Centennial Seawalk, West Vancouver
A serene West Vancouver waterfront path offering stunning views of the Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Centennial Seawalk, West Vancouver
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene West Vancouver waterfront path offering stunning views of the Lions Gate Bridge, Vancouver skyline, and the Pacific Ocean.
"This is such a beautiful and spacious pathway .. I almost prefer it to the Stanley Park seawall."
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset here is legendary! The light on the water and bridges is unreal.
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Long Walk
It's a beautiful, spacious path. Many prefer it over Stanley Park's seawall for a peaceful walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Over the Pacific
West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the water and sky in vibrant hues.
Lions Gate Bridge Views
Ambleside to Dundarave stretch
Marvel at the majestic Lions Gate Bridge, a stunning architectural feat offering a dramatic backdrop to your seaside stroll.
Dundarave Village Charm
Eastern end of the Seawalk
Explore the quaint seaside village of Dundarave, with its charming shops, cafes, and beach access.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Know the Rules: Dogs & Bikes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset here is legendary! The light on the water and bridges is unreal. 
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Long Walk
It's a beautiful, spacious path. Many prefer it over Stanley Park's seawall for a peaceful walk.
🐶 No Dogs or Bikes Allowed
Keep your furry friends and bikes off the main path. Designated areas are nearby.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Every shot is a winner here, from ships to wildlife to the bridge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Golden Hour
Sunset here is legendary! The light on the water and bridges is unreal.
🚶♀️ Perfect for a Long Walk
It's a beautiful, spacious path. Many prefer it over Stanley Park's seawall for a peaceful walk.
🐶 No Dogs or Bikes Allowed
Keep your furry friends and bikes off the main path. Designated areas are nearby.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Every shot is a winner here, from ships to wildlife to the bridge.
☕️ Stop in Dundarave
The charming village at the end has great cafes and beach access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Centennial Seawalk for its breathtaking views, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained path. Many find it incredibly comforting and a perfect spot for photography, especially during sunset. While some note the restrictions on dogs and bikes, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a favorite place to walk.
"I simply cannot find any word to describe this place. When you’re walking along the beach, you just couldn’t be upset, no matter what happened, you just feel so comfortable. Any random picture you take could be on the your home screen. The water temperature is OK to swim during the summer, there’s a lot of parking space at one end of the walk. You get to see the bridges Stanley Park, and always a lot of people boating, and big ships. Dogs are not permitted and so are bikes, but your dog could follow you just outside the fence if you trust them to do so. Nothing too special just a feeling of home."
Harry Li
"This is such a beautiful and spacious pathway .. I almost prefer it to the Stanley Park seawall. Come here during the sunset and won’t be disappointed. We usually park at Ambleside farmers market and walk all the way to the Beach House"
Eddy Sarkisov
"Nice place to take a stroll along the ocean. Paved with benches and resting places throughout. Watch for herons, seals, eagles and more. Great views of the Lions Gate bridge."
Christian Johannsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Centennial Seawalk is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, especially at Ambleside Park. Public transport options include bus routes that run along Marine Drive. Many visitors also find it a scenic drive from downtown Vancouver, crossing the Lions Gate Bridge.
Yes, there are several parking lots along the Seawalk, particularly at Ambleside Park and near Dundarave Village. Parking can fill up quickly during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
While both are beautiful seawalls, the Centennial Seawalk is a separate path in West Vancouver. You cannot directly access it from Stanley Park without crossing the Lions Gate Bridge by car or a longer cycling route.
The Seawalk stretches for several kilometers. Many visitors enjoy parking at one end (like Ambleside) and walking to the other (Dundarave), or vice versa, making it a 5-10km round trip.
Absolutely! Several TransLink bus routes run along Marine Drive, providing convenient access to various points along the Seawalk. Check the TransLink website for specific route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Centennial Seawalk is a public pathway and is free to access. There are no admission fees required to enjoy the scenic views and walk along the waterfront.
The Seawalk is open 24/7, as it's a public outdoor space. However, it is well-lit, making it safe and enjoyable for early morning or late evening strolls.
The main restriction is that dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the paved Seawalk path itself. You'll find designated areas nearby for these activities.
Access to Ambleside Park and Dundarave Beach, which are adjacent to the Seawalk, is also free. Parking fees may apply in designated lots.
