Embark on a self-guided driving tour of Vancouver’s beaches and discover the coastal history, scenic beauty, and fascinating stories of prominent figures. Don’t miss the chance to explore the University of British Columbia campus and stroll through the lush Greenheart TreeWalk!
- Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach is right here. This sheltered strip of sand features calm waters, concessions, and even a grassy field for those who don’t feel like slipping into a pair of sandals!
Note: This 9-mile-long tour covers the essentials of Vancouver Beach in 1-2 hours.
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Burrard Street Bridge - We’re coming up on the oldest bridge in Vancouver, the Burrard Street Bridge. The beautiful exterior of this bridge actually hides some bizarre secrets. Hidden within the south tower is an entire stairwell, which once connected the bridge to Vanier Park. It was sealed off nearly 100 years ago, but here’s the thing… nobody knows why!
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Kitsilano Beach Park - Kitsilano Beach Park is coming up on our right. Keep your eyes open for spectacular views of the beach and English Bay. If you have time to stop, don’t miss the heated outdoor pool, which is also Canada’s longest pool at 137 meters! The pool is saltwater and is open seasonally from May to September.
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Kitsilano - Welcome to Kitsilano! Known to the locals as “Kits,” many consider this neighborhood one of the most desirable places to live in British Columbia, especially for young professionals.
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Jericho Beach Park - We’re about to pass Jericho Beach Park. Jericho Beach derives its name from Jeremiah Rogers, a 19th century logger who once worked in this area.
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Locarno Park - Directly ahead is Locarno Beach, perfect for a peaceful getaway. This beach is actually quiet by law! Amplified sound is not permitted, so don’t expect to encounter many beach parties here. Park in any of the lots coming up if you want to visit, or continue driving.
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Spanish Banks Beach Park - This beach is the most spacious in the Vancouver area. Its sandy banks stretch a mile along the far western edge of Vancouver City. Because of its proximity to the University of British Columbia, the beach attracts college students looking for a break from the books, as well as other adventurous types hoping for some good waves.
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University of British Columbia - We’re heading toward the University of British Columbia. In many ways, the story of Vancouver’s largest university mirrors the story of the city as a whole, especially in regards to the university’s relationship with First Nations people.
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Nitobe Memorial Garden - Look for the traditional Japanese garden on our left as we pass. This is Nitobe Memorial Garden, and calling it a Japanese garden isn’t just lip service. When Japan’s 125th emperor, Akihito strolled through the garden in 2009, he reportedly said, “I am in Japan” because of the authenticity of the garden.
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UBC Botanical Garden & Centre for Plant Research - That brings us to the conclusion of our tour at the UBC Botanical Garden. From here, you can explore the famous Treewalk, or just stroll around the garden itself! If you haven’t already taken my tour of Vancouver Downtown, don’t forget to give it a shot to see more of this amazing city!
- Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone
- Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!
- Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!
- Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!
- Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.
- Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!
- Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!
- Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!
- Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations
Experience breathtaking coastal scenery, tranquility, and history with this self-guided driving tour of Vancouver’s beaches. Learn about prominent figures like Old English Joe, Vancouver’s very first lifeguard, and Chief August Jack Khahtsahlano. Take in spacious beaches and look for the famed “Jericho Beach Bunnies.” Then cruise through the campus of the University of British Columbia and stroll through a lush canopy on the Greenheart TreeWalk!
Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!
After booking, check your email to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action, enter your unique password, and access your tour. These steps require good internet/Wi-Fi access. From there, follow the audio instructions and the route.
New, extra validity — now yours for an entire year! Use multiple times over multiple trips!
This isn’t an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
- How to access: Once you book a tour, you’ll get a confirmation email with instructions. Follow the instructions right away: • Download the separate app • Enter the password • Download the tour • MUST DO while in strong wifi/cellular.
- How to start the tour: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction. • Go to the starting point. (Note: no one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided). • The audio will begin automatically at the starting point. If you face audio issues, visit the FAQ. • Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.
- Amazing Savings: why pay for an expensive, crowded, and limited bus tour — priced per person! — when you can have ONE amazing audio guide on your OWN phone for your WHOLE group?
- Flexibility and Convenience: • Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. It’s perfect for tailoring your exploration and revisiting your favorite spots on future trips. • Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace, free from the constraints of a group.
- Comprehensive Tour Experience: •The app provides a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated audio stories, scripts, images, videos, and recommendations for additional activities. • Enjoy a private experience without the crowds, ideal for personalized stops and photo opportunities.
- Ease of Use and Accessibility: • The app is hands-free and activates stories via GPS, offering support through call, chat, or email. • There is no need for a continuous cell or Wi-Fi connection as the GPS map works offline.
- Memorable Keepsakes: • Utilize the app’s images to create a photo book or share on social media, ensuring you have high-quality, crowd-free memories from your trip.
- Preparation: • After booking, download the app and the tour using a strong Wi-Fi connection. • Review the tour at home before your trip for a better experience.
- Starting the Tour: • Open the app upon arrival at your destination. • Select the appropriate tour based on your starting point. • Head to the starting location; the audio will begin automatically. • Follow the suggested route and adhere to the speed limit for an optimal experience. • By following these instructions and taking advantage of the app’s features, users can enjoy a personalized, flexible, and in-depth exploration of their destination at their own pace and convenience.
- For the tour guide app to function as intended, iPhones must be iOS 13 or above and Androids must be version 9 or above.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
