41 best views in Vancouver: best scenic views and skylines

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One could argue that the best views in Vancouver are literally everywhere and we wouldn’t really disagree. Vancouver is one of our favourite places in the world and is constantly rated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. And for good reasons! There is so much beauty in the city that it is really hard not to like it. From beaches to mountains to parks and the ocean, there is something for everyone in Vancouver and beautiful views at every corner. In this guide, we selected the 41 best Vancouver views to help you get the best out of your visit in Vancouver. 

The places we included comprise the best sunset spots in Vancouver, the best viewpoints in Vancouver for skyline views, spots for aerial views of Vancouver, Vancouver restaurants with a view, and hidden viewpoints Vancouver locals like us love! We would recommend including some of them to your Vancouver itinerary even on rainy days in the city! Check out what celebrities say of Vancouver here.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links meaning we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our opinion always remain honest.

Updated 2022

41 Best Views in Vancouver

1. Ambleside, one of the best views Vancouver offers on the city

Ambleside is a neighbourhood located in West Vancouver and is bordered by other areas of Vancouver including Dundarave and North Vancouver. It is one of the most beautiful places in Vancouver and very romantic for couples who are looking for a nice walk. 

Ambleside offers both a beach and a boardwalk along the water and across the park. It is an easily accessible part of Vancouver. The best place to park is at the Park Royal Shopping Centre. Parking is free and only a few minutes from one of the best views of Vancouver. From there, take the pathway that goes into the trees in the back of the parking lot and it will take you to the boardwalk and then to the beach. You can walk, cycle and even bring your dog. 

From the boardwalk on your left, you will have an amazing view on Lions Gate Bridge. Looking ahead, you won’t be able to miss beautiful and lush Stanley Park and the incredible view on downtown Vancouver. Keep your eyes opened on the water as you might be able to sea seals here. 

There are a few things you can do near Ambleside once you’ve taken in the views. The Art Museum of West Vancouver is only a few minutes away. If you would prefer staying in Ambleside, spend some time at Park Royal Shopping Centre to do some shopping and grab a bite at White Spot restaurant. 

2. Vancouver Lookout Tower, the best view at the top of Vancouver

The Vancouver Lookout is surely one of the best views in Vancouver if not the best view of Vancouver. It is located in Downtown Vancouver at Harbour Centre, only a few minutes away from Canada Place and Gastown. It is one of the best Vancouver landmarks for observing the city and the mountains in Vancouver Canada. 

This elevated tower in the heart of the city is the highest point in Vancouver City and offers a panoramic view of Vancouver. It only takes 40 seconds for the elevator to take you to the top of the tower. Sitting at 168 meters high is an observation deck from which you can see Metro Vancouver, Gastown, green Stanley Park, Coal Harbour, and the North Shore Mountains. On a clear day, you might even get lucky and be able to observe Vancouver island from up there. 

One of the best things about this observation tower Vancouver is known for is that tickets are valid all day and can be used several times. This means that you can come at sunrise, during the day and then come back again at sunset to enjoy the views to the fullest! It’s one of the most romantic night activities for couples in Vancouver!

To accommodate visitors, at the top of the lookout, you will find a revolving restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner while looking at the views throughout the day. Due to the height of the tower, it is one of the best places to watch the sunset in Vancouver and is extremely romantic as well! If you are a couple traveling to Vancouver and are looking to surprise your partner, this is a great idea.

Once at the top, you have the choice between doing a self guided tour or booking a guided tour of one of the best viewpoints in Vancouver. Tickets start at $18.25 for adults.

3. Stanley Park – Siwash Rock for the best view of Vancouver North Shore

Stanley Park is one of Vancouver best places that we highly recommend visiting. The park is connected, on one side, to North and West Vancouver by Lions Gate Bridge, and on the other side, to Downtown Vancouver by the Lions Gate Bridge road.

Once you arrive in Stanley Park, follow the directions to Third beach. Third beach is easily accessible by car and there is a big parking lot there. However, parking is paying at the machine so bring some coins with you. There are also washrooms available on site. 

From the beach, start walking to your right all the way to the Siwash Rock. You will easily recognise the Siwash Rock as it is a big rock detached from the boardwalk but close by. From the Siwash Rock, you will have views on beautiful North Vancouver and West Vancouver, and the tall North Shore Vancouver Mountains.

