4 Days Eco-Friendly Travel in Vancouver

Travel Itinerary

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Itinerary by: Matt Lynch

3 years ago

Travel Writer

Duration: 4 days

Itinerary Contents

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4

Itinerary Introduction

Vancouver is leading the way for sustainable cities in North America. The goal is for it to become the “greenest city in the world”. Many factors contribute to this, including the lifestyles of its citizens, the close proximity of the buildings to fantastic nature areas, and the fact that nearly 95% of its energy comes from renewable sources. In fact, Vancouver currently has the smallest carbon footprint of any North American city. Vancouver citizens make great use of the surrounding mountains and rivers for outdoor activities whilst also utilising these areas for renewable electricity production. High snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains cascades down into the valleys producing hydroelectric power which accounts for almost 85% of Vancouver’s energy. Vancouver has also made another bold claim, aiming to be the first city in North America to commit to a 100% renewable future. Thanks to Vancouver’s modern architecture, sustainable building practices are gradually being implemented with the high-rise buildings. New-builds are all energy-efficient with the aim of reaching carbon neutrality by 2030. An eco-density initiative is in place to ensure buildings are built vertically to reduce urban sprawl into the surrounding nature. Plenty of green spaces in urban areas and living walls of plants signify that this change is well underway. Vancouver is a leading city in “green roofs”, so keep your eyes to the sky and skim the tops of the skyscrapers for evidence of this hybrid industrial/natural phenomenon. These leafy rooftops reduce wasted energy by acting as natural insulation during the colder months and filtering the air as carbon sinks through summer. No city is perfect. However, Vancouver has transformed industrial areas such as Granville Island and Gastown into bohemian haunts and architectural gems. You can now eat and drink to your heart’s content at the urban art district on Granville. Whilst Gastown is known for having some of the best coffee shops and bars in the city and many fascinating historical sites to boot! All these pieces combine to create a destination that is replete with historical/cultural sites, nature areas, and a thriving food scene. Each of these aspects can be enjoyed with the knowledge that tourism is being done in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner. Vancouver may well be the city of the future! Image Credits: Lee Robinson on Unsplash

Useful information about Vancouver

The economy of Vancouver

Shipping and logging are two industries you will see around Vancouver. However, sustainable reforestation practices are taken very seriously in Canada and over 122,000 trees have been planted since 2010. Additionally, cargo boats that drift in and out of the harbour are more fuel-efficient than air-freight.

Best times to visit Vancouver

There are two primary seasons that tourists visit Vancouver. They’re often dependent on the sort of outdoor activities you’re interested in doing. Winter is primetime for skiing. The Rocky Mountains have some of the best ski resorts such as Whistler and Banff. However, Vancouver has a few on its own doorstep! Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour, and Cypress Mountain are all on the northern fringes of the city and are very popular during the snowy months. Those who visit in summer do so to enjoy hiking, kayaking, wildlife watching, cycling, and a whole host of outdoor activities that take place throughout the city. The waterfront promenades and parks fill with walkers, runners, and cyclists. Outdoor eating areas are full of cheery locals and watchful seagulls.

Getting around in Vancouver

With ease of accessibility through walking, cycling, and rideshare initiatives, it’s easy to get around Vancouver in an eco-friendly way. It’s possible to spend a day simply enjoying nature and visiting the city sites whilst keeping a low carbon footprint. The Vancouver city planners have tried hard to maximise green transport. Walking and bike lanes are clearly labelled, spacious, and connected throughout the city. There are now more than 279 miles of bike trails in the city. Hiring a bike or using Mobi bike share is incredibly popular in Vancouver. Also, with a compact city centre, simply using your feet to get around is a great way to experience the main areas of the city! The Sky Train is an autonomous rail link that rises above the streets and can take you to many locations throughout the city including the airport. TransLink busses are used frequently throughout the city and many of the vehicles are now shifting to electric. SeaBus is a great way to reach North Vancouver and do some sightseeing from the harbour en-route. A mixed public transport day pass can be purchased for $10.25. Hiring a car in Vancouver may not be necessary due to its compact size. However, rideshare schemes are a great way to spread your carbon footprint and join others for a journey. Evo and Car2Go are particularly popular rideshare alternatives. If you do hire a car, consider going electric. There are at least 483 public EV charging ports, with the number growing every month. Even the taxis in Vancouver are going green and the city is home to one of the largest electric/hybrid vehicle fleets in North America.

