Vancouver is known as one of Canada’s prettiest cities. With stunning seascapes, towering Douglas fir and maple trees, and abundant sea life, it’s a paradise for nature lovers. With a growing population of nearly three million in the metropolitan region, there’s plenty to enjoy. For those looking for a more restful stay, North Vancouver is the perfect alternative to the bustle of Vancouver.
We often prefer a quieter getaway and chose to take the 12-minute SeaBus ride. Leaving Vancouver’s densely-populated downtown behind, we sailed across the Burrard Inlet to the Lonsdale Quay. Here, the 400-passenger catamaran docks on Vancouver’s North Shore, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace begins. We found the Seabus to be efficient and economical at about $11 Canadian for a day pass. See translink.ca for information on fares and schedules.
North Vancouver is peaceful and grounding.
Once you’re in North Vancouver, you may never want to leave. It’s full of great energy. People come to meet friends and join in on whatever is going on. In the quiet hours, it’s also a wonderful place to meditate. Or simply reflect on the beauty of the shoreline, ships in the harbor, and the sound of seabirds circling overhead.
You’ll find several hotels right at Lonsdale Quay. This is where the SeaBus, bus, and train all arrive to facilitate your regional exploration. Our favorite is the Pinnacle at the Pier, where the historic Wallace Shipyard operated from 1906 until 1971. Wallace and company built 109 of the 380 vessels constructed during 20th-century wartime at the shipyards of North Vancouver.
The Pinnacle Hotel — A Great Choice
The Pinnacle at the Pier has 106 spacious guest rooms with many balconies facing the waterfront, as well as rooms offering mountain views. It is right in the heart of the action at the Lonsdale Quay shopping and entertainment district. The hotel also features an Olympic-sized swimming pool and gym, fabulous dining options, efficient staff, and a friendly, relaxing vibe. I’d highly recommend the Smoked (in-house) Sockeye Salmon Eggs Benedict served with true homestyle potatoes in the Lobby Restaurant. One of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had.
Be sure to explore the offerings of the nearby Lonsdale Quay. You can sit along the waterfront and enjoy the ships coming and going. Head inside to the Lonsdale Market, where you can buy many locally made goods and fresh produce.
North Vancouver Can Be Very Tasty
Nearby the Pinnacle at the Pier, don’t miss Coconama Chocolate on 1st Street East, just off Lower Lonsdale. Here you can enjoy some authentic Japanese-style chocolate. Coconama is uniquely prepared on flat pans and cut into one-inch square cubes. This facilitates an easy melting in the mouth. Totally tantalizing. Coconama also has classes where you can learn to make chocolate or enjoy a guided tasting experience.
Several of my favorite stops in North Vancouver are on Lonsdale Avenue. Lonsdale is the main street in North Vancouver. It runs approximately eight kilometers from Lonsdale Quay up the hill to the mountains and scenery of Lynn Canyon Park. If you don’t have a car, take the local bus 228 for just $4.
While exploring, visit Tea Time at 1418 Lonsdale Avenue, where you will find an extensive collection of world teas. I highly recommend any of the Rooibos teas–particularly the Mocha Rooibos blended with Ethiopian coffee and cocoa. Just steps away, you’ll find Daniel Chocolates, which offers beautiful handcrafted chocolates, and a relaxing cafe at 1667 Lonsdale. Stop by on your way up the hill to Lynn Canyon.
Exploring the Nature of Lynn Canyon
Continue walking or driving up the hill to reach the natural beauty of Lynn Canyon. Here, you can walk across the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge for some added exhilaration. Exploring the canyon provides a wonderful opportunity to walk off goodies you may have consumed exploring Lonsdale Avenue.
In addition to its natural beauty, North Vancouver offers an abundance of art. Visit the Polygon Gallery on the waterfront for intriguing art exhibits and live events. The Inuit Gallery, across the street from the Polygon, features a stunning collection of First Nations Art.
Plan Your Visit
Visit the comprehensive site of Vancouver’s North Shore Tourism to further help you plan your visit to Vancouver’s North Shore.
You may also enjoy reading:
Exploring Award-Winning Wineries on Vancouver Island Canada
Surrey: The Rising Star of Canada’s Vancouver Area
Read more from Doreen on her site: Chocolatour.