Stanley Park also offers some of the best sunset views in Vancouver!

4. Stanley Park – Prospect Point, one of the best lookouts in Vancouver

Downtown Urban Stanley Park offers several of the best views in lower mainland. After checking out the relaxing views from the Siwash Rock, head up to Prospect point. To get to the Prospect Point Lookout, follow the path along the seawall or drive to the lookout. There is a small parking lot by the viewpoint. Prospect point lookout is almost under Lions Gate Bridge which means you have amazing views on the bridge!

The small platform there offers views of the First Narrows, the Burrard Inlet, North and West Vancouver and Lions Gate Bridge. This is a great lookout Vancouver offers on the North Shore. 

5. Stanley park – Coal Harbour side

Another of the nice views in Vancouver is from Coal Harbour in Stanley Park. Stanley Park seawall takes you all around the park and if you follow the path to the East, you will find Coal Harbour. Coal Harbour is also just a few minutes away from the Vancouver aquarium. You can choose to park directly at Coal Harbour or at the aquarium and then walk to Coal Harbour.

From the seawall in Coal Harbour, you will have one of the most scenic views Vancouver offers of its skyline. You’ll also have views on Deadman Island, and the seaplanes taking off and landing on the water. 

Any time of the day is the perfect time to visit Coal Harbour as long as it’s a clear day. At night, if the light is right, you might see the skyscrapers reflect into the water of the harbour making it one of the best photo spots in Vancouver. 

We love Stanley Park and as you can see it offers some amazing views of Vancouver. That said, there are also lots of things to do in Stanley Park including cycling, going to the beach, going to the outdoor pools observing the wildlife and more! 

6. Grouse Mountain for one of the best night views in Vancouver

Grouse Mountain is one of the locals’ favourite spots in Vancouver. Grouse Mountain is located east of Capilano lake and north of North Vancouver. 

It is one of the best areas in Vancouver for a wide range of activities including skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking in the summer. If you feel up to it, you can also go up the Grouse Grind which is a 2830 steps climb!

At Christmas, Grouse Mountains turns into a magical place with Christmas lights snowshoeing pathways and evening skiing.

From the top of Grouse Mountain, you will have sweeping views of Downtown Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, the surrounding forests and water. It is one of the best views in Vancouver and also immerse you in the true beauty of British Columbia.

To get to Grouse Mountain, you can park at the bottom of the mountain. Then you will have to take the Grouse Skyride Gondola up to the top. The Gondola ride also offers amazing views while going up and it’s definitely an experience we recommend. 

If you dare, get up to the Eye of the Wind, the world’s only turbine that allows you to stand inside. You can stand in the clear glass viewpod to watch a 360 degree view of Vancouver. 

There is a restaurant and washrooms at the top by the Gondola platform. 

7. Granville Island, one of the coolest Vancouver sunset spots

Granville Island is located in False Creek across from False Creek Marina. It is a popular spot by the attractions it offers but also for the unique views it offers on Vancouver. 

Granville Island is known for its public food market and local shops. It is definitely a spot to check out if you are looking to get a snack at one of Vancouver’s famous landmarks. At the market you will find lots of different foods such from fresh vegetables and meat to take away homemade pizza. There are seats available inside the market which makes it perfect for rainy days, although this area can get crowded quickly! Seating is also available outside although you will need to be wary of the vivid seagulls which are ready to steal your food at any moment. Remember that you should never feed the bird there included seagulls. There are signs to remind you.

From the top floor seating area inside the market, you will have nice views of the area, but it’s not where the best view is at.

After your snack, start walking on the boardwalk below the market for a short walk away from the crowds. There you will have clear views on Downtown Vancouver, the Burrard Bridge, and the boats coming in and out of the Creek. You will also be almost right under the Granville bridge with offers cool views for photos!

To get to Granville Island, drive over the Granville bridge and park in one of the parking lots on the island.You can also take the ferry from the False Creek Marina for a few dollars. Taking the ferry will offer additional great views on Granville Island itself!

8. Dundarave

Dundarave is located in West Vancouver and is a great place to have a walk, get fresh air and enjoy the views. In Dundarave, you can walk along the seawall. You can also spend some time at the beach and Dundarave park.

