The long-awaited summer season in Vancouver has arrived and the city has burst into full bloom under sunny skies.
To help you make the most of these fleeting, sun-drenched months, The Campus Resident has put together a concise summer event and activity guide.
First off, what better way to embrace summer than a combination of sunshine, snacks, and the great outdoors?
Vancouver provides a range of scenic picnic spots ideal for spending quality time with loved ones. Kitsilano Beach Park is a great option for those who prefer a vibrant beach vibe. This is the place to gather with friends, play your favourite tunes on a Bluetooth speaker, and indulging in some snacks from local vendors. The iconic Kitsilano Pool is open for the summer.
If you are in the mood for cityscapes and lush floral surroundings, Queen Elizabeth Park offers a picturesque escape with its vibrant gardens, exotic plants and flowers, mountain vistas, and skyline—a perfect setting for a serene afternoon.
And of course, there is Stanley Park. Popular for locals and tourists, this is the place to enjoy a picnic amidst towering trees, scenic trails, and breezy bike rides along the seawall.
If you are in the mood for something a little more adventurous, do something different and hit the water with your friends and family. Granville Island’s Vancouver Boat Rentals offers a selection of boats starting at $60 per hour. Splitting it amongst friends—boats accommodate between 2 to 5 people—makes it an affordable splurge.
If you don’t have a boating license, they offer water bikes as a great alternative that allows safe pedaling at a relaxed pace of 8-14 km/hr, starting at $35 per hour.
Canoeing or Kayaking along the coast also offers both tranquility and gentle workout. Rentals for all kinds of watercraft are available throughout the city, including Jericho Sailing Club and Coal Harbour’s Goldstar Marina.
And what’s summer without little ice cream? There are great options on campus and beyond for those with a sweet tooth.
Right here at UBC, there’s the ever-popular Rain or Shine. The UBC location of this local chain can be found at 6001 University Blvd. Seasonal and regular flavours include vegan and gluten-free options.
For those willing to venture off campus, consider making a trip to La Glace on 2785 West 16th Ave. This is an elegant creamery offering an evolving menu of soft, unique, hand-crafted flavours with monthly rotations and daily surprises. Some of the popular flavours include Praline Pistache, Fraisier, and vegan Coconut Pandan.
For something richer, Earnest Ice Cream delivers bold, milky flavours such as London Fog and Tahitian Vanilla. They have locations throughout the city, but their 3992 Fraser St. outlet is a lovely post-dinner treat after dining on nearby Main St.
Whatever vibe you’re looking for, there’s so much to do in Vancouver to make this summer unforgettable.
SEOHYEON PARK IS PURSUING HER BACHELOR’S DEGREE IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES AT UBC.