Best Ski Resorts Near Vancouver

One of Vancouver’s best features is it’s close proximity to the Coast Mountains, the gateway to endless outdoor adventure. In the winter months, there are multiple ski resorts near Vancouver that can be reached within a few hours drive. If you’re planning to go snowboarding or skiing during your time in Vancouver, this post was written for you. 

There are three ski areas in Vancouver that can be reached within 20-30 minutes from downtown Vancouver (depending on bridge traffic). They are (1) Grouse Mountain, (2) Cypress Mountain, and (3) Mount Seymour.

To learn more about these three Vancouver ski resorts, skip ahead and scroll half way down this post. 

However, we’d like to get outside the big city and share our favourite ski resorts that can be visited as a day trip from Vancouver. Of course, if you have time to spend a night or two at these ski resorts, that would be most ideal. 

In this post, we share our favourite ski resorts near Vancouver.

Sasquatch Mountain Resort

Spoiler alert – if you’ve been following our blog or social channels, you will know that we’re big fans of Sasquatch Mountain Resort. So much so, that we purchased a cabin at Sasquatch. Or is it a chalet?

Sasquatch Mountain Resort is located in the Fraser Valley, about 2 hours east of Vancouver. It’s located east of Mission and west of Harrison Hot Springs. 

Sasquatch offers its guests a laidback ski atmosphere that’s perfect for families. We think it’s one of the best lower mainland ski hills (we may be a little biased). Here, you will find free parking, no lift lines and uncrowded runs.

We like that all of the Sasquatch ski runs end at the day lodge. This makes it easy to meet up with friends and family throughout the day. 

You’ll want to hit the road early and arrive when the park opens at 9:00 AM. Sasquatch Mountain offers night skiing on Friday and Saturday evenings, so you can stay on the mountain as long as you want before heading back to Vancouver. 

Now, although you can easily visit Sasquatch Mountain Resort as a day trip from Vancouver (or from any city in the Lower Mainland), we recommend you spend the night (or two).

Sasquatch Mountain Resort has accommodations within steps of the chair lifts. It’s the only ski resort in the Lower Mainland that offers cabin and vacation rentals on the mountain. The rental properties are privately owned, so you’ll need to book accommodations through VRBO or Booking.com. 

How many chair lifts at Sasquatch Mountain Resort? 

Sasquatch Mountain has three chair lifts, plus one magic carpet for beginners. It has 36 runs ranging from beginner to double black diamonds. We recommend Snags and/or Baby Bowl on a powder day.

View the Sasquatch Mountain Resort trail map here.

How long are chairlift wait times at Sasquatch Mountain Resort?

This is the “sell feature” for visiting Sasquatch. There are virtually no wait times for chair lifts at Sasquatch Mountain Resort. This is what separates it from the other ski resorts near Vancouver. This means you will get lots of runs, over and over again. Your legs will be tired. 

Are there restaurants at Sasquatch Mountain Resort?

There are a few places to eat at Sasquatch Mountain Resort. Molly Hogan’s Bar and Grill is popular (pictured above) and it’s kid friendly until 8:00 PM. The Chalet restaurant is also open during the day.  Hideaway and Peaks offer grab and go snacks and drinks during the day.  

What are the lift ticket prices at Sasquatch Mountain Resort?

Lift ticket prices may change. It’s best to check the current day pass ticket prices. However, typically day passes range from: $69-89 CAD Adults, $59-79 Youth, and $49-69 Child.

If you’re flexible with your dates, you may find mid-week and Sunday specials on lift tickets.

You can purchase Sasquatch Mountain Resort lift tickets online here.

Manning Park Ski Resort

Manning Park Ski Resort is located in the Cascade Mountains. It’s about a 3 hour drive east of Vancouver. It’s another fun, laid back ski resort near Vancouver. It has a similar vibe as Sasquatch Mountain. 

However, given that it’s at least 3 hours drive each way, it becomes a very long day trip from Vancouver. You’ll need to get an early start. Or, you might want to stay overnight near the ski resort. 

There are no accommodations directly on the ski hill.

Manning Park Resort has a variety of accommodations, but the property is located 15 minutes drive from the ski area. The hotel provides free shuttle service to the ski hill during ski season.

We stayed in a Mini-Suite inside the main hotel. It’s a spacious room with two queen beds, pull-out sofa and kitchenette. You can also rent private cabins and chalets. These cabins are popular in both summer and winter, so you’ll want to make reservations ahead of time.

How many chair lifts at Manning Park Ski Resort?

Manning Park Resort has 2 chair lifts (one quad and one double), plus one handle-tow and one T-bar. It has 34 marked runs and over 140 acres of skiable area. 

How long are chairlift wait times at Manning Park Resort?

Similar to Sasquatch Mountain, there are virtually no lift lines at Manning Ski Resort. This may vary depending on snow conditions, but generally Manning Park is uncrowded and rarely has long lift lines. 

Above is the old orange chair lift at Manning Park ski hill (also in the photo below).

We captured these photos back in 2018. The following year it was replaced by a new quad chair. 

Watch this video from a powder day at Manning Park Resort.

Are there restaurants at Manning Park Resort?

There is a cafeteria style restaurant at the ski area at Manning Park. See photo above. It’s not very big, but it does the trick. 

There is also a restaurant at the hotel called Pinewoods Dining Room, but it’s located about 15 minutes drive from the ski hill. You likely won’t want to leave the ski hill to eat lunch at this restaurant, but you can visit it after your time on the slopes. 

What are the lift ticket prices at Manning Park ?

Manning Park lift ticket prices range from: $59-89 CAD Adults, $49-69 Youth, and $39-59 Junior (7 to 12 years old). 

Children under 6 years old are free. More info about ticket prices here. 

See photos from a Powder Day at Manning Park Ski Resort here. 

Mount Baker Ski Area, Washington State

Another one of our favourite ski resorts near Vancouver is the Mount Baker Ski Area. It’s located in the North Cascades of Washington State, about a 2.5 hour drive from Vancouver to Mt Baker.  You can actually see Mount Baker from Vancouver on a clear day. 

Important note – to visit Mount Baker from Vancouver, you will need a valid passport. The easiest and fastest border crossing is the Sumas Port of Entry in Abbotsford, British Columbia. You can also enter the United States via Lynden Port of Entry and/or Peach Arch Border Crossing.

Mt Baker is a fun ski resort that’s known for getting a lot of snow. It’s considered one of the snowiest ski areas in the world, with an average yearly snowfall of more than 1,700 cm’s (663 inches).

If you’re looking for lots of snow, the Pacific Northwest has you covered. Literally.

Fun fact – In the 1998-99 ski season, Mt. Baker broke the world record for snowfall in a single season with 2,900 cm / 1,140 inches / 95 feet of snow! 

How many chair lifts at Mt Baker Ski Area?

Mount Baker has 8 chair lifts and two rope tows. There are multiple parking lots on opposite sides of the ski area, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with the Mount Baker ski area trail map here. 

It’s known as a ‘difficult’ mountain, however it has a variety of terrain for all ski levels. 

Mt. Baker Ski Area is open daily from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM during the winter.

How long are chairlift wait times at Mount Baker ski area?

Mt Baker is a remote ski area. Because of this, it’s not as easy for day trippers to visit the mountain. This means less skiers and snowboarders, and shorter wait times on the chair lift. 

And, given that it has several chair lifts, guests are easily spread out, which also reduces wait times. 

Can you stay overnight at Mt Baker Ski Area?

No, there are no accommodations at Mount Baker Ski Area.

If you’re looking for Mt. Baker hotels or lodging, the closest town is Glacier. It’s about a 30 minute drive from Glacier to Mt Baker Ski Area. This small ski town has a few restaurants, cafes and stores to fuel up before your day of skiing. 

Are there restaurants at Mount Baker Ski Area?

Mt. Baker Ski Area has two base area lodges, Heather Meadows and White Salmon. It also has a mid-mountain lodge called the Raven Hut.

Each Mount Baker restaurant has different menu offerings. See the menus for each lodge here.

What are the lift ticket prices at Mt Baker Ski Area?

Mount Baker Ski Area lift tickets range from: $75-87 USD Adults, $47-55 Youth, and $28-37 Child (7 to 10 years old). Children under 6 years old are free.

More info about ticket prices here. 

Related post – A winter getaway to Mount Baker in Washington State

Fence made with old skis in the town of Glacier, Washington. 

Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort

Located in the alpine city of Whistler, Whistler-Blackcomb Ski Resort consistently ranks as one of the top ski resorts in North America. It is the largest ski resort in North America, by many measures, and it’s the most popular ski resort in Canada.

Whistler-Blackcomb attracts over 3 million people annually, making it one of the busiest, too. 

The drive from Vancouver to Whistler is about 2 hours, depending on where you start. However, it can take longer if you run into traffic on busy weekends or holidays. There are also shuttles that depart from downtown Vancouver or the Vancouver International Airport. Book the Vancouver to Whistler shuttle here. 

The downside to visiting Whistler Blackcomb is the price.

Over the past 10 years, Whistler has become almost unaffordable for families. That said, it is a world class ski resort near Vancouver, so you get what you pay for. 

If you’re not interested in skiing or snowboarding, there are plenty of other winter Whistler activities, including snowmobiling, ice fishing, ziplining, snowshoeing and more. Here’s a list of things to do in Whistler, British Columbia.

How many chair lifts does Whistler Blackcomb have? 

Whistler-Blackcomb ski resort boasts over 200 runs, 39 lifts and well over 8,000 acres of terrain. It also has the record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola that transports guests between Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain. 

It will take you multiple days to ski every section of this world class ski resort. Without question, it’s the biggest ski resort in BC. View the Whistler Blackcomb trail map here.

What are the chairlift wait times at Whistler Blackcomb?

Chair lift time varies since it’s such a large mountain. Often you can find a space on the mountain that isn’t crowded. However, we’ve seen posts on social media that say it can take up to an hour to board the first gondola in Whistler Village or Creekside Village. Pack your patience.

What are the lift ticket prices at Whistler Blackcomb?

Ticket prices have jumped significantly over the past few years. At the time of publishing, lift ticket prices for a day pass are approx. $192-210 CAD for Adults, $171-163 Youth, $96-101 Child.

More info on lift tickets at Whistler Blackcomb ski resort here.

Additional things to know about Whistler Blackcomb

Whistler Village is one of the coolest alpine villages in North America. It’s a fun place to hang out after your day on the slopes. We aren’t going to list all of the Whistler restaurants and pubs because there are too many! That said, if you have a specific restaurant in mind, it’s wise to make a reservation because it gets very busy during the ski season.

In the winter, you will need to pay for parking. Even if you’re spending the night at a hotel. 

Where to stay in Whistler

You can easily do a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver. However, if you choose to spend a night or two (which we highly recommend you do), there are many different types of accommodations.

A few options in Whistler Village include Pangea Pod Hotel (for the budget traveler), the Four Seasons Whistler (for the luxury traveler) and the Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa (great for families). 

Above is Whistler Village at sunset, which starts around 3:30 PM in January. 

Cypress Mountain Ski Area

Cypress Mountain offers the most vertical drop and terrain of Vancouver’s North Shore Mountains. It’s about a 45 minute drive from downtown Vancouver to the parking lot at Cypress Mountain.

Cypress Mountain does not offer accommodations on the mountain, therefore you can only visit the mountain on day trips. Because it’s the largest ski hill in Vancouver, it’s popular with locals, too. This means the ski area can get quite busy. 

To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on a week day or in the evenings. Cypress Mountain offers night skiing until 10:00 PM throughout the winter ski season. 

How many chair lifts does Cypress Mountain have? 

There are 5 quad chair lifts on Cypress Mountain, plus a double chair lift and magic carpet for beginners. 

It has 53 named alpine ski runs that range from beginner to difficult, with most runs being blue (43%) and black (44%).

View the Cypress Mountain trail map here.

What are the chairlift wait times like at Cypress Mountain?

Cypress Mountain is a popular ski resorts near Vancouver, so you should expect long lines, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid long lines and crowded runs, you’re best to visit on evenings or mid-week.

What are the lift ticket prices at Cypress Mountain?

Lift tickets at Cypress Mountain may change throughout the season. It’s best to check here for current lift prices at Cypress Mountain.

On average, lift tickets range from: $82-98 CAD for Adults. $55-60 Youth. $34-39 Child.

Cypress Mountain offers afternoon and evening tickets at a reduced rate. 

Did you know Cypress Mountain Resort hosted events for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver? 

Additional things to know about Cypress Mountain

You must pre-book your lift tickets. It’s possible that lift tickets sell out, especially on weekends, so plan ahead.

Parking can be a challenge. It’s best to arrive early to avoid a long walk to the ski area. 

There are multiple places to eat on Cypress Mountain, including the Crazy Raven, Cypress Creek Grill, The Patio & Pizzeria, Hollyburn lodge, and two cafes.

If you aren’t into skiing or snowboarding, Cypress Mountain Resort also offers cross country skiing, snowtubing, and snowshoeing in the winter.

Mount Seymour 

Seymour is a family favourite North Shore ski mountain for many Vancouverites. Mt Seymour is one of the best ski resorts near Vancouver for young kids to learn to ski. It has a large covered magic carpet that protects little ones from bad weather. 

Mount Seymour is located about 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver. There are no accommodations on Mount Seymour.

It’s typically less busy then Cypress Mountain and Grouse Mountain. However, don’t make the mistake of thinking that Mt Seymour is not busy, because it can also get quite crowded at peak times.

Parking on the mountain is limited. Late risers may have to wait a few hours to find a spot on the busy winter weekends. It’s best to plan ahead and pre-book your lift tickets. 

How many lifts does Mt Seymour have? 

Mount Seymour has 3 chair lifts and one magic carpet. Runs range from beginner to difficult, with most runs being blues.

You can view the Seymour Mountain trail map here.

What are the chairlift wait times like at Mount Seymour?

For the North Shore Mountains, wait times at Mount Seymour Mountain tend to be less. However, it’s not uncommon to have very long lift lines on the weekend or powder days. 

What are the lift ticket prices at Mount Seymour?

Lift prices fluctuate throughout the season. It’s best to check here for accurate lift ticket prices at Mount Seymour.

On average, lift tickets range from: $39-84 for Adults. $39-52 Youth. $22-29 Child.

Additional things to know about Seymour Mountain

There are a few restaurants at Mount Seymour, including Rock Chute Kitchen and Bar, the Grill works cafeteria and Harold’s Café.

Parking is free, but limited. It is best to arrive early in the morning to find a parking spot.

The mountain offers night skiing. This is a good time to visit because it tends to be less crowded in the evenings. 

Seymour Mountain also offers snowshoeing, and tubing and tobogganing. 

Above is the backside of Mount Seymour. It’s one of the best ski resorts near Vancouver. 

Grouse Mountain

Last, but not least, Grouse Mountain is the closest ski resort to Vancouver. It’s the most popular Vancouver ski hill with tourists. The unique thing about Grouse Mountain is that you must take the Grouse Mountain gondola (the Skyride) to reach the summit.

The Skyride operates 365 days a year, departing every 15 minutes from 8:45 am to 10:00 PM. Grouse is the preferred mountain to visit if you don’t like driving up a ski hill or if it’s really snowy.

Grouse Mountain is a year round destination. Depending on the season, you’ll find the Peak of Christmas, Light Walk, snowshoeing, ice skating, sliding, and grizzly bears. You can also visit the mountain summit lodge to take in the stunning views of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

In the winter, Grouse Mountain offers night skiing every evening. Sunday to Thursday you can ski until 9:00 PM. Friday and Saturday skiing is open until 10:00 PM.

How many lifts does Grouse Mountain have? 

Grouse Mountain has 4 chairlifts and a handle tow. View the Grouse Mountain trail map here.

What are the chairlift wait times like at Grouse Mountain?

The last time we visited Grouse to ski (February 2023), we waited 1.5 hours to get on the Skyride. It was a rainy day, and there’s little protection from the rain while you wait, so it was not a pleasant experience.

The Skyride tram is a fun experience for first time visitors to Vancouver. However, it can get very busy because everyone needs to take it up and down the mountain. Expect long lines in both directions.  

What are the lift ticket prices at Grouse Mountain?

Lift prices fluctuate throughout the season. It’s best to check its website for ticket prices.

On average, day passes range from: $79-89 for Adults. $59-69 Youth. $31-35 Child.

Another one of our favourite ski resorts near Vancouver is Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

It’s the main ski resort on Vancouver island. We did not include Mount Washington on this list because it’s not an easy day trip from Vancouver. You must take a ferry from the Lower Mainland to Vancouver Island and drive to the ski resort, which takes several hours. 

If you’ve got the time, Mount Washington is worth visiting.

Read more posts about skiing in Vancouver:

• Snowboarding at Cypress Mountain in Vancouver
• 30 Photos to get you stoked for the ski season
• 10 Tips for Teaching your Kids to Ski this winter
• The Best Ski Resorts in Canada

What are your favourite ski resorts near Vancouver?

Leave us a comment below with your tips and recommendations. Our readers thank you!

Best Ski Resorts Near Vancouver, British Columbia is a post from: Traveling Canucks

Is it worth visiting Geiranger Norway?

Are you planning a trip to Norway and wondering if it’s worth visiting Geiranger? In this blog post, we share our experience spending two nights in Geiranger as part of a longer 12 day Norway road trip.

Before we get started, I think it’s important to point out that Geiranger is a village. It is located on the eastern edge of Geirangerfjord, one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway. 

It’s likely you will visit both Geirangerfjord and Geiranger, especially if you arrive by boat or cruise ship. However, if you are on a Norway road trip, it’s possible that you only briefly visit the village. 

Regardless, we highly recommend you visit Geirangerfjord. As does everyone who visits this part of Norway. There’s good reason why this world-famous fjord is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Geirangerfjord is often considered the jewel in Norway’s crown of fjords.

Geiranger Village

Geiranger is one of the most famous fjord villages in Norway. It’s also a port town for large cruise ships (more on that below). Norwegian fjords cruises are very popular in the summer and most Norway cruises include stops in Flam, Olden and/or Geiranger. 

