Vancouver is a city that radiates romance. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the sparkling ocean, it offers a blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. The city’s diverse attractions and natural beauty make it an ideal romantic getaway destination, perfect for honeymooners, vacationers or couples looking for an exciting and memorable escape. This guide presents 27 activities for couples to enjoy in this magnificent city, inviting you to explore the wonders of Vancouver with your loved one. With so much for couples to do in Vancouver, let’s dive in!
Walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is an iconic Vancouver attraction that’s popular among couples looking for a unique Vancouver experience. The bridge has been around since 1889 but has undergone several upgrades since. It’s 450 feet long and hangs 250 feet above a river canyon surrounded by a lush rainforest, offering breathtaking views. The excitement doesn’t end once you cross the bridge, as there are more suspension bridges and adventurous activities to explore at the Treetops Adventure.
The park features ancient Douglas fir trees, and the canopy walk elevates you 110 feet above the forest floor, taking you between viewing platforms. For the more daring visitors, the Cliffwalk is a series of cantilevered and suspended walkways that trace the canyon’s edge. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is located approximately 6 miles north of downtown, suspended high above North Vancouver. It operates daily, but the hours may vary depending on the season.
Wander around Granville Island
Granville Island is a lively centre of arts, culture, and mouth-watering food. You can take a romantic walk along the waterfront and explore the busy Public Market, where you can sample local delicacies and find unique souvenirs. Also, visit the Granville Island Brewing Company (temporarily closed but due to reopen soon) to get a taste of Vancouver’s craft beer scene.
Getting to Granville Island can be easily accessed through the SkyTrain, bus, car, or Uber. You can also take a ferry to Granville Island via False Creek Ferries or Aquabus. If you plan to drive, arrive early as parking fills up fast.
Watch the whales do their thing from the water
Vancouver is known as one of the premier whale-watching destinations in the world. Every year, from March to October, thousands of whales migrate through the waters surrounding Vancouver. Orcas are considered the main attraction on whale-watching tours, and the waters around Vancouver Island are host to large resident pods of nearly 100 whales, as well as small pods of transient orcas that cruise the coastline.
Tour the trails of Lighthouse Park
Escape from the busy city life to the peaceful oasis of Lighthouse Park, a hidden treasure located in the rural area of West Vancouver on the North Shore and a beautiful day out for couples who love nature. The park covers 185 acres and boasts tall, old-growth trees, winding forest trails, and a rough shoreline adorned with cliffs.
The historic Point Atkinson Lighthouse, which dates back to 1875, is a National Historic Site that adds to the park’s charm and provides a stunning backdrop for memorable photographs.
Get a workout on the Grouse Grind
If you and your partner enjoy working out, you can challenge yourselves to climb the Grouse Grind, a 2.5-kilometre trail up the face of Grouse Mountain. This well-known hiking trail is also referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” and offers a challenging but rewarding ascent to the top of Grouse Mountain. When you reach the summit, you can take in the breathtaking city views and celebrate your accomplishments together.
…and then zip line down the mountain
If you’re looking for an exciting adventure after completing the challenging Grouse Grind, consider experiencing a thrilling zip line tour. As you soar down the mountains together at speeds reaching 80km/hr, you’ll catch glimpses of the ocean and views of mountains, valleys, and forests everywhere. You might even see Grouse Mountain’s Eye of the Wind turbine. On a clear day, you can spot Mt. Baker in Washington State.
The 5-line tour lasts approximately 2 hours and is available during the Green season (May-October).
Bike the Seawall
Vancouver is a biking paradise, boasting of an extensive network of bike routes. The pinnacle is the iconic Seawall. You can grab your own bikes or opt for a tandem rental, which makes it an entertaining and budget-friendly activity for couples. The tandem experience guarantees laughter as you navigate the initial challenge of getting started.
The ride’s highlight occurs when you circle Stanley Park, which offers breathtaking views. A perfect midway break awaits at Prospect Point, where you can enjoy a hot chocolate or a refreshing drink. This cycling adventure along the Seawall stands out as a quintessential Vancouver date idea, combining outdoor exploration with the city’s stunning waterfront.
Go birdwatching in Stanley Park
Recognised as “one of the greatest urban parks in the world,” Vancouver’s Stanley Park encompasses over a thousand acres of pristine nature. The park is a vibrant habitat for various wildlife throughout the year, and birdwatching has become one of its most beloved treasures.
