Jamie RamsayHey there, fellow adventurer! Are you looking for a quick escape from the city? Tucked away on West Vancouver’s rugged coastline, Lighthouse Park is a slice of Pacific Northwest paradise just waiting to be explored.
This 75-hectare gem blends ancient forest with dramatic shorelines, featuring Douglas fir trees that have stood sentinel for centuries. Of course, the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse offers postcard-perfect views!
Whether you’re hiking the trails, picnicking by the lighthouse, or watching eagles overhead, this coastal gem delivers nature’s greatest hits just minutes from downtown.
Ready to go exploring? Check out our Lighthouse Park Vancouver travel guide!
Location and How to Get There
Lighthouse Park is located approximately 11 miles northwest of downtown Vancouver, off the scenic Marine Drive at Beacon Lane’s south end.
The park is easily accessible by car with a drive time of about 30 minutes from the city center. To reach the park, follow Marine Drive west and turn onto Beacon Lane, where the entrance is located at the south end of the road.
For those using public transport, you can take the West Vancouver Blue Bus #250 Horseshoe Bay route.
The bus runs frequently and can be boarded from various locations in downtown Vancouver, along Marine Drive, or at Park Royal Shopping Centre.
Opening Hours, Fees
Lighthouse Park is open to the public daily from 7am to 10pm. While entrance to the park is free, take note that there’s a parking fee of $3.75 per hour for those bringing their vehicles.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Lighthouse Park in Vancouver, BC, is during late spring to early fall (May to October). This period offers mild temperatures, clear skies, and lush greenery.
Summer (June to August) provides the best weather, but visiting early mornings or weekdays help avoid crowds. Fall (September to October) brings stunning foliage, while winter visits can be beautiful but often wet and slippery.
If you wanna catch the sunset, hiking before sundown offers breathtaking ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Interesting Things to Know About Lighthouse Park
- Lighthouse Park is home to the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse. This shining symbol of West Vancouver is considered a National Historic Site and one of the most photographed landmarks in the Lower Mainland.
- Considered an ancient forest, you can find Vancouver’s last remaining first-growth Douglas fir forest with towering trees that have stood for centuries.
- The park preserves the largest uncut rainforest in the Lower Mainland, offering a true West Coast wilderness experience.
- It features over six miles (10km) of scenic trails winding through lush vegetation and leading to stunning coastal viewpoints.
- The park offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Burrard Inlet, and the Vancouver city skyline. Watch the crashing waves and marvel at the rocky shorelines which offer a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
Things to Do at Lighthouse Park
Beyond the historic lighthouse, here are some of the exciting and relaxing things to do at Lighthouse Park:
1. Explore the Scenic Trails
Lighthouse Park offers a network of short but rewarding trails suited for all fitness levels. Whether you take a leisurely stroll or tackle a more challenging route, you’ll be surrounded by lush West Coast rainforest and towering Douglas firs.
The well-marked paths lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the ocean. Make sure to wear sturdy shoes, as some trails have steep and uneven terrain.
You can check out a map of the trails here.
2. Visit the Lighthouse Viewpoint
The historic Point Atkinson Lighthouse, dating back to 1912, is a symbol of Vancouver’s maritime past. Though the lighthouse itself isn’t open to the public, you can admire it from the designated viewpoint.
The short walk along Beacon Lane Trail leads to stunning coastal scenery, making it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.
3. Enjoy a Picnic with Ocean Views
Pack a meal and savor a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature. There are designated picnic tables near the lighthouse viewpoint, but you can also spread out a blanket at one of the park’s rocky outcrops.
With panoramic ocean views and the sound of waves crashing below, it’s a serene setting for a relaxing outdoor meal.
4. Watch for Birds and Wildlife
Lighthouse Park is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for bald eagles soaring overhead, woodpeckers tapping on tree trunks, and squirrels scurrying through the underbrush.
At the coastal viewpoints, you might even spot harbor seals lounging on the rocks or sea birds like cormorants and oystercatchers.
5. Take in Breathtaking Ocean Views
The park boasts several viewpoints that offer spectacular scenery. Juniper Point and Shorepine Point provide views of Bowen Island, while East Beach and Eagle Point overlook downtown Vancouver.
West Beach is the perfect spot to admire the lighthouse. Whether at sunrise or sunset, these locations offer some of the best coastal panoramas in the region.
6. Bask Under the Starry Night Sky
Away from the city’s bright lights, Lighthouse Park is an excellent spot for stargazing. On a clear night, you can see a dazzling array of stars, planets, and even the occasional shooting star.
Bring a blanket or a reclining chair, and let the peaceful surroundings soothe your soul.
Tips When Visiting
- Arrive Early. The park can get crowded on sunny weekends, and parking is limited. Visit early in the day or consider taking public transit or biking.
- Pack Safety Essentials. If you’re going hiking, bring a small backpack with water, snacks, a first aid kit, and extra clothing. Weather conditions can change quickly.
- Watch Your Step. Many trails have rocky uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes and be cautious near cliffs and slippery surfaces.
- Keep Dogs on Trails. Well-behaved dogs are allowed off-leash, but they must remain on designated trails to protect the natural environment.
- Use a Park Map. The trails can be winding, so bring a map or use a GPS-enabled hiking app to navigate easily.
- Respect Wildlife. Avoid disturbing birds and animals. Keep a safe distance from eagles, seals, and other wildlife while exploring the park.
