like a TOTO washlet (high-tech toilet) and origami cranes. Plus, there’s free Wi-Fi and plenty of natural light streaming in, perfect for snapping some Insta-worthy pics!
When hunger strikes, we feel pretty good about Prestons Restaurant + Lounge offering fresh, local fare. And make sure to check out the fitness center, Sanatio Spa, and seasonal outdoor pool for a truly relaxing experience.
Riviera Hotel on Robson
Website: http://www.rivieravancouver.com/
Address: 1431 Robson St #1, Vancouver, BC V6G 1C1, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-685-1301, [email protected]
Pricing: $
The Riviera Hotel on Robson offers a prime location near Stanley Park and the bustling business district—the perfect launchpad after your Ambleside Park adventures!
Featuring 41 rooms, including spacious suites and penthouses, we think the hotel is ideal for business and leisure travelers. Plus, they offer suites that can accommodate up to 6 guests, ensuring a decent-sized family or group of friends has a comfortable stay.
But what we like most are the clean, fragrant rooms and the hotel’s proximity to grocery stores, restaurants, and cafes. You get hassle-free access to everything!
Loden Hotel
Website: http://theloden.com/
Address: 1177 Melville St, Vancouver, BC V6E 0A3, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-669-5060, 1 877 225 6336 (toll-free), [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
The Loden Hotel in West Vancouver is all about the chill vibes, making it the ideal spot after a busy day at Ambleside Park.
From what we picked up, this hotel’s a real stunner. The lobby oozes peaceful elegance, and the rooms are just oases of comfort and style. It’s so quiet, making you feel like you’re far from the city hustle despite being right in the heart of it all!
Do note that if you’re bringing your pets along, it’s best to snag a spacious corner suite to avoid foot traffic or noise triggers for others.
Apps to Download When Visiting Ambleside Park
AllTrails: Offers detailed hiking and biking trail maps, reviews, and photos
iOs | Android
Transit: Provides real-time public transportation schedules and routes
iOs | Android
Parkopedia: Useful for finding parking spots near Ambleside Park
iOs