Local cuisine in Vancouver

Eco-friendly travellers are also able to enjoy a wide range of vegan and organic cafes. Here you’ll find locally sourced produce, eco-conscious menus, and a mix of tasty dishes that transition from animal products to more sustainably sourced meals.

Where to stay in Vancouver

Mount Pleasant is a good area for accommodation that is closer to the airport, although it’s farther from the city centre. It has more of a suburban feel than some of the other areas in Vancouver. Check out options along and around Main Street. Gastown is a good spot for backpackers with cheap accommodation and plenty of bars and nightlife hotspots to keep you occupied. If you’re looking for more luxurious areas in the heart of the city, check out Coal Harbour or Yaletown. In Yaletown, Opus Vancouver is an eco-conscious hotel opposite the Yale-Roundhouse subway station. Situated minutes away from the marina promenades and David Lam Park, this establishment runs a water and energy-conservation scheme. In Downtown Vancouver, there’s the Fairmont Hotel which uses energy-efficient lighting throughout the building. Coast Coal Harbour Hotel is a great option for a luxury stay in an eco-friendly hotel. Situated on the edge of the leafy bay area of Coal Harbour, the hotel operates a zero-waste management system. It has biodegradable cleaning products and uses recycled products for key cards, toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues.

Alternative locations

- Trout Lake farmer’s market, every Saturday. - Kitsilano farmer’s market, every Sunday. - Exploring Main Street

Vancouver - Travel Itinerary

Day 1

The Big Two

After stocking up on eco-friendly food, you will spend the rest of the day visiting two of Vancouver's most famous sites: Stanley Park and Granville Island.

08:00 - 09:00

Nada Grocery Store

675 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1X7, Canada

A Vancouver local set out to create a complete package-free grocery store to reduce plastic waste. Food items are intended to be high quality, often organic and local, with waste reduced right through the supply chain. Bring your own storage tubs and food carriers to East Broadway and get shopping in an eco-friendly way! Image Credits: Laura Mitulla on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Start the morning by stocking up on some fresh local produce at the Nada Grocery Store. Here you'll be able to buy groceries and snacks for the next 4 days that are organic and vegan/vegetarian.

Getting there

Head to East Broadway in Mount Pleasant to find this grocery store. It's only a few minutes walk from VCC-Clark metro station.

Nada Grocery Store

09:30 - 10:00

Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals

648 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2, Canada

Bicycle rental in Downtown Vancouver. Options for bike rental and city tours. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Hire a bike to get you ready for your cycling tour of Stanley Park and the Vancouver Seawall!

Getting there

The Expo Line bus stops at Burrard which is only a few minutes walk from the bike rental shop.

Travel time

0 hours 30 minutes

Cycle City Tours And Bike Rentals

10:00 - 13:00

Stanley Park

Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada

This is one of the best places in the city boundaries to enjoy nature. Despite Vancouver being surrounded by areas of sublime nature, Stanley Park is especially impressive due to its close proximity to the city centre. The park contains 400 hectares of rainforest and dozens of beaches. It is an area of celebrated biodiversity filled with numerous Canadian species including roaming coyotes! (Just make sure to read the signs and abide by the laws of not feeding the wildlife). There is a 28km sea wall that links Canada Place to Kitsilano but the 8.8km seawall around Stanley Park is a particular highlight. It’s a walking and bike path that curls its way around the outskirts of the park offering sublime views of the surrounding waterways and mountains. There are also many paths that criss-cross their way to different viewpoints throughout the interior. One of the best ways to see the park is by hiring a bike to cycle your way around the network of trails. Stanley Park is filled with interesting sites and you could easily spend days seeking them all out. From the Lost Lagoon to Beaver Lake; from the Prospect Point lookout to the Siwash Rock; from the Totem Poles to Brockton Point Lighthouse. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Take a city map from the bike rental and head over to Coal Harbour to join the cycle path that winds its way around Stanley Park. Spend the next few hours enjoying the leafy green park and the Seawall bike paths.

Getting there

Cycle a few blocks north to Canada Place and Coal Harbour. From here you will join the waterfront pedestrian paths where you can follow the signposts to Stanley Park.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

Stanley Park

10:30 - 11:00

Stanley Park Nature House

Stanley Park Nature House on Lost Lagoon, 712 Lost Lagoon Path, Vancouver, BC V6G 2S1, Canada

On the south side of the Lost Lagoon is a centre of ecology. The nature house provides wildlife exhibitions and information on the local ecology of Stanley Park. It’s a great place to begin your journey of the area and to gain some information on the surrounding nature before you begin exploring the park in true. Image Credits: Jeff Kingma on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Before you venture into the depths of Stanley Park, stop off at the Lost Lagoon to equip yourself with some natural knowledge for you bike ride.

