The sun is shining (off and on, of course), but generally, things are heating up! Why not treat your partner or date (and yourself) to a scenic date by the water? Whether you’re feeling outdoorsy, adventurous, or just plain hungry and want to eat somewhere by the ocean – Vancouver has everything you need to spice it up this summer. So with that in mind, here are 8 waterfront date ideas to try out in & around Vancouver.
Hit up a waterfront patio
We’ll start with a classic. It’s patio season once again, and there is no shortage of ones by (or on) the water to choose from – from Cardero’s at Coal Harbour to Pier 7 in North Vancouver. Enjoy some incredible views of the mountains and city vistas as you sip on some bubbly – and if you’re like us, be sure to order a minimum of two orders of fries for the table.
Where: See our pick above
Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola
An iconic BC attraction that’s always worth the hype is, of course, the stunning Sea to Sky Gondola. This one takes a little longer to get to, but the views are oh-so-worth-it. Plus, once you’re up there, you can explore some trails, take a mountaintop yoga class, check out multiple viewpoints, and indulge in a beverage before heading back down.
Every Friday this summer until September 8th, visitors can also enjoy live music on the mountain – which definitely sets the mood for some mountaintop dancing, if you ask us.
Where: 36800 BC-99, Squamish
Tickets: $55.95 for GA, $14.29 for Ride-Down Only
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Catch an outdoor movie
Whether it’s Thursday night Deckchair Cinema on Cates Deck (June 29th to August 31st) or Sunset Cinema at The Shipyards Commons, there are plenty of outdoor movies to check out this summer – and all of them are free to watch! Below are the two lineups:
Deckchair Cinema:
- June 29th – Fantastic Planet, 9:30 pm
- July 6th – Interstellar 5555, 9:30 pm
- July 13th – What We Do In The Shadows, 9:15 pm
- July 20th – Whale Rider, 9:15 pm – Celebrating Squamish Amalgamation Day
- July 27th – Big Trouble In Little China, 9 pm
- August 3rd – Xanadu, 9 pm – Celebrating North Shore Pride Week
- August 10th – Lovers Rock, 8:45 pm
- August 17th – Moonstruck, 8:45 pm
- August 24th – No Bears, 8:30 pm
- August 31st – Bullitt, 8:30 pm
Sunset Cinema:
- August 2nd: Jumanji (1995)
- August 9th: Mama Mia 2 – Here We Go Again
- August 16th: Encanto
- August 23rd: E.T.
When: Multiple dates this summer
Where: Cates Deck and The Shipyards
Cost: Free admission
Take some ice cream to the beach
Ok, we’re capping off this list with some food and drink-specific options. First up is a classic trip for a scoop of ice cream. But, we think this is a relatively good way to turn one date into a series of them. After all, who would say no to a weekly scoop of ice cream from some of the best spots in the city? Certainly not us.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Take in a summer sunset
Of course, you don’t even have to be outdoorsy to take in some of Vancouver’s most stunning views. If you need proof, just check out our guide to the best viewpoints around the city. Hot weather, a gorgeous pastel sunset, and maybe a little picnic to complete the trio? That sounds like a lovely (and inexpensive) summer date option to us.
Where: Click the link above for our picks
Discover a hidden beach
Whether you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Kits Beach or Ambleside – or just want to check out a lesser-known spot in BC, there are lots of beautiful hidden beaches scattered across Metro Vancouver to discover.
Where: See our picks above
Visit a new island
This one might turn into an overnight stay or two depending on where you go, but there are also plenty of ‘day-trippable’ islands near Vancouver you can visit for a date outside of the city. From the white, sandy beaches at Cortes Island to the rich tide pools at Juan de Fuca Park, to the ultra-accessible and beautiful Bowen Island, there is no shortage of options here. And honestly, travelling by ferry together could count as a date all on its own!
Where: See our picks above
Rent some kayaks & paddle boards
Lastly, an option that’s on the water. No matter where in or around Vancouver you go, chances are there are a handful of paddle and kayak-rental options, for those who want to show off their skills or learn a new water sport as a pair. From Falsecreek to Deep Cove, here are some great kayak and paddle board rentals available in and near Vancouver:
- Creekside Kayaks – Olympic Village
- Vancouver Water Adventures – Granville Island
- Jericho Beach Kayak Centre
- Deep Cove Kayak – North Vancouver
- Deer Lake Boat Rentals – Burnaby
- Rocky Point Kayak – Port Moody
- Sea to Sky Adventure Company – Squamish
And there you have it, Vancouver. Some scenic date ideas by (and on) the water if your routine needs a little refresher. Cheers!