From any of those points, you will have views on Downtown Vancouver, Lions Gate bridge, Stanley park and the Burrard Inlet. 

9. Salmon House, one of Vancouver restaurants with a view

The Salmon House is a chic and delicate cuisine restaurant sitting on the hills of West Vancouver. If you are looking for a best view restaurant Vancouver has to offer, this is it! It opened in 1976 and offers a great Vancouver experience. By eating at the Salmon House, you will combine fresh and local seafood and fine meat cuisine to the amazing views on Downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. From the restaurant, you have probably the best night view in Vancouver.

We advise to book in advance to ensure availability. When booking, ask for a table by the windows so you can watch the view while eating. We would recommend coming a bit before your reservation to spend some time on the outside deck taking in all the views and taking photos. It is also one of the best Vancouver sunset spots so don’t hesitate to come at Golden Hour!

10. Lonsdale quay, one lookout North Vancouver is known for

When thinking of the best places to visit in Vancouver Canada, Londsale Quay isn’t usually the first place that comes to mind. Londsale quay is located in North Vancouver. It is not a very touristy spot of Vancouver. However, it is well known and liked by locals, especially when it comes to searching the best view of Vancouver skyline! Check out the best skyline captions here to inspire your audience when sharing your photos!

Parking is available in the streets behind the quay. If you are coming from downtown, you can easily hop on the SeaBus for a few dollars and it will take you right on the quay. That way you won’t need to look for parking.

Londsale quay is famous for its food market that offers lots of different cuisines such as Mexican, American, and Asian cuisine. While the food trucks are outside, you can head inside the indoor market to check out the crafts and items being sold by local artists and shops.

Once you have checked out the market, grab some food at one of the food trucks outside and head to the waterfront pier. Walk to the end of it and enjoy amazing views on Downtown Vancouver skyline, Stanley Park and the Lions gate Bridge. Don’t forget to check out the famous love locks as well. 

For additional magic, visit the pier at night after dark. At that time of the day, you will see the beautiful skyline all illuminated. As locals, this is one of our favourite spots for a view of Vancouver’s skyline at night!

11. Lonsdale Quay Market Q sign, one of the hidden viewpoints Vancouver offers

Another thing to do at Lonsdale Quay Market is checking out the iconic Q sign. This sign sits over 60 feet in the air, and turns twice per minutes. The original sign was installed decades ago had to be replaced by the current sign which is lighter and uses less energy to shine bright during the night!

You will need to climb 77 steps to reach the observation deck of the Q tower. From there, you will have an amazing view on the Vancouver skyline with no obstruction.

12. Spanish banks, one of the best views in Vancouver BC

Spanish Banks is located between Jericho Beach and the University of British Columbia. It is a long sandy beach that is really popular among locals. People come to have a picnic, read at the beach or play sports. There is a path right behind the beach in case you want to walk, jog, or walk your dog. 

Spanish Banks is one of the best beaches in Vancouver and offers sweeping views on West Vancouver which sits right across from the beach, Stanley Park on the right and English Bay. From the beach, this is a real Canada scenery you’re looking at with water, trees and the tall mountains in the back drop.

For a quieter visit away from the crowds, you can walk to Locarno beach which is located between Spanish Banks and Jericho beach. It is a smaller beach that offers as beautiful of views!

In Spanish banks, you will find a food concession and washrooms. We recommend buying a take out dinner and picnicking on Spanish Banks beach. A great time to visit Spanish Banks is at the end of the day to see some of the best sunsets in Vancouver!

13. Coal harbour, one of the best lookouts in Vancouver

You might be wondering where to go in Vancouver Downtown. Coal Harbour is a great place to start! Coal Harbour is located in Downtown Vancouver just a few minutes from Canada Place and the SeaBus terminal. It is accessible by car but parking can be a bit difficult in the city. Instead you can park on Lonsdale quay in North Vancouver and take the sea bus to Downtown Vancouver for a couple of dollars. Then you can walk to Coal Harbour by following the waterfront path.

From Coal Harbour, you will have views on North Vancouver, Deadman Island, Stanley Park, the North Shore Mountains and Vancouver Harbour. For views on Downtown Vancouver, keep walking to the other side of Coal Harbour in Stanley Park as we explained above. Keep your eyes opened in case whales or seals decide to come for a visit in the harbour! This is also one of the best views in Vancouver at night!

