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Summer in Vancouver: The 15 Best Things to Do in June, July & August

Summer in Vancouver is filled with sunshine, great weather, community events, and plenty of outdoor activities to make your visit satisfying and worthwhile. This city, nestled in the middle of picturesque forests, mountains, rivers, inlets, and bays, is a breath of fresh air for your summer vacation. Vancouver is one busy West Coast seaport with no shortage of things to do.

Between the exquisite restaurants, the thriving music, art, and theatre scene, and the surrounding natural beauty, your biggest challenge will be trying to decide which to pack into your schedule. There’s really no bad time to visit Vancouver, but when you go, enjoy accommodations at our boutique Vancouver hotel in downtown to be near all the best things to do.

WHAT MONTHS ARE SUMMER IN VANCOUVER?

Summer in Vancouver happens in June, July, and August when the warmest weather of the year arrives and everyone is treated to extra hours of sunshine. Though Vancouver's summers are relatively mild, the weather is warm enough in these three months to afford comfort for any outdoor activity you please, from boating to swimming to sand volleyball.

WHAT IS VANCOUVER LIKE IN THE SUMMER?

‘Bustling’ is a good way to describe what Vancouver is like in the summer, as warmer temperatures in this coastal city lure everyone out to the parks, patios, and city attractions. Because Vancouver is such a walkable city, it may even appear crowded with pedestrians and folks commuting from restaurants, attractions, and businesses, taking advantage of the pleasant, rain-free days.  

Vancouver’s summer temperatures begin to climb in June, which will still feel cool to most, reaching an an average of 18℃ (65℉). July and August warm up a bit more, topping out at 22℃ (72℉) at the warmest point, and though late summer is the driest time, you can expect several days of overcast skies and partial sun.

The mild summer temperatures make Vancouver a top destination for outdoor lovers, who can enjoy biking, hiking, golfing, and other active entertainment without worrying about excessive heat. Vancouverites welcome the changing season with a flurry of community events, festivals, and markets, to take advantage of the summer sunshine while it lasts.

THINGS TO DO IN SUMMER IN VANCOUVER

Stanley Park totem poles in Vancouver.

The summer visitor to Vancouver will discover things to do for any age, interest, or activity level. The outdoor adventures are endless, and the culinary options are delightful and diverse. You’ll find the Carmana Hotel and Suites location puts you in the perfect spot to enjoy any number of these things to do in Vancouver during your summer trip:

1. PATIO HOP AROUND THE CITY

Thanks to all the restaurants and bars with patio seating, summer in Vancouver is ideal for hopping from one local spot to the next. This favourite summertime activity is how many locals spend the afternoon or evenings. Meander to whatever places look interesting, and keep your plans open to suggestions from locals to choose your next direction. Whatever you decide, you’ll find that the Carmana Hotel & Suites is in the middle of it all.

2. HIKE IN GARIBALDI PROVINCIAL PARK

Mt. Price and nearby islands are reflected in the still water of Lake Garibaldi, in Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada.

If you’re looking for a beautiful place to spend a sunny day, visit Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Hiking the trails in this breathtaking park is a fun way to get exercise and see some of the beauty of the area up close. Accessing this remote location in the heart of the Coast Mountains takes an hour and a half, and the trek to the summit can take five hours of moderate hiking, but when you get a glimpse of these magnificent views, you’ll find it a worthwhile way to spend a summer day near Vancouver.

3. RENT A BOAT

Get out and about and enjoy a thrilling zip around the bay or a leisurely cruise with Vancouver boat rentals. Explore Say Nuth Khaw Yum Provincial Park, also known as Indian Arm, a saltwater fjord with limited road access, and have fun jetting around the beautiful coastline of Vancouver. Stop at a secluded beach for an invigorating swim, and be sure to pack food, drinks, and sunscreen to make a day of your excursion.

4. RIDE THE SEA TO SKY GONDOLA

A cable car gondola overlooking Vancouver's mountains and forests.

Take a scenic drive near Squamish to the Sea to Sky Gondola. This is an affordable and easier way to get a breathtaking view of the surrounding grandeur. The gondola travels to the summit, which sits 885 meters (2,900 feet) above Howe Sound. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide riders a spectacular view of the forest and mountains. This is about an hour from Carmana Hotel, but you can easily hop on a shuttle from downtown Vancouver if you’d rather not drive. However you arrive, this memorable day trip is a must for mountain lovers.

5. VISIT LOCAL CRAFT BREWERIES

There’s something delightful about sipping on a cold brew on a warm day that we just love, and since craft breweries are all over Vancouver, visiting taprooms in the summer tops our list of things to do. A local favourite, Granville Island Brewery has been serving the area since 1984 and locals love its vibrant bar. Steamworks Brewpub in Gastown is another choice near Carmana Hotel downtown that might be worth a stop just for its view overlooking the harbour, but the 20 rotating taps are a good excuse too. Thanks to the more than 40 Vancouver breweries, you can choose a new spot for each day of your stay.

6. ATTEND THE RICHMOND NIGHT MARKET

Korean fish waffles at the Richmond Night Market in Vancouver.