Getting there

The centre is on the south side of the Lost Lagoon at the narrow point where Stanley Park meets the city.

Travel time

0 hours 10 minutes

Stanley Park Nature House

14:00 - 16:00

Vancouver Aquarium

845 Avison Way, Vancouver, BC V6G 3E2, Canada

An underwater odyssey featuring a fantastic array of marine life. Canada’s largest aquarium prioritises marine research and is a powerful advocate for ocean conservation. The centre has over 65,000 animals and 30 unique exhibits. The aquarium aims to lead the way for ocean education and sustainable incentives. They partake in marine life rescue to aid animals in distress. One of Vancouver Aquarium’s most impactful projects was the Ocean Wise incentive which is now used in local Vancouver food businesses. Image Credits: Krysten Merriman on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Price covers: Entry

Prices for Vancouver Aquarium
Category	Price	Restrictions
Standard	42.00 CAD
Students	36.75 CAD
Kids	26.25 CAD	Under 12
Seniors	36.75 CAD

Notes

If you cycle around Stanley Park clockwise, you can finish your journey at the Vancouver Aquarium on the south east side of the park.

Travel time

0 hours 10 minutes

Vancouver Aquarium

19:00

Granville Island

Granville Island, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Granville Island was originally a sandbar that washed away with the tide. The First Nations tribes would inhabit the area seasonally for fishing. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the island was industrialised and used for logging and other heavy industry. Bridges were built, factories erected, and sawmills were put in place. After years of decline, the area began to be revitalised in the 1970s. Studios, shops, and markets were established, and the area grew in popularity with the revamp. Today, it’s a mix of delicious eateries, bars, and brewhouses. There are also studios, museums, and the island is a general hub for social gatherings! Despite its past, the area is dedicated to zero waste. Brownfield sites have been refurbished, EV charging stations are present, and there’s active monitoring of the island’s energy consumption using smart meters. In fact, in 2014, Granville Island received an award for excellence and leadership in environmental practices. The Public Market is the place to go if your stomach is rumbling and you’re in search of food. Many locals come to the market for food shopping and it’s always advisable to follow the mantra – do as the locals do! Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Getting there

You can enter Granville Island from a few directions. If you come from the north east, you'll cross over the Granville Bridge. If you enter from the south west, you pass the Granville Island neon sign. You can also access via ferry from numerous stops around Vancouver Harbour.

Travel time

0 hours 20 minutes

Granville Island

20:00

Granville Island Brewing Taproom

1441 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3R7, Canada

Craft breweries are growing into something of a national pastime in Canada. British Columbia has developed into the microbrewery capital of the country with +200 breweries and beer-makers spread throughout the province. Granville Island Brewing aims to deliver locally-brewed craft beers that emphasise natural ingredients. If you want to support a local business and enjoy some flavoursome cask ales, this is the place! Image Credits: Josh Olalde on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

After ambling around the food stalls and market, make sure you stop for a few drinks on the way home!

Getting there

The brewery is on the south side of Highway 99, just outside of the bridge overpass.

Travel time

0 hours 10 minutes

Granville Island Brewing Taproom

Day 2

Sustainable Eats & Historic City

Venture into Vancouver's industrious past whilst eating your way around the city streets.

08:00 - 09:00

Kind Café

3080 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3G5, Canada

A locally sourced plant-based vegan café. Hitting all levels of environmentalism by reducing transport distance, using plant-based produce, and removing animal products, the Kind Café ticks multiple boxes for eco-conscious travellers. Additionally, the café is set in a lofty space great for book-reading and relaxed conversations. And of course, it serves delicious food! Image Credits: Iulia Topan on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Enjoy this foray onto Main Street, a hub of cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Getting there

Main Street is linked by the 003 bus service.

Kind Café

09:30 - 11:00

Queen Elizabeth Park

Queen Elizabeth Park, 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2Z1, Canada

A green area just off Main St. It is the highest natural viewpoint in Vancouver city. Bring a picnic with you or amble around the leafy footpaths enjoying the views of Vancouver city to the north. Make sure you visit the Bloedel Conservatory. This biosphere Contains 200 free-flying tropical birds and 500 exotic plants in a greenhouse that celebrates the botanical and avian wonders of the natural world. Image Credits: mritofficial on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

You could easily spend all day at Queen Elzabeth Park. Don't be afraid to slow down the pace, relax, and enjoy the natural high-rise view of the city.