There is also a lot to do by Coal Harbour. You can grab a bite at Cardero’s right on the seawall. We recommend the fried octopus. Definitely ask for a table on the outside terrace wo you can have the best view on the boats and mountains. 

You can also observe the seaplanes taking off or landing in the harbour or book tickets for Flyover Canada. You can also keep following the waterfront path which will lead you to Stanley Park where you can choose to go to the beach, enjoy the outdoor pool or spend some time on the trails. 

14. Cambie Bridge, one best night view Vancouver offers

Cambie Bridge is one of the three downtown bridges. You can drive or walk across the bridge for amazing views all around the city. On one side, you’ll see Science World and Creekside Park. On the other side of the bridge, you can see the Quayside Marina, Cooper’s Park and the seawall to the Heather Civic Marina. You can also see Granville Island and the other two downtown bridges: Burrard bridge and Granville bridge. 

At night, you’ll see all the lights turning on and the colours of some of the pretty places in Vancouver illuminating the city!

15. Burrard Bridge

The Burrard Bridge is the second downtown bridge and it connects Downtown Vancouver to Vanier Park across False Creek. It offers views on Sunset beach and English Bay one way and on the mountains and the downtown skyscrapers the other way. If you don’t want to be rushed by traffic, you can walk across the bridge and take your time to admire the view. 

16. Granville Bridge, one of the beautiful sunset spots Vancouver is known for

Granville Bridge is the third downtown bridge. It connects Downtown to Granville Island and offers nice views of downtown one way and Granville Island and the ocean the other way. From Granville Bridge,  you can also see False creek and Burrard Bridge.  

At sunset, Granville Island is surrounded by pink skies and cute hanging lights. With the sound of people cheering and spending time with friends, this is a wholesome place to finish your day!

17. The Lions – Cleveland dam, one of the best sites in Vancouver for mountains views

The Cleveland dam is located in North Vancouver. It is the 91 meter high concrete dam that holds back Capilano Lake. It is easily accessible with a small parking by the road and a short walk to the dam. 

On your way to the dam, you will have an open and clear view on the famous Lions, Capilano Lake and the surrounding mountains such as Grouse Mountain. This is one of the best views of Vancouver BC mountains. We would recommend to come on a clear sunny days for an unobstructed view. If it’s foggy or rainy you might not be able to see the Lions. There is usually snow all the way up to June.

After looking at the lake and the Lions, keep walking all the way to the dam. There you can check out the structure and the water flowing down. 

18. Lighthouse park, for the best view of Mount Baker from Vancouver

Lighthouse park is one of our favourite places to enjoy the best view of Vancouver Skyline and the best mountain views in Vancouver. It is a 75 hectares park with a functioning lighthouse and is located in West Vancouver. There is a small free parking lot from which you can follow the trails to the lighthouse. The park has been a National Historic Site since the 1870s and is one of the most photographed areas in Vancouver and for good reasons. 

From the parking lot, start your walk through the forest and keep going until you reach the lighthouse. There is usually a bit of a crowd here so it’s impossible to get lost! The walk is very easy and you don’t need to wear hiking shoes. Sandals or even flip flops can do. It makes for a great family outing or a romantic date at sunset. Once you see the lighthouse on your right, go to your left and keep walking on the rock formations. From there you will have views on Bowen Island, the University of British Columbia, Lions Gate bridge, Stanley Park and the beautiful Vancouver skyline along with the Burnaby skyline. You’ll also have views on Mount Baker in the neighbouring country of the USA.  

In the park, there are quite a few things you can do such as hiking, checking out the lighthouse viewpoint, and bird watching including eagles and cormorants. 

19. Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is located in West Vancouver and has got one of the beaches with the best view in West Van! It is famous for being the departure terminal of ferries that travel to Bowen Island and Vancouver Island. Horseshoe Bay is only a few minutes from Lighthouse Park and Whytecliff Park. 

The bay gets its name from its shape that looks like a horse shoe. Although it is a small area, you will find a park, a beach, a pier and a range of restaurants at Horseshoes Bay. From the beach and the pier you will have a majestic view on the Coast Mountain and the Howe Sound waters. When at the beach, keep your eyes opened in case a few sea lions decide to come say hi!