Because of this, the town of Geiranger does get busy with tourists. 

This is not necessarily a bad thing. After all, if you visit, you are also a tourist. But it is something to keep in mind. You will not be alone during the day, especially in the busy summer travel season.

Although, if you choose to spend a night or two in Geiranger, you will notice that the village gets much quieter in the evening. 

The waterfront village is small. It has a few tourist shops, restaurants and hotels, and that’s about it. 

However, there are plenty of things to do in Geiranger and the surrounding area, so staying here makes sense. More on that below. 

Related post: Should you rent a car in Norway? Tips for driving in Norway 

Things to do in Geiranger, Norway

There are plenty of things to do in Geiranger. However, the star attraction is Geirangerfjord. The west Norwegian fjord landscapes are spectacular. This is the reason why you visit this part of Norway.

Visitors can witness the beauty of the Geirangerfjord a number of ways, by land or sea. What you do will depend on how much time you have, and what interests you. 

If you like exercise, you might consider hiking to one of the mountain viewpoints and waterfalls. Or you might want to kayak up and down the fjord to see its famous waterfalls and steep rocky cliffs.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, you might want to visit the Norwegian Fjord Centre or take a shuttle to one of the lookout points, like Flydalsjuvet and/or Dalsnibba. 

The top Geiranger attractions and activities are:

• Sightseeing fjord cruise of Geirangerfjord – Hellesylt to Geiranger (or vice versa)
• Norwegian Fjord Centre – World Heritage Visitor Centre Geirangerfjorden
• Waterfall walk in Geiranger – see photos below
• Panoramic views at Geiranger Skywalk at Dalsnibba
• Flydalsjuvet viewpoint – 4km from waterfront
• RIB Fjordsafari to see the famous Seven Sisters waterfalls (more on that below)
• Hike to the historic Skageflå mountain farm
• Geiranger Zipline park and Via Ferrata at Explore Geiranger
• Hike to Storseterfossen (waterfall)
• Drive the Ørnevegen bends (Eagle Road) – Ørnesvingen Viewpoint 
• Twizy electric car sightseeing
• City Sightseeing Geiranger Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

How many days to spend in Geirangerfjord?

Most people plan to spend a day or two in Geiranger. However, if you’re visiting while on a Norway cruise, you may only have a few hours. 

Because of this, you will need to be selective with what you do. You can’t do everything. And, there’s a good chance you will experience rain and/or overcast weather. Regardless of the time of year.

If you plan to visit the 3 famous viewpoints (Dalsnibba, Flydalsjuvet and Ornesvingen) and it’s raining (this is what happened to us), you may need an alternative plan. See our photo from Flydalsjuvet below.

During our visit, we did the Waterfall Walk to Norwegian Fjord Centre, zipline at Explore Geiranger, and the RIB Fjordsafari. It was a fun-filled day.

We arrived in the evening, so our first night was spent exploring the village and having dinner. We did the activities the following day, and departed the next morning. So, technically we only had one full day in Geiranger, with two nights at Havila Hotel Geiranger.

RIB Fjord safari Geirangerfjord

We did the RIB Fjordsafari to see the famous waterfalls. In our opinion, this is the best way to experience the beauty of Geirangerfjord.

The inflatable boats are small, which allows them to get much closer to the waterfalls. 

The RIB-boat trip departs from the port in Geiranger and takes to three famous waterfalls – Bringefossen, The Seven Sisters, and Friaren (The Suitor). 

The tour is about an hour. A guide shares stories and points of interests, including the remote mountain farms that sit high above the water on the top of cliffs.  

On our tour, we saw several harbour porpoises and large fish breaching. It’s definitely worth visiting Geiranger to witness the stunning fjord landscapes. 

More info on the RIB Fjord safari here.

You can book tours online, which is recommended. However, if you want to book a last minute tour, you can purchase tickets at the waterfront village. 

If a cruise ship is in port, you might find that tours are sold out. To avoid missing out on this unique adventure, it’s best to book tickets ahead of time. 

Above photo – guests returning from the RIB fjord safari tour.

As you can see, the boats are small. I believe about a dozen people per boat (I don’t remember exactly). 

You can book RIB tours here, in the building pictured above. It’s located near the Geiranger cruise ship terminal.

However, we went straight to the main dock at the waterfront to check-in for the tour. You will see the inflatable boats docked here.  

The company has a trailer to get fitted with the waterproof suits and personal floatation devices. It’s a small pier, so you should easily locate the RIB tour operator. 

The water was so calm and peaceful during our RIB tour of Geirangerfjord. 

That’s the Seven Sisters waterfalls in the distance. Surprisingly, this 410 metres (1,350 feet) tall waterfall is only the 39th tallest waterfall in Norway. 

In case you were wondering, Vinnufossen is the tallest waterfall in Norway at 845 metres (2,772 feet). It’s one of the tallest waterfalls in Europe and the eighth-tallest in the world. 

Watch this short video of the waterfalls from the RIB tour.

Wide-angle view of the Seven Sisters waterfalls at Geirangerfjord, Norway.

The small boat gets so close to the waterfalls that you can touch the water! 

Skageflå mountain farm

Another popular thing to do in Geiranger is hiking to the historic fjord farm Skagefla. There are a few different mountain farms in Geirangerfjord, but this one is the most popular. 

Skagefla farm is abandoned now. The old goat farm is a collection of moss-covered wooden homes that sit on a mountain ledge that overlooks the fjord and waterfalls. 

We spotted the farm while on the RIB fjord safari tour. Our guide pointed it out and shared stories about when people used to live there. 

Can you spot the small mountain farm in the above photo? Look up!

Could you live in a remote house that sits on a cliff’s edge? The views must be spectacular, but it would be hard living.

Apparently, the trail entrance to reach the farm is on the waterfront. To get supplies, you would need to hike up the mountain with the supplies on your back. I bet you’d stay in great shape if this was your daily routine!  

Can you see the face in the side of the mountain in the above photo? 

This mountain is called Adinibba. 

Waterfall Walk in Geiranger

The Waterfall Walk is probably the most popular thing to do in Geiranger. This unique trail offers a close-up experience with one of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls, the Storfossen (Geiranger Waterfall).

The trail begins at the waterfront and makes it way up to the Norwegian Fjord Centre and the Hotel Union. Or vice versa.

The trail runs parallel to the Geiranger River, allowing you to walk alongside a series of powerful waterfalls. There’s a good chance you will get sprayed from the waterfalls on this walk.

The Waterfall Walk is generally considered easy to moderate in difficulty. The 327 steps are well-kept, and handrails are provided in steeper sections. While there is some elevation gain, the path is suitable for most people.

Apparently, it took over 20 years to complete this trail. I can see why. It’s an impressive network of stairs and bridges that connect you with the town’s natural beauty. I would argue that it’s one of the reasons why it’s worth visiting Geiranger. 

The Waterfall Walk has bridges that cross Geiranger River and it’s waterfalls.

You don’t want to fall in this powerful river!  

Norwegian Fjord Centre (Norsk Fjordsenter)

At the top of the Waterfall Walk is the Norwegian Fjord Center. This is the visitor and education hub for the West Norwegian Fjords and Geirangerfjord World Heritage Site. 

The centre highlights why the Geirangerfjord and the surrounding fjords were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

This bridge is a part of the Waterfall Walk. It crosses the river before reaching the entrance to the Norwegian Fjord Centre.

Geiranger Zipline Park

If you’re looking for some adrenaline pumping action, check out the zipline course at Explore Geiranger. The Dynamite Waterfall Zipline Park is Norway’s first double zipline.

This treetop adventure zigzags across the river and gorge, while passing right beside Dynamite Waterfall.

It’s not a big course, but it’s a fun activity if the weather cooperates. If you ask our son, he thinks the zipline park is the reason it’s worth visiting Geiranger. This was his first time ziplining, so he was pretty excited. 

You can see a bit of the course in this short reel we posted on Instagram.

Note – the zipline course is only open in the summer months. 

Above is one of the treetop ziplines in Geiranger. The parallel course means two people can zipline together at the same time. 

The park also has a Via Ferreta course. The course traverses along the Geiranger river. You cross small wooden bridges and cables as you climb up the side of the rock face. 

Where is the best view in Geiranger?

There are three popular viewpoints in Geiranger – Dalsnibba, Flydalsjuvet and Ornesvingen. 

All of these viewing platforms are easily accessible with no hiking involved. Of course, if you’re looking for epic views while hiking, there are countless locations that offer stunning views of Geirangerfjord. 

The most spectacular view is the Geiranger Skywalk at Dalsnibba. At 1,500 metres high, this is Europe’s highest fjord views from a road. 

The drive from the waterfront in Geiranger to Dalsnibba is about 30 minutes. The windy road has several hairpin turns and pullouts so you can stop and enjoy the stunning landscapes. It’s part of the adventure!

We’re told that these views alone are worth visiting Geiranger. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to witness the views during our visit. The weather did not cooperate. It rained on the way down to Geiranger when we arrived, and also on the way back up when we left. 

Prepare yourself for rainy weather when visiting Norway.

Flydalsjuvet viewpoint

Behold – the stunning views from Flydalsjuvet! Whomp whomp.

We crossed our fingers that the bad weather would pass on the morning that we left Geiranger. As you can see, our visit to Flydalsjuvet was underwhelming. 

This viewpoint has an upper and lower platform that are linked by a walkway. A popular attraction here is the Fjordsetet (The Fjord Seat). It’s an art installation where you can get a fun photo while sitting on a chair that overlooks the fjord.

Flydalsjuvet viewpoint is one of the stops on the Geiranger Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.

Fjord cruise on Geirangerfjord

Taking a boat cruise on the fjord is a must. If you’re on a road trip, you can take the car ferry from Hellesylt to Geiranger.

The ferry takes about an hour and passes The Seven Sisters and The Suitor waterfalls, as well as the historic Skageflå farm. 

We did not take this ferry because we were coming from Briksdalsbreen in Jostedalsbreen National Park. By the time we left the park, it would have been too late to catch the ferry. Plus, we read that you need to book reservations ahead of time, which we did not do. 

If you plan to take this ferry, it’s wise to research ferry departure times and reservations. 

If you don’t have a vehicle, you can walk on the boat. Or, you can join a private fjord cruise that departs from Geiranger. 

Experiencing Geirangerfjord from the water makes it worth visiting Geiranger. 

Is Geiranger walkable?

Prior to visiting, we did some research to learn about things to do in Geiranger. Many of the activities appeared to be close to the waterfront village, which is where our hotel is located (the big white building in the above photo). 

While most Geiranger attractions are close to the waterfront, it’s important to note that the town is built on the side of mountain. So, while distances may appear close, you will be walking up and down a lot of stairs or steep roads. 

We had a vehicle because we were on a Norway road trip. If you are planning to do a similar road trip, you won’t have issues visiting the nearby attractions, like Dalsnibba or Flydalsjuvet.

However, if you are visiting as part of a Norway cruise, you will likely need to organize transportation if you want to explore beyond the waterfront area.

Where to stay in Geiranger Norway

There are a few hotels in Geiranger and several vacation rentals available. It’s a small town, so hotel rooms can (and likely will) book up fast during the summer. It’s best to make reservations ahead of time, to avoid disappointment. 

We stayed at Havila Hotel Geiranger – picture above. It’s a nice hotel and we would recommend it. 

The other popular hotels are: Hotel Union Geiranger, Grande Fjord Hotel and Utsikten Hotel.

If you’re visiting with a campervan, or you plan to tent camp, there are several campgrounds in Geiranger. A few are in the town, near the waterfront. And a few are located outside the town. Many of these campgrounds have simple cabins available to rent. 

Here is a list of Geiranger campgrounds:

• Geiranger Camping (located in the village on the water)
• Vinje Camping (located in the upper level – near Hotel Union)
• Fossen Camping (rustic cabins with nice views)  
• Hole Hytteutleige (cabins available)
• Solhaug Fjordcamping & Homlong Camping (cabins available – waterfront views) 
• Geirangerfjorden Feriesenter (near Ørnevegen)
• Dalen Gaard Familiecamping (located outside of town, closer to Dalsnibba) 

For short-term vacation rentals, we typically book with VRBO. 

View inside our room at Havila Hotel Geiranger.

Most rooms do not come with 2 x queen/double beds. They are typically one queen/double bed PLUS a sofa pull out bed. 

This room is a little cozy for a family of four. But it’s clean and comfortable. And you can’t beat the location!

Above is a photo of the breakfast buffet at Havila Hotel Geiranger.

The breakfast buffets in Norway are awesome. Almost every hotel we stayed at put out a fantastic spread, including cheese, meats and fish, fresh fruit, eggs, bacon, yougurt, cereal, freshly baked bread and pastries, juice, coffee, tea, etc. It’s a great way to start the day!

Eating at restaurants in Norway is expensive. Therefore, having the breakfast buffet included with the hotel room significantly reduces food costs. After a big breakfast, we typically didn’t eat again until dinner. 

Hotel Union Geiranger is conveniently located near Norwegian Fjord Centre and the Waterfall Walk trail. 

Where to eat in Geiranger Norway

There are a few places to eat in Geiranger, but not many. Your best option is to head to the village near the waterfront. Some of the restaurants are seasonal, so they may be temporarily closed during the off-season.

If you’re looking for a nice dining option, check out Brasserie Posten and/or Olebuda Restaurant. 

For casual dining, check out Berserk Bar & Grill, Naustkroa Restaurant, and/or Friaren Bistro. 

The town also has a few cafes and markets, like Geiranger Sjokolade Fjordnær (photo below) and Joker Geiranger grocery store.

Also, the hotels mentioned above have dining options available. If you’re staying at Grande Fjord Hotel, check out Restaurant Hyskje. 

Cheers! We enjoyed these refreshing beers on a waterfront patio. The views are stunning. Every where you turn there’s a mountain and waterfalls. 

Norway Cruise Ships in Geirangerfjord 

Geiranger village of is one of the busiest ports for Norwegian fjords cruises.

The ‘Fjords of Western Norway’ are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so they get a lot of attention from tourists. 

I must admit, when I first saw this giant cruise ship arrive in Geiranger, it felt out of place. 

Geiranger is a small village. When a cruise ship arrives, thousands of passengers take over the town. I’ve read that Geiranger receives approx. 700,000 tourists annually (potentially as high as 900k).

For perspective – the population of Geiranger is 250 people. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is under considerable tourist pressure, with cruise ships making daily stops at the village. Google tells me that Geirangerfjord receives over 180 cruise ship visiting the port every year. That’s a lot of tourists visiting this small town at the same time.

It’s easy to understand why local residents are frustrated by the volume of tourists that arrive between June to September. The roads are not built for such a high volume of vehicle traffic and pedestrians walking in the middle of the road. It’s a lot of strain on the town’s infrastructure. 

The flip side is that these Norway cruise ships help the local economy.

However, for this to hold true, it’s important that cruise passengers spend money in the port town. Keep this in mind if you plan to visit Geiranger on a Norway cruise.

Take an organized tour. Buy a souvenir from the gift shop. Have a nice lunch at a restaurant. Visit the museum and art gallery. And, most importantly, respect the people and land. 

Can you walk into Geiranger from a cruise ship?

Yes, the Geiranger cruise ship terminal is in the town. A large bridge connects the ship to the mainland. 

You can easily walk from the ship to village shops and restaurants. Most tours will depart from the docks in the marina or the main parking lot where the buses are parked. 

The above photo is taken from the village. You can see how close the ship is docked. I believe that building with the green awning is part of the Geiranger cruise ship terminal.  

Below are a few more photos of Geiranger.

Perspective. The steep cliffs tower over the village below. 

This village is located at the bottom of Ornevegen (aka The Eagle Road), northwest of Geiranger village. We captured this photo while on the RIB tour. 

Of course, we had to take the obligatory photo with the giant troll statue. It’s a thing in Norway. Especially when you’re on a road tip. 

Read more blog posts from our trip to Norway:

• Should you rent a car in Norway? Tips for driving in Norway 
• The Perfect 12-day Norway Road Trip Itinerary  
• The remarkable Borgund Stave Church in Norway
• Fløibanen funicular in Bergen, Norway – Is it worth it?  
• Hike to Briksdalsbreen in Jostedalsbreen National Park, Norway  
• Should you take the DFDS Ferry from Oslo To Copenhagen?

Are you planning a Norway trip? Do you think it’s worth visiting Geiranger? 

Leave a comment below if you have questions. We’ll do our best to answer. 

Is it worth visiting Geiranger, Norway? Thoughts and photos from our trip is a post from: Traveling Canucks

We’ve lived in Vancouver for over 20 years now. During this time, we’ve hosted many first time visitors to the city. We’re often asked the same question; “What are the most popular things to do in Vancouver?”

Our response varies depending on the time of year. However, there are a few places in Vancouver that we always recommend to first time visitors. The must see attractions that make Vancouver an awesome city.

We wrote a detailed post that highlights 25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver. It’s become a popular post on this travel blog and we’ve been getting a lot of inquiries about Vancouver ever since.

We don’t often write about our hometown because it feels so familiar. However, to non-residents of Vancouver, this beautiful waterfront city is often considered to be a world class travel destination.

FREE Things to do in Vancouver 

Here’s your Local’s Guide to the Best Things to do in Vancouver.

Vancouver is not cheap, so this post will focus on the less expensive side of Vancouver. We love this city and try to get outside and enjoy it as much as we can. The list below highlights the things we like do in Vancouver when we have time to get outside and play.

Top things to do in Vancouver

You will not have enough time for all of these 25 attractions and activities, so we’re going to start with the must see attractions. If you only have a few days, start with these first.

1. Explore Stanley Park and The Seawall

Stanley Park is arguably Vancouver’s top tourist attraction. It is Vancouver’s first, largest, and most beloved urban park. You could easily spend an entire day in this 1,000 acre public park. Stanley Park is almost entirely surrounded by the waters of Vancouver Harbour and English Bay.

To get the full Stanley Park experience, we recommend you walk or bike around the Stanley Park Seawall, a 10 km loop around Vancouver’s most celebrated outdoor space. It takes about 2 to 3 hours to walk around the Stanley Park Seawall and about 1 hour to bike around it (assuming a leisurely pace).

