Yoga on the beach
Health and wellness are an integral part of West Coast culture–combine this with the refreshing ocean breeze and calming waves that surround Vancouver and you get the perfect environment to rejuvenate and refresh your mind and body. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in restorative activities surrounded by expansive ocean views. Dive into a weekend of Wellness by the Water.
Day One
SUNRISE STRETCH
Greet the day with a sun salutation at the edge of the ocean. Set your alarm for sunrise and head to the nearest beach and roll out your yoga mat to stretch your way into the day. Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, you can visit one of Vancouver’s beachside restaurants for brunch or lunch, like The Boathouse overlooking the waves at Kitsilano Beach or Cactus Club right on the seawall at English Bay.
SUSHI BY THE SEA
Make your way downtown to Coal Harbour and stroll alongside the water of Burrard Inlet, where you can watch float planes take flight and take in a clear view of the sky, mountains and trees. Stop for a glass of wine overlooking the ocean on the patio at Lift Bar and Grill, or save some room for the signature flame-seared sushi at Miku. Their specialty is gourmet Japanese Aburi cuisine made with fresh, local West Coast ingredients with an unbeatable view of the sea.
Photo credit: COURTESY OF LIFT BAR AND GRILL
Day Two
BRUNCH BY THE BEACH
Spend a lazy morning gazing at the waves as you enjoy a classic brunch at The Sylvia, a vine-covered historic hotel right across from the beach at English Bay, or if you’re searching for a menu focused on wild, fresh and local ingredients, wander up Robson Street from the beach to Forage.
CYCLE THE SEAWALL
For a light and relaxing afternoon exercise and a chance to enjoy the scenic oceanside, rent a bicycle from Cycle City and pedal around the seawall. Cycle around Stanley Park and stop in for a warm cup of tea or a cocktail at the Teahouse, or enjoy the serenity of the rolling green hills at the base of Yaletown where you can hop off and grab a spot on the grass with your traveling companion. See something you like across the water? Step aboard Vancouver’s False Creek Ferries to Olympic Village and settle in at The Flying Pig for a cozy dinner or nab a seat on the patio over the water at Mahoney’s Stamp’s Landing location for drinks.
Cycle City Tours. Cycling along seawall.
Day Three
FLOAT YOUR BOAT
Book a room at the Granville Island Hotel to wake up by the water. Granville Island is one of Vancouver’s unique culinary destinations; wander through the Granville Island Public Market to find coffee, tea, pastries and other specialty snacks before going to Vancouver Water Adventures to rent a kayak or paddleboard. Ease over the waves of False Creek and breathe in the rejuvenating salty sea air.
When you find yourself back on land, continue your appreciation of the ocean by finding a seat on the patio or by the window at The Sandbar for lunch or dinner and enjoy a menu featuring fresh seafood and signature cocktails.
RELAX IN LUXURY
When it comes to spas by the sea, you can take your pick in Vancouver. Book a treatment by the water at the Spa by JW at JW Marriott Parq located at the edge of Yaletown. After you treatment, explore the rest of their wellness facilities, which includes a fitness center, eucalyptus infused steam rooms, a manicure and pedicure bar, and the Aqua Lounge, an outdoor pavilion with hydrotherapy tub and yoga space.
Photo credit: COURTESY OF JW MARRIOTT PARQ
For another option, try the unobstructed views of the harbour and mountains at the hotel and the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Pacific Rim near Canada Place. After your spa experience, treat yourself to a decadent dinner at Botanist in a space inspired by the abundant natural beauty and botany of The Pacific Northwest. Their conscious menu features produce rooted from the soil of the northwest, sustainably sourced seafood, and organic agricultural methods from backyard suppliers, paired with whimsical cocktails, and local wine and spirits.
Botanist Restaurant at Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel
INSIDER TIPS
- Didn’t bring a yoga mat for the beach? Hotels like The Loden have it covered–they provide yoga mats and a 24 hour studio for visitors.
- The Fairmont Pacific Rim amenities also feature Meditation Pods for visitors looking for a mindful experience in a luxury setting.