Definitely grab a bite at one of the restaurants by the park to enjoy the views while eating.Fish and Chips is one of our favourites there! If you wish to explore a bit more, check out the two totem poles.

Parking is available on the streets by the beach although it gets busy quickly especially on the weekends. There is another small parking lot by the Bay. Washrooms are available on site during the day. 

20. Horseshoe Bay Sunset Platform, one of the best sunset spots in Vancouver

The Horseshoe Bay Lookout, also called the secret Horseshoe Bay Sunset Platform is located in Horseshoe Bay and is one of the hidden viewpoints Vancouver has to offer. It provides some of the best views in the Vancouver area. We have written a full guide guide on how to find the secret Horseshoe Bay Sunset Platform. Check it out to find the platform easily!

From the platform, you will have amazing views on Horseshoe Bay on the left. On your right, you’ll have breathtaking views on the Howe Sound and the mountains on Bowen Island. You can see from the photo below that the view on this winter morning was beautiful. It had just snowed there so the mountains were covered with a white blanket, and the waters were so calm, it was really peaceful.  It is one of the best places to watch sunset Vancouver has to offer. If you are feeling like it, we also recommend visiting the platform early in the morning for sunrise as the area is just stunning! 

21. The new Cypress Trestle Bridge in West Vancouver, one of Vancouver best places

The New Trestle bridge in West Vancouver is one of the best places to see in Vancouver BC. Among other things, it offers an amazing view on Vancouver’s skyline! The bridge was build over the past 2 years and was just finished and opened in December 2021. We got to visit it and we just couldn’t believe the view. From the bridge, you’ll have views on Downtown, the skyline, Stanley Park, Lions Gate bridge, the Burrard Inlet and Burnaby. Definitely a must stop if you are looking for some of the most beautiful views in Vancouver!

22. Whytecliff Park

Whytecliff Park is located in the West of Horseshoe Bay and North of Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver. It offers a couple of different points of view including one of the best ocean view Vancouver offers. It offers a couple of different points of view. First, there is the Whytecliff Park Lookout Point. You can park near the Lookout Point and then take a short walk on the trails to reach the viewpoint. From there you will have amazing views on Whyte Cove, the Howe sound waters, the mountains on the coast and boats passing by. Keep your eyes opened for otters! 

The second point is the beach. Depending on the tide, the beach might be partially covered. Regardless, get down there and have a look around you. The decor seems to have been taken straight out of Twilight! Lined-up pine trees, moody vibes, beautiful views, Whytecliff Park is one of our favourite places in Vancouver! While at the beach, you can make your way to Whyte Islet Park if the tide allows for it. From there you will have a better view of the beach and the coast.

There are washrooms on site along with the CoastLine Café if you want to grab a bite.  

23. Deep cove and Quarry rock, hikes with views Vancouver is known for

Quarry Rock and Deep Cove are located in North Vancouver. Off the shores of Deep Cove sits Quarry rock, a large rocky outcrop that offers some of the best views of Vancouver. The hike to Quarry Rock starts by Panorama Drive. There is parking available close by.  You will need to follow the Baden Powell Trail. This is an easy to moderate trail that takes about 20 minutes. The trail is also well maintained. 

From Quarry Rock, you will have a scenic and sweeping view on the Indian Arm body fo water, with the mountains in the back and the cove. this is a beautiful place to organise a romantic date especially if you come at sunset with a picnic!

The way back just follows the same trail. Once you are back from your hike, you can grab a bite at the Arms Reach Bistro or Café Orso by Panorama Park. This is one of the best hike views Vancouver offers!

24. Harbourside

Harbourside is a non-touristy spot located in North Vancouver. It is a bit outside of the touristy famous places so it is a lot less crowded and most people visiting Harbourside are locals. 

In Harbourside, you will find a dog park and a beach. The area itself isn’t going to sweep you of your feet as it is mainly a business area. However, it offers a beautiful view on the skyline of Downtown Vancouver, Vancouver Harbour and Stanley Park. As it is a quieter area, you can take your time to take photos and just enjoy some silence as well. The advantage of Harbourside is that there is a lot of parking space.

