Explore Vancouver: Beaches & Downtown Audio Tour Bundle

Sunset Beach is right here. This sheltered strip of sand features calm waters, concessions, and even a grassy field for those who don’t feel like slipping into a pair of sandals! Note: The tour is over 9 miles long, with more than 19 audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete. New, Lifetime access, no expiry. Use it anytime, on any trip, as many times as you want.

We’re coming up on the oldest bridge in Vancouver, the Burrard Street Bridge. The beautiful exterior of this bridge actually hides some bizarre secrets. Hidden within the south tower is an entire stairwell, which once connected the bridge to Vanier Park. It was sealed off nearly 100 years ago, but here’s the thing… nobody knows why!

Kitsilano Beach Park is coming up on our right. Keep your eyes open for spectacular views of the beach and English Bay. If you have time to stop, don’t miss the heated outdoor pool, which is also Canada’s longest pool at 137 meters! The pool is saltwater and is open seasonally from May to September.

Welcome to Kitsilano! Known to the locals as “Kits,” many consider this neighborhood one of the most desirable places to live in British Columbia, especially for young professionals.

We’re about to pass Jericho Beach Park. Jericho Beach derives its name from Jeremiah Rogers, a 19th century logger who once worked in this area.

Directly ahead is Locarno Beach, perfect for a peaceful getaway. This beach is actually quiet by law! Amplified sound is not permitted, so don’t expect to encounter many beach parties here. Park in any of the lots coming up if you want to visit, or continue driving.

This beach is the most spacious in the Vancouver area. Its sandy banks stretch a mile along the far western edge of Vancouver City. Because of its proximity to the University of British Columbia, the beach attracts college students looking for a break from the books, as well as other adventurous types hoping for some good waves.

We’re heading toward the University of British Columbia. In many ways, the story of Vancouver’s largest university mirrors the story of the city as a whole, especially in regards to the university’s relationship with First Nations people.

Look for the traditional Japanese garden on our left as we pass. This is Nitobe Memorial Garden, and calling it a Japanese garden isn’t just lip service. When Japan’s 125th emperor, Akihito strolled through the garden in 2009, he reportedly said, “I am in Japan” because of the authenticity of the garden.

That brings us to the conclusion of our tour at the UBC Botanical Garden. From here, you can explore the famous Treewalk, or just stroll around the garden itself! If you haven’t already taken my tour of Vancouver Downtown, don’t forget to give it a shot to see more of this amazing city!

The clock has steam-powered whistles and a small engine that uses steam to wind the clock. It’s one of only seven working steam clocks in the world!

This is Robson Square. It’s home to some of the province’s most important courts… but also a fabulous covered skating rink!

The Stanley Park Totem Poles are one of Vancouver’s most iconic sights, inspired by the carved poles created by First Nations communities for centuries. These towering works of art represent ancestry, stories, and spiritual symbols, and today they stand as a powerful reminder of the people who first called this land home.

The Nine O’Clock Gun is a historic cannon in Stanley Park that still fires every evening at 9:00 PM. It’s famous for a wild 1969 mystery when it was stolen and returned only after a ransom donation was raised—pulled off by UBC engineering students.

Prospect Point Lookout is an easy, short walk from the parking area and rewards you with sweeping ocean views and views of the Lions Gate Bridge. The spot also carries a Squamish legend of Shaunz and Siwash, said to have been turned to stone as a lasting example of perfect parents.