Things to do in Stanley Park (some are not free):

• • Totem Poles at Stanley Park
  • Take in the spectacular views at Prospect Point
  • The legendary Siwash Rock
  • Brockton Point Lighthouse
  • Bird watching at Lost Lagoon
  • Walk under the iconic Lions Gate Bridge
  • Explore 27 kilometres of forest trails
  • Second Beach Pool – heated, outdoor pool (more info here)
  • Vancouver Aquarium (more info here)
  • Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Tours (more info here)
  • Bike ride around the Seawall (you can rent a bike or join an E-bike tour)
  • Stanley Park Pitch & Putt (more info here)

Here’s a downloadable map of Stanley Park in Vancouver.

Above is the Stanley Park Seawall. At the top of the cliff is Prospect Point Lookout.

2. Visit Granville Island

Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s most popular tourist attractions, especially for first time visitors. You can do Granville Island on the cheap by simply wandering around the market and soaking up the stunning waterfront views of False Creek and the Burrard Bridge.

Granville Island Public Market is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and is home to over 50 merchants selling a variety of food. If you’re visiting on a sunny day, you’re sure to come across a live busker performance.

Check out the schedule of Granville Island Busker performances.

There are plenty of Granville Island restaurants to choose from, including the popular patio at Bridges Restaurant and the upscale Sandbar Seafood Restaurant.

However, given that we’re focusing on doing Vancouver on the cheap, we’d recommend you grab food from the Public Market Food Court and take it outside to enjoy on the waterfront (be mindful of the birds, they are sneaky!).

Here’s a downloadable Granville Island map.

If you like beer, we recommend a visit to Granville Island Brewing. It was founded in 1984 and claims to be ‘Canada’s first microbrewery’. Brewery tours and tastings occur daily.

A fun way to get to Granville Island is to hop on an Aquabus, pictured below.

The Aquabus is a small water taxi that travels around False Creek. The Granville Island ferry runs every 15 minutes. Schedules, price and dock locations can be found here.

Here’s information about how to get to Granville Island.

3. Granville Street Entertainment District

Once you’ve finished wandering around Granville Island, walk across the Granville Street Bridge and continue north towards Vancouver’s Entertainment District. No matter the time of day, there’s always something happening on Granville Street.

Granville is the place to be if you’re looking for the best nightlife in Vancouver.

It’s also a great place to people watch. The Entertainment District is home to the Commodore Ballroom (renowned music venue), Orpheum Theatre (home of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra) and the legendary Roxy Cabaret (long-standing club with live bands).

Fun fact – The Granville Street strip was once believed to have the highest concentration of neon in the world behind only Shanghai, China.

While you’re in the neighbourhood, check out Robson Square and the Vancouver Art Gallery. If the weather in Vancouver is rainy during your visit (highly likely from November to April), you can take shelter in the massive Pacific Centre Mall. 

4. Grouse Mountain and the Grouse Grind

One of Vancouver’s top attractions is Grouse Mountain, self-described as The Peak of Vancouver.

The FREE way to reach the summit of Grouse Mountain is to hike up the Grouse Grind, also known as Mother Nature’s Stairmaster. Be forewarned, the Grouse Grind is challenging and the trail can get very busy in the summer months, especially on the weekends. Note – you will need to pay a fee to take the gondola or tram down.

This famous Grouse Mountain hike is 3 kilometers straight up, with an elevation gain of 2,800 feet (853 metres). It’s not recommended for novice hikers or casual sightseers. We’ve witnessed countless tourists attempting to hike the Grouse Grind in jeans and dress shoes, with no water or snacks. Don’t do that. This is a legit hike.

Note – The Grouse Grind is closed during the winter months.

Grouse Mountain Skyride

The other way to reach the summit is to take the Grouse Mountain gondola (the Skyride). The Skyride operates 365 days a year, departing every 15 minutes from 8:45 am to 10:00 pm.

Grouse Mountain tickets will vary depending on the season. Check this website for prices.

To get off the mountain, you will either need to take the Skyride (it costs $15 per person as of 2018) or walk back down mountain. Rather than go back down the steep Grouse Grind, take the BCMC trail instead.

Grouse Mountain Restaurants

The main Grouse Mountain restaurant is Altitudes Bistro. It has one of the best patios in Vancouver with endless views of Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. The Observatory Restaurant is a more upscale, fine dining restaurant that is only open in the evenings for dinner.

Sticking with the theme of keeping things cheap, we recommend you pack a lunch instead of dining at one of the Grouse Mountain restaurants. There are plenty of spots to sit back and enjoy the views for free.

5. Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge

Not to be confused with Capilano Suspension Bridge, the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge is a pedestrian bridge located in Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver.

Unlike Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Lynn Canyon Park is free to enter and explore.

The suspension bridge is 160 feet (50 meters) high from the bottom of the canyon. It’s a narrow bridge that can get quite bouncy when you reach the center.

While the bridge is the star attraction of Lynn Canyon Park, we prefer to spend our time hiking the park’s extensive network of forest trails. The park encompasses over 600 acres of temperate rainforest.

You can walk the trails near Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge or the 50 kilometres (31 miles) of roads and trails in nearby Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve, including the more challenging Lynn Peak hike and the easier Twin Falls hike.

Parking at Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge can be challenging on the weekends, so it’s best to arrive early. Before you cross the bridge, take a moment to check out the Lynn Canyon Ecology Centre.

Related – Cliffwalk at Capilano Suspension Bridge

Hiking in Lynn Canyon Park is a great family activity for all ages.

6. Hiking and Kayaking in Deep Cove

We love Deep Cove. It’s a quaint community in the easternmost part of North Vancouver. It has a cute village with a restaurants, shops and the popular Honey’s Doughnuts (be careful – these donuts are highly addictive).

The popular Quarry Rock hike is an easy hike that takes about 1.5 hours round trip. The views from the top of Quarry Rock are worth the effort.

Deep Cove is also known for its marina and kayaking.

If you don’t have your own equipment you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and surf-skis from Deep Cove Kayak. This shop gets very busy in the summer, especially on the weekends. It’s best to make reservations for equipment rentals.

Parking at Deep Cove is challenging. It’s best to arrive early (before 8:00 AM), otherwise you might have to park a few km’s away and walk into the village. You can also take public transit from Lonsdale Quay Market to Deep Cove.

Related – The best road trip from Vancouver

7. Explore Cypress Provincial Park

The season and weather conditions will decide what you do in Cypress Provincial Park.

During the summer, you can access a variety of hiking trails with incredible views of Howe Sound and the North Shore Mountains. In the winter, you can go snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing at the Cypress Mountain Ski Area.

The hiking and snowshoe trails in Cypress Provincial Park are free to access. However, if you plan to ski or snowboard, you’ll need to purchase a day pass to use the chair lifts (Not Free). Here’s the Cypress Mountain ticket prices.

Located in North Vancouver, Cypress Mountain co-hosted events for the 2010 Winter Olympics. It’s actually the venue where Canada won it’s first Winter Olympics Gold Medal on home soil.

Related – Snowboarding at Cypress Mountain in Vancouver

Views from the Eagle Bluffs hike that starts at the Cypress Mountain parking lot.

8. Mountain biking in North Vancouver

The North Shore mountains offer world-class mountain bike trials for all skill levels. You have access to easy cross-country trails and more technical trails with obstacles like bridges, ladders, and teeter-totters.

Mount Seymour has the most extensive network of trails on the North Shore. One of the most popular mountain biking trails is the CBC trail, a 2 kilometre trail that begins at the top of Seymour Parkway.

If you don’t have a mountain bike you can rent one at Lynn Valley Bikes or Endless Biking. Rates will vary depending on the model and length of rental.

Here’s a map of Mount Seymour Biking Trails.

9. Gastown Steam Clock

Located near Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver, the iconic Gastown Steam Clock has been attracting tourists for decades. Originally built in 1977, this working steam clock is one of the only functioning steam-powered clocks in the world.

The Gastown Steam Clock whistles and blows its steam every 15 minutes, to the delight of onlookers.

It’s a cheesy touristy thing to do, but you’ll be glad you took a few minutes to check it out.

While in Gastown, admire its old cobblestone roads and unique architecture before wandering inside the many shops, art galleries and restaurants in Gastown. We like to grab a pint of craft beer at Steamworks Brew Pub. It’s one of our favourite brewpubs in Vancouver.

10. Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza

The Olympic Cauldron from the 2010 Winter Olympics is located at Jack Poole Plaza. It’s located beside the Vancouver Convention Centre, one of Canada’s largest convention centres.

The plaza offers stunning views of Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains. From here you can witness dozens of float planes departing and arriving at Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre (see photo below).

You’ll also find several public pieces of art here, including the Digital Orca and The Drop.

Float planes docked in front of Jack Poole Plaza.

The Olympic Cauldron at Jack Poole Plaza.

11. Canada Place

Canada Place is home to the iconic white sails that dominate Vancouver’s skyline (see above photo). From here, visitors are treated to unobstructed views of Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains.

It’s located beside the Vancouver Convention Centre and Jack Poole Plaza (to the west) and Gastown (to the East).

You can easily include all of these Vancouver attractions in your sightseeing tour. You can walk from Coal Harbour to Gastown in less than an hour (at a moderate pace).

Canada Place is also home to the Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal, so it gets quite busy during the summer months. This cruise ship terminal can hold up to four luxury cruise ships at one time. It’s the home port for many of the Alaska cruises that depart from Vancouver.

Inside Canada Place is the popular virtual flight ride FlyOver Canada. The experience lasts approximately 20 minutes. FlyOver Canada is NOT free. Check prices and hours here.

12. Walk, run or cycle the Vancouver Seawall

Did you know Vancouver has the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path? This Seaside Greenway stretches 28 km in length, connecting Coal Harbour to English Bay to Kitsilano.

Earlier in this post, we mentioned you should walk the Stanley Park Seawall. We highly recommend you do that section first, if you’re limited on time. However, if you have a few days in Vancouver we recommend you explore other sections of the Vancouver Seawall.

Walking or cycling the Seawall will have you pass many of Vancouver’s famous landmarks, including the Lions Gate Bridge, Siwash Rock, A-maze-ing Laughter public art display, Science World (picture above), BC Place (Football and soccer stadium), Rogers Arena (NHL hockey stadium), Olympic Village, Granville Island, Burrard Bridge and Kitsilano Beach.

Here’s a printable map of the Seawall.

Colourful autumn trees on the Seawall in Yaletown, a downtown Vancouver neighbourhood.

13. Walk across the Lions Gate Bridge

Walking across the Lions Gate Bridge is a different way to experience the city. Lions Gate Bridge connects Stanley Park and Downtown Vancouver with the North Shore, including the city of North Vancouver and West Vancouver.

Lions Gate Bridge has cycling and walking lanes on both sides of the bridge. We recommend you walk north on one side of the bridge, and south on the opposite side. This will give you a variety of photo opportunities.

If you have a vehicle, plan to park at Prospect Point in Stanley Park. From here its a short walk to the south side of the bridge.

You can also park your vehicle at Park Royal Mall in West Vancouver if you plan to start from the north side of the bridge.

Above – south side of the Lions Gate Bridge.

14. Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver

There are several urban beaches in Vancouver. The most popular Vancouver beaches are located in either Stanley Park or English Bay.

All of these beaches are free to access, but you may have to pay for parking.

Ambleside Park is located in West Vancouver, across the Burrard Inlet from Stanley Park. We selected Ambleside Beach because it’s an alternative to the main Vancouver beaches. The park has over 8 km (5 miles) of walking trails and the west facing views are perfect for enjoying sunsets.

More popular Vancouver Beaches

• English Bay Beach – located on Beach Ave in downtown Vancouver’s West End
• Second Beach – located on the Stanley Park Seawall, west of Lost Lagoon
• Third Beach – also located in Stanley Park
• Kitsilano Beach – located in the Kitsilano Beach Park
• Jericho Beach – located west of Kitsilano in Jericho Beach Park
• Spanish Banks Beach – located in the West Point Grey neighbourhood
• Wreck Beach – clothing-optional beach located near the UBC campus

Can you swim in Vancouver beaches?

Yes, you can swim in the Vancouver beaches. However, we wouldn’t recommend you spend a lot of time in the water. As with all city beaches, there’s risk of sewage and pollution from boat/ship traffic.

Popular swimming beaches, including Kitsilano Beach, Jericho Beach and English Bay, were closed in the summer of 2018 to unsafe levels of E. coli bacteria.

Related – Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

15. Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver

While you’re in West Vancouver, we recommend you make a visit to Lighthouse Park, a National Historic Site of Canada.

To view the famous Point Atkinson Lighthouse (see short video here), you will take an easy forest hike on the Lighthouse Park trail, passing some of the largest Douglas Fir trees in Greater Vancouver.

There are several well-marked hiking trails in the park, which are open year-round. Plan to spend 2 hours in the park.

We recommend you bring a light picnic or snacks and enjoy the stunning ocean views.

Here’s a map of Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver.

16. Lonsdale Quay Market & Shipyards District 

Another great place to view the impressive Vancouver skyline is Lonsdale Quay Market in North Vancouver. The market has a variety of shops that selling everything from fresh produce to craft beer to souvenirs.

Here’s a list of vendors in the Lonsdale Quay Market.

We recommend you grab a bowl of freshly made soup at The Soup Meister’s Nephew (formerly The Soup Meister), a local favourite, and enjoy it outside on the boardwalk (pictured below).

After lunch at Lonsdale Quay Market, walk to nearby The Shipyards District. 

In the summer, the Shipyards hosts a Night Market on Friday evenings. In the winter, it hosts a popular Christmas Market.

For the best sunset views, climb to the top of the lookout tower at Lonsdale Quay (see above picture – under the big Q) or walk to nearby Waterfront Park.

To get from Vancouver to the Lonsdale Quay, hop on the 15 minute Seabus ferry at Waterfront Station. 

Related – The best 10 Day road trip from Vancouver

18. Cleveland Dam & Capilano Canyon

The Cleveland Dam, located in the Capilano River Regional Park, is a popular free tourist attraction in North Vancouver.

There are several hiking trails in the park that lead to views of the dam and Capilano Lake (pictured below). We often hike these trails with our boys and they are fine with the terrain.

The Capilano Salmon Hatchery is another popular free attraction. It’s a short walk from the Cleveland Dam to the Hatchery or you can drive down Capilano Road to get there. The hatchery is open year round, but late August to November is a good time to view returning salmon, leaping up the river.

If you’re driving, there’s parking at the Cleveland Dam parking lot on Capilano Road. You can also take public transit from the Lonsdale Quay Market or Park Royal Mall.

Related – Things to do in North Vancouver, BC 

Views of Grouse Mountain and Capilano Lake from the Cleveland Dam.

19. Kitsilano Beach Park

Kitsilano Beach Park, often called ‘Kits’, is one of the most popular beaches in Vancouver, for both locals and visitors. You can access Kitsilano Beach on foot or bike via the Seawall.

Located at the north edge of the Kitsilano neighbourhood, the beach faces English Bay, downtown Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains (pictured above).

Kitsilano is also home to the outdoor Kitsilano Pool, the longest swimming pool in Canada and Vancouver’s only saltwater swimming pool. The pool is open annually from May to September.

For the best city views, head to Elsje Point. While there, check out the nearby Vancouver Maritime Museum (adult admission is $13.50) and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre (adult admission is $22.75).

Here’s more info about Kitsilano Beach Park.

20. Richmond Night Market

The Richmond Night Market is open from April to October. It’s a fun attraction that’s become an annual summer tradition for many Vancouverites.

Note – entrance to the market is NOT free for adults (it’s free for seniors and kids under 7 years old). However, it only costs $8.50 to enter. Therefore, we feel that price point fits the theme of this blog post. 

Richmond Night Market is inspired by the bustling night markets found in Asia. It hosts over 100 food stalls and over 200 retail vendors.

We enjoy sampling a variety of street food, like tornado potatoes (pictured above), grilled meat on a stick (see below), takoyaki, steamed dumplings, blooming onions and sweet mango desserts. Prices range between $3-$15 per item.

Richmond Night Market parking is free but it can get quite full on the weekends. We recommend you take the SkyTrain’s Canada Line to Bridgeport Station. Then walk west on River Road. The market is only a couple blocks from the station. 

21. Vancouver Chinatown

Did you know that Vancouver’s Chinatown is actually the third largest in North America by population (behind San Francisco and New York)?

Vancouver Chinatown is located east of the downtown core. It’s home to many historic sites, retail stores, specialty grocery stores and cafes.

Chinatown attractions include the ornate Chinatown Millennium Gate on Pender Street and the Sun Yat-Sen Park, which is the free alternative to the popular Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden (admission is $16 per adult in the summer).

There are plenty of Chinatown restaurants to choose from. A few of our favourite restaurants in Vancouver Chinatown are Phnom Penh, Ramen Butcher and Sai Woo.

Here’s a map of Vancouver Chinatown.

22. New Westminster Quay and Boardwalk

If you want to get outside the big city, the New Westminster Quay and boardwalk is a fun day trip from Vancouver.

The River Market is home to several shops and restaurants. New Westminster Pier Park is a scenic riverfront park that connects visitors to the Waterfront Esplanade Boardwalk.

Other things to do in New Westminster include visiting the Fraser River Discovery Centre and Samson V Museum. Or, take a Paddle-wheeler Riverboat Tour on the historical Fraser River.

To get to New Westminster Quay, take the Skytrain Expo Line from downtown Vancouver to New Westminster (here’s a map of the Expo Line stations). The train takes about 25 minutes.

The River Market is located one block south of the New Westminster Skytrain station.

23. Photograph the Murals of East Vancouver

If you like street art, you’ll enjoy exploring the backstreets of East Vancouver. Specifically, the Mount Pleasant neighbourhood on Main Street, between 4th and 14th Avenue. This is where you will find the best street art in Vancouver.

In early August, the city hosts the Vancouver Mural Festival, the largest annual free public art celebration. 

This interactive map displays every work of art from the Vancouver Mural Festival, including those made in past years.

