Vancouver Seawall or Stanley Park, Vancouver - Image 1
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Stanley Park Vancouver

4.9
·199 reviews·Vancouver, Canada

Vancouver's iconic urban oasis, offering a 12km Seawall with stunning ocean and mountain views, lush forests, and cultural landmarks.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Vancouver Seawall or Stanley Park, Vancouver - Image 1

Stanley Park Vancouver

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Vancouver's iconic urban oasis, offering a 12km Seawall with stunning ocean and mountain views, lush forests, and cultural landmarks.

4.9
(199 reviews)

"A must-do walk in Vancouver! The views are lovely from all sides, especially on a sunny day."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Rent a Bike for the Seawall

Cover more ground and enjoy the Seawall's beauty by renting a bike. Many find it the best way to experience the park's perimeter.

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Seawall

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Seawall. It's divided for walkers and bikers, offering beautiful scenery.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stanley Park Seawall

Stanley Park Seawall

Circumference of Stanley Park

A scenic 12km path for biking or walking, offering panoramic harbor, bridge, and mountain views.

Totem Poles

Totem Poles

Brockton Point

Impressive First Nations totem poles, a significant cultural and artistic landmark within the park.

Prospect Point Lookout

Prospect Point Lookout

Northwestern tip of the park

Offers breathtaking views of the Lions Gate Bridge, North Vancouver, and the Georgia Strait.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Seawall

The 12km Seawall is a highlight, offering stunning views. Choose between biking or walking, but be prepared for crowds, especially on sunny days. Renting a bike is popular for covering more ground.

Morning or Evening for Serenity

For a more peaceful experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. This is especially true if you're looking for a quiet run or a less crowded walk.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Walking the Seawall - Is it one way?

🚲 Rent a Bike for the Seawall

Cover more ground and enjoy the Seawall's beauty by renting a bike. Many find it the best way to experience the park's perimeter. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Seawall

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Seawall. It's divided for walkers and bikers, offering beautiful scenery. Reddit

reddit.com

Planning to walk the Entire 22km Seawall - Any suggestions?

reddit.com

Is it safe to run around West End/Stanley Park/ Sea Wall between 5am - 5:45am?

☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day

The park's views are spectacular on a clear day, making it ideal for photos and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Early Morning Runs

For a quiet and safe run, early mornings are recommended, especially on the Seawall. Reddit

reddit.com

Seawall trip

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Rent a Bike for the Seawall

Cover more ground and enjoy the Seawall's beauty by renting a bike. Many find it the best way to experience the park's perimeter. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Seawall

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Seawall. It's divided for walkers and bikers, offering beautiful scenery. Reddit

☀️ Visit on a Sunny Day

The park's views are spectacular on a clear day, making it ideal for photos and enjoying the scenery. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Early Morning Runs

For a quiet and safe run, early mornings are recommended, especially on the Seawall. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Plenty of photo opportunities, especially of the harbor, bridge, and surrounding mountains. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(199 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Stanley Park is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty and the iconic Seawall, offering spectacular views of the ocean, mountains, and city. Visitors love the opportunity to walk or bike the Seawall and appreciate the cultural significance of the totem poles. However, some find it can get very crowded, especially on sunny days, with many bikers sharing the path.

"A must-do walk in Vancouver! Took us about 2 hours to walk around Stanley Park. Many people bike instead. Saw lots of geese and a few storks. The views are lovely from all sides, especially on a sunny day. A few photo opportunities and sights along the way."

Juliet D

"Great view of the bridge! The place fascinates and inspires. There are benches for rest and a small descent to the water. You can watch passing ships, and see a seal in the water. We liked this place"

Ольга Даниленко

"A nice- (approximately) total 12km long Seawall around a Stanley Park… this Seawall is good for the nice scenery and its beautiful shape and combination with the nature…. this Seawall has two sides… the side for the bike riders 🚲 and the side for the walkers, it is definitely your choice, so select one of these two options (ride a bike or walk) and enjoy your beautiful, enjoyable day in the Vancouver Stanley Park Seawall… if you are in Vancouver… I really, strongly, recommend you visiting this place for a walk or for biking for sure…. you will never, ever regret it… mate… :);):)"

is it who

What People Like

Spectacular Seawall views
Beautiful natural scenery
Totem poles and culture

What People Dislike

Can be very crowded
Lots of bikers

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Stanley Park is easily accessible by public transit, car, or even bike. Several bus routes stop near the park entrances. If driving, there are parking lots available, though they can fill up quickly. Many visitors enjoy biking to the park, especially along the Seawall. Reddit

Yes, there are several parking lots within Stanley Park, including near the Vancouver Aquarium and Brockton Point. However, parking can be limited and costly, especially during peak season. Consider public transport or biking if possible. Reddit

Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from downtown Vancouver to Stanley Park, especially if you head towards the West End. The Seawall offers a beautiful pedestrian route. Reddit

The Seawall is ideal for biking or walking. For exploring the interior of the park, walking is best. Bike rentals are readily available near the park entrance. Reddit

