The Ultimate Coastal Day Trip from Vancouver: A Sea to Sky Highway Guide
Dreaming of escaping the city bustle for a day of jaw-dropping scenery? Imagine a road that hugs the coastline, carving its way between turquoise fjords and towering, snow-dusted mountains. Just an hour from downtown, you can experience one of the world’s most spectacular drives. This is the magic of the Sea to Sky Highway. If you’re looking for the ultimate coastal day trip from Vancouver, you’ve found it. This guide will give you the perfect one-day itinerary to explore the stunning natural wonders on the road to Squamish.
The Sea to Sky Highway Day Trip at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance from Vancouver | Approx. 65 km (40 miles) to Squamish |
| Total Drive Time | 2.5 – 3 hours round trip (without stops) |
| Estimated Trip Duration | A full 8 – 10 hours is recommended |
| Estimated Cost (per person) | C$115 – C$195 |
| Best Time to Visit | June – September for best weather; Dec – Jan for eagle viewing |
How to Get to Squamish from Vancouver
The journey is just as important as the destination, and you have a few great options for tackling this scenic route. Driving offers the most freedom, but other convenient choices are available.
By Car (The Best Option)
Driving yourself is the ideal way to experience the Sea to Sky Highway (BC Highway 99). It gives you the complete flexibility to stop at every viewpoint, waterfall, and quirky cafe along the way. The drive from downtown Vancouver to Squamish typically takes 60-90 minutes without traffic. CRITICAL NOTE: Winter tires are legally required on the Sea to Sky Highway from October 1 to March 31. Check DriveBC for current road conditions before you go.
By Bus
If you don’t have a car, you can still enjoy the ride! Companies like the Squamish Connector and YVR Skylynx offer comfortable bus services from downtown Vancouver directly to Squamish. It’s an affordable and relaxing option, but you’ll miss the flexibility of stopping at the attractions along the highway itself.
On a Guided Tour
For a completely hassle-free day, consider a guided tour. Numerous companies in Vancouver offer full-day trips that package transportation and entry to major attractions like the Sea to Sky Gondola. It’s the perfect choice if you want to sit back, relax, and let an expert handle all the planning.
| Transportation | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Car | Full flexibility, stop anywhere, most convenient | Requires a vehicle, parking can be difficult on weekends |
| Bus | Affordable, relaxing, no need to worry about parking | Limited stops, fixed schedule, less freedom |
| Guided Tour | All-inclusive, no planning needed, expert guide | Most expensive option, rigid itinerary |
Top 5 Stops on a Sea to Sky Highway Day Trip
Ready to hit the road? Here are the must-see stops, presented in geographical order from Vancouver, to make your day trip unforgettable.
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Porteau Cove Provincial Park
Your first perfect photo opportunity! Porteau Cove is famous for its iconic pier that juts out into the stunningly blue waters of Howe Sound. It’s a popular spot for stargazing and scuba diving (thanks to a series of man-made reefs and shipwrecks). The views of the fjord and surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking.
Insider Tip: The pier and shoreline look most dramatic at high tide. Check the tide schedule before you go for the best photos.
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Britannia Mine Museum
Step back in time at this National Historic Site, once the largest copper mine in the entire British Empire. The highlight is the underground train tour that takes you deep into the mountain. Don’t miss the “BOOM!” multi-sensory experience inside the massive mill building. It’s both educational and incredibly entertaining.
- Cost: Approx. C$39.95 per adult.
- Hours: Generally 9 AM to 5 PM, but check their website.
- Insider Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to secure your preferred tour time, especially on busy summer weekends.
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Shannon Falls Provincial Park
Prepare to be awed by the power of nature. At 335 meters (1,105 feet), Shannon Falls is British Columbia’s third-tallest waterfall. A short, accessible boardwalk through the temperate rainforest leads you to the main viewing platform, where you can feel the mist from the thundering cascade. Entry is free!
Insider Tip: The main parking lot fills up extremely fast. If it’s full, park at the larger Sea to Sky Gondola lot and take the scenic 10-minute connector trail over to the falls.
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Sea to Sky Gondola
This is the absolute highlight for many visitors. A 10-minute gondola ride whisks you 885 meters above Howe Sound to a summit lodge with unparalleled 360-degree views. Once at the top, you can walk across the thrilling Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge, stand on the cantilevered viewing platforms, and explore a network of easy, accessible walking trails.
- Cost: C$65 – C$75 (cheaper online in advance).
- Hours: Open year-round, typically 9 AM to 6 PM in summer. Always check their website for seasonal hours and maintenance closures.
- Insider Tip: You can save up to 20% by purchasing your tickets online at least 24 hours before your visit.
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Squamish Town Centre
Known as the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish is a vibrant town nestled beneath the imposing granite monolith of the Stawamus Chief. Park your car and take a stroll down Cleveland Avenue to browse the unique local shops, art galleries, and craft breweries. It’s the perfect place to grab a well-deserved lunch and soak in the mountain-town vibe.
