City: West End
Top Things to do in West End
Top 7 Nature & Parks in West End, Canada
Vancouver was founded as “Gastown” by an Englishman with a penchant for beer and storytelling. Today Gastown is a historic section of the Canadian metropolis, and the lively pubs still reflect the area’s former status as a sort of community drinking center. The city’s forests, grand parks, and impressive suspension bridge beckon travelers to explore them, as do the city’s shops and museums. Relive the glory of the 2010 Winter Games with visits to Olympic venues and the marvelous Olympic Cauldron.
Restaurants in Vancouver
1. English Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,795 reviews
Beautiful vibrant beach that comes alive when it's sunny and warm out. Various activities such as scuba diving, kayaking and others.
Reviewed By PookyCake - Victoria, Canada
I was initially a little hesitant to write reviews for “English Bay” and “English Bay Beach,” thinking of both as one and the same, but I suppose on a technical level they’re different. For example, one could say that the latter is but a small component of the former. A beach versus the general area. It’s kind of like “Inner Harbour” and “Victoria Pier” in, well, Victoria. The Victoria Pier is but a small segment of the beautiful Inner Harbour. Thus, this review won’t focus so much on the beach (that’s a separate review) and instead will comment upon the general area known as English Bay. What we know as English Bay basically consists of the south side of Burrard Inlet, extending from Point Grey to Prospect Point. Vancouver’s Best Places puts this within the context of nice, flowery language when they say English Bay is “the body of water where the shores of Vancouver meet the Pacific Ocean.” Beautiful! But did you ever wonder where “English Bay” gets its name? Well, the name harkens back to the days of the British Empire and celebrates the “meeting” of captains Vancouver, Galiano and Valdes in the area (1792). I’m actually surprised there’s been no social movement, or discussion at the city level (that I’m aware of, anyway), to have the “colonial” name changed to something more reflective of this place and space. But then, time has to take its time ;) Even though English Bay is very much an urban setting, it remains one of my favourite places in the city. With its picturesque views, palm trees, lovely beach and desirable amenities, there’s plenty to keep you coming back for more. Indeed, as part of Vancouver’s West End (see my earlier review), it is home to a literal mosaic of people and restaurants – cultural diversity at its best. For my part, I’ll readily admit that English Bay Beach, while lovely, has never really been my focus whenever I’ve visited this area. Instead, I’ve been more interested in the shops and restaurants. There’s Cactus Club on the beach; Three Quarters Full in bustling Denman Place Mall; the newly opened and fantastically named Chicken World; good eats in the historic Sylvia Hotel and a whole host of others. I’m still sad that the Boathouse Restaurant – their flagship location at the time – closed up shop in the Fall of 2018. Many a beautiful sunset, meal and memory were had there. Beyond good eats, English Bay has much culture and art to offer us. As you walk along the Seawall from Stanley Park, you’ll inevitably come upon the Expo ’86 Inukshuk and, a short distance further, Oppenheim’s interesting “Engagement” sculpture. Just across the street from English Bay Beach, in Morton Park, you’ll come across Minjun’s “A-maze-ing Laughter” sculpture which is sure to make you smile . . . before you “awake” to its more serious message and undertone. For much of November, you can also experience the lovely Lumiere at night. The installations help to provide moments of “light” in these challenging times. My personal favourite from this year’s exhibit was the “Eugenia” tree. I’m sure “Davie” the grizzly would’ve been impressive, but he wasn’t lit during the two evenings I visited (boo). There’s also the Celebration of Light fireworks in July and August . . . In short, English Bay is so much more than a popular beach. It’s a place rife with history and culture. In many respects, I’d say it demonstrates – along with the West End – some of Vancouver’s best qualities.
2. English Bay Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 513 reviews
Conveniently located near downtown, this beach is a popular place for sunbathing.
Reviewed By dlmerrill55
Start at the Sylvia Hotel ...walk west on the sea wall .! Notice the many languages around you ....very good people and dog watching ... Cut north and walk around the pond ...then east to Denman Street.. Walk down Denman st back to the Sylvia ...Enjoy a breakfast , brunch and snack in their beautiful restaurant or lounge with the best view
3. Sunset Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 138 reviews
Reviewed By TV2451
You need very warm weather to take a dip here, a rare occurrence. It's a beautiful beach offering great views of the city and the waterfront, and along the great waterfront walkway.
4. Barclay Heritage Square
5. Morton Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 31 reviews
Reviewed By WilsonLin - Coquitlam, Canada
Really fun park to check out if you're in the area. It's great spot for photos. I highly recommend checking it out if you're already at the English Bay Beach.