Visitors can spot hummingbirds flitting between trees, turtles basking in the afternoon sun, and occasionally playful otters in the Lost Lagoon. The dense rainforest trails are dominated by towering ancient cedars that provide a stunning backdrop for bald eagles, which you sometimes see gliding above the shores of the Pacific Ocean.
To fully immerse yourself in this natural spectacle, bring binoculars and explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, encompassing forests, wetlands, and beaches. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!
Take a kayak lesson at Jericho Beach
Experience the thrill of kayaking on your honeymoon by taking a lesson at Jericho Beach. You can learn the basics of paddling and navigate the sparkling waters of English Bay. It’s an excellent way to connect with nature and enjoy time together.
Go camping outside the city in Alice Lake Provincial Park
Escape the city and immerse yourselves in the beauty of nature at Alice Lake Provincial Park. Set up camp by the tranquil lake and spend your days hiking, fishing, and enjoying the serenity of the wilderness. It’s the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with each other.
Take a ride on a floatplane
Several offshore islands and many inland lakes and rivers surround Vancouver and a floatplane is an incredible way to witness the beauty of Vancouver. The stunning skyline of the city and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and coastline will leave you in awe. Harbour Air offer several different tours from Vancouver.
Find your zen by doing yoga on the water
Combine relaxation and adventure by practising yoga on a stand-up paddleboard. Join a SUP yoga class and strike a pose surrounded by the tranquil waters of Vancouver. It’s a rejuvenating experience that will leave you feeling centred and connected to the natural beauty around you.
Visit China Town
Vancouver’s Chinatown is Canada’s largest and attracts a diverse crowd, from long-time locals who have visited the shops for generations to food lovers seeking out the newest culinary trends. You can see Dr Sun Yat-Sen’s Classical Chinese Garden, modelled after the Ming Dynasty–era scholar’s gardens in Suzhou, China, learn about the area’s history at the Chinatown Storytelling Centre, explore thought-provoking art at the Rennie Museum, and enjoy a wide variety of delicious food. If you happen to be there during Chinese New Year, catch the parade – it’s an enriching experience that comes highly recommended.
Visit the University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia campus is not just your typical college experience; it also offers some of Vancouver’s top visitor attractions. These include a contemporary art gallery, a natural history museum, and MOA, the city’s finest museum. The campus also includes two lovely gardens – the tranquil Japanese tea garden Nitobe Memorial Garden and the popular UBC Botanical Garden.
The campus is also home to three fantastic and unspoiled beaches – Locarno, Spanish Banks, and Wreck. There’s a suspended walkway through a forest canopy, a reconciliation pole by Haida master carver James Hart, and a First Nations Longhouse constructed with Western red cedar logs and designed to reflect the architectural tradition of a Musqueam shed-style longhouse functioning as a student centre. Additionally, the renowned Chan Centre, one of Vancouver’s top concert halls, adds a cultural dimension to the university.
Along the water, the Museum of Anthropology houses thousands of First Nations artifacts in its splendid Great Hall, providing a powerful and immersive experience.
Explore the depths with a bit of diving
Dive into the underwater world of Vancouver and discover a vibrant ecosystem beneath the surface. Whether you’re a certified diver or looking to try it for the first time, there are plenty of dive sites to explore, including Howe Sound and the Sechelt Peninsula.
Wear your birthday suits while exploring Wreck Beach
If you’re looking for an adventure and want to experience Vancouver’s free-spirited side, visit Wreck Beach (on the west end of the UBC above). This beach is clothing-optional and is popular among locals and tourists for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. If you’re a couple seeking an out-of-the-ordinary experience, Wreck Beach can offer you a unique and liberating adventure.
Hop on the ferry and take a side trip to Vancouver Island
Extend your honeymoon adventure by hopping on a ferry and exploring Vancouver Island, visiting Victoria, known as the Garden City, a beautiful and historic day trip from Vancouver. With a charming downtown boasting British colonial architecture, heritage sites, and delightful gardens, it’s an ideal destination for shopping, sightseeing, and afternoon tea.
