14 Best Vancouver Sunset Spots: Including Secret Location
Are you looking for the best Vancouver sunset spots?
Being born and raised in Vancouver, I know about many sunset spots in the city, and I can guarantee these sunset spot locations will make you want to come back every day.
I’ve experienced the sunset from some of these locations; they’re stunning locations to watch the sun go down.
Many spots around Vancouver offer stunning views of the setting sun, from beaches and parks to mountains and lookouts. In this blog post, I’ll share the fourteen picks for the best places in Vancouver to watch the sun set below the horizon, including a secret location.
Vancouver Sunset Spots
These are the best locations to watch the sunset in Vancouver. Including places that locals usually gravitate towards to watch sunsets.
1. Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach in Vancouver is one of the most stunning spots to watch the sunset over the horizon and is one of the most favourable spots for beautiful sunsets in Vancouver.
Sunset Beach is located along English Bay and is perfect for an intimate evening with your loved one or a stunning sunset photography session.
Many people gather in their beach chairs during the summer to take in the beautiful spectacle. You can walk along the Seawall or take a bus from nearby downtown areas to Sunset Beach.
2. Third Beach
Located in Stanley Park, Third Beach in Vancouver is another incredible spot to watch the sunset on the horizon.
With a stunning sunset glowing off the water, the best time to come here for sunset is during the summer or on a sunny day in Vancouver.
Sometimes, Third Beach can be crowded depending on the time and when you visit; however, people often leave after the sun has disappeared.
3. Lions Gate Bridge
The Lions Gate Bridge is a beautiful sight during the day and even more spectacular at sunset. With its stunning views of the harbour and the North Shore Mountains, it’s one of the best places in Vancouver to watch the sun go down.
At night, the bridge sparkles with lights reflecting off the water and Stanley Park in the background.
Although it can be windy at times on top of the bridge, it’s well worth a visit for its beautiful views and romantic atmosphere. It’s also one of the best locations for taking some fantastic sunset photos or photos of the bridge.
4. Cypress Lookout
Cypress Lookout Point is another one of the most stunning places in Vancouver to watch the sunset. Located on Cypress Mountain, this lookout point offers a panoramic view of Vancouver and beyond.
During the evening, there are beautiful views of the sun setting. It may be busy as it’s a common pullover spot, especially during the summer.
Cypress Lookout Point is ideal for a romantic drive or for capturing spectacular photographs.
5. Kitsilano Beach
Grab some fun pictures with all your friends watching the sunset at Kitsilano Beach. This beach stretches across two kilometres of shoreline and is located outside False Creek. During the summer, Kits Beach (what we locals call it) can be quite busy.
It’s a perfect place to have a picnic or play beach volleyball, and popular among local families.
6. Lighthouse Park
One of the best non touristy things to do in Vancouver and one of the best locations to watch the sunset is Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver. Do keep in mind that this location is within a neighbourhood so be respectful of loud noises.
Located on a peninsula at the westernmost tip of West Vancouver, Lighthouse Park offers stunning views of Vancouver’s Burrard Inlet and the North Shore Mountains. The rugged shoreline and giant rocks make it a perfect spot to watch the sun fall over the horizon and one of the best places to propose in Vancouver.
7. White Rock
White Rock is a popular spot among locals to watch the sunset. It’s a bit further out than Vancouver, but it’s a known tourist spot and excellent for watching the sunset from the White Rock Pier.
You don’t have to watch the sunset on the pier. You can walk along the White Rock promenade and still see the beautiful views of the sun setting.
8. Burnaby Mountain Park (Simon Fraser University)
Burnaby Mountain Park is another local favourite spot to watch the sunset, offering spectacular views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains.
Located on Burnaby Mountain beside Simon Fraser University, this park provides a fantastic view as the sun sets over the horizon. It has a large hill to watch the sun setting with a couple of benches at the bottom, making it a great place to take beautiful photos or relax after a long day.
9. Capitol Hill Reservoir Park
Capitol Hill in Burnaby is another popular spot among locals to watch the sunset. Located on the north slopes of Burnaby Mountain, this stunning park offers incredible views of the downtown city skyline and the North Shore Mountains.
Capitol Hill is a spot that can get quite busy during a sunny day and in the summer. Keep in mind that it’s in a residential neighbourhood, and parking is extremely limited.