25. English Bay, good views in Vancouver from the beach

English Bay is located in Downtown Vancouver and can be found between Sunset beach and Second beach in Stanley Park.

The main attraction at English Bay is English Bay beach. It is one of the best beaches of Vancouver because it offers some of the best views of Vancouver. From the beach, you can see Downtown Vancouver with views on the Kitsilano area, Spanish banks and West Vancouver.

English Bay beach is a great place to walk along the sea or cycle around.

There are amenities on the beach including washrooms and the Cactus Club Café where you can grab a bite and enjoy the views all at once. Close to the beach, you will find Craft which is a restaurant that offers craft beer and local fresh food. The restaurant has a heated rooftop patio overlooking English Bay beach to allow you to enjoy a meal with the views. Although the outside views are amazing, the inside views are also worth checking out. The place was decorated by a local mural artist named Rory Doyle. Overall, it is a great place to relax while enjoying the views on the mountains, city and the ocean. 

26. Queen Elizabeth Park, for views from the best of Vancouver BC parks

Queen Elizabeth Park is located in the centre of Downtown Vancouver. The Park is 130 acres big and sits on top of Little Mountain, where former basalt quarries were dug to produce material to create roads for the city. Actually, you might want to wander around the park and visit the main attractions it offers such as the Quarry Gardens, the Bloedel Floral Conservatory and the duck pond. A great time to visit would be fall to witness the leaves changing colours. 

Also called “the top of the city”, the Queen Elizabeth Park is a special attraction of Vancouver as it is the highest point in the city sitting at 125 meters above the sea level. 

The Park offers amazing panoramic views on the Vancouver skyline allowing you to see the Vancouver Lookout and  the North Shore Mountains. The Park is opened 24 hours a day allowing you to come look at the view at sunrise and at sunset or simply during the day. 

27. Jericho beach, for nice views Vancouver offers from the beach 

Jericho beach is located between Spanish banks and Kitsilano beach. It is a sandy beach that offers a direct view on the West Vancouver coastline across the water. From Jericho beach, you can also see English Bay, Stanley Park and the Burrard Inlet.

Jericho beach is a great place to come to admire the views as it is away from the city centre and therefore is less crowded and quieter. There are, however, lots of activities you can do here including swimming and windsurfing. 

If you’re hungry, you can check out Brock House restaurant which is just right off the beach and allows you to eat with a view. 

Jericho beach is easily accessible with a parking lot nearby. On the beach, you will find a concession and washrooms. 

28. Lions Gate Bridge, one of the best views of Vancouver

Lions Gate Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in Vancouver. It is a suspension bridge that connects North Vancouver and West Vancouver to Stanley Park and Downtown Vancouver over the Burrard Inlet.

Its name comes from the two lions face guarding the entrance of the bridge. Make sure you keep an eye out for them when coming from North Vancouver!

The traffic on the bridge can be a bit of a pain but it is still worth driving across at least once to experience the beautiful view. Alternatively, you can also walk or cycle across the bridge which will allow you to stop as many times as you want and take your time for photos. 

Coming from Stanley Park you will have amazing views on North and West Vancouver, Ambleside beach, the Burrard Inlet and the First Narrows. 

Coming from the other way, you will have views on Downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. 

Lions Gate Bridge can be admired from lots of areas in Vancouver. For example, Ambleside beach offers great views on the bridge and the park while Prospect Point in Stanley Park offers a direct and close-up view on the bridge.  

29. Cypress Mountain, one of the best hiking views Vancouver offers

Cypress Mountain is located in West Vancouver and is a must-see when visiting Vancouver. From Cypress Mountain, you have several breathtaking viewpoints on the area. 

The viewpoints are accessible by hiking only. There are three main viewpoints to check out on the trails. The first one is the Bowen lookout which offers views on Bowen Island in the West of Vancouver and on the Howe Sound. The second one is Eagle Bluffs. Eagle bluffs takes about four hours to complete round trip and offers views on Metro Vancouver, Horseshoe Bay and Lighthouse Park. The third one is the Cypress Mountain viewpoint which offers views on downtown, the University of British Columbia in the West and Coquitlam in the east.