While there aren't typically official guided tours for the Seawalk itself, many local tour operators in Vancouver offer excursions that may include this area or provide transportation.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire Seawalk offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include the views of the Lions Gate Bridge, the Vancouver skyline, the ships and boats on the water, and the dramatic sunsets.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, provides the most magical light for photography. Midday can be bright, but the softer light of dawn and dusk is unparalleled.
Yes, you might spot herons, seals, eagles, and other marine life. Be patient and respectful of their space when trying to capture wildlife shots.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. It's essential to check current rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in this area.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views and the bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset and low-light photography.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The Seawalk is a paved, flat, and well-maintained pathway, making it very accessible for walking, jogging, and even strollers or wheelchairs.
Yes, there are numerous benches and resting spots strategically placed along the entire length of the Seawalk, offering places to pause and enjoy the views.
You'll enjoy panoramic ocean views, the iconic Lions Gate Bridge, the Vancouver skyline, passing ships, and potentially local wildlife. The scenery changes with the tides and seasons.
The Seawalk is considered very safe, even late at night, due to good lighting and consistent foot traffic. Many visitors feel comfortable walking here at all hours.
You'll find restrooms, benches, and access to parks like Ambleside and Dundarave. Cafes and restaurants are also available in the Dundarave village area.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the Seawalk itself is primarily a walking path, the charming village of Dundarave at its eastern end offers several dining options, including The Beach House Restaurant and The Bakehouse.
You can enjoy a picnic in the adjacent parks like Ambleside Park or Dundarave Beach. There are benches along the Seawalk, but picnicking is best done in the park areas.
Ambleside Park has some casual eateries and cafes nearby, and it's a short walk or drive to more options in the Ambleside village area.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors directly on the Seawalk itself. However, during special events or in the adjacent park areas, temporary vendors might be present.
Dundarave offers a range of options, from casual cafes for coffee and pastries to more upscale dining experiences with ocean views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While dogs and bikes aren't allowed on the Seawalk itself, families can enjoy the nearby beaches and parks. The views of the water, boats, and the Lions Gate Bridge can be captivating for children. Pack some snacks and enjoy a leisurely walk, stopping at benches to rest and take in the scenery.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, photography, or simply enjoying the fresh sea air. The lack of bikes and dogs on the main path contributes to a more serene atmosphere, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the coastal environment.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The reflections on the water and the vibrant colors of the sky create truly memorable shots. Don't forget to capture the passing ships and any wildlife you might spot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Centennial Seawalk Experience
What sets this Seawalk apart is its unique vantage point. Unlike the bustling Stanley Park Seawall, the Centennial Seawalk provides a more tranquil experience, often described as feeling like 'home' by locals. Visitors can expect to see a constant flow of ships and boats, changing seasonal ambiance, and breathtaking vistas of the Lions Gate Bridge and the Vancouver skyline. It's a dynamic environment where the scenery is never quite the same, offering a sense of peace and comfort to all who walk its path.
While dogs and bikes are not permitted on the Seawalk itself, the adjacent parks and designated areas cater to these activities. This ensures the Seawalk remains a peaceful haven for pedestrians. The path is also well-lit, making it a safe option for early morning or late-night excursions, a detail frequently highlighted by those who frequent it.
Capturing the Magic: Photography Tips
For the best photographic results, timing is crucial. The 'golden hour' – the period shortly after sunrise and before sunset – bathes the Seawalk in a warm, soft light that enhances the colors and creates beautiful reflections on the water. Many visitors rave about the sunsets here, describing them as some of the best they've ever witnessed.
+1 Early mornings offer a tranquil atmosphere and clear, crisp light, perfect for capturing the serene beauty of the coastline before the day gets busy. When planning your shoot, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive ocean views and the grandeur of the bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on distant wildlife or ships. Remember that the Seawalk is a public space, so be mindful of other visitors and always adhere to any regulations regarding drone usage if you plan on capturing aerial shots.
Exploring Dundarave Village
+1Visitors can explore local boutiques, grab a coffee at Delaney's Coffee House, or indulge in delicious treats from The Bakehouse. For a more substantial meal with stunning ocean views, The Beach House Restaurant is a popular choice. Dundarave Beach itself provides a lovely sandy area to relax, play, or simply watch the waves.
+1The village's proximity to the Seawalk makes it incredibly convenient. You can easily transition from a peaceful stroll along the water to exploring the quaint streets of Dundarave, enjoying the blend of coastal charm and local amenities. It’s a perfect example of how West Vancouver seamlessly integrates natural beauty with community life.
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