From Victoria, embark on a whale-watching cruise or meander through the romantic 55-acre Butchart Gardens. For an extended retreat, consider staying at the Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge in Tofino, which offers a luxurious experience in safari tents—alternatively, venture into Pacific Rim National Park for hikes among ancient trees and remote seashores.
Accessible via a 90-minute BC Ferries sailing from the Tsawwassen terminal, around 45 minutes south of Vancouver, Victoria is also a 35-minute flight away. For ferry information, visit https://www.bcferries.com/
Related: Here’s how to honeymoon or holiday on Vancouver Island – complete travel guide!
Hike Lynn Canyon
Escape the crowds and explore Lynn Canyon, a hidden gem just outside Vancouver. You can hike through lush forests, cross suspension bridges, and discover stunning waterfalls with your partner as you both immerse yourselves in nature. One of the most popular hikes there is Twin Falls. It’s a short hike that crosses the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge and follows Lynn Creek downriver before looping back on the opposite side of the canyon. This peaceful and romantic setting makes it ideal for a memorable hike.
Trade in your car for a pair of horses and go for a trail ride
Explore the stunning countryside of Vancouver on horseback and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature with your loved one. Take a guided trail ride through the lush forests and rolling hills with Leghorn Ranch, a full-service horseback riding outfit located just 30 minutes from Vancouver, British Columbia. They offer guided horseback riding tours from March through October, providing a romantic and unique way to explore the region.
Get spooked while exploring the city’s haunted houses
Vancouver has plenty of options if you and your partner love horror and ghost stories. Ghostly Vancouver Tours offers walking tours of Vancouver’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, including Gastown and Downtown Vancouver, where you can explore the city’s dark and mysterious side. You can visit haunted landmarks and listen to spine-chilling tales, making it an exciting way to add some thrill to your honeymoon.
Head to Squamish for a day of rock climbing
If you’re looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, why not try rock climbing in Squamish? This beautiful area is just one hour’s drive north of Vancouver, and offers stunning forest and mountain wilderness. Dubbed the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish is the perfect destination for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Partner up and challenge yourself to climb the towering cliffs, putting your skills to the test.
…and ride the Sea to Sky Gondola while you’re there
While in Squamish, don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Sea to Sky Gondola. Soar above the breathtaking landscape and take in panoramic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. It’s a must-do activity that showcases the beauty of British Columbia’s wilderness.
See what’s in bloom at the VanDusen Botanical Garden
Immerse yourself in the VanDusen Botanical Garden for an intimate and peaceful retreat. Housing over 7,500 plant species from across the globe, the VanDusen Botanical Garden has attracted travellers and nature enthusiasts for over five decades. Discover its meticulously crafted gardens adorned with exquisite flowers, plants, and sculptures, creating an enchanting setting for a stroll with your loved one.
Spread over 55 acres, this garden has unique elements like an Elizabethan hedge maze made up of 3,000 pyramidal cedar trees, a charming walkway beneath the bright yellow laburnum blooms which is perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments, and a picturesque lake.
Ski or snowboard down a mountain
If you plan to visit Vancouver during winter, consider taking advantage of the nearby ski resorts. The world-famous Whistler Blackcomb is only an hour and a half away. Grouse Mountain can be reached within 40 minutes from the international airport, and Cypress Mountain, which hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, is around 50 minutes away from the city. From beginner-friendly hills to challenging black diamond runs, there’s something for every skill level.
Give rafting a go
If you’re looking for an adventure that will get your heart racing, consider white-water rafting in the rivers around Vancouver. The most popular options include the Thompson, Nahatlatch, Squamish, Elaho, and Chilliwack rivers.
Get an adrenaline rush while skydiving
For the ultimate thrill-seeking experience, take a leap of faith and go skydiving. Feel the rush of freefall as you and your partner soar through the sky, taking in panoramic views of Vancouver’s stunning landscapes. It’s an unforgettable adventure that will leave you feeling alive.
Double down on thrill-seeking and try bungee jumping
If you’re seeking an unmatched adrenaline rush, why not try bungee jumping in Whistler? You can take the leap from a towering bridge and experience the exhilaration of freefall before bouncing back up.
Vancouver is an ideal destination for couples seeking an unforgettable honeymoon or romantic getaway. With its perfect blend of adventure and romance, this vibrant city offers something for every couple, from thrilling outdoor activities to serene natural wonders.