Yes, Stanley Park is generally considered safe for early morning runs or walks, particularly on the well-trafficked Seawall. However, always be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Stanley Park is a public park and entry is free. There are no admission fees to walk or bike around the park. Reddit

Yes, parking within Stanley Park incurs fees. The rates vary depending on the location and duration of your stay. Reddit

The Vancouver Aquarium is a separate attraction within Stanley Park and requires its own admission ticket. Reddit

Stanley Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. However, specific facilities like the Vancouver Aquarium have their own operating hours. Reddit

Dogs are welcome in Stanley Park but must be kept on a leash at all times, except in designated off-leash areas. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Walking the entire 12km Seawall typically takes about 2 to 3 hours at a moderate pace. Many visitors opt to bike it in about an hour. Reddit

The Seawall offers stunning views of the Lions Gate Bridge and the city skyline. The Totem Poles at Brockton Point and Prospect Point Lookout are also iconic photo locations. Reddit

Yes, there are numerous benches along the Seawall and throughout the park, offering places to rest and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

You might spot various birds, including geese and storks, as well as seals in the water. Keep an eye out for squirrels and other small mammals. Reddit

The Seawall is mostly flat and paved, making it generally accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Some interior park trails may be more challenging. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several dining options within Stanley Park, including the Teahouse Restaurant and the Prospect Point Cafe, offering various cuisines and scenic views. Reddit

Absolutely! Stanley Park has many beautiful picnic areas, perfect for enjoying a meal amidst nature. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

Food trucks can sometimes be found near popular attractions within Stanley Park, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reddit

The West End neighborhood adjacent to Stanley Park offers a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and pubs to suit all tastes and budgets. Reddit

Dining options within the park can range from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Picnicking is a budget-friendly alternative. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful light for photography. The 'golden hour' before sunset provides stunning colors. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive Seawall views and landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Reddit

Drones are generally not permitted in Stanley Park to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check current park regulations. Reddit

The Totem Poles, Prospect Point Lookout, the Lions Gate Bridge views from the Seawall, and the park's lush forests are highly photogenic. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Stanley Park is a fantastic destination for families. The Seawall is perfect for strollers, and renting bikes with child seats or trailers is a popular option for exploring. The Vancouver Aquarium, located within the park, is a major hit with children, offering engaging exhibits and marine life encounters. Reddit

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, or let the kids burn off energy at one of the park's playgrounds. The relatively flat terrain of the Seawall makes it easy for younger children to manage, and the abundance of nature provides endless opportunities for discovery and fun. Reddit

🏃‍♀️ Runners and Cyclists

❤️ Couples and Romantic Getaways

Stanley Park offers numerous romantic settings. A leisurely walk or bike ride along the Seawall at sunset provides stunning views and a perfect backdrop for quality time together. Consider a picnic lunch by the water or a visit to one of the park's charming restaurants for a special meal. Reddit

Find a quiet bench overlooking the ocean, explore the park's hidden trails, or simply enjoy the natural beauty hand-in-hand. The park's serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it an ideal spot for couples seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Stanley Park Seawall

The Stanley Park Seawall is an iconic 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) paved pathway that encircles the park, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Vancouver skyline, the North Shore mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. It's a must-do for any visitor. The Seawall is thoughtfully divided into two lanes: one for cyclists and rollerbladers, and another for pedestrians. This separation ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone, whether you're cruising on a bike or taking a leisurely stroll. Reddit

Many visitors choose to rent bicycles near the park entrance to fully experience the Seawall. This allows you to cover the entire loop in about an hour, taking in the diverse scenery from different vantage points. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, walking the Seawall is equally rewarding, though it will take approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll find numerous benches to rest, admire the views, and perhaps spot some local wildlife like seals or various seabirds. Reddit

Be aware that the Seawall can get quite crowded, especially on sunny weekends and holidays. For a more serene experience, consider visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The views are spectacular at any time, but the 'golden hour' before sunset offers particularly magical light for photography. Reddit

Cultural Significance: The Totem Poles

A significant cultural landmark within Stanley Park is the collection of First Nations totem poles located at Brockton Point. These intricately carved poles represent the rich heritage and artistic traditions of the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest. The current poles are replicas, with the originals having been moved to museums for preservation. Reddit

Standing tall against the backdrop of the park's natural beauty, these totem poles are not just visually striking but also serve as powerful storytellers, depicting ancestral histories, legends, and important figures. Visitors often pause here to admire the craftsmanship and learn about the cultural significance of these monumental artworks. It's a poignant reminder of the land's original stewards and their enduring legacy. Reddit

Wildlife and Nature in Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a vibrant urban oasis teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Beyond the stunning coastal views, the park's interior boasts lush temperate rainforests, complete with towering cedar, fir, and hemlock trees. Walking the trails within the park offers a chance to immerse yourself in a tranquil, green environment, a stark contrast to the bustling city. Reddit

Keep your eyes peeled for the park's wildlife residents. You might encounter various bird species, including eagles, herons, and waterfowl, especially near the water. Seals are frequently spotted along the Seawall, and if you're lucky, you might even see a sea lion. Small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks are common. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and never feed them. Reddit