Coal Harbour Seawall Vancouver
Vancouver's Coal Harbour Seawall: A scenic waterfront path offering stunning mountain and city views, perfect for walking and cycling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Coal Harbour Seawall Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vancouver's Coal Harbour Seawall: A scenic waterfront path offering stunning mountain and city views, perfect for walking and cycling.
"The world's longest waterfront path offers stunning views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride."
Bike or Skate for More
Rent a bike or skates to explore the full 28km of the Vancouver Seawall! :bike:
Early Bird Gets the View
Visit early morning for peaceful walks and prime photo ops without the crowds. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coal Harbour Waterfront
Coal Harbour
Stunning city and mountain vistas along a vibrant urban waterfront.
Stanley Park Views
Along the Seawall
Glimpse the lush greenery and iconic landscapes of Stanley Park.
Urban Garden Kiwis
Near Canada Place
Discover surprisingly thriving kiwi vines growing along the seawall railings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Active Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bike or Skate for More
Rent a bike or skates to explore the full 28km of the Vancouver Seawall! :bike:
Early Bird Gets the View
Visit early morning for peaceful walks and prime photo ops without the crowds. :camerawithflash:
Waterfront Dining Nearby
Enjoy a meal with a view at Cardero's restaurant, right on the waterfront. :forkandknife:
Check for Events
Look out for activated waterfront events, especially on weekend evenings. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bike or Skate for More
Rent a bike or skates to explore the full 28km of the Vancouver Seawall! :bike:
Early Bird Gets the View
Visit early morning for peaceful walks and prime photo ops without the crowds. :camerawithflash:
Waterfront Dining Nearby
Enjoy a meal with a view at Cardero's restaurant, right on the waterfront. :forkandknife:
Check for Events
Look out for activated waterfront events, especially on weekend evenings. :sparkles:
Comfortable Footwear
Essential for walking or running the scenic 10km loop around the park. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Coal Harbour Seawall for its stunning natural beauty and urban convenience. The scenic views of mountains and water, combined with the accessibility for walking and cycling, make it a top attraction. Some find it can get crowded, but the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive.
"Nice views of the Burrard Inlet from a water side sea wall. There are lots of benches, green spaces and nice places to enjoy. My wife and I loved the time we spent here and will return again."
Kirk Dewhurst
"The Vancouver Seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path, stretching over 28 kilometers around the city’s shoreline. Popular with walkers, runners, and cyclists, it offers stunning views of the ocean, mountains, Stanley Park, and the downtown skyline. It’s both a recreational space and a scenic way to explore Vancouver’s natural beauty year-round."
Alireza Abdollahee
"A flat, circular trail over the water with stunning viewpoints along the way. Perfect for walking or running. Quiet and peaceful."
Gal N
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Coal Harbour Seawall is easily accessible from downtown Vancouver. You can walk from Canada Place or the cruise ship terminal. Public transit options include buses that stop nearby. Many visitors also choose to rent bikes or e-bikes to reach the seawall. +1
Yes, there are several paid parking lots and street parking options in the Coal Harbour area. However, parking can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! The Coal Harbour Seawall is a paved, flat path, making it very accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices.
While walking is popular, renting a bike or e-bike is highly recommended to experience the full 28km of the Vancouver Seawall, including the Stanley Park section. +1
Yes, the Seawall is generally considered safe for early morning runs, with other runners and cyclists often present. However, always be aware of your surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to the Coal Harbour Seawall is completely free! It's a public waterfront path for everyone to enjoy.
The Seawall is open 24/7, allowing you to enjoy it at any time of day or night. However, visibility and safety are best during daylight hours.
There are no entrance fees to access Stanley Park from the Coal Harbour Seawall. The park itself is free to enter and explore.
Yes, there are several bike and scooter rental shops located near the Coal Harbour Seawall, offering various options for exploring the path. +1
No, the entire Vancouver Seawall, including the Coal Harbour section, is a public amenity and does not require any tickets for access.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for iconic views of the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore mountains, Stanley Park, and the Burrard Inlet. The area near Canada Place and the marina offers great perspectives.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer people in your shots.
