Lighthouse Park Vancouver
Explore rugged coastlines, ancient forests, and an iconic lighthouse with breathtaking ocean views. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Lighthouse Park Vancouver
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore rugged coastlines, ancient forests, and an iconic lighthouse with breathtaking ocean views. A must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
"Incredible reward at the end with breathtaking ocean and forest scenery."
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is now paid ($5/hour). Arrive early or consider transit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. Good footwear is essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Lighthouse
Western viewpoint
The classic beacon offering stunning ocean vistas and a picturesque backdrop for photos.
Rugged Coastal Views
Various viewpoints along the trails
Dramatic cliffs and expansive ocean panoramas provide a breathtaking natural spectacle.
Old-Growth Forest Trails
Throughout the park
Wander through towering cedar and fir trees on well-maintained paths, offering a serene escape.
Sunset Spectacle
Western viewpoints
Witness the sky ablaze with color over the Pacific Ocean – a truly magical experience.
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Trail Conditions & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is now paid ($5/hour). Arrive early or consider transit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. Good footwear is essential.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The views at sunset are spectacular, but expect more people.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Leash your dog to ensure comfort for all visitors.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Paid Parking Alert
Parking is now paid ($5/hour). Arrive early or consider transit.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be uneven, rocky, and muddy. Good footwear is essential.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The views at sunset are spectacular, but expect more people.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Park
Leash your dog to ensure comfort for all visitors.
📱 No Cell Service
Download maps offline and be prepared for limited connectivity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning ocean views, picturesque lighthouse, and serene old-growth forest trails. Many highlight the rewarding experience for a relatively easy hike, with sunset being a particularly magical time. However, the paid and often limited parking, along with occasional muddy trails and lack of washrooms near the lighthouse, are noted drawbacks.
"Beautiful and peaceful. It wasn’t crowded at all. You can take the #250 bus in the direction of Horseshoe Bay from Vancouver and get off at Beacon Lane for a short walk to the park and then there are a bunch of hikes through the forest and with views on the water, with the highlight being the light house (best seen from the west beach view). Highly recommend. The trails are very up and down and have stones/roots on the ground, so definitely watch your steps."
Elina Rindle
"Such a pretty view. The hike isn’t too bad, though it is steep at parts so kids may want to be carried at times. Can be pretty muddy on the small portions of the trail that aren’t paved. Beautiful view from the rocks up the steps, better view of the lighthouse below the housing units though."
Jake Robins
"Lighthouse Park is perfect for a quick hike with an incredible reward at the end. The trail is easy to navigate, and once you reach the top, the view is absolutely breathtaking. The stunning ocean and forest scenery make it well worth the visit. A great spot for nature lovers and photographers!"
Sadaf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive and park (paid parking) or take public transit. The #250 bus towards Horseshoe Bay stops at Beacon Lane, a short walk to the park.
Yes, the #250 bus from Vancouver stops near the park entrance at Beacon Lane.
Lighthouse Park is transit-friendly from UBC, with bus routes available.
It's about a 30-40 minute drive from downtown Vancouver, depending on traffic.
The #250 bus stops at Beacon Lane, which is a short walk to the park entrance. Walking directly from Horseshoe Bay might be a longer trek.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee for the park itself, but parking is paid.
Lighthouse Park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. Paid parking is in effect from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
No, tickets are not required for entry into Lighthouse Park.
Parking is approximately $5 per hour, with daily rates potentially higher. West Vancouver residents may have free parking with a pass.
Paid parking is now in effect. Limited street parking may be available nearby, and West Vancouver residents might have free parking options.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main trail to the lighthouse is considered easy to moderate, with some steep sections and uneven terrain.
The direct hike to the lighthouse can take about 20-40 minutes, but there are multiple trails to explore, allowing for longer visits.
Yes, the park offers numerous viewpoints with stunning ocean and city vistas, especially from the rocky shores.
It's considered a great hike for kids due to its relatively short distance and rewarding views, though some steep parts may require supervision.
Some reviews mention the trails leading to the water, suggesting it's a place where one might enjoy a summer swim.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself, the rugged coastal cliffs, and the panoramic ocean views at sunset are prime photography locations.
Absolutely! Sunset offers dramatic lighting and breathtaking colors over the ocean, making it a photographer's dream.
Yes, the scenic beauty makes it a popular spot for photoshoots, including engagement and creative sessions.
You can capture images of old-growth trees, coastal landscapes, ocean waves, and potentially marine life.
General park rules apply; be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Commercial photoshoots might require permits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The natural beauty, including towering trees and rocky shores, provides ample opportunity for exploration and imaginative play. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery, rather than seeking out nearby dining options. 📸 Photographers
+1 Explore different angles from the rocky shores and capture the grandeur of the old-growth forest. Be prepared for varying light conditions and consider bringing a tripod for sunset shots. Remember to respect the natural environment and other visitors while capturing your perfect shot. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails
These paths wind through magnificent old-growth cedar and fir trees, providing a lush, green canopy. Be prepared for uneven terrain, including roots and rocks, and some steeper inclines, especially as you approach the rocky shores. Wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots or sturdy athletic shoes, as the trails can become muddy after rain.
The Allure of Sunset
+1 This magical hour offers unparalleled photographic opportunities and a serene, awe-inspiring experience. However, the popularity of sunset viewing means that crowds can increase significantly during this time, especially on clear evenings. Parking can become particularly challenging, and the trails may be more populated.
Parking and Accessibility
Limited street parking may be available on nearby residential streets, but be mindful of local restrictions. For those without a car, public transit is a viable option. The #250 bus route from downtown Vancouver stops at Beacon Lane, which is a short walk to the park entrance.
This can be a convenient and stress-free way to access the park, avoiding parking hassles altogether. It's also worth noting that cell service can be unreliable within the park, so it's wise to download any necessary maps or information beforehand. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit