Have you ever found yourself wondering where you can find the perfect picnic spot in Vancouver? With its breathtaking mountains, lush parks, and scenic waterfronts, Vancouver is home to numerous enchanting locations ideal for a picnic. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’ll find a variety of spots that cater to different tastes and preferences.
To help you create memorable outdoor experiences, let’s explore some of the most scenic spots for picnics in Vancouver.
Stanley Park
Prospect Point
Stanley Park is arguably Vancouver’s most famous park, and within it lies Prospect Point, a gem offering stunning views. Perched on a cliff edge, you can marvel at the picturesque views of the Lions Gate Bridge, North Shore Mountains, and Burrard Inlet. This location is an excellent choice for those who love a combination of history, nature, and a touch of serenity.
Second Beach
Another delightful picnic location within Stanley Park is Second Beach. This beach is perfect for families, thanks to its open spaces, playground, and nearby pool. You can swim, play beach volleyball, or just relax on a blanket while enjoying the surrounding scenery.
Lost Lagoon
For a more tranquil experience, consider setting up your picnic by Lost Lagoon. This man-made, freshwater lake is home to various bird species and offers numerous benches and grassy areas. The tranquility of the lagoon provides a serene atmosphere perfect for a peaceful picnic.
Queen Elizabeth Park
Quarry Garden
Queen Elizabeth Park stands out for its beautifully landscaped gardens and panoramic views. The Quarry Garden is a particularly scenic spot within the park. Nestled in a former rock quarry, this garden offers meticulously arranged flowers, trees, and running streams. Picture yourself enjoying a sandwich while surrounded by a vibrant display of flora.
Bloedel Conservatory
While not a traditional picnic spot, the Bloedel Conservatory offers an interesting twist. Located at the park’s highest point, this domed oasis of exotic plants and free-flying tropical birds is perfect for a pre-picnic stroll. After exploring the conservatory, you can settle down in the park’s surroundings to enjoy your meal.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Meadow Garden
VanDusen Botanical Garden is a sprawling 55-acre garden showcasing a wide variety of plants and landscapes. The Meadow Garden is an ideal picnic location within VanDusen. With its open spaces and seasonal flower displays, it provides a picturesque backdrop for your picnic adventure.
Maze Area
For a fun and interactive experience, consider the Maze Area. After navigating through the Elizabethan hedge maze, you can find yourself a cozy nook to set up your picnic. The maze adds a playful touch to your visit, especially for families with children.
Pacific Spirit Regional Park
Sword Fern Trail
If you prefer a more forested setting, Pacific Spirit Regional Park is your go-to location. The Sword Fern Trail offers a lush, green environment filled with towering trees and native plant species. As you wander along the trails, you’ll find various spots to lay down your picnic blanket and enjoy the forest ambiance.
Salish Trail
The Salish Trail is another fantastic option within Pacific Spirit Regional Park. This trail is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Scenic picnic spots are plentiful along the trail, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
Jericho Beach
Jericho Park
Jericho Beach is a versatile location offering both beach and park picnic options. Jericho Park, adjacent to the beach, features vast grassy areas perfect for laying out your picnic spread. You can enjoy views of the mountains and city skyline while relaxing in this peaceful setting.
Jericho Sailing Centre
For those interested in water activities, the Jericho Sailing Centre provides an excellent picnic backdrop. After engaging in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, you can unwind at the nearby picnic tables or sandy beach areas. The sailing and water activity scene brings an added sense of adventure to your day.
Lighthouse Park
Point Atkinson Lighthouse
Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver offers rugged coastal beauty and stunning vistas. One of the park’s highlights is the Point Atkinson Lighthouse. You can hike through forested trails to reach viewpoints where the lighthouse stands majestically against the backdrop of the ocean. The rocky shorelines and captivating views make it a unique spot for picnic enthusiasts.
Shore Pine Trail
The Shore Pine Trail in Lighthouse Park presents another wonderful picnic location. The trail meanders through dense forests, leading to several lookout points with incredible ocean views. It’s a quieter option within the park, offering more seclusion for your picnic.
Granville Island
Granville Island Picnic Area
Granville Island is a vibrant cultural hotspot, and it also hosts a charming picnic area. You can grab delicious treats from the Granville Island Public Market and head to the nearby picnic spots overlooking False Creek. The combination of bustling market vibes and waterfront tranquility provides a unique picnic experience.
