West Vancouver

Travel Guide

A snow-covered mountain with ski trails and a parking area.
A beach with clear water, sandy shore, and dense forest.
A winding road along a mountainous coastline with a calm lake and sunset.
A calm lake surrounded by mountains and dense forests.
A nighttime view of a suspension bridge with city lights in the background.

Take a ferry from downtown Vancouver to this district where you can see fine artwork and majestic architecture or stroll beside the sea against a backdrop of snowy mountains.

Lose yourself in a labyrinth of enthralling galleries and delightful cafés in West Vancouver. Sit by the ocean on the beautiful city-side beach or leave the noise behind you and head up the hill into tranquil forestland.

Step away from the skyscrapers and crowded streets of the inner city and take your time exploring the more peaceful western side. Start at the district’s southeast corner at the Ferry Building Gallery where constantly changing exhibitions ensure there is always a superb range of artwork that spans centuries and all genres.

Stop for a coffee or bite to eat nearby before you head to the West Vancouver Museum, a 10-minute walk northwest. Temporary displays here investigate the relationship between art and lifestyle while there are also works by celebrated local artists such as Gordon Smith, B.C. Binning and Emily Carr.

After a morning spent indoors get out into the sun and view some of the larger-than-life sculptures around town. The Centennial Seawalk goes past several of these glorious creations as it winds along the front of West Bay. Sit in peaceful Dundarave Park or continue further to leafy Ambleside Park and the adjoining beach.

If you are looking for more of an adventure, slip away into the lower woodland slopes of the North Shore Mountains. Try the signposted 3-mile (5-kilometer) Brothers Creek Trail or take the longer Baden Powell Trail to secluded Horseshoe Bay.

West Vancouver is separated from the southern district of the city by the spectacular Lions Gate Bridge. West Vancouver has a range of restaurants to suit all budgets however, being a predominantly residential area there is a wider range of accommodation elsewhere in the city.

See the best that this spellbinding city has to offer at West Vancouver.

Where to stay in West Vancouver

Find the best West Vancouver areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about West Vancouver
Learn more about West Vancouver

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is noteworthy for its coffeehouses, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal and Spirit Gallery.

Ambleside

If you're spending some time in Ambleside, Ferry Building Art Gallery and Burrard Inlet are top sights worth seeing.

Dundarave

While visiting Dundarave, you might make a stop by sights like West Vancouver Aquatic Centre and Burrard Inlet.

Hollyburn

You'll enjoy the museums and shopping in Hollyburn. You might want to make time for a stop at Ferry Building Art Gallery or Burrard Inlet.

Caulfeild

Though Caulfeild might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal and Lighthouse Park.

River Rock Casino Resort

River Rock Casino Resort

4 out of 5
8811 River Road Richmond BC
$77 nightly
The price is $90 total per night from Nov 16 to Nov 17
$90 total
Nov 16 - Nov 17
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury resort in Richmond. Enjoy a full-service spa, 5 restaurants, and a marina. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (12,598 reviews)
"Very affordable and nice place to stay"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

River Rock Casino Resort
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

4 out of 5
1133 Hastings St W Vancouver BC
$111 nightly
The price is $132 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$132 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Vancouver. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
9/10 Wonderful! (10,529 reviews)
"Great hotel and great location. They were fixing one of the five elevators. What do you would have to wait? Almost 10 plus minutes for an elevator. Something seems to be wrong"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

4 out of 5
3500 Cessna Drive Suite 101 Richmond BC
$126 nightly
The price is $146 total per night from Nov 21 to Nov 22
$146 total
Nov 21 - Nov 22
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff ...
Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Elegant West Vancouver Suite

Elegant West Vancouver Suite

West Vancouver BC
Stay at this condo in West Vancouver. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Stanley Park and Vancouver Waterfront are located ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (34 reviews)
"Host was extremely gracious accomodating an unexpected, short notice change to our travel plans. Excellent communication and a nice, comfortable stay in a great neighborhood.Thanks!"

Reviewed on Oct 19, 2026

Elegant West Vancouver Suite
Exclusive Spacious Suite with Private Patio

Exclusive Spacious Suite with Private Patio

West Vancouver BC
Stay at this vacation home in West Vancouver. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Stanley Park and Vancouver Waterfront are ...
9/10 Wonderful! (66 reviews)
"A nice and cozy stay in a comfortable and quiet area of town. We had a wonderful stay and all the amenities were perfect."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2026

Exclusive Spacious Suite with Private Patio
The Sunset Hotel West End

The Sunset Hotel West End

3 out of 5
1111 Burnaby St Vancouver BC
Stay at this aparthotel in Vancouver. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,525 reviews)
"Niiiiiiice"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

The Sunset Hotel West End
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular West Vancouver attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit West Vancouver?
The best time to visit West Vancouver is from May through September, when travelers can enjoy pleasant weather. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a cooler experience.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in West Vancouver?
The best neighborhoods to explore in West Vancouver depend on what you want to see:

  • Ambleside offers cultural spots like the Gertrude Lawson Museum and the Ferry Building Art Gallery, plus the charm of Ambleside Village.

What is West Vancouver known for?
West Vancouver is known for Cypress Mountain, a popular destination for outdoor activities. Travelers can also visit Park Royal for shopping and Whytecliff Park for its scenic coastal views. Situated on the Strait of Georgia, West Vancouver also offers a strong Asian food presence for travelers to enjoy.
What is a good itinerary length for West Vancouver?
A good itinerary length for West Vancouver is two to three days to enjoy Cypress Mountain, Whytecliff Park, and explore neighborhoods like Ambleside. See West Vancouver Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around West Vancouver?
West Vancouver offers travelers outdoor adventures, scenic parks, and broader regional tours to explore:

  • Hike to Cypress Trestle Bridge on a guided tour.
  • Explore an Ancient Forest, Waterfalls, and stunning vistas on a day tour.
  • Wander through Lighthouse Park and its scenic trails.
  • Visit Whytecliff Park for nature and coastal views.
  • Take a guided sightseeing tour to Vancouver, Shannon Falls, and Whistler.

How do I plan a trip to West Vancouver?
Book flights, rental cars, and activities such as a Guided Day Hike or Boat Rental in advance. For outdoor plans at places like Cypress Mountain or Whytecliff Park, have indoor backups like the Gertrude Lawson Museum ready for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in West Vancouver?
In West Vancouver you can find Persian cuisine, with dishes like kebabs, ghormeh sabzi, and fesenjan. Travelers can also enjoy a range of Asian options including Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and Thai, alongside Italian, Mediterranean, and North American dishes. You'll also find local coffee shops and pubs.
Can I book a refundable hotel in West Vancouver?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in West Vancouver by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to West Vancouver with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your West Vancouver trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in West Vancouver?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in West Vancouver can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my West Vancouver trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your West Vancouver trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my West Vancouver trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your West Vancouver trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to West Vancouver?
If it's your first trip to West Vancouver, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my West Vancouver hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your West Vancouver hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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