Considering all the glorious days of sun we’ve been getting, we thought that now would be a great time to revisit our guide to waterfront patios in Vancouver. Honestly, we think a waterfront patio is a gold star idea day or night, and we’ve got a bunch of scenic patio options to prove it – so let’s dive right in.

Here are 13 waterfront patios in Vancouver to check out this summer. Oh, and word to the wise – you’ll want to book reservations whenever you can at these spots – they tend to fill up rather quickly this season!

Dockside

Dockside is a fantastic restaurant, but its patio is really what makes it a must-visit any summer in Vancouver. Super comfy and spacious, this is the kind of spot where a one-hour lunch turns very quickly into three hours of chatting with your friends. Our suggestion? Hit up their daily happy hour for a glass of vino and unwind under the sun.

Where: 1253 Johnston Street

Cardero’s

This one is right smack dab on the water downtown, so it’s kind of hard to beat it when it comes to waterfront patios. Pair that with tasty fish & chips (and other surf and turf eats) and some great happy hour deals, and you’ve got one of the best patio experiences in the city. Plus, the patio is fully covered and heated if things get chilly in the evening.

Where: 1583 Coal Harbour Quay

Lift Bar and Grill

Just down the street from Cardero’s, Lift is a great destination for folks looking for classic waterfront views and Pacific Northwest fare. Whether you’re on a date and want to impress them with one of the most scenic spots in Vancouver, or stopping by for their buck-a-shuck happy hour oysters, Lift is a great option.

Where: 333 Menchion Mews

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Tap and Barrel – Bridges

 

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The sprawling Tap & Barrel patio in Olympic Village is always a hit, but why not try out the most recent addition to the Tap & Barrel family on Granville Island this summer? Tap & Barrel Bridges not only includes a year-round patio with 11/10 views, but they’ve also got two full bars and a test kitchen at their disposal, so you know you’re in for some tasty eats & drinks.

Where: 1696 Duranleau Street, Granville Island

The Wicklow

 

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A nice little hidden gem along False Creek, the Wicklow is a great spot for relaxing with a couple of brews on their rooftop patio. If you can get there mid-afternoon, you’ll be able to avoid the larger evening crowds – as this patio does fill up pretty quick.

Where: 610 Stamps Landing

Provence Marinaside

Steamed mussels, sauteed prawns, and seafood-forward French cuisine? Sign us up! Provence Marinaside is a little more upscale as far as patios go, but it makes a great date night spot. Eat some lobster and walk around David Lam Park or Coopers’ Park.

Where: 1177 Marinaside Crescent

Pier 7

Right at the bottom of the Lonsdale Quay lies Pier 7. We recommend taking the Seabus over in the morning, exploring the area a little bit (don’t forget to check out the Polygon Gallery), then chilling on their waterfront patio during happy hour.

Where: 25 Wallace Mews Road, North Vancouver

Boathouse

 

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Right beside Kits beach, The Boathouse is a great way to cap off a day of shopping and laying around on the beach. Try and find a timeframe when it’s not going to be too busy, like mid-afternoon, and enjoy people-watching with one of the most scenic backdrops you could ask for.

Where: 1305 Arbutus Street

The Sandbar

A Granville Island staple, the Sandbar is a great place to treat yourself after a quick trip to the public market. Pull up for a beer and a light lunch before you head back to reality. Well, maybe two beers if you didn’t drive down.

Where: 1535 Johnston Street

Cactus Club English Bay

 

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It’s not summer until you hit up a classic Cactus happy hour at English Bay! While this location (and all waterfront locations) are especially busy in the summer, if you can grab a spot on their outdoor patio – you’re all set for at least a couple of hours. Bring a bag for your beach attire and store it away until you’re done sipping on delicious bellinis and frosés.

Where: 1790 Beach Avenue

CRAFT English Bay

We couldn’t mention Cactus without the swanky CRAFT location at English Bay – the patio is by far one of the coziest and accessible around, boasting more elevated views of the ocean and some super cute retro decor. The outdoor patio is completely covered and heated, and offers large picnic-style tables that are great for larger groups.

Where: 1795 Beach Avenue

Ancora False Creek

Waterfront dining and delicious Peruvian Japanese fusion make Ancora a no-brainer. The spot in False Creek is one of the best open patios in the city. These guys also get to claim that their food is the best on this list (well, actually, we’re claiming it). Need a drink rec? How about their hibiscus-inflused Flower Garden cocktail?? 

Where: 1600 Howe Street

The Galley

This low-key, counter-service spot on Jericho Beach is absolutely a hidden gem in the city. Seriously though, you’re sitting directly on one of the best beaches in Vancouver. Grab a burger or some Baja fish tacos and enjoy the view.

Where: 1300 Discovery Street

And that’s our guide for some great waterfront patios in Vancouver to check out this summer! If you need us, we’ll be sipping on one local brew per week from each spot. Get out there & enjoy your summer, Vancouver!

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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