- Follow Fire Regulations. Fires, barbecue, and smoking are strictly prohibited to prevent wildfires and protect the park’s ecosystem.
- Take Note of Restroom Locations. Washrooms are available near the parking lot, lighthouse, and along the main trail.
Other Nearby Attractions
Exploring beyond Lighthouse Park? West Vancouver offers stunning coastal views, scenic trails, and relaxing beaches.
From rugged shorelines to mountain lookouts, these nearby attractions provide the perfect complement to your outdoor adventure in this beautiful region.
Whytecliff Park
Located just a short drive from Lighthouse Park, Whytecliff Park is a stunning waterfront destination known for its rugged shoreline, tidal pools, and scenic hiking trails.
It’s a popular spot for scuba diving, picnicking, and wildlife spotting, with frequent sightings of seals sunbathing on the nearby rocky islets.
Dundarave Beach
Dundarave Beach is a charming seaside retreat in West Vancouver, offering sandy shores, a picturesque pier, and sweeping ocean views.
It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing beach day, enjoying a picnic, or taking a stroll along the adjacent Centennial Seawalk. The small village nearby has cafes and shops to explore.
Cypress Provincial Park
Cypress Provincial Park is a year-round outdoor destination offering breathtaking views of Vancouver, the Howe Sound, and surrounding mountains.
In winter, Cypress Mountain is a premier ski and snowboard resort, while summer brings hiking trails like Eagle Bluffs and Hollyburn Mountain.
The park’s alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and diverse wildlife make it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Easily accessible from West Vancouver, it’s perfect for a day trip into the mountains.
Whyte Lake Trail
For a peaceful forest escape, hike the Whyte Lake Trail in West Vancouver. This moderate 5-km out-and-back trail winds through lush rainforest, crossing wooden bridges and boardwalks before reaching the serene Whyte Lake.
The quiet setting, towering trees, and occasional wildlife sightings make it a hidden gem for nature lovers.
West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk
Stretching 1.7 km along the shoreline, the West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk offers breathtaking ocean views and a scenic walking path connecting Ambleside Park to Dundarave Beach.
Ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling, the seawalk provides stunning sunset views, passing by waterfront homes, rocky beaches, and occasional wildlife sightings.
Where to Eat
After exploring Lighthouse Park, refuel at these nearby restaurants which are mostly along the way when you’re heading back to the city center. Check out cozy cafes to international cuisines perfect for a post-hike treat.
Isetta Cafe Bistro
Media Credit: @isettacafebistro
Website: https://www.isetta.ca/
Address: 4360 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1P1
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7am – 3pm
Pricing: $$
A cozy little gem just 10 minutes from Lighthouse Park, Isetta Cafe Bistro offers artisanal coffee, fresh pastries, and gourmet breakfast and lunch options.
With its cozy atmosphere and scenic outdoor seating, it’s a great spot to unwind after exploring Lighthouse Park.
The Shed Coffee Bar Pizza
Media Credit: @theshed.coffee.bar.pizza
Website: https://www.theboatshedgroup.com/the-shed
Address: 3757 Cypress Bowl Rd, West Vancouver, BC V7S 3E7
Hours: Monday – Thursday & Sunday, 10am – 7pm; Saturday, 10am – 8pm
Pricing: $$
A relaxed eatery known for its wood-fired pizzas, specialty coffee, and friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re craving a quick espresso or a delicious handcrafted pizza, The Shed is a perfect stop near Lighthouse Park.
Casa Mia Cucina and Mercato
Media Credit: @casamiacucina
Website: https://www.casamiacucina.ca/
Address: 2215 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC V7V 0B3
Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 9pm
Pricing: $$
This Italian gem serves homemade pasta, fresh paninis, and authentic espresso. Also a market, Casa Mia offers imported Italian goods, making it a great place to grab a meal or shop for specialty ingredients.
Cactus Club Cafe
Media Credit: @cactusclubcafe
Website: https://www.cactusclubcafe.com/
Address: 855 Main St, West Vancouver, BC V7T 0A5
Hours: Monday – Thursday & Sunday, 11am – 11pm; Friday & Saturday, 11am – 12am
Pricing: $$
A popular chain offering upscale casual dining with a West Coast twist. Known for its flavorful dishes, craft cocktails, and ocean-view patios, Cactus Club is a great spot for a post-hike meal with a vibrant atmosphere.
Momo Donair
Media Credit: @momo_donair
Website: https://momodonair.com/
Address: 1264 Marine Dr, North Vancouver, BC V7P 0B2
Hours: Monday, 10:30am – 9pm; Tuesday – Friday, 10:30am – 10pm; Saturday & Sunday, 11am – 9pm
Pricing: $ – $$
A go-to for quick and flavorful Mediterranean bites, Momo Donair serves freshly made donairs, falafel, and wraps. Affordable and satisfying, it’s a great stop for a casual meal after a day of exploring.
Diyar Persian Restaurant
Media Credit: @diyar_restaurant_northvan
Website: https://anorder.ca/diyar
Address: 1480 Pemberton Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7P 2S1
Hours: Monday & Tuesday, 11am – 10pm; Wednesday & Saturday, 11am – 11:30pm; Thursday & Friday, 12nn – 11:30pm; Sunday, 10am – 9:30pm
Pricing: $$
Offering rich Persian flavors, Diyar serves delicious kebabs, stews, and saffron-infused rice dishes. With warm hospitality and authentic cuisine, it’s a great place to experience traditional Persian dining near Lighthouse Park.