Getting there

Take the 003 bus downtown to NB Main St AT E 33 Ave. From here it's a 15-minute walk up the hill to the viewpoint.

Travel time

0 hours 20 minutes

Queen Elizabeth Park

12:00 - 14:00

Vegan Cave Café

415 Abbott St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1R3, Canada

A stone’s throw from Gastown is this casual eatery known for its funky vibe and delicious vegan dishes. There’s a lot to choose from, but the vegan pizzas are very popular due to their fresh ingredients and unique flavour combinations. The food is healthy and fresh with much of the menu offering plant-based alternatives to traditional meat/dairy dishes. Image Credits: K8 on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Getting there

Catch the 003 north to West Hastings at Abbott. From here it's a couple minutes walk to the cafe.

Travel time

0 hours 30 minutes

Vegan Cave Café

14:30 - 16:30

Gastown

Gastown, Vancouver, BC, Canada

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest district, founded in 1867, and is an indication of the city’s industry-heavy past. The area is filled with Victorian architecture related to the docks, old warehouses, and railway lines. Over the years, Gastown has gradually transformed into a hip and trendy area packed with great bars, hostels, cafes, alternative stores, and great nightlife to boot. Visitors now flock to Gastown making it one of the most visited areas in Vancouver. Gastown is a district for bohemians and artistic characters. You’ll find quirky boutiques and art galleries on nearly every street. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

For the rest of the afternoon you can wander around Gastown, stopping in at art galleries, admiring architecture, and eating and drinking to your heart's content!

Getting there

Vegan Cave Cafe is already in Gastown but if you walk a couple blocks north you'll find the main sites.

Travel time

0 hours 10 minutes

Gastown

14:30

Gastown Steam Clock

305 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B9, Canada

Water Street may well be one of Vancouver’s most architecturally intriguing streets. One of its highlights is the Gastown Steam Clock. It’s thought to be one of only two clocks of its kind in existence. Clustered alongside antique lamp posts and cobbled streets, the clock is a monument to the industrial history and steam that is generated from the local power plants. Every 15 minutes, the clock ejects steam from its whistles. And on the hour, the clock toots from one of its five whistles. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Early morning is a good time to catch the clock with no one else about. It gets busy during the day with lots of tourists milling around taking photos.

Getting there

Situated on the corner of Water Street and Cambie Street.

Travel time

0 hours 10 minutes

Gastown Steam Clock

15:00

Gassy Jack Statue

1 Water St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2H9, Canada

John Deighton, more commonly known as “Gassy Jack” was a 19th-century bar-owner in Vancouver. His name “gas” meant to talk a lot, something he was well known for. A fitting name considering the literal gas and steam that was and is produced from the industry in the area. He is accredited as the founder of Gastown with his tavern Globe Saloon. Check out his bronze statue and snap a picture of one of the iconic figures in Vancouver history. Image Credits: Dom Fellowes on Wikimedia Commons

Article By: Matt Lynch

Getting there

Head down to the eastern end of Gastown to find the Gassy Jack Statue.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

Gassy Jack Statue

Day 3

Forests, Mountains, & Wilderness

Head to the outskirts of Vancouver to explore some of the stunning nature areas.

09:00 - 10:00

The Workshop Vegetarian Café

296 Pemberton Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7P 2R4, Canada

A rustic and homely café serving a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes. The café aims to use organic and locally sourced produce wherever possible. The owners support sustainable farming methods and fair-trade practices. They try to source only eco-friendly food to protect our environment and lead the way to a more sustainable future (whilst enjoying some tasty food simultaneously). Much of the menu is Asian-fusion with the ramen being particularly popular. There is also a grocery store/larder where you can shop for a number of vegan and vegetarian goods. Image Credits: Jennifer Schmidt on Unsplash

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Notes

Head over to North Vancouver on the northern side of Vancouver Harbour to spend the day experiencing the sites on the outskirts of the city.

Getting there

You can catch the seabus from the Waterfront Station Seabus Terminal out to Lonsdale Quay in 12 minutes. From there you can catch the R2 bus to EB Marine Dr @ Pemberton Ave, which is only 5 minutes walk from the cafe.