Here are photos of Vancouver murals from a few years ago.

24. Free Vancouver Walking Tours

You can join free walking tours in Vancouver that visit many of the attractions mentioned in this post.

These tours are a fun way to meet other visitors and get the backstory behind the attractions.

Here’s a list of free walking tours in Vancouver.

25. Drive the Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish

Ironically, one of the best things to do in Vancouver is to actually leave Vancouver. The spectacular Sea to Sky Highway is often ranked as one of the best drives in the world. We agree.

Forgive me for stating the obvious, but you’ll need a vehicle to drive the Sea to Sky Highway.

Visitors can pick up a car rental from the Vancouver airport. Book online and save on car rentals here.

Departing from downtown Vancouver, your drive begins by passing through Stanley Park and crossing the Lions Gate Bridge.

Continue from West Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay. Stop at Horseshoe Bay Village and grab a coffee and pastry. Walk around the village and watch the large BC Ferries depart from the marina.

Continue your drive to Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Walk to the end of the pier and admire the views of Howe Sound. Get back in your car and drive past Furry Creek towards Britannia Beach. Stop here if you want to visit the Britannia Mine Museum. Otherwise, continue driving to Squamish.

Related – The best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors

Shannon Falls and Sea to Sky Gondola

Before you reach the town of Squamish, stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Check out the impressive waterfalls and nearby Sea to Sky Gondola. You can also hike the Stamamus Chief trail. It’s a challenging hike but the views at the top are incredible.

The drive from Vancouver to Squamish takes about one hour with no stops.

Plan for about 4 hours round trip, with a few stops along the way.

At this point, you can turn around and drive back to Vancouver. Or, depending on how much time you have, you can continue to Whistler.

The drive from Squamish to Whistler is about 45 minutes. We recommend you stop at the Tantalus Lookout if the skies are clear.

Related –Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

Where to stay in Vancouver

There are plenty of hotels in Vancouver to choose from, ranging from upscale five star hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between.

• Search for Vancouver hotels here.
• Most of the popular Vancouver tourist attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider this when selecting where to stay in Vancouver.
• Downtown hotels often require additional fees for overnight parking – sometimes as high as $40 per night. Consider this when booking hotels and car rentals.
• If you prefer to stay closer to the mountains, consider staying at the Coast Lonsdale Quay Hotel or the DoubleTree by Hilton North Vancouver.

Vancouver travel tips and things to know

• Pick up and return car rentals at Vancouver airport. Save on Vancouver car rentals here.
• If you visit during winter, make sure you have snow tires for mountain drives.
• Save time and money by riding the Skytrain from Vancouver International Airport to downtown Vancouver. It only takes 25 minutes. 
• Bike sharing is an inexpensive way to get around Vancouver. There are multiple options to choose from.
• The weather in Vancouver can be unpredictable. Plan for rain in the winter months.
• Here’s an interactive map of Vancouver attractions.

Have you visited Vancouver? What did we miss?

Share your recommendations in the comments below. Our readers thank you!

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25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver is a post from: Traveling Canucks

Thoughts after walking the Camino Portuguese 

I have a lot of thoughts swirling in my head after walking the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route from Porto, Portugal to Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This is my second Camino in 12 months. I also walked a section of the Camino Frances last year (more on that here).

Inevitably, I found myself comparing this ‘new Camino’ with the ‘other Camino’ from last year.

But that’s not fair to the Portuguese Camino. You can’t repeat a ‘first time’ experience. The novelty and excitement of walking your first Camino cannot be replicated.

The Camino Portuguese and Camino Frances are different routes, with different landscapes, terrain and landmarks (and different countries, if that wasn’t obvious).

And, I am also a different person now. I see and experience the Camino differently. It’s no longer a mysterious and mystical pilgrimage in faraway lands. I’ve now walked the walk, so it feels more familiar and less distant.

In this blog post, I revisit my goals for the Camino Portuguese. I’ll also share a few lessons learned and what I would do differently now that I have the gift of hindsight.

Read more Camino de Santiago blog posts:

• • Where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route
  • My Return to the Camino – what I’m doing differently this time
  • Beginners Guide and FAQ about the Camino 
  • Thoughts and reflections after walking the Camino Frances
  • What to do in Santiago de Compostela after walking the Camino
  • Why I started the Camino Frances in Leon
  • Photos and video of my packing list for the Camino

I shared my Camino journey on Facebook and Instagram. If you’re curious about what the Portuguese Camino looks like, scroll to the bottom of this post for the video links from each stage.

How was my Camino experience? 

Similar to my previous experience, I had a great time walking the Camino de Santiago. The Portuguese route is stunning and I enjoy being on the trail. There’s something special about those yellow arrows.

And, like last time, the Camino Portuguese gave me exactly what I needed.

However, unlike last time, I was not trying to fix myself or work through life issues on this Camino. I simply wanted to have another grand solo adventure. To challenge myself and feel the pride of accomplishing something big, instead of doing a traditional vacation.

What I love about walking the Camino is that it actually allows me to have a time-out from every day life. To turn off the depressing news headlines and enjoy the simple moments, like having a coffee on a patio and listening to the birds sing.

Walking the Camino Portuguese allowed me to fully embrace the quiet solo time, while also adding the joy of walking and talking with complete strangers from around the world.

I found the terrain on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route to be easier than the Camino Frances. It does have sections that are steep and challenging, but most of the trail is relatively flat. 

What did I learn on this Camino?

The big takeaway from this experience is to let go of the past to make space for the future.

This lesson presented itself early in my journey, when I found myself comparing the Portuguese Camino with the Camino Frances. The first two days did not ‘feel like the Camino’. It felt more like a nice walk on a long stretch of coastline. 

Ironically, when I stopped trying to ‘find the spirit of the Camino’, it magically appeared.  

I like that the Camino allows you to ‘choose your own adventure’. And that you can change your plans if/when you want. I don’t know if I can go back to traditional vacations now that I’ve had these Camino experiences.

It really does change your perspective about travel. 

Related post: Beginner’s Guide to the Camino de Santiago

What I did differently on this Camino

I wrote a blog post about what I planned to do differently on this second Camino. Read that blog post here. 

I’ll revisit those goals here and share my thoughts now that I’ve completed the walk.

1. Stay at albergues in shared dorm rooms 

Result – I stayed in 4 dorm rooms during my 12 nights. See a list of accommodations here.

As expected, I had trouble sleeping in the shared dorm rooms. My bunkmates were loud (snoring, coughing, sleep talking) and made a lot noise throughout the night. I’m a very light sleeper, so I expected this would be an issue for me.

Verdict – Dorm rooms are fine, but I still prefer private rooms. I met plenty of pilgrims when I stayed at hotels (not just hostels/albergues), so you don’t have to stay in a dorm room to find social interactions. 

2. Book my accommodations

Result – I had no issues finding and booking accommodations while on the Camino Portuguese. It’s not complicated and there are lots of options.

On my first Camino, I had every night planned and booked ahead of time. I did not want to worry about finding accommodations each day, so this seemed like a good idea. And it was, for that journey. But it’s not necessary. You don’t need to book all of your accommodations ahead of time.

I made a short video about how I booked my accommodations while walking the Portuguese Camino. 

Some pilgrims don’t like to book ahead. In fact, some dislike that hostels and albergues allow reservations for pilgrims. Their view is that reservations might take a bed from them (there is truth to this logic) and that not making reservations is the true way to walk the Camino. I disagree with this view.

Regardless of your opinion on this, it’s wise to make a reservation if you have your heart set on a particular property. Similar to making a dinner reservation at a popular restaurant. It’s an easy way to avoid disappointment.

Some albergues and hostels are not listed on booking engines. You have to call or text them to make a reservation or confirm availability. 

Verdict – I’m happy with the decision. It’s easy to find and book accommodations on the Camino.

3. Create space for spontaneity

Result – I booked my accommodations 1-2 days in advance, which allowed some flexibility with my route. 

I had a general plan for where I wanted to stay each day (town or city). The end result was not far from this original plan. Here’s a visual map of my itinerary.

When I left in the morning, I had my accommodations booked. I knew my final destination for the day. 

Another thing to keep in mind is weather. I lucked out with almost perfect weather on my entire Camino (my start day was April 20). On my final day, I decided to walk 30 km to Santiago because it was supposed to rain the following morning (and it did).

I’m glad I had the flexibility to speed up or slow down depending on the weather forecast.

Verdict – I like this approach and would recommend it. However, I still ended up following the general plan, so I’m not sure if my intention made a difference in the outcome. 

4. Carry everything in my backpack (no luggage transfer)

When I walked the Camino Frances, I took advantage of the luggage transfer service.

If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a convenient service that transports your bag/luggage from hotel to hotel for about 6 euros per bag, per segment. To use this service, you must know where you are staying so the driver knows where to deliver your bag. 

Result – I did not to use the luggage transfer service on the Camino Portuguese because it conflicted with the above points. I carried everything in my backpack. See my packing list here.

Verdict – carrying everything in my backpack was the right decision. It did make the walk more challenging, but I did not find it too difficult. Just make sure to limit the weight by being very selective with the items you choose to bring. 

My trip to Europe was exclusively to walk the Camino. Therefore, my limited items was fine. However, if I was walking the Camino as part of a bigger European adventure, then I might bring a bigger bag/luggage and ship it from Porto to Santiago. 

5. Slow my pace. Enjoy the beach and coastal landscapes

Result – I made an effort to slow down and take more breaks. However, I found myself wanting to walk, instead of sitting on a beach. I’m not great at sitting still.  

Similar to last year, I find that my sweet spot is walking 25 km per day.

Walking less than 20 km feels too light and I arrive at my next destination too early. Yet walking 30+ km feels like too much. It’s doable, but my body starts screaming at me after 30 km. 

I had a total of 16 days for this trip

The breakdown: 12 days to walk the Camino, 1 day in Santiago de Compostela, 1 day to travel from Santiago de Compostela back to Porto, 1 day in Porto, plus 1 travel day to get home. 

I did not have the flexibility to extend the trip by adding more days.

Therefore, when I say slow down, I mean taking more time to enjoy the moment, not walking less distance per day. To include the Spiritual Variant, my average daily distance needs to be approx. 25 km per day.

Verdict – I did enjoy the small moments on this Camino. I had some long walking periods, but I also had more breaks and time to appreciate the scenery. It was the right balance for me. 

6. Spend more time with strangers 

Result – I met a lot of people on this Camino and enjoyed the social time with strangers from around the world. Every day I met someone new and spent time talking and walking. Some interactions were brief, while others lasted several hours. 

Many people walk the Camino to process and work through big life issues/transitions. This can lead to some very deep and personal conversations.

In some cases, people launch into their personal reason(s) for walking early in the interaction. I’m fine going deep and letting people share, but sometimes I don’t feel like having long and heavy conversations. It’s a lot to ask of a stranger.

I also like walking alone with my thoughts, so it can be challenging to strike the right balance. 

Building on the first point above, I thought that staying in dorm rooms at the albergues/hostels would lead to more social interactions. While I did encounter more pilgrims at the albergues, many of the interactions at the albergues were just brief pleasantries in passing, rather than real conversations. 

I met more people while walking on the trail, rather than at the accommodations. Perhaps that’s because I was tired in the evenings and less open or enthusiastic about having a conversation.

Verdict – I’m glad that I put myself out there more often. I was intentional about striking up conversations and I chose to join people at coffee/lunch/dinner vs sitting alone. I met some nice people and that made this Camino experience more enjoyable. 

Is the Spiritual Variant worth it?

When pilgrims reach the city of Pontevedra they have a choice to make. Continue walking north to Caldas de Reis on the original Camino route (most popular option) or walk the Spiritual Variant towards A Armenteira.

Choosing the Spiritual Variant (Variante Espiritual) will add one extra day of walking. It includes a 2 hour boat ride from Vilanova de Arousa to Pontecesures (Padron). 

So, the question is – is doing the Spiritual Variant worth it?

It’s not an easy question to answer because there are a lot of variables, including time, distance, weather, availability of boat and accommodations, etc. 

I did not walk the original Camino Portuguese Central route from Pontevedra to Padron, so I don’t know what that section is like or how it compares to the Spiritual Variant. However, I will share my thoughts about walking the Spiritual Variant. 

What I like about the Spiritual Variant

• Mosteiro de San Xoán de Poio and Mosteiro de Santa María da Armenteira – beautiful monasteries that are definitely worth visiting.
• Combarro – a historic coastal fishing village with some of the best-preserved collections of traditional maritime architecture from the region, including seafront granaries (hórreos), stone crosses (cruceiros), and traditional fishermen’s houses.
• Ruta da Pedra e da Auga (The Route of Stone and Water) – this is my favourite section on the Spiritual Variant. You walk through a lush green forest alongside the river, passing dozens of ancient stone watermills. Enchanted and magical are adjectives that come to mind. 
• Barrantes to Ponte Arnelas – this is a nice section along a river that passes through vineyards. 
• Vilanova de Arousa – I enjoyed my time here. I arrived mid-afternoon so I had time to explore the city.

I stayed in the town Barrantes (at Hotel Nuevo Julios) instead of A Armenteira because it has more options for food and accommodations. 

Many pilgrims choose to stay at albergues in Armenteira. However, there aren’t a lot of options in A Armenteira. It’s a quite village, so this is an ideal stop if you just want to relax and have an early night. 

What I did NOT like about the Spiritual Variant

• The section after Combarro is a 400+ meter climb on a paved road. It’s not too steep, but it’s a steady uphill walk for over an hour. It’s not a particularly nice section. 
• Ponte Arnelas to Vilanova de Arousa – I hate to sound picky or ungrateful, but this was one of my least favourite sections on the Camino. Maybe it’s because the weather was grey and overcast during my walk? Perhaps I’m unfairly comparing it to other sections on the Camino.
• Boat ride – I feel like boat from Vilanova to Pontecesures is touristy and over-hyped. I took the big boat, which felt like a small commuter ferry. The weather was cold, wet and overcast during my trip, which probably impacts my opinion. It was totally fine, but it did not feel unique or special.  

What I would do differently

If I were to do it again, I would try to take the afternoon boat departure instead of early morning.

I met pilgrims who did the 1:00 pm departure from Vilanova de Arousa. It was on the smaller boat that seats about a dozen passengers. I’ve seen conflicting information online, so I’m not sure how frequent these afternoon departures happen.

If I were to take the afternoon boat, then I would plan to stay in Padron.

I would have liked to spend more time in Padron. Because I caught the early morning departure, it did not make sense to spend the night in Padron. I would have arrived way too early.

The big boat is easier to get a last minute seat, so many pilgrims will go with this option. It has a large, comfortable cabin that protects you from the wind and rain. 

However, I think the small boat offers a more intimate and adventurous experience. Yes, you may get wet, but that’s part of the fun, right?

My itinerary, accommodations and price for each night

1. Lavra –Angeiras Beach Hostel – 37 euros
2. Agucadoura – Hotel Santo Andre – 55 euros (breakfast included)
3. Mar – Mare de Passos Guest – 25 euros
4. Viana do Castelo – Hotel do Parque – 40 euros
5. Caminha – Arca Nova Hostel – 20 euros
6. Viladesuso – Hotel Costa Verde – 59 euros
7. Patos, Nigran – Patos Beach House – 46 euros
8. Chapela (Vigo) – Hostal Bahía de Chapela – 65 euros
9. Pontevedra – Albergue Nacama Hostel Pontevedra – 23 euros
10. Barrantes – Hotel Nuevo Julios – 50 euros
11. Vilanova de Arousa – Hotel Bradomin – 46 euros
12. Santiago de Compostela (arrival night) – Nest Style Santiago – 100 euros
13. Santiago de Compostela (2nd night) – Hotel Entrecercas – 90 euros (breakfast included)
14. Porto – Stay Hotel Porto Centro Trindade – 83 euros

Total spent for 14 nights = 739 euros 

The final 3 nights in Santiago de Compostela and Porto are the most expensive. It was a holiday when I arrived in Santiago de Compostela, so availability was limited (higher prices).

If you remove these 3 nights and only focus on the 11 nights spent on the Camino, the total is 466 euros (42 euros per night average).

You’ll notice I mostly stayed in private hotel rooms. This is by choice, not because of lack of availability at hostels/albergues on the Portuguese Camino.

There are plenty of options for dorm beds on this Camino route(s). 

Final thoughts

I really enjoyed my time walking the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route. It’s such a fun way to travel. Every day is different, with new landscapes, terrain, towns and local attractions. 

This experience felt very different from my first Camino. I felt more confident, more educated and more comfortable on the trail.

However, it did not feel as ‘big’ as the first one, which I suppose is to be expected. You cannot replicate a first time experience. 

It was a fantastic adventure, but it did not lead to transformational change or enlightenment. And that’s okay. The hype and romanticization of the Camino can create unrealistic expectations.

I believe that small, incremental changes are more impactful and meaningful. Walking the Camino reinforced this believe.

The goal for this Camino was to have a fun adventure in Europe, enjoy time on the trail, and accomplish something big vs taking a traditional European vacation.

And, like last time, the Camino delivered exactly what I needed. 

Videos from each stage of the Camino Portuguese

1. Porto to Lavra (Litoral Way) – video recap Facebook and Instagram
2. Lavra to Agucadoura (Póvoa de Varzim) – recap Facebook and Instagram
3. Agucadoura to Mar (north of Esposende) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
4. Mar to Viana do Castelo (Coastal) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
5. Viana do Castelo to Caminha – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
6. Caminha to Viladesuso (Litoral) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
7. Viladesuso to Patos Beach, Nigran – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
8. Patos Beach to Chapela (Vigo suburbs) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
9. Chapela to Pontevedra (Coastal & Central) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
10. Pontevedra to Barrantes (Spiritual Variant) – FB part 1/part 2/part 3 and IG part 1/part 2/part 3
11. Barrantes to Vilanova de Arousa (Spiritual Variant) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
12. Vilanova de Arousa to Santiago de Compostela – FB part 1/part 2/part 3 and IG part 1/part 2/part 3
13. Santiago de Compostela – video recap Facebook and Instagram
14. Santiago de Compostela to Porto – video recap Facebook and Instagram

Here’s the recap of Where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese – Facebook and Instagram

Read more Camino de Santiago blog posts:

• Where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route
• My Return to the Camino – what I’m doing differently this time
• Beginners Guide and FAQ about the Camino 
• Thoughts and reflections after walking the Camino Frances
• What to do in Santiago de Compostela after walking the Camino
• Why I started the Camino Frances in Leon
• Photos and video of my packing list for the Camino

Are you considering walking the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route?