10. Coal Harbour
Coal Harbour is a beautiful spot to watch the sunset in Vancouver. You can take photos of the sunset along the Seawall or my favourite spot on top of the Cactus Club restaurant.
11. Burrard Bridge
The Burrard Street Bridge has beautiful scenic views from either side. However, watching the sunset on the West side of the bridge is the best, as the sun sets off in the distance.
12. Ambleside Beach
Ambleside Beach is located in West Vancouver and is notorious for watching the beautiful sunsets in the evening. It may get crowded as it’s a popular location in West Vancouver.
13. Whytecliff Park
Whytecliff Park, also in West Vancouver but located in Horseshoe Bay, is another fantastic spot to watch the sunset while a BC Ferry passes by.
Vancouver’s Secret Sunset Location
This secret location can be complicated to get to at first, but it’s all worthwhile.
14. Horseshoe Bay Lookout Platform
For those looking for a unique spot to watch the sunset in Vancouver, look no further than the Horseshoe Bay Lookout Platform. This true hidden gem is one place you should be aware of for a romantic evening or want to take stunning photos. It’s worth every effort you make to get there.
From its elevated platform, you can view Howe Sound as the sun sets over it. Watching the ferries go in and out of the harbour, with its serene atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, it’s no wonder this secret spot has become so popular among locals.
While it’s a secret, it has gained popularity and can get busy. There’s one platform so do take turns taking pictures.
How To Get To The Horseshoe Bay Lookout Platform
The Horseshoe Bay Lookout can be complicated to find, but it will be easy to spot once you’re there. This Google Map location will tell you exactly where the spot is – change Google Maps to satellite and zoom in, click the white strip on top of the rocks and click street view (works best on desktop).
You’ll want to make your way toward Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Be sure to avoid accidentally entering the BC Ferries lineup; a sign on the highway will indicate which way to go.
From there, you’ll want to get onto Marine Drive at the roundabout, drive towards the overpass, then turn left onto Horseshoe Bay Drive.
Once you’re on Horseshoe Bay Drive, getting to the secret location will take a few minutes. The first cluster of rocks to drive around is where the area is. After that, a pile of rocks on the opposite side looks like a small pathway.
You can find parking if you drive further down around the bend. There’s a pull-out spot, and you can park there. Then, when walking back to the hidden platform, you’ll be there after you see a yellow falling rocks sign.
What To Pack To Watch The Sunset
Here are a few things to pack as a reminder when watching the sunset in Vancouver.
✔ Blanket — Any blanket will do; even a bedsheet or a picnic blanket will do.
✔ Bug spray — The last thing you want is to get bitten alive by mosquitoes.
✔ Snacks — Snacks are the best part when watching a sunset!
✔ Dress for the weather — Dress appropriately depending on the season because the temperature drops when the sun goes down.
When Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver
The best time to visit Vancouver is May to September. However, the prices for accommodations and attractions will increase because it’s the high tourist season. These months are also the best time to avoid rain.
October to April will be more reasonable if you try to stay on a budget and do not mind the rain or cold.
If you get a sunny day during any time of the year in Vancouver, there’s an excellent chance you’ll catch a sunset. However, the sunset time will change depending on when during the year.
Where To Stay In Vancouver
Here are a few places to stay in Vancouver for the first time or if you’re looking for somewhere to stay.
💎 Best Luxury Hotel – Rosewood Hotel Georgia
✅ Excellent Location
✅ Highly Rated Customer Service
The Rosewood Hotel Georgia, situated in Vancouver, is a historic and prestigious establishment with a rich history. It offers a range of upscale amenities and accommodations.
⚖️ Best Mid-Range Hotel – Hotel BLU
✅ Free WIFI
✅ Complimentary Bike Rentals
Hotel BLU in Vancouver offers modern accommodations and is known for its contemporary design. It’s a popular choice for travellers seeking a convenient downtown location.
🎯 Best Budget-Friendly Hotel – Best Western Plus Sands
✅ Excellent Location
✅ 24-Hour Front Desk
The Best Western Sands Plus in Vancouver provides an excellent option in a prime location near the city’s attractions and is a budget-friendly choice for travellers.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening or a place to capture some gorgeous photos, these are the best Vancouver sunset spots. They’ll provide breathtaking experiences as you take in one of nature’s most beautiful displays.
Have a good day 🙂