Travel time

0 hours 45 minutes

The Workshop Vegetarian Café

10:30 - 14:00

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada

In winter, Grouse Mountain is one of the most popular areas for locals and tourists to ski around Vancouver city. This 1,250-metre-high peak offers commanding views of Vancouver, its surrounding islands, and the Pacific coast inlets. During the summer, the Grouse Grind is a hiking trail that is a rite of passage for many outdoor lovers in Vancouver. Also called Mother Nature’s Stairmaster due to the 850 metres of ascent you have to climb to get to the summit. If hiking isn’t for you, there’s the Red Skyride, an eight-minute gondola that takes you on a scenic ride to the peak. Image Credits: Gabriel Santiago on Unsplash

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Price covers: Entry

Prices for Grouse Mountain
Category	Price	Restrictions
Standard	61.00 CAD
Group	40.25 CAD
Kids	34.00 CAD	Under 16
Seniors	54.00 CAD

Notes

Once you reach the base of the mountain, you can either start your hike up the Grouse Grind trail or hop on the Skyride to zip you up to the summit.

Getting there

Catch the 236 bus to Grouse Mountain from WB Marine Dr @ Hamilton Ave. Journey time is 20 minutes.

Travel time

0 hours 30 minutes

Grouse Mountain

12:00 - 12:30

Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge

Grouse Mountain Regional Park, 6400 Nancy Greene Way, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4K9, Canada

A wilderness sanctuary for the animals of British Columbia. Aims to protect the biodiversity of endangered animals whilst educating and informing the public about the ecology of these species. It is a place of rehabilitation for orphaned grizzly bears. The refuge currently runs a successful captive breeding programme for the Northern Spotted Owl. The Remarkable Raptors programme is another initiative designed to raise awareness about Canadian birds of prey. The refuge puts into perspective the wildlife in the surrounding area and helps educate you about what animals are out there. Image Credits: Becca on Unsplash

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Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

The entrance is clustered amongst the shops and restaurants at the top of the mountain.

Getting there

It's a 5-minute walk from the top of the Skyride.

Travel time

0 hours 5 minutes

Grouse Mountain Wildlife Refuge

15:00 - 17:00

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada

The nature areas around Vancouver are famous for their mountains, rivers, and Douglas fir pine trees. At the Capilano Suspension Bridge, you get to witness all three up-close. The main feature is a 137-metre-long bridge hanging 70 metres over the Capilano river canyon and skimming the canopies of the surrounding trees. There are multiple walks and sites in the surrounding area. There’s a new cantilevered walkway that is bolted into the granite cliffs above Capilano Canyon. During the winter there is a light festival in the evenings which causes the coastal rainforest to illuminate and fill the darkness with colour. Image Credits: Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Price covers: Entry

Prices for Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Category	Price	Restrictions
Standard	54.95 CAD
Group	33.75 CAD
Students	41.95 CAD
Kids	29.95 CAD	Under 16
Seniors	49.95 CAD

Getting there

Take the 236 or 232 bus south from the bottom of Grouse Mountain and depart at the NB Capilano Rd @ 3600 Block.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

19:00

Green Table Network

Vancouver, BC, Canada

A Vancouver-based organisation whose mission is to connect consumers with local businesses that prioritise the delivery of healthy food under sustainable practices. Highlights which eateries really are going green and putting environmentalism at the forefront of their businesses. Use this network to find restaurants, head to eco-friendly events, and get information on all the green food services in Vancouver. Image Credits: Victoria Shes on Unsplash

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Explore the eco-friendly culinary options and events around Vancouver. Research local organic restaurants or join sustainable food gatherings around the city.

Green Table Network

Day 4

First Nations Culture & Vancouver Beaches

A day of beach walks, garden strolls, and museum visiting.

09:00 - 09:45

Acadia Beach

Wreck Beach, SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada

Forest trails wind their way along the foreshore of the headland. Steep staircases take you up and down the coast to some of the more beautiful and secluded beaches in Vancouver. Acadia Beach is a shingle beach filled with bleached mounds of driftwood. Set back from the water are two WWII watchtowers. From here, you’ll see the busy waterways of the Burrard Inlet and get views over the West Bay towards Bowen Island. Image Credits: Mackenzie Cooper on Unsplash

Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Begin your day by taking a stroll along the foreshore trail.

Getting there

Catch the 044 bus out to the University and West Vancouver.

