Stanley Park Seawall
Vancouver, Canada · Nature
About Stanley Park Seawall
The Stanley Park Seawall is a world-famous paved waterfront pathway looping around Vancouver's largest urban green space. Extending approximately nine kilometers around Stanley Park, it forms the core of the world's longest uninterrupted seaside path. Visitors flock here to enjoy sweeping views of Burrard Inlet, English Bay, the North Shore mountains, and the downtown skyline.
Don't miss
- Pass beneath the majestic Lions Gate Bridge and marvel at the massive suspension structure from the shoreline.
- Admire the historic Brockton Point Lighthouse and the striking views across the harbor toward North Vancouver.
- Spot the famous Girl in a Wetsuit bronze sculpture perched gracefully on a granite boulder in the water.
- Take in the dramatic coastal scenery around Siwash Rock, an iconic natural sea stack steeped in Indigenous legend.
Plan your visit
Late spring through early autumn offers the warmest and driest weather for exploring the path. Early mornings and late afternoons provide pleasant temperatures, smaller crowds, and spectacular golden hour lighting over the water.
Access to the Seawall is completely free and open to the public year-round with no tickets or reservations required. If you decide to rent a bicycle or rollerblades, you will need to pay rental fees at an independent rental shop.
From downtown Vancouver, you can easily walk or cycle northwest toward Coal Harbour to join the pathway directly. Alternatively, take the TransLink bus number 19 from downtown, which drops passengers off right inside Stanley Park.
Tips for visiting
- Cyclists and rollerbladers must travel counter-clockwise around the park loop and stay in their designated lane.
- Rent a bicycle or e-bike from one of the rental shops along Denman Street near the park entrance.
- Dress in layers and bring a light windbreaker, as coastal breezes can make exposed sections feel cool.
- Carry a refillable water bottle, as water fountains and concession stands can be spaced far apart along the outer loop.
- Watch out for pedestrians and wildlife such as geese and raccoons that occasionally cross the path.
Stanley Park Seawall FAQ
Can you cycle and walk on the same path?
The Seawall features two distinct, clearly marked lanes: one for pedestrians and one for wheeled users like cyclists and inline skaters. Cyclists must follow a strict one-way, counter-clockwise direction around Stanley Park to maintain safety. Pedestrians are permitted to walk in either direction along their dedicated pathway.
How long is the Stanley Park Seawall loop?
The loop circling Stanley Park is approximately 9 kilometers (5.5 miles) in length. Walking the full park loop typically takes about two to three hours, while cycling takes about one hour at an easy pace. You can also explore shorter sections if you prefer a briefer outing.
Are dogs allowed on the Seawall?
Yes, dogs are welcome on the pedestrian portion of the Seawall but must remain on a leash at all times. Owners must keep pets away from the bicycle lane and clean up after them. There are also designated off-leash dog areas nearby within Stanley Park.
Is the Stanley Park Seawall wheelchair accessible?
The Seawall is fully paved, mostly flat, and accessible for wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers. There are no stairs along the main perimeter loop, making it an easy roll for visitors of all mobility levels. Take care on brief incline ramps connecting the path to adjacent parking areas and roadways.
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AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: ilkaygokhanozel, hrt_iran on Pixabay.