Leave a comment below if you have questions. I’ll do my best to answer.

Thoughts after walking the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route is a post from: Traveling Canucks

Vancouver Road Trip itinerary

As residents of Vancouver, we’re often asked about the best things to do in Vancouver. The next most common question is – what is the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors?

It’s a great question. You have plenty of options in British Columbia. Do you go east to the Okanagan or west to Vancouver Island or north to Whistler and Pemberton?

In our opinion, British Columbia is the best place in the world to visit (and live). It’s a bold statement – I know. However, if you ask anyone who’s visited British Columbia, you’ll likely hear glowing reviews about it’s easy access to nature and endless outdoor adventure.

Today, we share what we believe is the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors. This 10 day road trip itinerary starts and finishes in Vancouver, with 1 day to explore the city of Vancouver. That said, we would encourage you to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Vancouver.

Before we get started, there are a few things to note:

• This Vancouver road trip is based on 10 days (add or subtract days based on your time)
• The road trip can be done in any season, but it’s best during the summer months
• This itinerary is designed for car driving with hotel accommodations, not camping. However, there are many campgrounds along this road trip route, if that’s your preference. Make campground reservations in the summer!

If you only have a few days in Vancouver, check out these 25 day trips from Vancouver.

Best Road Trip from Vancouver, Canada

Skip ahead using the Table of Contents.

Day 1 & 2 – Explore Vancouver

Depending on when you arrive in Vancouver, you’ll want to spend your first two days exploring the city. There’s so much to see and do in Vancouver that two days is likely not enough time, but we want to stay within this 10 day itinerary. Add a few extras days at the end of the road trip if you have more time.

What makes Vancouver special is that it’s a vibrant cosmopolitan city surrounded by mountains AND ocean, which means there’s literally something for everyone.

In one day, you can hike in the mountains, relax on the beach, catch a show or professional sports game, dine at a variety of upscale restaurants and finish the night at Granville’s legendary entertainment district.

Here are the top things to do in Vancouver:

• Explore Stanley Park and ride bikes around its popular Seawall
• Walk across the bouncy Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver
• Take the tram to the peak of Grouse Mountain or hike the Grouse Grind
• Soak up the 360 degree views from Vanouver Lookout tower
• Shop, eat and be entertained at Granville’s Entertainment district
• Pick up some artisan goods at Granville Island Public Market
• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery, Vancouver Aquarium and/or Science World
• Get outside! Vancouver is home to world class mountain biking, hiking trails, kayaking, whale watching, skiing and snowboarding.
• Witness orcas in the wild on a Vancouver whale watching tour
• Here’s a list of 25 FREE things to do in Vancouver

Related post: 25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver

Day 3 – Take the ferry to Victoria

The road trip begins on Day 3, when you catch a morning ferry from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (Vancouver) to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Victoria). Check the BC ferry schedule here.

Plan to arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour before your departure time. It’s wise to book a reservation ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling over a holiday weekend.

The ferry takes about 1.5 hours. The drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria is about 30 minutes.

Once you’ve settled into your hotel, head to Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour (see photo below). There are plenty of Victoria restaurants and cafes located here. 

Plan to spend your evening wandering around the Inner Harbour and charming downtown area. Victoria is a very walkable city.

Day 4 – Enjoy a full day in Victoria

There are a few places in this world that we will revisit again and again. Victoria is one of them. We love the city’s old town character and laid back vibe. Victoria is a relatively big city, but it doesn’t feel or act that way.

Things to do in Victoria:

• Hop on a water taxi and explore Victoria’s bustling Inner Harbour
• Enjoy Royal Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress
• Get educated at the Royal British Columbia Museum
• Take a horse drawn carriage tour around downtown Victoria
• Walk down Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown, said to be the narrowest street in Canada
• Stroll through Beacon Hill Park and watch the sunset from Finlayson Point
• Whale watching tour and/or visit the impressive Butchart Gardens

Related post: 20 Things You Should Do in Victoria

Where to stay in Victoria?

We’ve stayed at the Magnolia Hotel, Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Best Western Carlton Plaza and would recommend them. They are centrally located, family friendly and mid-range budget.

Where to eat in Victoria?

You will not go hungry in Victoria. There are endless options for every type of cuisine. Being on the west coast, we’d recommend you dine at a seafood restaurant. The west coast is also known for quality sushi and Japanese cuisine.

• Fresh oysters and share plates at 10 Acres Commons
• Fish tacos and fish & chips at Red Fish Blue Fish
• Patio with waterfront views at LURE Restaurant & Bar
• Popular Brew pubs – Spinnakers, Swans Brewpub, CRAFT Beer Market Victoria Harbour
• Other favourites – Barb & Banker and Irish Times

Related: 20 Things You Should Do in Victoria

Day 5 – Drive from Victoria to Parksville

Enjoy a late breakfast in Victoria before driving north to Parksville, a popular beach town located on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Parksville is famous for its long, sandy beaches that recede over one kilometer at low tide.

The drive from Victoria to Parksville is about 2 hours. However, there are plenty of fun road trip stops along the way.

1. Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University (time needed 30-60 minutes)
2. Take a hike in Goldstream Provincial Park (time needed 45-90 minutes)
3. Visit the Malahat Skywalk – popular attraction on Vancouver Island (time needed 45-90 minutes)
4. Malahat Summit Viewpoint and/or Split Rock Lookout (10 minutes)
5. Check out the Murals of Chemainus (45-90 minutes)
6. Optional – visit the Harbourfront Walkway in Nanaimo (60-90 minutes)

Where to stay in Parksville?

Parksville is a tourist driven town, so you have plenty of options for accommodations.

If you’re looking for an upscale experience, check out the Tigh Na Mara Seaside Resort. You can stay in a private cabin or ocean view suite.

For a budget-friendly option, check out Hotel Feng, BW Signature Collection (formerly Travelodge by Wyndham Parksville). We’ve stayed here multiple times. It’s good value. The rooms are clean and updated, it has a pool and hot tub, and breakfast is included.

We’ve also stayed at the Ocean Sands Resort and would recommend it. It’s less expensive than Tigh Na Mara and has similar ocean views.

Fun Fact – Vancouver Island is the largest Pacific island east of New Zealand.

 Low tide at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Parksville

Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University. This castle is featured in the X-men and Deadpool movies.

Split Rock Lookout on the Malahat Highway

The Murals of Chemainus on Vancouver Island

Day 5 – Drive from Parksville to Ucluelet

Before you hit the road, make sure you spend some time walking along the beach in Parksville. You can either visit Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park or the beach at Parksville Community Park (pictured above).

The drive from Parksville to Ucluelet takes about 2.5 hours, but you’ll want to make a few stops along the way.

The first stop you’ll want to visit is the Coombs Old Country Market, famous for its Goats on the Roof. The market is located about 15 minutes west of Parksville. It’s an ideal location for coffee or an early lunch (depending on when you depart Parksville). 

After Coombs, continue west towards Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. This is a nice place for an easy forest hike to see waterfalls. The park has over 6 km of walking trails.

MacMillan Provincial Park and Cathedral Grove

Next on this BC road trip is a visit to MacMillan Provincial Park, home to the ancient Douglas fir in Cathedral Grove. The highway splits the park, so you will literally drive right through it.

There is limited parking at Cathedral Grove and it can get quite busy, but don’t give up! This place is definitely worth visiting. Some of the trees are more than 800 years old and 9 metres in circumference.

Plan to spend 30-60 minutes here.

After witnessing the incredible trees at Cathedral Grove, continue driving west to Port Alberni. This is an ideal spot to grab a quick lunch, fuel up your vehicle and restock your supplies.

The drive from Port Alberni to Ucluelet is about 1.5 hours. This stretch of highway is stunning, so make sure you have your camera handy.

You should arrive in Ucluelet by late afternoon.

After you check-in to your accommodations, head to the ocean to watch the sunset from either Big Beach or the Wild Pacific Trail. See photo below as evidence.

Here are maps for beaches in Tofino and Ucluelet.

Goats on the Roof at Coombs Market in the town of Coombs.

Day 6 & 7 – Ucluelet and Tofino

The towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are located on the northern and southern points of a peninsula that stretches along the west coast of Vancouver Island. This is where you will find Pacific Rim National Park, one of Canada’s great natural treasures.

I’m grouping these two towns together because you should visit both, but you don’t need to switch accommodations.

Pick a spot and stay there for 3 nights, which will give you two full days in Tofino and/or Ucluelet.

It’s about a 40 minute drive from Tofino to Ucluelet, and vice versa.

Things to do in Tofino and Ucluelet:

• The beaches on the coast are home to the best surfing in Canada
• Sea kayaking through the pristine waters of Clayoquot and Barkley Sound
• Cultural canoe tours and Bear watching tours
• See orcas and gray whales on a whale watching tour (March to October)
• Guided fishing excursions in the ocean or freshwater lakes
• Endless hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park and Wild Pacific Trail
• Storm watching during winter months
• Visit the Ucluelet Aquarium and the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse
• Scenic flight tour in a sea plane or helicopter
• Watch the sunset from the shores of Chesterman Spit

Where to Stay in Ucluelet

We stayed at the Big Beach BÄRN in Ucluelet and would highly recommend it. The views from the balcony are outstanding. Tell the host, Pete Raab, the Traveling Canucks sent you.

• For waterfront accommodations, check out Black Rock Oceanfront Resort or Snug Harbour Inn
• For budget friendly accommodations, check outCanadian Princess Lodge & Marina

Where to Stay in Tofino

There are several beach resorts in Tofino. Over the years, we’ve stayed at a number of these beach resorts and would recommend the following:

• Best Western Tin Wis Resort on Mackenzie Beach. The restaurant here is good, too.
• Middle Beach Lodge on Mackenzie Beach
• Cox Bay Beach Resort on Cox bay beach
• Pacific Sands Beach Resort on Cox Bay beach

Where to eat in Tofino and Ucluelet

• Visit the tasting room at Tofino Brewing Company
• Dinner in Tofino, visit Shelter Restaurant, Sobo Restaurant and/or Pluvio Dining Room
• Casual eats in Tofino, visit Surfside Grill, Wolf in the Fog, Wildside Grill and/or Tacofino.
• Dinner in Ucluelet, visit Norwoods Restaurant or Black Rock Resort.
• Casual eats in Ucluelet, visit the Cedar Grill, Ukee Dogs Eatery and/or Ravenlady Oyster Forte.

Related: Sea kayaking the coast of Vancouver Island

Calm waters at the iconic Big Beach in Ucluelet

Big skies over the beach in Pacific Rim National Park in Tofino.

The above photo is low tide at South Chesterman Beach in Tofino.

Tofino Sea kayaking tour around Clayoquot Sound.

Harbour views from the town of Tofino.

Surfing at Wickaninnish Beach in Pacific Rim National Park.

Day 8 – Travel from Tofino to Whistler

Your time on the coast has come to an end. It’s time to trade the sandy surf for snow-capped peaks. You’ll want to get a good start to the day and be on the road by 10:00 AM.

This is the longest travel day on this 10 day road trip from Vancouver.

Drive from Tofino to Nanaimo and take the ferry back to the Mainland.

The drive from Tofino to Nanaimo ferry terminal takes about 3 hours. There’s typically a 3:00 PM ferry that you will want to catch from Departure Bay. It’s smart to make a reservation for the ferry crossing ahead of time. Arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour early.

Check the BC ferry schedule here.

The ferry from Departure Bay (Nanaimo) to Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) takes about 1.5 hours. When you disembark the ferry, drive on the highway until you see a turnoff that says ‘BC Ferries’ or ‘Horseshoe Bay’. It will be about 5-7 minutes before you see the signs.

You need to turnaround and head back towards the ferry terminal where you just came from.

It’s a weird system. You will turn off the highway, take a left and cross the bridge across the highway, then left again so you can get back on the highway. This time you will be driving west/north, towards Whistler.

Use your GPS, just in case. You don’t want to actually return to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. You want to follow the road signs for Squamish and Whistler.

If you’re hungry, stop in the town of Squamish for dinner. There are several restaurants and fast food joints along the highway.

The total drive time from Horseshoe Bay to Whistler is about 1.5 hours. You should arrive at Whistler around 7:00 PM (assuming you did the 3:00 pm ferry and did NOT stop for dinner).

Related: Should you visit the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish?

Sundeck views from the BC Ferries. That’s the Coast Mountain Range in the distance.

Day 9 – Explore Whistler

Whistler is our happy place. We try to visit this alpine village once every few months. It’s a four season resort, so there’s always something to do, regardless of the month or season.

You can easily spend a week in Whistler, so you’ll have to be selective with your full day.

Do you want to hike in the mountains? Kayak on a freshwater lake? Indulge in a spa day or sit on a patio drink craft beer?

Our recommendation is to do the Peak 2 Peak 360 Experience (gondola up the mountain, alpine hiking, suspension bridge, etc), have lunch at Christine’s On Blackcomb, then back down to Whistler Village. 

Things to do in Whistler:

• Take the Peak 2 Peak 360 Experience – read more here. Give yourself at least 3-4 hours for this experience.
• Rejuvenate and relax at the traditional Scandinave Spa
• Golf at 3 different courses, including the impressive Nicklaus North Golf Course
• SUP or kayaking at Lost Lake, Alta Lake or Green Lake
• Downhill mountain biking and/or cross-country trail riding
• Zipline course, ATV in the mountains, white water rafting or bungee jumping
• Helicopter excursion or float plane sightseeing tour
• Bear viewing tour and/or nature safari
• Hike to stunning alpine lakes at either Garibali Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Chekamus Lake, Elfin Lakes or Wedgemount Lake
• Here are a few more ideas for Whistler summer activities

Related post: 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer

Where to Stay in Whistler:

• For an upscale experience, stay at Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Sundial Boutique Hotel or Four Seasons Resort Whistler.
• For accommodations in the heart of Whistler Village, stay at Pan Pacific Whistler Village, Crystal Lodge and Suites or The Westin Resort.
• For accommodation on a lake, check out Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler Creekside

Where to Eat in Whistler:

• Popular patios in Whistler Village are Garibaldi Lift Co or Longhorn Saloon & Grill
• For delicious brunch, check out Stonesedge Kitchen, Elements or Brickworks
• Looking something a little different, check out Sushi Village or Mongolie Grill
• For casual brewpub experience, check out Merlin’s Bar & Grill, Amsterdam Pub, Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub or Whistler Brewhouse

Here’s a Whistler Village map and Whistler Blackcomb trail map.

Walking across the new suspension bridge at Whistler Mountain.

The above photo is Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, located one hour north of Whistler.

Day 10 – Whistler to Vancouver

After one final soak in the hot tub and a delicious brunch in the Village, pack up your car and drive south to Vancouver. This is the final day of your epic British Columbia road trip.

If you are flying home today, plan for delays on the drive to the airport as Vancouver traffic is predictably congested.

The drive time from Whistler to Vancouver is about 2 hours, but you’ll want to make a few stops along the way.

About 15 minutes south of Whistler is Brandywine Falls Provincial Park. See photo below.

Keep an eye out for the road signs, you might miss the turnoff if you’re not paying attention.

To see the waterfall, walk through a nice forest trail for about 15 minutes. Plan to spend about 45 minutes here.

Brandywine Falls, located 15 minutes south of Whistler.

Squamish, Sea to Sky Gondola and Shannon Falls

The next stop is Shannon Falls Provincial Park (pictured above) and Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish.

If you’ve got time, we recommend taking the gondola to the Sea to Sky Summit lodge. There are lots of hiking trails and viewpoints at the top of the gondola. You can also enjoy lunch on the patio at the lodge. The panoramic views from here are amazing.

If you’re tight on time, skip the gondola and visit Shannon Falls. The waterfall is a 5 minute walk from the parking lot, so you’ll only need 30 minutes here.

Road trip from Squamish to Vancouver

If you’d like to do a few more stops, consider the Britannia Mine Museum in Britannia Beach and/or visit the old pier at Porteau Cove Provincial Park. Both stops are located just off the highway.

If the weather is nice, make sure you pull over at Tantalus lookout point to see the massive glacier on the Tantalus Range. The lookout is between Whistler and Squamish. Here’s the location.

Related post: 15 things to do in Squamish this summer

Mountain views from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola.

Where to stay in Vancouver

There are plenty of hotels in Vancouver to choose from, ranging from upscale five star hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between.

• Most of the popular Vancouver tourist attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider this when selecting where to stay in Vancouver.
• Downtown hotels often require additional fees for overnight parking – over $40 per night. Consider this when booking hotels and car rentals.
• If you prefer to stay close to the mountains, consider staying atLonsdale Quay Hotel or the DoubleTree by Hilton North Vancouver.

British Columbia Travel tips and things to know:

• Pick up and return your vehicle rental at the Vancouver airport. 
• If you visit during the winter, make sure you have snow tires for the drive to Whistler.
• Vancouver is Wifi friendly with over 550 locations. Look for a Free Wifi location.
• It’s wise to book reservations for the ferry to and from Vancouver Island, especially if visiting over a holiday weekend. Here’s the list of holidays in BC. Check ferry schedule here.

Looking for more Canada road trips inspiration? Check out Road Trip Alberta and Road Trip Manitoba. 

Read more travel blog posts from Canada

• 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer
• 25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver
• Best things to do in Penticton in the Summer
• 8 Things to do in New Brunswick with kids
• The Best Things to do on the Sea to Sky Highway
• Salmon fishing at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River

The Best Road Trip from Vancouver for first time visitors is a post from: Traveling Canucks

Camino Portuguese Coastal Route

The Camino Portuguese Coastal Route (Caminho Português da Costa) has become one of the most popular Camino routes in recent years. This Camino actually has four different routes, with three of them starting in Porto, Portugal and ending in Santiago de Compostela, Spain.