Ron Basford Park
Ron Basford Park on Granville Island is another inviting spot. Located on the island’s south side, this park features grassy slopes and waterfront views of the city. It’s a quieter nook where you can relax and unwind while enjoying your meal.
Spanish Banks Beach Park
East and West Beaches
Spanish Banks Beach Park is a favorite among locals for its long sandy beaches and stunning water views. The park is divided into East and West Beaches, both offering extensive picnic areas. Whether you prefer a more active beach vibe or a quieter scene, you’ll find the perfect spot at Spanish Banks.
Grouse Mountain
Grouse Grind Picnic Area
For those who don’t mind a little workout before their picnic, Grouse Mountain is a fantastic option. The Grouse Grind is a famous hiking trail that leads to the top of the mountain. After completing the hike, you can enjoy your picnic amidst breathtaking panoramic views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. Note that this spot requires some effort to reach but is incredibly rewarding.
Altitudes Bistro
If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can take the Skyride gondola up Grouse Mountain. Altitudes Bistro, located at the peak, features outdoor seating areas where you can have a picnic while enjoying incredible vistas. It’s less physically demanding but still offers spectacular scenery.
Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden
Courtyard Garden
The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is a stunning oasis in Vancouver’s Chinatown. While the inner garden is a paid attraction, the adjacent public park offers beautiful and serene spots for a picnic. The Courtyard Garden is a peaceful option with its traditional Chinese landscaping and tranquil atmosphere.
Kitsilano Beach
Kitsilano Park
Kitsilano Beach is not only one of Vancouver’s most popular beaches but also an excellent picnic destination. Kitsilano Park, adjacent to the beach, provides ample green spaces for picnicking. After enjoying your meal, you can partake in various beach activities or simply take in the scenic views.
Trout Lake
John Hendry Park
Trout Lake, located in John Hendry Park, is a serene and family-friendly picnic spot. The park features a lovely lake, playgrounds, and ample grassy areas. Whether you’re looking to paddle in the lake or relax on the shore, John Hendry Park offers a charming backdrop for your outing.
Whytecliff Park
Whytecliff Lookout
Whytecliff Park in West Vancouver is a hidden gem known for its rugged coastline and stunning ocean views. The Whytecliff Lookout offers breathtaking vistas of the ocean and nearby islands. This spot is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of forest and seaside scenery.
Pebble Beach
Pebble Beach within Whytecliff Park is another picturesque picnic location. The small, rocky beach is less crowded, providing a more intimate atmosphere. You can enjoy tidal pools, marine life, and the soothing sounds of the waves.
Crab Park
Portside Picnic Area
Crab Park at Portside is an urban oasis located near Vancouver’s downtown area. The Portside Picnic Area has open spaces with waterfront views and grassy knolls, perfect for a casual outing. It’s a convenient spot for city dwellers looking for a quick escape into nature.
Locarno Beach
Grassy Picnic Area
Locarno Beach is a quieter alternative to some of Vancouver’s busier beaches. It features a large, grassy picnic area with benches and tables. The peaceful ambiance and stunning sunset views make it a favorite for evening picnics.
Ambleside Park
Beachfront Picnic Spots
Ambleside Park in West Vancouver offers picturesque beachfront picnic areas. You can enjoy views of the Burrard Inlet, Stanley Park, and the Lions Gate Bridge. Plus, the park offers various amenities, including sport courts and walking trails.
Burnaby Mountain
Horizons Viewpoint
Though technically just outside Vancouver, Burnaby Mountain deserves mention for its scenic picnic spots. Horizons Viewpoint offers panoramic views of the city, ocean, and mountains. It’s an ideal spot for watching the sunset while enjoying a picnic.
Rose Garden
The Rose Garden on Burnaby Mountain is another charming location. With blooming roses during the summer months, it creates an idyllic setting for a leisurely picnic.
Everett Crowley Park
Meadows and Trails
Everett Crowley Park is an excellent location for those seeking a quieter, nature-rich picnic spot. The park features open meadows and forested trails, providing numerous options to set up your picnic. The natural surroundings offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Conclusion
Vancouver is teeming with scenic picnic spots, each offering its unique charms and qualities. Whether you prefer the bustling beaches, tranquil gardens, or rugged coastlines, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you. So, pack your picnic basket and explore these amazing locations to create some unforgettable memories with friends and family. Happy picnicking!