Sample One-Day Sea to Sky Itinerary for 2025
Feeling overwhelmed? Here’s a simple, logical schedule to help you maximize your day without feeling rushed.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Depart from Vancouver. Grab coffee and snacks for the road! |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive at Shannon Falls. Enjoy the short walk and breathtaking views before the crowds. |
| 10:30 AM | Head next door to the Sea to Sky Gondola. Ride up and explore the suspension bridge and viewing platforms. |
| 1:00 PM | Drive into Squamish for lunch (see our recommendations below). |
| 2:30 PM | Explore the Britannia Mine Museum. Allow at least 2 hours for the tour and exhibits. |
| 4:30 PM | Stop at Porteau Cove for final golden-hour photos on the way back. |
| 5:30 PM | Begin the scenic drive back to Vancouver. |
Where to Eat in Squamish
From legendary cheap eats to riverside patios, Squamish has a food scene that punches well above its weight.
Budget-Friendly ($)
- Mag’s 99 Fried Chicken and Mexican Cantina: A quirky, colourful, and legendary spot. You can’t go wrong with their fried chicken or massive burritos. It’s a true local experience.
- The Crabapple Cafe: A charming cafe that’s perfect for a delicious breakfast, brunch, or lunch. Known for its fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Mid-Range ($$)
- Howe Sound Brewing: A classic brewpub with a fantastic selection of award-winning craft beers and hearty, delicious pub fare. The patio is great on a sunny day.
- The Watershed Grill: Famous for its location, this restaurant has a stunning patio built right over the Squamish River. The views are as good as the food!
Planning Your Visit: Insider Tips for a Perfect Trip
A little planning goes a long way. Keep these tips in mind to make your day trip smooth and enjoyable.
- Start Early: To beat the infamous Vancouver traffic and, more importantly, to find a parking spot at popular locations like Shannon Falls, aim to leave the city by 8:30 AM.
- Book Ahead: Purchase tickets online in advance for the Sea to Sky Gondola and Britannia Mine. You’ll often save money and you can skip the ticket lines.
- Check Conditions: Always check DriveBC for road closures or advisories before you leave, especially from October to March.
- Go Offline: Cell service can be spotty between attractions. Download an offline map of the area on your phone just in case.
- Weekday Warrior: If your schedule allows, plan your trip for a weekday. You’ll experience significantly fewer crowds than on a summer weekend.
What to Pack for Your Day Trip
- Layers of Clothing: The weather can change in an instant. A t-shirt, a fleece, and a jacket will have you covered.
- A Rain Jacket: This is the West Coast! A waterproof layer is essential, even if the forecast looks sunny.
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking on trails and around attractions.
- Camera & Smartphone: The photo opportunities are endless!
- Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks: Staying hydrated is key, and having snacks on hand saves time and money.
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen: The sun can be strong, especially at higher elevations on the gondola.
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a rough idea of what to budget for your coastal day trip from Vancouver.
| Item | Low End | High End |
|---|---|---|
| Gas (shared with 2 people) | C$15 | C$25 |
| Coffee/Snacks | C$10 | C$20 |
| Lunch | C$20 | C$35 |
| Attractions (Gondola only vs. Gondola + Mine) | C$70 | C$115 |
| Total | C$115 | C$195 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any island day trips from Vancouver?
Yes, absolutely! The easiest and most popular island day trip is to Bowen Island, just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. For a longer day, you could also visit Galiano Island or Salt Spring Island in the Southern Gulf Islands, but they require longer ferry journeys and more planning.
Can you do a day trip to Tofino from Vancouver?
No, a day trip to Tofino is not recommended. The journey is beautiful but very long, involving a 2-hour ferry ride and then a 3-hour drive each way. That’s over 10 hours of travel time alone! Tofino is a fantastic destination that deserves at least a 2-4 day trip to properly enjoy.
What are the beautiful towns around Vancouver?
Vancouver is surrounded by charming towns! Squamish, as we’ve detailed here, is a prime example. Other wonderful options for a day trip include the quaint seaside village of Deep Cove in North Vancouver, the historic fishing village of Steveston in Richmond, and the artsy community of Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast.
Where to go on a day trip from Vancouver?
The Sea to Sky Highway to Squamish is one of the very best coastal day trips you can take. Other popular options include heading further up the same highway to Whistler for a mountain resort experience, exploring the farms and wineries of the Fraser Valley, or taking the ferry to Victoria (though it’s often better as an overnight trip).
TLDR: Your Perfect Sea to Sky Day Trip
In a rush? Here’s the essential info for an amazing day:
- The Route: Drive the Sea to Sky Highway (BC-99) north from Vancouver.
- Must-Do Stops: Shannon Falls (free waterfall), Sea to Sky Gondola (for the views), and Britannia Mine Museum (for history).
- Top Tip: Go on a weekday and start before 9 AM to avoid the worst of the crowds and parking issues.
- Food: Grab lunch at Howe Sound Brewing or The Watershed Grill in Squamish.
- Remember: You need winter tires from October 1 to March 31. Book major attraction tickets online in advance!