Learn about the different Camino routes here.

I shared the general plan for my Portuguese Camino in this blog post prior to departing for Portugal. 

However, things did not go according to plan.

Lufthansa pilots and crew went on strike, which led to my flight being cancelled two days before departure. Not a great start.

Fortunately, I found an alternative flight on KLM that departs two days later. The initial flight from Vancouver to Amsterdam went smoothly. However, when I boarded my connecting flight from Amsterdam to Porto, the aircraft did not pass safety inspection. Every body off the plane. Doh! So close.

Eventually I did arrive in Porto. But it was 3 days after my original flight was supposed to arrive in Porto. 

To get my schedule back on track, I made the decision to start my Camino directly from the Porto airport.

Unfortunately, this meant I did not have time to spend in Porto at the start of my trip. It also meant that I did not have time to deal with jet lag or acclimate to the 8 hour time difference. 

I took an uber from the Porto airport to the coast, about 10 km north of downtown Porto. Shortly after I starting my walk, I passed Fort of Leça da Palmeira in Matosinhos (pictured above).

This section of the Camino is on the Litoral Way (Senda Litoral).

Stages of my Portuguese Camino

Before I breakdown each stage, I thought I’d share a quick view of where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese. Here’s a link to Facebook reels from each segment.

I spent time on all four routes of the Portuguese Camino, including the Senda Litoral, Coastal Route, Spiritual Variant and Central Route.

1. Porto (Matosinhos) to Lavra (Litoral) – 14 km 
2. Lavra to Agucadoura (Póvoa de Varzim) – 24 km
3. Agucadoura to Mar (north of Esposende) – 24 km
4. Mar to Viana do Castelo (Coastal) – 24 km
5. Viana do Castelo to Caminha – 25 km
6. Caminha to Viladesuso (Litoral) – 26 km
7. Viladesuso to Patos Beach, Nigran – 25 km
8. Patos Beach to Chapela (Vigo suburbs) – 29 km
9. Chapela to Pontevedra (Coastal & Central) – 28.5 km
10. Pontevedra to Barrantes (Spiritual Variant) – 27.5 km
11. Barrantes to Vilanova de Arousa (Spiritual Variant) – 18.5 km
12. Vilanova de Arousa to Santiago de Compostela (Central) – 29.5 km
13. Santiago de Compostela – free day to rest and explore
14. Santiago de Compostela to Porto – 4 hour bus (9:00 am departure) 
15. Porto to Home (Vancouver)

I share my accommodations and reasoning for why I chose these stages at the end of this post.

Scroll to the bottom of this VERY long post to see the cost of each hotel/hostel that I stayed at. 

Related post: Beginners Guide & FAQ about the Camino de Santiago

Day 1 – Porto Airport to Lavra

My first night was spent at a coastal town named Lavra. It’s located about 22-24 km from the Porto Cathedral, the official starting point of the Caminho Português.

I walked about 14 km that day. It was an easy day of walking, but I was exhausted from the 48+ hours of travel from Vancouver to Porto.

I stayed in the 8 person dorm room at Angeiras Beach Hostel.

Why I stayed in Lavra?

My original plan was to start at Porto Cathedral. The goal is to walk between 20-25 km on Day 1. Not too long, but enough to challenge the body and cover some ground.

Using this distance as a starting point, the logical stops would be either Lavra, Labruge or Vila Chã. I researched the hostel/albergues in each of these towns. The most popular seemed to be Angeiras Beach Hostel (Lavra), Albergue São Tiago de Labruge, and Albergue São Mamede De Vila Chã. 

The only hostel that I could book online (using Booking.com) is Angeiras Beach Hostel. I didn’t want to risk not finding a bed on Day 1, so having the ability to easily book online made the decision for me. 

I paid 37 Euros for the bed. It includes pillow, blanket and linen (no towel).

Here’s a short video from Day 1 on the Portuguese Camino Coastal Route.

Angeiras Beach Hostel is a new hostel, so everything feels clean and new. The beds are comfortable. Pillow, blanket and linen included.

It’s located close to several restaurants and cafes, and it’s on the Camino Litoral route. Lavra is a small and quiet beach town with colourful homes along the waterfront. I enjoyed an evening walk on the beach before heading to dinner at A Casa do Gordo.

This video shares footage of the hostel – scroll to the end of the video.

Common area and hallway inside Angeiras Beach Hostel.

Day 2 – Lavra to Agucadoura (Póvoa de Varzim)

I had a rough sleep in the 8 person dorm room in Lavra. The room sounded like Jurassic Park with the relentless loud snoring and unusual bodily sounds coming from my roommates. I’m a very light sleeper, and I don’t sleep well with loud strangers in the room.

That said, Angeiras Beach Hostel is nice and I would recommend it.

On Day 2, I walked 24 km from Lavra to Hotel Santo Andre.

This hotel is located directly on the beach, a few kilometers north of Póvoa de Varzim.

Why I stayed here?

After three consecutive nights of very poor sleep, I decided to get a private hotel room to catch-up on some much needed quality sleep.

I paid 55 Euros for the private room. The price includes a nice breakfast buffet.

I thought that was a good deal, considering I paid 37 euros for the dorm bed the night before. And the breakfast buffet was good value. I was able to takeaway some pastries and fruit for lunch.

Watch this video recap from Day 2 on the Portuguese Camino.

Hotel Santo Andre is located directly on the Senda Litoral Camino

When I say directly, I mean it’s actually within steps of the actual trail. In the above photo, the boardwalk is the Camino route. The building on the right is Hotel Santo Andre.

It’s nice to not have to walk far from the Camino trail to find the accommodation for the night. 

However, the downside is that this hotel is quite isolated. There isn’t much nearby. Therefore, my only option for dinner was the hotel restaurant. The food was fine. It offers a set menu with a few options. 

View inside the private hotel room at Santo Andre Hotel. The room is dated and the bed is hard, but it’s clean and comfortable. I was able to get a solid sleep here.

Watch this video recap from Day 2, including a hotel room tour.

Hotel Santo Andre has a pool and it’s located on the beach.

My plan was to spend time at the pool and beach during my stay. However, the pool was very cold and it rained in the evening. I did find time to soak my feet in the pool, which was nice. Unfortunately, I did not spend any time on the beach, which was disappointing.

I was still battling jet lag and exhaustion, and my body just wanted sleep.

I imagine this pool would be very welcoming during the hot summer months. I’m writing this blog post in early July, when Western Europe is experiencing a heat wave. 

On Day 2, I passed the iconic Mosteiro de Santa Clara in Vila do Conde.

I took a detour in Vila do Conde in order to see Forte de São João Baptista de Vila do Conde.

Day 3 – Agucadoura (Póvoa de Varzim) to Mar (north Esposende)

I walked about 24 km on Day 3. The Senda Litoral route passes directly in front of Hotel Santo Andre, so it was easy to get started in the morning. 

I spent the night at a small roadside hostel in a town call Mar. It’s located about 5 km north of Esposende. 

Why I stayed here?

A common approach the Camino Portuguese is to stay overnight at Vila do Conde, then Esposende, then Viano do Castelo. But because Hotel Santo Andre is located halfway between Vila do Conde and Esposende, it did not make sense for me to stay in Esposende. 

Therefore, I made the decision to stay somewhere between Esposende and Viano do Castelo. This would shorten the walking distance the following day.

Watch my Day 3 recap video here. It includes a brief room tour.

I stayed at Mare de Passos Guest House. It’s a small hostel with only 6 bunkbeds in the dorm room. Each bed includes a pillow, blanket(s), linen and towel. 

I paid 25 euros for the bed.

I made the reservation online via the Booking.com app. However, I paid cash upon arrival.

Side note – it’s a good idea to have extra cash with you when walking the Camino.

Mare de Passos Guest House is not a typical stop on the Portuguese Camino, but it was a comfortable stay. It’s located on the N13 highway, between the Coastal Route and Litoral Way. Here’s the location on Google Maps.

Watch my Day 3 recap video here.

Mare de Passos Guest House is located about 1.5 km from the beach. The owner provides bikes to guests, so I joined my new Austrian friend on a bike ride to watch the sunset. It was a nice evening.

Above is Praia de Rio de Moinhos at sunset.

I tried my first Francesinha sandwich at Cafe Maranhao Bar.

It was good. Not great, but it hit the spot. There are only a few restaurant options in Mar.

Day 4 – Mar to Viana do Castelo

Because the guest house from the previous night is located between the Coastal Route and Senda Litoral Route, I had to make a decision. Do I go left (beach and Litoral) or right (hills and Coastal). 

I decided to walk the Litoral route along the coast. However, my plans changed shortly after. Read what happened here (in the caption).

I ended up back on the Camino Portugués Coastal Route (not the Litoral Way) later that morning.

I walked 24 km that day and stayed at Hotel do Parque in Viana do Castelo.

Day 4 video recaps – Part 1 and Part 2

Why I stayed at Hotel do Parque, Viana do Castelo

Originally, I planned to stay at Albergue de Santa Luzia. It’s located beside Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Santuário do Sagrado Coração de Jesus). This church is stunning! (video here)

However, I changed my mind when I found this private hotel room for 40 euros.

This hotel was recommended by someone who sent me a message on Instagram (thank you, Jason H!).

Hotel do Parque has an outdoor pool and I thought the hot breakfast buffet was included with the room price. The albergue price is 30 euros for a shared dorm room bed, so the private room with breakfast for only 10 euros extra seemed like a good deal.

However, I was wrong and the breakfast was not included in 40 euros room price. Regardless, it was still a good deal. I did purchase the breakfast buffet and it was good. I forget the price, but I think it was 10-12 euros. 

Watch Day 4 video recaps: Part 1 and Part 2

This pool was also very cold during my visit. It felt more like a cold plunge. Keep in mind, I walked the Camino Portuguese in late April. 

I believe this pool would be a welcome feature for those walking the Camino in the hot summer months. 

Can you spot the church on the hilltop?

That’s Sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The albergue is located beside the church, on the right side.

As you can see, it’s quite the walk to get from the church/albergue to the city center. There is a path with 660 steps from the city to the church. Keep this in mind if you plan to stay at the top of the hill. 

You can also take a funicular (Elevador de Santa Luzia) up and down, depending on the time of day. The funicular was closed during my visit (6:00 pm in April) so I shared an uber with another pilgrim. I forget the cost but I remember it was not expensive.

Watch Day 4 recaps – Part 1 and Part 2

Day 5 – Viana do Castelo to Caminha

After a big breakfast at Hotel do Parque, I left Viana do Castelo on the Coastal Route (not the Senda Litoral). This section is NOT on the beach. The path is higher up in the hills and passes through forest, towns and villages before rejoining the Litoral Way in Vila Praia de Ancora.

I stayed at Arca Nova Hostel in the town of Caminha.

Why I stayed in Caminha?

My plan is to cross the Minho River from Portugal to Spain, and continue up the coast on the Litoral Way. To do this, you must take a water taxi and/or small ferry from Caminha (Portugal) to A Pasaxe (Spain).

Caminha is the logical stage after staying in Viana do Castelo. It has plenty of options for accommodations and restaurants. 

The distance from Viana do Castelo to Caminha is 25 km.

I paid 20 euros for a dorm room bed at Arca Nova Hostel. Breakfast is an additional 6 euros. 

The hostel organized the water taxi in the morning. Be ready to go at 7:45 am and wait in the lobby. Someone will arrive with a van to transport pilgrims to the water taxi dock (it’s about 10 minute drive from the hostel).

Day 5 video recaps: Part 1 and Part 2

View of the shared dorm room inside Arca Nova Hostel. It also has private rooms available.

The beds are quite large. They are extra wide and long, and feel more like a double size vs twin/single size.

I had a very comfortable sleep here. No issues with loud snoring or noise either.  I would recommend this hostel.

Day 5 video recaps: Part 1 & Part 2 (including room tour).

Day 6 – Caminha, Portugal to Viladesuso, Spain

Today I say goodbye to Portugal and hello to Spain.

I hadn’t finished my breakfast at Arca Nova Hostel before I was being swept away in an old beat-up van, along with 7 other blurry-eyed and slightly confused pilgrims. 

The hostel organized the water taxi transfer. The owner said to be ready at 7:45 at the front of the hostel. Nothing was formally organized, reserved or paid in advance. I get the feeling this is a daily routine – just be ready in the morning and they will get you to the boat.

The van arrives at the dock 10 minutes later. It’s located just outside the town of Caminha.

We each paid 6 euros and then boarded the small water taxi. It takes less than 15 minutes to get from Caminha (Portugal) to A Pasaxe (Spain). Watch the video here. 

I walked 26 km along the coast and spent the night at Hotel Costa Verde in Viladesuso.

Why I stayed in Viladesuso

You have several options in the section between Oia and Baiona. The thing to keep in mind is how much distance you want to walk the following day. This will help inform your decision.

Originally, I planned to stay at Alojamiento Camino Portugues Oia. A couple of pilgrims I met the previous night at Arca Nova Hostel were staying there.

However, I changed my mind the night before and booked a private hotel room at Hotel Costa Verde. I like to rotate between dorm bed and private room, to catch up on sleep. 

With the gift of hindsight, I don’t know if this was the correct decision. I was tired when I made the booking. It was probably impulsive and unnecessary. 

I paid 59 euros for a private room. It’s the most expensive room so far on my Camino. 

That said, I did enjoy my stay at Hotel Costa Verde. The bed is very comfortable. It was the best sleep I had on the entire Camino. 

Day 6 video recaps: Part 1 and Part 2 (including room tour).

Explanada do Horizonte is a popular rest stop on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route.

There aren’t a lot of cafes and bars in this section, so it’s best to stop here to refuel. 

Approaching the iconic Royal Monastery of Santa María de Oia (Real Mosteiro de Santa María de Oia), a 12th-century Cistercian monastery strategically positioned on the Atlantic coast.

Pulpo a la Gallega at Restaurante Lorena in Viladesuso. 

Day 7 – Viladesuso to Patos Beach, Nigrán

I started late because of the 1 hour time zone change from Portugal to Spain. My body said 7:00 AM but it was actually 8:00 AM. 

The plan for the morning is to walk from Viladesuso to Baiona and explore the impressive Castelo de Monterreal. See the views from the castle here.

From Baiona, I continue my walk to Patos Beach in Nigrán. 

I walked 25 km that day and stayed at Patos Beach House.

Why I stayed here?

My sweet spot for walking is about 25 km per day. Walking less than 20 km feels too light and not challenging enough, but walking 30+ km is when my body starts breaking down. 

Therefore, I decided to stay somewhere between Viladesuso and Vigo. Patos Beach looked like an ideal place to spend the evening.

Patos Beach House is perfectly situated close to the beach and restaurants, so it was a good choice. 

I paid 46 euros for a small private room. It was a nice mix of comfort while still having the social atmosphere of the hostel. 

Day 7 video recaps: Part 1 and Part 2

View of my private room at Patos Beach House. It’s small, clean and comfortable. 

I had a good sleep here and would recommend it. 

Day 7 video recaps: Part 1 and Part 2

Day 8 – Patos Beach to Chapela (Vigo)

This stage of my Camino is somewhat confusing, so let me give you some context first. 

My plan is to walk the Spiritual Variant after Pontevedra. Because I have a fixed schedule with only 15 days total for my trip (including time in Santiago and Porto), if I want to complete the Spiritual Variant I need to walk from Patos Beach to Pontevedra in two days.  

Common stages here are: (1) Nigran (Patos Beach) to Vigo, then (2) Vigo to Rendondela, then (3) Redondela to Pontevedra (3 days/2 nights). I believe the distance is about 60 km.

However, I need to walk this distance in 2 days in order to stay on schedule.

Therefore, I decided to stay halfway between Vigo and Redondela. This would result in 2 days of approx. 28-30 km of walking, which would allow me to reach Pontevedra on schedule without having to walk a 35 km day. 

Why I stayed in Chapela?

Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of options for accommodations here. I found a roadside hostel in the town of Chapela, located about 8 km from central Vigo. Here’s the location on Google maps.

I stayed at Hostal Bahía de Chapela and paid 65 euros for a private room.

It was a comfortable stay and the hotel restaurant has a delicious set menu. However, I don’t think I made the right decision by staying in Chapela. The hostel is fine and I would recommend it if you plan to follow a similar path, but I just don’t think it was necessary to stay here. 

The Camino path takes you up a big hill when you leave Vigo. This hostel is located at the bottom of the hill, directly beside the highway. So I had to navigate my way down the hill and under the highway to get to the hostel. This added 1.5 km of walking. There are no markers here. You need Google maps. 

My decision was based on avoiding a long 35 km day from Patos Beach to Redondela.

However, after walking the 5 km section from Chapela to Redondela the following morning, I think it would have been better to push through and stay in Redondela. This section is mostly flat and it passes through a nice forest. 

Now, if 35 km is too long for you, this option of staying in Chapela to break up the section might make sense. But if you have no time constraints, I would probably stay in Vigo and walk to Rendodela instead (over two days, instead of one). 

Watch Day 8 video recaps: Part 1 & Part 2

Day 9 – Chapela (Vigo) to Pontevedra

This is a nice section on the Camino Portuguese, especially crossing the historic Puente Sampayo Bridge in Arcade. I walked about 30 km this day, when you include the detour from the previous night in Chapela (Vigo suburbs).

I stayed at Albergue Nacama Hostel Pontevedra and paid 23 euros for a dorm bed.

Why I stayed here?

Pontevedra is a popular stop on the Portuguese Camino. The Coastal and Central routes pass through this city, making it a logical place to spend the night. 

I chose Albergue Nacama Hostel Pontevedra because I was able to easily book online via the Booking.com app. It’s centrally located close to restaurants and amenities, and it’s good value. 

When I arrived at the albergue they had already assigned the beds. I believe the dorm room has 40 beds. It’s nicely spread out with curtains to create some privacy and reduce noise (see the layout of the dorm room in this video). 