Because the viewpoints are only accessible through the trails, we recommend that you wear appropriate footwear and clothes so you can enjoy your hike to the fullest without any problems. Also bring some snacks and water to enjoy during your hike. 

To ensure you can see the views, check the weather and pick a clear day!

30. Mount Seymour, for one of the coolest hikes with best views Vancouver offers

Mount Seymour is located in North Vancouver and is a popular trail in the area. It is 4km long and takes about two and a half hours to complete. The elevation is 450 metre. This busy trail starts near the North end of the parking lot, and goes across Brockton Point and First and Second Pump Peaks.

It offers amazing views on Vancouver City, the skyscrapers and the ocean and mountains. If you are lucky, you might even be able to see Vancouver Island from up there!

31. Capitol Hill Reservoir Park in Canada Vancouver City

Capitol Hill Reservoir Park is a bit of a less known area and therefore is quieter. However, it offers amazing views! This residential park is located in Burnaby in the South East of Downtown Vancouver.

Although it is a bit outside of Vancouver’s city centre, it offers great views on Burnaby’s skyline and Downtown Vancouver rift behind. On clear days, you might be able to see the North Shore Mountains, Lions Gate bridge and the Burrard Inlet. 

Capitol Hill Reservoir Park is easily accessible by car but also by public transport which is perfect if you are visiting without a rental car.

Other things to do in the Burnaby area include shopping at the mall, going to the movies or check out Burnaby Mountain. 

32. Burnaby Mountain, for some of the best Vancouver mountains views

Burnaby Mountain is located about 26 min away from Stanley Park right by the Simon Fraser University.

The mountain sits in the Burnaby area, at 370 meters and overlooks the Burrard Inlet. It is also part of the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area. 

Before heading to Burnaby Mountain, we need to share a few tips. Burnaby Mountain is in a protected area so it is very important that every visitor be respectful of the nature and the wildlife there. You will not be by yourself on the trails so be aware of others at all times. The area is also home to animals so always keep an ear and an eye out for them. One thing to remember is to stay on the trails at all times as some of the terrain outside the trails can be steep and rugged. It is recommended that you wear hiking appropriate shoe-wear.

From Burnaby Mountain, you will be able to have views on the Burrard Inlet, and the Vancouver skyline once at the top of the mountain. 

Other things to do at Burnaby Mountain include checking out the Kamui Mintara, which means “Playground of the Gods”. The Kamui Mintare are totem sculptures in honour of the relationship between Burnaby and its sister city from Japan, Kushiro. 

There is parking available in designated areas. One is located along centennial way and one is located at Hary Jerome Sports Centre off Barnet Road. Both close at 10pm.

33. A Sea plane tour for incredible aerial views of Vancouver

While searching for the best views in Vancouver Canada , you will definitely have spotted a good number of seaplanes. Although most people are looking for the best hiking views in Vancouver, some are willing to go up in the air to find them! That’s when seaplanes come into action. 

If you just want to observe them taking off and landing, the downtown seawall by Canada place is usually a good place to start. However, if you would like to see some of the most unique views of Vancouver and surrounding areas, hopping one will definitely deliver and incredible aerial view of Vancouver BC! 

What can be more magical than seeing Vancouver from the sky? 

You can book a 20 minutes seaplane tour of Vancouver or you can also book a flight from Vancouver to Victoria on Vancouver Island to kill two birds with one stone! Note that there are also incredible views on Vancouver Island including the views from Cox Bay Lookout.

Tickets start at around $100 and booking in advance is highly recommended. 

34. Helicopter tour, to see the best places Vancouver offers from the sky

If you’re not into seaplanes, you might be interested in booking a helicopter tour. From a Champagne drinking tour over Vancouver to a coast mountain adventure flying over waterfalls and glacier peaks, a helicopter tour can offer you unique majestic views of British Columbia! This is also a great opportunity to take beautiful pictures of Vancouver BC. 

35. Fairmont hotel, one of the hotels with best views in Vancouver

If you would like to spend a relaxing and comfortable time while enjoying some of the best views on Vancouver, you might want to consider staying at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel in Downtown Vancouver. Located by Canada Place, parking should be easily found. The Fairmont hotel features the Willow Stream Spa which will allow you to get pampered for as long as you want.