Keep an eye out for the surprisingly thriving kiwi vines growing along the seawall railings, a unique urban garden feature.
Drone usage is restricted in many parts of Vancouver, including parks and waterfront areas. It's best to check local bylaws and regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant wildlife or details.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Coal Harbour Seawall itself is about 10km, but it connects to the larger Vancouver Seawall system. Walking the Coal Harbour section can take 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
You can walk, jog, run, cycle, rollerblade, or simply relax on one of the many benches. It's a popular spot for exercise and enjoying the scenery. +1
Yes, numerous benches are strategically placed along the Seawall, offering plenty of spots to rest and enjoy the views.
Expect breathtaking views of the Burrard Inlet, the North Shore mountains, Stanley Park, and the Vancouver skyline.
It can get crowded, especially on sunny weekends and evenings. Visiting on weekday mornings is recommended for a more peaceful experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Coal Harbour boasts several excellent dining options. Cardero's Restaurant is a popular waterfront choice, and many other cafes and eateries are within walking distance. 
While there aren't many vendors directly on the Seawall itself, you'll find cafes and shops in the Coal Harbour neighborhood and near Canada Place where you can grab refreshments.
Coal Harbour offers a diverse range of cuisines, from casual pub fare at Cardero's to upscale dining experiences.
Yes, there are green spaces and benches along the Seawall that are perfect for a picnic. You can pick up supplies from nearby delis or grocery stores.
Absolutely! Many people grab a drink from a nearby establishment and enjoy it while watching the sunset from a bench along the Seawall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the urban kiwi gardens as a fun discovery for kids, and consider stopping at one of the many benches for a break. While there aren't many direct play areas on the seawall itself, the nearby parks and the general open environment make it a great outing.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
Early mornings are ideal for runners seeking solitude and the best light for photos.
📸 Photographers and View Seekers
The interplay of light on the water and the urban landscape creates dynamic and memorable shots.Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) is particularly magical, casting a warm glow over the scenery.
Weekday mornings provide a less crowded environment, allowing for unobstructed shots and a more peaceful experience. Don't miss the unique urban kiwi gardens for a touch of unexpected natural beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vancouver Seawall: A City's Lifeline
This paved pathway is a beloved artery for locals and tourists alike, catering to a wide range of activities. Whether you're jogging, cycling, rollerblading, or simply enjoying a leisurely walk, the Seawall provides a dedicated and scenic space. Its flat terrain makes it accessible for all ages and fitness levels, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
The Seawall is more than just a recreational path; it's a gateway to experiencing Vancouver's stunning natural beauty. It offers unparalleled views of the Burrard Inlet, the majestic North Shore mountains, the iconic Stanley Park, and the dynamic downtown skyline.
It truly blends urban elegance with the tranquility of nature, making it a must-visit destination. Experiencing Coal Harbour: Beyond the Walk
+1 The area offers a sophisticated urban experience, with high-end amenities and a vibrant atmosphere.One of the unique attractions in Coal Harbour is the unexpected sight of urban gardens, most notably the thriving kiwi vines that have grown over the seawall railings. This delightful surprise adds a touch of natural wonder to the cityscape, showcasing the resilience of nature even in an urban environment.
For those looking to dine with a view, Cardero's Restaurant is a standout establishment located directly on the waterfront. It's a popular spot for enjoying fresh seafood and other dishes while taking in the stunning ocean and mountain vistas.
+1 The proximity of such dining options enhances the overall experience of visiting the Coal Harbour Seawall.Cycling the Seawall: Tips and Tricks
Bike and e-bike rentals are readily available in the Coal Harbour area and near Stanley Park, offering a convenient way to explore the extensive network. E-bikes are particularly popular for tackling longer distances or for those who want a little extra assistance, especially on the return journey.
When cycling, remember to be mindful of pedestrians and other cyclists. Stick to the designated lanes and be aware of your surroundings, especially during busy periods. The 10km loop around Stanley Park is a popular route, often finishing at English Bay Beach for a sunset view.
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