This hostel was at full capacity during my stay (late April). While some pilgrims choose to not book accommodations ahead of time, I think it’s wise to make a reservation if you plan to stay here. I witnessed several pilgrims being turned away because the hostel was full.  

I would recommend this hostel. It’s clean, organized, good value and good location.

Day 9 video recaps: Part 1 & Part 2 

Day 10 – Pontevedra to to Barrantes (Spiritual Variant)

Today I leave the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route and start the Spiritual Variant.

I left the hostel in Pontevedra at 6:00 am. While my bed was comfortable, the person above me was a disaster. He would violently toss and turn every 15 minutes, shaking the bed as he bounced around. He was also a loud snorer and he talked in his sleep. Needless to say, I did not sleep well.

So I decided to get up and go. This is one of the things I love about the Camino. The freedom to start walking whenever you want. 

I took a short cut and crossed Ponte da Barca instead of the normal Camino route across the famous Burgo Bridge (Puente del Burgo). It was still dark outside and there was very little traffic, so I chose this shorter distance.

Basically, instead of walking north after Pontevedra and then turning west near A Cendona, I started walking west and joined the official trail at Mosteiro de San Xoán de Poio. I’m not sure exactly how many kilometres I saved but my guess is about 4-5 km.

This section before the monastery is not pretty and it’s on the side of a highway. It was fine in the early morning, but it’s probably not a good idea during the day. 

Common stops between Pontevedra and Vilanova de Arousa are at Combarro (11 km), A Armenteira (21 km) or Barrantes / Ribadumia (30-32 km). There is a 400 meter hill climb after Combarro, so keep that in mind when planning.

I decided to stay in Barrantes because there are more options for accommodations and restaurants (when compared to A Armenteira). 

I stayed at Hotel Neuvo Julios in Barrantes.

Why I stayed in Barrantes?

Because I took the short cut out of Pontevedra, the distance was about 28 km from Albergue Nacama Hostel (Pontevedra) to Hotel Neuvo Julios (Barrantes). If I did not take the short cut, I probably would have stayed in A Armenteira. 

Originally my plan was to stay at Albergue Camino Espiritual. However, after my poor sleep the night before, I decided to get a private room instead.

Also, because I covered a lot of distance, the following day was only 18 km, which meant I could start late and have a lazy morning. 

I paid 50 euros for a private room at Hotel Neuvo Julios.

When I arrived at the hotel there was nobody at reception. In fact, there was nobody at the hotel. I was sent an access code (via the Booking.com app) for the front door. The keys for each room are left in the door lock. It’s an efficient process, but it felt strange being alone in the hotel. 

The rooms are nice and clean. I had a comfortable stay here and would recommend it.

Day 10 video recaps: Part 1 , Part 2 & Part 3 (including room tour)

Approaching the town of Combarro at low tide. The Camino trail hugs the coastline in this section. 

This is my favourite part of the Spiritual Variant on the Camino Portuguese.

It’s called Ruta da Pedra e da Auga (The Route of Stone and Water) and it begins shortly after passing the Monastery of Armenteira.

It feels like a magical land where fairy tales come to life. The path runs parallel to the Armenteira River, so it’s very lush and green here. And it’s full of old stone ruins that have been reclaimed by nature. 

Day 11 – Barrantes to Vilanova de Arousa (Spiritual Variant)

Today is the shortest distance walked on my Camino. It’s only 18.5 km from Barrantes to Vilanova de Arousa. 

Therefore, I decided to enjoy my private hotel room and sleep in. It was nice to have a slow morning. I enjoyed a delicious breakfast at Café Che before starting my walk.  

I arrived at Vilanova de Arousa around 1:00 pm and rejoined my Camino friends at Mesón O Timón. This restaurant is located in front of the marina where you catch the Spiritual Variant boat from Vilanova to Pontecesures (Padron).

My Camino friends took the 1:30 pm boat instead of the typical morning departure. I did not know this was an option, otherwise I probably would have done the same.

I stayed at Hotel Bradomin in Vilanova de Arousa. 

Why I stayed here?

Vilanova de Arousa is a fairly big town so you have a lot of options for accommodations and restaurants. This is where you take the boat on the Spiritual Variant, so it’s a logical place to spend the night. 

I did the 7:00 am boat departure time. This meant that I had to leave the hotel by no later than 6:30 am. 

I paid 46 euros for a private room at Hotel Bradomin.

Day 11 video recaps: Part 1 & Part 2 

I must have forgotten to take a photo of the hotel room.

Here’s a video with a room tour at Hotel Bradomin (skip to the end).

There are two companies that transport pilgrims on the Spiritual Variant. They are often referred as the “big boat” or “small boat”. 

I took the big boat with La Barca del Peregrino. See photos below.

It’s wise to make your reservation ahead of time. I booked 2 days before departure time and there were only a couple spots left.

Above is a photo of the small boats. These two boats departed at 1:30 pm. 

Both boats were full, so it’s important to make reservations ahead of time. 

I’ve had a lot of questions about this 1:30 pm departure time. I did not use this company or depart at that time, so I don’t have further info beyond what you will find on the internet. 

However, I can confirm (with photo evidence above!) that there is a 1:30 pm departure time. 

Day 11 video recaps: Part 1 & Part 2 

Day 12 – Vilanova de Arousa (Spiritual Variant) to Santiago de Compostella

Today is my final day on the Camino Portuguese! I took the early boat departure at 7:00 am.

I sailed on the “big boat” with La Barca del Peregrino. More info here. 

The boat took about 2 hours. I walked from the boat dock in Pontecesures to Padron (about 2 km) and joined the Camino Portuguese Central route.

Many pilgrims will choose to break this section into two. It’s over 28 km from Pontecesures to Santiago de Compostela, and you’ll start walking at around 9:00 am because of the boat trip (which is a late start for a 28 km day). 

Why I walked straight to Santiago de Compostela

There are a few reasons why I decided to walk from Pontecesures to Santiago instead of breaking this section into two stages.

First, it was supposed to rain the following morning. This meant that my final steps to Santiago de Compostela would be wet. If I could avoid this, that made sense to me.

Second, I prefer to walk at least 20 km per day. The logical places to break up the stage would mean that I had two short days with a lot of extra time at the hotel or albergue. I wasn’t interested in long periods at a hostel.  

Third, the food. There are so many great restaurants in Santiago de Compostela. I felt like it was worth it to have a long and challenging day because I would be rewarded with tapas, pinchos and vino tinto. 

Finally, extra time in Santiago de Compostela. I love this city. So it was an easy decision to spend an extra night here vs staying in a small town in the suburbs of Santiago. 

Watch Day 12 video recaps: Part 1, Part 2 , Part 3 and Part 4

Day 13 – Santiago de Compostela 

I had a full day to spend in Santiago de Compostela because I chose to walk straight from the Spiritual Variant to the cathedral in Santiago. It was nice to sleep in late and have a lazy breakfast before exploring this magnificent city. 

I wrote a blog post about things to do in Santiago de Compostela after completing the Camino.

I spent two nights in Santiago de Compostela

• Night 1 – Nest Style Santiago – 100 euros for private room
• Night 2 – Hotel Entrecercas – 90 euros for private room with breakfast included

It was difficult to find affordable hotels in Santiago de Compostela. I arrived on Friday, May 1, which is a national public holiday in Spain (Labour Day – Fiesta del Trabajo).

My assumption is that the holiday long weekend is why hotel availability was limited. 

I didn’t get a photo of the exterior of Hotel Entrecercas in Santiago de Compostela. However, this is the view as soon as you step outside the entrance to the hotel.

Notice the twin spires in the distance. This gives you perspective about how close the hotel is to the main cathedral. 

Recap of accommodation and price for each night

1. Lavra –Angeiras Beach Hostel – 37 euros
2. Agucadoura – Hotel Santo Andre – 55 euros (breakfast included)
3. Mar – Mare de Passos Guest – 25 euros
4. Viana do Castelo – Hotel do Parque – 40 euros
5. Caminha – Arca Nova Hostel – 20 euros
6. Viladesuso – Hotel Costa Verde – 59 euros
7. Patos, Nigran – Patos Beach House – 46 euros
8. Chapela (Vigo) – Hostal Bahía de Chapela – 65 euros
9. Pontevedra – Albergue Nacama Hostel Pontevedra – 23 euros
10. Barrantes – Hotel Nuevo Julios – 50 euros
11. Vilanova de Arousa – Hotel Bradomin – 46 euros
12. Santiago de Compostela (arrival night) – Nest Style Santiago – 100 euros
13. Santiago de Compostela (2nd night) – Hotel Entrecercas – 90 euros (breakfast included)
14. Porto – Stay Hotel Porto Centro Trindade – 83 euros

Total spent for 14 nights = 739 euros 

The final three nights in Santiago de Compostela and Porto are the most expensive. If you remove these and only focus on the nights spent on the Camino, the total is 466 euros for 11 nights (42 euros per night average).

You’ll notice I mostly stayed in private hotel rooms. This is by choice, not because of lack of availability at hostels/albergues on the Portuguese Camino.

There are plenty of options for dorm beds on this Camino route(s). 

I prefer to sleep in private rooms vs dorm rooms. I find it difficult to sleep in dorm rooms because I’m a light sleeper. The loud snoring and constant noise in the dorm rooms prevents me from having a good sleep, which is essential when walking 25km per day.

I do prefer hostels/albergues over hotels, for the social experience, but I prefer to sleep in a private room. 

Some people will argue that you must sleep in dorm rooms to have the full Camino experience. I don’t believe this to be true.

Ironically, these same people will also argue that you should probably stay in a private room if I don’t like the snoring and loud noises in the shared dorm room. So I don’t give much attention to these opinions. Sleeping in a bunk bed does not define your Camino experience. 

Videos from each stage of the Camino Portuguese

1. Porto to Lavra (Litoral Way) – video recap Facebook and Instagram
2. Lavra to Agucadoura (Póvoa de Varzim) – recap Facebook and Instagram
3. Agucadoura to Mar (north of Esposende) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
4. Mar to Viana do Castelo (Coastal) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
5. Viana do Castelo to Caminha – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
6. Caminha to Viladesuso (Litoral) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
7. Viladesuso to Patos Beach, Nigran – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
8. Patos Beach to Chapela (Vigo suburbs) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
9. Chapela to Pontevedra (Coastal & Central) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
10. Pontevedra to Barrantes (Spiritual Variant) – FB part 1/part 2/part 3 and IG part 1/part 2/part 3
11. Barrantes to Vilanova de Arousa (Spiritual Variant) – FB part 1 & part 2, IG part 1 & part 2
12. Vilanova de Arousa to Santiago de Compostela – FB part 1/part 2/part 3 and IG part 1/part 2/part 3
13. Santiago de Compostela – video recap Facebook and Instagram
14. Santiago de Compostela to Porto – video recap Facebook and Instagram

Here is the recap of Where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese – Facebook and Instagram

Read more blog posts about Camino de Santiago:

• Thoughts and reflections after walking the Camino Frances
• What to do in Santiago de Compostela after walking the Camino
• Beginners Guide and FAQ about the Camino 
• Why I started the Camino Frances in Leon, Spain
• Photos and video of my packing list for the Camino
• My Return to the Camino – what I’m doing differently this time

Are you considering walking the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route?

Leave a comment below if you have questions. I’ll do my best to answer.

Where I stayed on the Camino Portuguese Coastal Route is a post from: Traveling Canucks

What you need to know before you visit Xcaret

Located in Mexico’s popular Riviera Maya, Xcaret is an eco-archaeological park with over 50 attractions. Visitors come to Xcaret to snorkel with fish, explore underground rivers and caves, learn about Mayan culture, see wildlife and enjoy its tropical surroundings.

It has a lot of similarities to nearby Xel-Ha Park.

This family friendly adventure park is situated 60 km south of Cancun International Airport, 6 km from Playa del Carmen and 57 km north of Tulum. It takes about an hour to drive to Xcaret from Cancun, Mexico.

We have visited the Riviera Maya several times before, but this was the first time we visited its amusement parks. After researching each one, and reading the recommended ages, we decided to visit Xel-Ha and Xcaret on our trip to Mexico.

Visit Xcaret Park and Save by booking here.

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This Xcaret blog post was originally published in 2018 and updated August 2026. This is why our boys look younger in the photos. 

Should you visit Xcaret? Is it worth it?

In our opinion, the answer is yes. However, you’ll want to be prepared before you go.

We learned a lot during our first visit to the park. The big realization was that we were not fully prepared for our visit. The purpose of this post is to share our firsthand experience with you so you don’t make some of the mistakes/assumptions that we did.

Below are a few things we learned while visiting Xcaret.

Xcaret park is really big

Xcaret is over 200 acres (81 hectares)! You’re unlikely to explore the entire park in one visit, especially with young children. It’s just too big to do it properly in one day.

We suggest you take a look at the map and plan your activities in order of location.

A good way to organize your day would be to group your activities by sections, like South, North, East and West. Or, by water activities versus land activities. For example, you would do land activities in the morning and evening, and water activities mid-day so you avoid changing clothes multiple times a day.

If you’re traveling with young kids, we suggest you bring a stroller or rent one at the park.

They have single (299 pesos) and double strollers (399 pesos) available to rent. It’s a big park, so this is money well spent. Our boys were 6 and 4 years old during our visit and they complained that we were walking too much.

Keep in mind, it’s quite hot during the day. Bring hats and reef safe sunscreen.

Xcaret is very family friendly

If you’re traveling with kids 4 years old or under, admission to the park is free. Children between the ages 5 to 12 years old will get a discounted rate on admission.

It’s a good idea to bring or rent a stroller if you have younger children. Most of the park is flat and there are stroller friendly paths to most exhibits.

Kid friendly activities include: viewing jaguars, turtles of all sizes, sharks, manatees and coral reef aquarium. Children’s World, one of the newest attractions at Xcaret, has water slides, hanging bridges, cenotes, a parakeet habitat and a playground. There’s also a butterfly pavilion and wild bird aviary inside Xcaret.

Information about Xcaret activities can be found here.

Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive

Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive. If you are staying at an all-inclusive resort in the Riviera Maya, this may feel like a surprise. Some of the other adventure parks in the area are all inclusive, so this can be confusing.

You will need to bring cash and a credit card with you. There are extra charges for day lockers, strollers, snorkel equipment, towels, food and beverages. 

Related – Everything you need to know about Xel-Ha Park

Should you watch Xcaret Mexico Espectacular?

We made the mistake of not properly planning our time inside the park. We arrived early, around 9:30 AM. On the surface, this seemed like the right idea. However, if you want to attend the evening shows, we learned that an early arrival time is not ideal.

Our boys were pretty tired and cranky by 6:00 PM. There was no way they would survive the Xcaret México Espectacular evening show.

Because of this, we did not get to see the big show. This was unfortunate because we’ve heard it’s the highlight of Xcaret. We did see some of the actors in costume before the show began. It looks like quite the spectacle. 

Travel tip – Plan your visit to include the evening show. If you have young kids, it might be wise to arrive at the park late morning or mid-day.

We did watch the evening horse show.

This Mexican cowboy show is quite entertaining and worth watching. If you haven’t had dinner yet, consider eating at La Cocina (located near the park entrance) because it’s right beside the horse show. The restaurant has some of the best seats to watch the show.

The horse show finishes before the Xcaret Mexico Espectacular evening show.

Should you spend time at Xcaret Beach?

If your hotel or resort does not have a nice beach, you may want to save some beach time for Xcaret. It’s beautiful stretch of beach with safe and calm water, which is ideal for young children who cannot swim. The water is warm and crystal clear (see photo above), and the sand is silky smooth. And there are plenty of chairs and loungers available.

To keep the cove water clear, and the fish safe, you’ll want to bring special sunscreen with you. Xcaret asks that guests only use biodegradable sunscreen, because normal sunscreens contain oils that pollute the water and cause illnesses to the marine life. The park strives to protect the environment and they ask visitors to do the same.

If you don’t have biodegradable sunscreen with you, you can purchase a bottle inside the park.

Otherwise, it’s a good idea to purchase before you leave home. You can order it on Amazon here.

Related – Review of our stay at the Grand at Moon Palace Cancun

Should you buy the Xcaret Plus Package?

Because Xcaret is NOT all-inclusive, you may find that the expenses start to add up. If you plan to eat while inside Xcaret, we suggest you purchase the Xcaret Plus package. Full details here.

The difference in price, from the basic admission, is an increase of $35.00 CAD per adult ($17.00 CAD for kids). The Xcaret Plus package gives you the following:

• Access to Area Plus facilities including restrooms, dressing rooms and showers
• Use of snorkeling equipment, life jackets and inner tubes
• Safety bag service during the river journey
• 1 Buffet lunch including 1 beer and unlimited beverages (soft drinks, flavored waters and coffee). There are 5 restaurants to choose from. The buffet costs $29 USD per adult, so if you plan to eat at the buffet, the price of the Plus Package will cover this cost.

Xcaret has optional activities for additional cost. Here’s the list

Book online and save up to 25% at Xcaret

Swimming in Xcaret’s underground caves

There are lots of things to do at Xcaret. Too many, actually (see the list of activities here). So, you have decisions to make.

One activity you can’t miss is swimming and snorkeling through the park’s network of underground rivers and caves. These sacred rivers and caves are unique to the Riviera Maya.

We underestimated the length and darkness of the caves, but you can exit at several stops along the way if you find it too long. Our 4 year old was a little scared of the darkness, and my father and mother (the kids grandparents, age 70 and 75 years old) found some sections to be too long.

Make sure you get a pair of fins. They make swimming through the caves so much easier.

If you purchase the Xcaret Plus package, you’ll want to find the dedicated Area Plus facilities to store your belongings. If you purchased basic admission, you’ll want to find day lockers to rent.

Last minute personal items, like shoes, hats, towels and wallets, are stored in a locked bag and transported to a station at the end of the river. You keep the key with you and pick up your belongings at the designated station. This is a nice service but it can be a little confusing.

When in doubt, ask questions.

What to pack for a day trip to Xcaret?