Travel time

1 hour 0 minutes

Acadia Beach

10:00 - 12:00

Museum of Anthropology

6393 NW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2, Canada

Situated on a headland along the southwest coast of Vancouver is one of the finest First Nations exhibitions in all of Canada. Many of the First Nations people believe in spiritual connections with the natural world. They talk about a symbiosis between their people and the wild areas they inhabit. The museum aims to highlight the cultural diversity of indigenous people, particularly the communities in British Columbia, Canada. The museum also contains 50,000 ethnological objects from all continents. Run by the University of Vancouver research institutions, the Museum of Anthropology provides a detailed picture of the original eco-minded people that roamed the Canadian wilderness for thousands of years. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Price covers: Entry

Prices for Museum of Anthropology
Category	Price	Restrictions
Standard	15.00 CAD
Group	35.00 CAD
Students	13.00 CAD
Members	0.00 CAD
Kids	0.00 CAD	Under 6
Seniors	13.00 CAD

Getting there

The museum is within the university precinct, a short walk from the foreshore.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

Museum of Anthropology

12:30 - 13:30

Wreck Beach

Wreck Beach, SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada

With all its inlets and sounds, Vancouver is famed for its beaches. Pacific Spirit Regional Park near West Point Grey is a particular hotspot. One of its more infamous areas of coastline is the nudist-friendly area of Wreck Beach. This beach typifies the counterculture movement you may experience in some areas of Vancouver. Where freedom of expression and liberal attitudes are welcomed rather than scorned. Whether or not you’re interested in partaking, the foreshore trail is still a fantastic walk along the coastline with expansive views across the Strait of Georgia to the high peaks of Vancouver Island in the distance. Image Credits: Matt Walk Wild

Article By: Matt Lynch

Getting there

Rejoin the foreshore trail to stroll along Wreck Beach. Don't walk too far down the beach otherwise you won't be able to get back up the cliffs and you'll miss the UBC Botanical Gardens!

Travel time

0 hours 20 minutes

Wreck Beach

14:00 - 14:45

UBC Botanical Garden

UBC Botanical Garden, Administration Bldg, 6804 SW Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada

A pathway through the vast array of floral species in the 28-hectare university-run botanical gardens. There is a particular focus on trees, especially the temperate rainforests of British Columbia. Established in 1916, this is one of Canada’s oldest university botanical gardens. If you want to gain some understanding of the local botanical ecosystems, this is the place for you. If you want to simply admire the resplendent flowers and great Canadian trees, this is also the place for you! Image Credits: YukonExpatriate on Wikimedia Commons

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Price covers: Entry

Prices for UBC Botanical Garden
Category	Price	Restrictions
Standard	5.00 CAD
Group	4.00 CAD
Students	5.00 CAD
Kids	5.00 CAD	Under 12
Seniors	5.00 CAD

Getting there

The gardens are located on SW Marine Drive.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

UBC Botanical Garden

15:00 - 16:00

Virtuous Pie

3339 Shrum Lane, Vancouver, BC V6T 1W5, Canada

A modern and minimalist pizzeria serving vegan and plant-based dishes. The vegan-topped pizza and garlic twists are particularly popular dishes. This is a very popular spot with the local university students and it’s easy to see why! Image Credits: sheri silver on Unsplash

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Getting there

A 15-minute walk from UBC Botanical Gardens along W 16th Avenue.

Travel time

0 hours 15 minutes

Virtuous Pie

19:00

The Fish Counter

3825 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P2, Canada

Fresh seafood market and take-out food. Responsibly sourced seafood. After all, being so close to the Pacific Ocean, you’d expect the seafood in Vancouver to be fantastic. It often is, but you can’t expect every eatery to be as eco-conscious as The Fish Counter. It sells sustainable seafood and receives its produce from local fisherman following regulated fishing practices. It follows the Ocean Wise initiative started by the Vancouver Aquarium to raise awareness amongst local restaurants in the communities about marine environmental issues. Image Credits: karl muscat on Unsplash

Website

Article By: Matt Lynch

Notes

Celebrate your final night in Vancouver by enjoying some of the best seafood on the Canadian Pacific coast.

Getting there

Head to south Main Street to find The Fish Counter.

Travel time

0 hours 45 minutes

The Fish Counter

Privacy: public

Submitted by: Matt Lynch, 3 years ago

About the author

Matt Lynch

I have visited nearly 50 countries so far with some of my favourite destinations being: New Zealand, Norway, Japan, Mongolia, Iceland. I love hiking and all activities that involve exploring the outdoors. If you're interested in nature, walking, and adventures outdoors then you're going to enjoy my articles! Check out my website for some other travel blogs from around the world: https://mattwalkwild.com/ .

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