The spa is located on the fifth floor of the building, offering amazing views on Vancouver Harbour, Coal Harbour, North Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains.The must with this spa is the outdoor terrace. It offers a 360 degrees view on the harbour and downtown. 

If you would like to enjoy those views for more than a few hours, you can book a room at the hotel. Don’t forget to ask for a room with a view on the skyscrapers! 

36. Squamish – Sea to Sky Gondola

Squamish is located about 45 min North of Vancouver’s Stanley Park. It is a nice town with lots of things to do and usually one of the stops on the way to beautiful Whistler. However, as it is still close to Vancouver, Squamish is a bit more convenient to visit than Whistler and still offer amazing views. 

When getting close to Squamish, head to the Sea to Sky Gondola. The Sea to Sky Gondola takes you all the way up to the summit. On your way, you will be able to see breathtaking views of Howe Sound, coastal forests and surrounding mountains. 

The view just gets more and more beautiful once you reach the summit and stand on the platform. 

Surrounded by the mountains, you can walk across the 100 meters long suspension bridge which offers a 360 degree view of the area. 

There are amenities available at the summit including washrooms and a restaurant. We recommend ordering the traditional poutine and eat it outside on the deck with views on the water. In the summer, you can also take part in other activities such as axe throwing. 

The Sea to Sky Gondola is open daily from 9:30 to 5pm and tickets are CDN $55 for adults with discounts available for children, teenagers, seniors and families. 

37. Stawamus Chief

Stawamus Chief is located near Squamish and is another must-see spot in British Colombia. Stawamus Chief sits over 700 meters above Howe Sound’s waters and is one of the largest granite mountains in the world. 

The Stawamus Chief hike is a very popular one in the Vancouver are and has three lookout points. The first one is First Peak and is a 4 km round trip hike. It takes about 3 to 4 hours from the Chief parking lot to reach First Peak. Lots of people stop at First Peak and then turn around. However, there are two more lookout points to check out.

The second one is Second Peak and is about 5 km long and takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete.  The third one is Third Peak. Third Peak is longer than the other two with 7 km of trail and takes about 5 to 7 hours to complete. 

The hike takes you through dense forest and offers sweeping views over Howe Sound and the mountains. Those beautiful views attract the crowds. However, the trails are rated as difficult as they essentially just go up the whole time. The hike is very steep and requires the use of chains and ladders at some points. So if hiking is not your forte, we recommend taking the Sea to Sky Gondola to be able to admire similar views. 

38. British properties neighbourhood for the best views in Vancouver by car 

This one is maybe not the one lookout you would place your bet on. However, you might want to add it to your list of the best car viewpoints Vancouver offers. The British properties neighbourhood is a residential area in West Vancouver. It sits on the hills away from the crowds and is therefore very quiet. 

From this neighbourhood, you will be able to look at Lions Gate Bridge, Stanley Park and Downtown Vancouver. 

39. Seabus

When thinking about having the best views in Vancouver, one might think about tall buildings and high lookout platforms. However, sometimes the view is just as beautiful from the level of the sea.

That’s why you might want to hop on the Seabus. The SeaBus connects North Vancouver to Downtown Vancouver in just a few minutes. For a few dollars, the SeaBus saves you time and offers beautiful views on North Vancouver, Stanley Park and Downtown Vancouver.

Make sure you walk around the shuttle not to miss on the views all around you. The SeaBus leaves from Lonsdale quays and arrives by Canada Place. 

40. False Creek

Located in the centre of Vancouver, False Creek is a body of water which offers views on Science World and the downtown bridges of Vancouver. A good way to enjoy this view is to rent a kayak to make your way around the creek. 

41. Porteau Cove, one of the best mountain views Vancouver offers

Although Porteau Cove is not in Vancouver as such, it is only a 40 minute drive from the city and is a fantastic place for some of the best views in BC! From the long beach and trees to the views on Bowen Island and the mountains, this is one of our favourite places on the Sea-To-Sky Highway to relax and immerse ourselves in nature! If you need a quick break from the city, this is a great destination for the best views near Vancouver!

Budget to see the best views in Vancouver

Although some of the listed best viewpoints in Vancouver require to buy tickets to visit, a lot of the best scenic views in Vancouver can be found for free. Chasing the best views of Vancouver is therefore a great activity if you are traveling on a budget. 

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