Here’s what we recommend you bring with you:

• Bottled water
• Biodegradable Sunscreen
• Snorkel gear
• Waterproof Camera (we use this one)
• Stroller (if you have kids)
• Towel
• Wrap for over your bathing suit
• Extra change of clothes
• Hat
• Sweater (it gets chilly in the evening)
• Small snacks for kids
• Comfy shoes AND a pair of flip flops (you will do a lot of walking)
• Cash and credit card

Travel tip – write your name and phone number on your kid’s wrist band (guests receive a wrist band upon entrance). That way, if your child gets lost, they can show an employee the phone number to call.

Also, it’s wise to explain to your kids what to do should they get lost. Create a plan and communicate it to them. Have them repeat the plan back to you. 

Related – Should you bring a car seat when you travel with kids?

Above – a baby manatee swims with its mom at the manatee exhibit.

Do you follow us on Instagram? If not, come say hello!

Bring snacks and water with you

The park does not allow outside food, however, it’s a good idea to bring some bars and snacks for your kids. Our boys are always hungry, so they’re constantly snacking.

Our youngest boy is allergic to dairy and eggs, so we don’t know what food will be available for him. The park says it’s okay to bring baby food and milk/formula if you’re traveling with an infant.

Xcaret Park Hours of Operation

Xcaret Park is open 365 days a year from 8:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Regardless of when you plan to visit the Riviera Maya, you’ll be able to visit Xcaret.

According to the park website, the best days to visit are Saturday and Sunday because most hotel packages arrive and depart on those days.

If you’re traveling with young kids, and you want to watch the evening shows (it ends at 9:30 PM), we suggest you arrive a little later in the day.

Have breakfast at your resort first. Then plan to arrive around noon and stay for the evening shows.

Xcaret Prices and How to get Xcaret Tickets

You can save 15% by booking online. There are different packages that include transportation, all inclusive food and options for additional activities like the Stingray Encounter and Swim with Dolphins.

The Xcaret Basic admission is approx. $120 USD, while Xcaret Plus is approx. $150 USD. 

You can purchase Xcaret tickets at most of the resorts in the Riviera Maya. If you stay at the Xcaret Hotel admission is included.

Expect long lines to get your tickets at the Xcaret entrance. Because there are so many vendors, tour operators and hotels selling tickets to guests, it can be a long process.

Get up to a 25% discount on activities and tours in Cancun and Riviera Maya.

How do you get to Xcaret Park?

Getting to Xcaret is easy. If you purchase a package, transportation is often included.

Or, you can get a private transfer from your hotel or resort (that’s what we did).

The private transfer will pick you up at your hotel and drive you directly to the park entrance. It will also bring you back to your hotel at a time of your choosing.

We used Cheap Transfer Cancun. The vans are new and they offer the proper car seat for our 4 year old. We would recommend them. Prices vary depending on distance and number of people. More info here.

We actually used this company multiple times on our vacation to the Riviera Maya.

We stayed at the Iberostar Del Mar and the trip to Xcaret was about 45 minutes. 

Staying at Hotel Xcaret

Another option is to stay at the all-inclusive Hotel Xcaret, which is connected to the park.

This is by far the most convenient resort for Xcaret. The benefit to staying here is that admission to Xcaret parks and/or tours is included in the hotel price. 

Read this hotel review to learn more about Hotel Xcaret. Hotel Xcaret is a 5 star property so you’ll want to compare prices to find the best deal.

Compare prices for Hotel Xcaret Here.

Read more posts about travel to Mexico:

• Una Vez Más! Our Vow Renewal in Mexico
• Should you add Sayulita to your travel short list?
• Then and Now. Our return to the Riviera Maya
• Coati Invasion in the Riviera Maya

Have you been to Xcaret Mexico?

What did you think of the park? Like or Dislike?

Share your experience and travel tips in the comments section below.

Here’s what you need to know before you visit Xcaret in Mexico is a post from: Traveling Canucks

Fun things to do in Squamish, British Columbia

Over the past 20 years, we’ve driven up and down the Sea to Sky Highway countless times. Most often, we drive this famous Canadian highway while enroute to Whistler, one of British Columbia’s most popular tourist destinations. 

Squamish is the natural half-way point between Vancouver and Whistler. It’s often used as a pit stop to fuel up, have lunch and pick up supplies. Many first time visitors to British Columbia will drive right through Squamish, without realizing that it’s a fun travel destination all on its own. 

There are so many things to do in Squamish, especially during summer, that we believe it should be your final destination. 

It is, after all, the Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada.

Surprisingly, up until a few weeks ago, we had not stayed overnight in Squamish before. Given that it’s less than an hour drive from our home, we often visit as a day trip from Vancouver. 

While the focus of this blog post is to share the best things to do in Squamish during the summer, it’s important to note that Squamish is a four season destination. Many of these activities can be done in the winter, too. Just make sure you pack a quality rain jacket and umbrella.

Related – Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

Sea to Sky Gondola

Without question, the Sea to Sky Gondola is the most popular attraction in Squamish these days. If you only have one day in Squamish, we recommend you start with the Sea to Sky Gondola. 

It’s located directly off the Sea to Sky Highway, making it easily accessible. It’s best to arrive early because the parking lot fills up quickly. Purchase your gondola tickets online here. 

The Sea to Sky Gondola transports guests up to the Summit Lodge in less than 10 minutes. Watch this 30 second video of the gondola ride from bottom to top. 

Why visit the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish?

There’s much more to this popular Squamish tourist attraction then pretty mountain landscapes. Although, the pretty landscapes are certainly worth the price of admission.

The Sea to Sky Gondola has expanded it’s offerings and attractions:  

• Panoramic views of Howe Sound from the Viewing Platforms
• Walk across the bouncy Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge (photo above)
• Take a hike. There are several trails from the summit lodge, from easy paths to backcountry alpine trails. Here’s the list of hiking trails.
• Squamish Via Ferrata tours. More info here.
• Patio dining with spectacular views at Sky Pilot Eatery. 
• Snowshoeing, tubing and ski touring in the winter.

Watch – Amazing views from Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge

The best views of Squamish from the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform.

Spectacular mountain views from the outdoor patio at Summit Lodge.

Squamish Via Ferrata is located at the Sea to Sky Gondola.

It’s an adrenaline pumping adventure that combines hiking and rock climbing, while being clipped into a safety cable.

An experienced guide takes guests through a mountain climbing course that ends at the Summit Lodge. 

Learn more and book your tour here.

Shannon Falls Provincial Park

Located directly beside the Sea to Sky Gondola, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is home to the 3rd highest waterfall in British Columbia. At 335 meters, it’s 3 times as high as Niagara Falls in Ontario.

Shannon Falls is a must visit attraction in Squamish. It’s a short 5 minute walk from the parking lot to the base of the waterfalls, so it’s quite accessible. The trail to the falls is flat with little elevation, so it’s an easy walk. You only need 30 minutes to visit the park and see the waterfalls. 

Shannon Falls is most impressive during the spring and early summer, when the surrounding mountain snow melts and water flow is at its highest. 

It’s very easy to combine visits to the Sea to Sky Gondola and Shannon Falls.

Parking is challenging during the summer, especially on weekends. There is an overflow parking lot on the opposite side of the Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). Because the waterfalls are easy to access, and it doesn’t take long to view them, people come and go frequently.

Waiting for a parking spot can be frustrating, but parking spots do open if you’re patient. 

Squamish Canyon

One of the newest tourist attractions in Squamish, the Squamish Canyon is an elevated boardwalk through British Columbia’s spectacular temperate rainforest. 

This is the perfect place to see Mamquam Falls. The water at Mamquam ralls famously changes colour between vibrant turquoise blue, deep emerald green, and a milky white-grey, depending on the time of year and weather conditions. 

Watch this short video from our time at Squamish Canyon.

The canyon is situated roughly 15 minutes from downtown Squamish. There is no public transit to the canyon, so you’ll need a vehicle to access it.

Drive along Highway 99 (Sea-to-Sky Highway) and turn onto the gravel Mamquam Forest Service Road. The turnoff is located after the turnoff for the Stawamus Chief Provincial Park – if you’re driving north from Vancouver to Squamish. 

Learn more about Squamish Canyon here. 

The park has over 1.5 kilometers of elevated boardwalks. It’s a safe and family friendly way to experience the forest, river and waterfalls. 

Above – observation deck inside Squamish Canyon. 

Hike the Stawamus Chief 

One of the most popular hikes in Squamish, and British Columbia for that matter, is the famous Stawamus Chief hike. Stawamus Chief Provincial Park protects the massive 700 metre granite cliffs that tower over Squamish. The Chief is one of the largest granite monoliths in the world. 

Access the hiking trails from the parking lot that’s located off the Sea to Sky Highway. The main trailhead is also accessible from Shannon Falls Provincial Park via the 1.5 km connector trail.

There are three hikes on The Chief

• First Peak – 1.5 km trail with an elevation gain of 540 meters 
• Second Peak  – 1.7 km trail with an elevation gain of 590 meters 
• Third Peak  – 1.8 km trail with an elevation gain of 630 meters 

The above distances are one way. You must also consider the return hike back down. See the Stawamus Chief trail map here. 

Plan for 3 to 4 hours to do the Chief. It’s a strenuous hike for many, so bring plenty of water and snacks, proper footwear and check the weather conditions prior to your hike. 

Above is the top of the Stawamus Chief, seen from the Chief Overlook Viewing Platform at the Sea to Sky Gondola. 

Other popular hiking trails in Squamish

• Murrin Park Loop Trail – 2.4 km roundtrip (intermediate) / 2 hours
• Smoke Bluffs Loop Trail – 3.5 km roundtrip (easy) / 1.5 hours
• Four Lakes Trail at Alice Lake Provincial Park – 6 km (easy) / 2 hours
• Brohm Lake Loop and Tantalus View Trail – variety of trails from easy to intermediate 

Quick break while hiking the Brohm Lake loop trail in Squamish.

Entrance to the Panorama Trail, located at the Sea to Sky Gondola. More photos here.

Bike riding trails in Squamish

Another fun thing to do in Squamish is ride bikes. There are several paved, gravel and forest trails scattered throughout Squamish, so there’s something for every skill and preference. 

A good starting point is the Corridor Trial (pictured above). This easy paved path runs north and south through Squamish. It also connects to the vast network of bike trails. The Corridor Trail runs beside the Rope Runner Adventure Park (referenced above), so you can start your bike ride here after spending time at the aerial ropes course. 

Don’t have a bike with you? Not to worry. There are several bike rental shops in Squamish that offer road bikes, full suspension mountain bikes, kids bikes and E-bikes. 

Mountain Biking Squamish

Squamish has a huge network of mountain biking trails, including the Diamond Head Zone. We don’t mountain bike, so we’re not the best resource. However, our good friends confirm that Squamish is home of some of the best mountain biking in Canada.. 

Learn more about Squamish mountain biking here.

Above is a new development on the east side of the Mamquam Blind Channel in Downtown Squamish. 

Rock Climbing in Squamish

Squamish is widely known as the rock climbing capital of Canada. Climbers come from around the world to experience its famous granite cliffs and bluffs. Many of the climbing spots are located within a ten minute drive of Downtown Squamish.

The star attraction is the Stawamus Chief, a massive granite monolith towering 700 meters above Squamish and Howe Sound. The Chief has hundreds of climbing routes for every level (pictured above).

Smoke Bluffs is another popular spot for Squamish rock climbing. Located just across the highway from downtown, The Bluffs are easy to get to with mainly short approaches. It’s a great place to experience Squamish’s world-famous granite.

Learn about the best spots for rock climbing and bouldering in Squamish here. 

Can you spot the rock climbers in the above photo?

Hint – one climber is wearing yellow. 

Airhouse Squamish

Airhouse is an indoor freestyle training park that offers trampoline and action sport training programs.

It offers drop-in sessions, lessons, camps and group events. More info here.

This is a fun place to spend a rainy day. It has a variety of trampolines, gymnastic equipment and a half-pipe, so you can work on your form regardless of your sport. 

Watch our youngest boy do a big trick at Airhouse (sound on).

Kayaking in Howe Sound and Squamish Harbour

Squamish is a fantastic place to go paddling, too. Howe Sound is surrounded by a network of incredible fjords, so you can kayak for a few hours around Squamish Harbour or make it a multi-day excursion. 

Don’t have a kayak or stand-up paddleboard?

No problem. You can rent equipment at Squamish Watersports in downtown Squamish. It offers sit-in and sit-on kayaks, touring sea kayaks, double kayaks and expedition sea kayaks. 

You can also join a guided kayak tour around Squamish Harbour and Estuary. 

Above is the Squamish Estuary at the tip of Howe Sound.

Scenic Flightseeing tour

Hop aboard a small plane in Squamish to get a birds eye view of Howe Sound and the spectacular Coast Mountain Range in the Pacific Northwest.

This 50-minute flightseeing tour travels north to Whistler, passing over Garibaldi Provincial Park, endless coastal forest, snow-capped peaks and the iconic Black Tusk Mountain. 

Can you spot the flightseeing plane in the above photo?

Read more about Whistler Backcountry Flightseeing Tour here. 

Visit a Brewery – BC Ale Trail

We try to visit a local craft brewery (or two) when we visit new places. Squamish has joined the BC Ale Trail with a few new brewery additions in recent years.

If you like beer, we recommend you add one or two of these Squamish breweries to your itinerary.

List of breweries in Squamish:

• Howe Sound Brewery – the original local brewery dating back to 1996. Voted ‘Brewery of the Year’ at the Canadian Brewing Awards 2022.
• Backcountry Brewing – serving up delicious pizza while you sample a flight. 
• A-FRAME Brewing – rustic tasting room with a Pacific Northwest cabin vibe.
• Cliffside Cider – enjoy traditional cider with views of the Stawamus Chief.

Tasty handcrafted pizza at Backcountry Brewing. 

Britannia Mine Museum

Located 15 minutes south of downtown Squamish, Britannia Mine Museum is both a National Historic Site and British Columbia Historic Landmark. It has a fascinating history that dates back to 1904, when it was the largest copper mine in the British Empire.

There are over 210 km’s of mining tunnels in the mountains surrounding Britannia Beach. Think about that for a moment. It was once one the British Empire’s largest copper mines.

Britannia Mine Museum offers an underground tour, where guests board an old mine train that travels through the mine, just like miners back in 1914.

You only need a couple hours for this Squamish tourist attraction. You can visit as a day trip from Vancouver or make a stop on your drive from Whistler to Vancouver (or vice versa). 

Inside the old mining tunnel at Britannia Mine Museum. 

Railway Museum of British Columbia 

The Railway Museum of British Columbia (formerly the West Coast Railway Heritage Park), has a collection of 95 heritage railway locomotives and cars.

See the exhibits and main attractions here. 

Guests can hop aboard a mini-rail train and ride around the park grounds. The 20 minute ride travels 2 kilometers of track and takes riders from one end of the grounds to the other. For more info, visit to the museum website here. 

In the winter, the Railway Museum may host the legendary Polar Express. Our boys enjoyed the experience many years ago. Read about it here.

Explore Downtown Squamish

While there’s an abundance of outdoor adventures in Squamish, exploring the downtown area should also be on your list of things to do in Squamish. The downtown area is only 5 minutes from the main intersection on the Sea to Sky Highway. 

The main street in downtown Squamish is Cleveland Avenue. Here you will find coffee shops, boutique retail stores, native art stores, restaurants, the Squamish Public Library, Junction Park & O’Siyam Pavilion and Howe Sound Brewery.

Related post – Top attractions along the Sea to Sky Highway

The iconic Stawamus Chief towers over downtown Squamish restaurants and shops.

Colourful rainbow street crossing in downtown Squamish. The small city is surrounded by mountains. 

Squamish Farmers Market

The Squamish Farmers Market is a popular attraction with over 60 vendors selling a variety of local produce, cheese and artisan goods.

It’s open on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

More info about vendors and market map here.

Where to Eat in Squamish

There are several restaurants in Squamish, so you have plenty of options to choose from.

The most popular Squamish restaurants : The Salted Vine, The Copper Coil, Fox & Oak, Zephyr Cafe, Fergies Cafe and Howe Sound Brew Pub.

You will also find most fast food restaurants here. Most are located along the Sea to Sky Highway for easy access. If you’re looking for a quick bite, there are drive through windows at the McDonalds, Tim Hortons (there are two), Wendy’s, Starbucks and A&W.

Squamish also has a White Spot and Boston Pizza, if you’re looking for a familiar family restaurant.

Photo above – Breakfast at White Spot after visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola.

White Spot a popular family restaurant chain in British Columbia. We dine here often with our boys because the menu has something for everyone and the food is good. 

‘2 Chill Gelato’ is a fun ice cream shop in downtown Squamish. 

Delicious Indian food at Indian Masala Bar & Grill, located near the Walmart in the new development off the Sea to Sky Highway. 

Enjoying lunch outdoors at The Copper Coil. The mighty Stawamus Chief in the backdrop.

I recently discovered Sunny Chibas. It’s located directly on the Sea to Sky Highway, at the south end of downtown Squamish.

It’s a funky quick service restaurant that’s known for its Twice cooked pork belly burritos, black sesame habanero fried chicken and chiba fries. 

Where to Stay in Squamish

During our last overnight in Squamish, we stayed at the Sandman Hotel.

It’s located just off the Sea to Sky Highway, near the Walmart. We enjoyed our time at this hotel. Our room had two double beds plus a pull-out couch, which is ideal for our family of four. 

Check Sandman Hotel room rates and availability here.

Other popular Squamish hotels are Mountain Retreat Hotel and Executive Suites Hotel & Resort.

There are also plenty of Squamish vacation rentals to choose from, including rustic cabins and high-end condos. Check VRBO for availability. 

Read more blog posts about travel in British Columbia:

• Best Road Trip from Vancouver for first time visitors
• Top attractions along the Sea to Sky Highway
• 20 Awesome Things to do in Victoria
• Best Things to do in Whistler this Summer
• Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs with kids
• Is it worth visiting the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish?

Have you visited the Squamish? If not, do you plan to visit in the future?

Leave us a comment below if you have any questions about things to do in Squamish.

15 Things to do in Squamish this Summer is a post from: Traveling Canucks