The Richmond Night Market is always one of the most anticipated things to do in Vancouver in the summer. As the largest night market in North America, this international attraction sees over 1 million visitors per year. If you like great Pacific Rim food, entertainment (at the Main Stage), and just a lot of excitement, this is a must-do item to add to your itinerary. The event grounds are about 25 minutes from downtown Vancouver in a family-friendly area of British Columbia.

7. WATCH THE HONDA CELEBRATION OF LIGHT

When you’re in Vancouver during the Celebration of Light, the longest running offshore fireworks competition in the world, you’ll be treated to spectacular shows. This event really brings families together, and it’s free and fun to attend! Hang out in one of the numerous lounges, get a clear view of the fireworks from comfy grandstands, or watch the skies from one of the area’s parks. This year’s competition is happening on July 22nd, 26th, and 29th.

8. EXPLORE STANLEY PARK

Aerial view of Stanley Park in Vancouver.

Stanley Park is one of the largest urban parks anywhere, and a must-visit spot in Vancouver in the summer. Imagine seeing rose gardens, totem poles, and exotic animals all in one place: That’s the draw of Stanley Park. Rent a bike at the entrance and pedal the miles of trails or explore the Stanley Park Seawall and soak in the water views that make this one of the most popular recreation paths in the city. Hungry? Stanley Park has a restaurant, too!

9. GO TO THE BEACH

Since the mild weather in Vancouver isn’t always beachy, heading to the area’s shoreline in the summer while it is warm enough to shed some layers is a must. You’ll likely be amazed by the seamless transition from city streets to beaches in this compact city. Heading to Kitsilano Beach is a favourite activity for Vancouverites and visitors in the summer, and it is situated just across False Creek from downtown Vancouver. People will be out playing beach volleyball, basketball, and yard games, and there’s plenty of sand to lounge on near the water and soak up the sunshine too.

10. SPEND THE AFTERNOON ON GRANVILLE ISLAND

Granville Public Market in Vancouver.

Anyone in Vancouver in the summer should plan a day on Granville Island. This area of the city feels like an escape, yet it is only a nine-minute drive from the Carmana Hotel and the bustling downtown. The island features its own selection of boutiques, kid-friendly play places, art studios, fishing charters, and more. Like almost any Vancouver neighborhood, Granville Island is also home to plenty of delicious eateries and take-away restaurants, and the seafood here couldn’t get any fresher. 

SUMMER FESTIVALS IN VANCOUVER

Fireworks above Vancouver.

The city of Vancouver loves to celebrate, and in the summer you’ll find many festivals highlighting the arts and culture. There is likely a festival for nearly any interest, so we’ve highlighted a few that draw people from many neighboring areas. Check your travel dates and see which summer festival will be happening when you arrive. 

11. BARD ON THE BEACH SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL

This yearly festival is set to hit the main stage once again, running shows from June 8th to September 30th. The dynamic Bard on the Beach productions for 2023 promise to delight locals and visitors in its 34th season. The BMO Theater Center is one of Vancouver’s newest and lies within 10 minutes of downtown. Arrive early to catch the free pre-show talks to learn about the backstory and characters beforehand.

12. WEST VANCOUVER COMMUNITY CULTURAL FEST

This summer festival was formerly known as Vancouver’s Bridge Festival and is set to unfold on June 2nd and 3rd in 2023. Expect to be amazed by the diverse experiences and performances offered at the West Vancouver Community Cultural Fest. Explore the pavilions to learn about traditional art, music, and more, and head to the kids’ zone for family-friendly activities, a zipline, and arts and crafts suitable for all ages.

13. SCOTFEST BC

ScotFest BC is a summer festival in Vancouver with an eclectic program of events that have been going on for more than 90 years. Pipe bands, dancers, and the British Columbia Highland Games draw crowds to watch these cultural and historical events. The celebration ends with a World Music Festival where you’ll be treated to live performances from artists from around the globe. This event takes place June 16th to 18th at Town Centre Park in Coquitlam, 45 minutes from downtown Vancouver.

14. EARLY MUSIC VANCOUVER SUMMER FESTIVAL 

Anyone who appreciates storytelling through song and dance will delight in the Early Music Vancouver Summer Festival. Hear works by Johann Sebastian Bach and newly composed pieces performed by skilled musicians and singers from around the globe. The 11 concerts from July 27th to August 5th are centered around the theme WOMENinSIGHT, which explores the role and impact of women throughout history from a musical perspective. Featuring 60 artists, including Artist-in-Residence Catalina Vicens from Italy, this festival promises to be an inspiring experience for all.

15. VANCOUVER PRIDE FESTIVAL

Vancouver hosts one of Canada’s largest pride celebrations every summer. The 2023 Pride Festival concludes with its Pride Parade, set for August 6th. The parade alone is expected to draw crowds of more than 100,000 spectators, and the route heads down Robson Street, just a two-minute walk from Carmana Hotel. The weeks leading up to the festival are always full of entertainment to check out, too. If you’re in Vancouver around the end of July, expect to find concerts, tea parties, dances, block parties, and a family-friendly picnic in Stanley Park.

Enjoy extra value with your stay by booking one of our Vancouver hotel specials, and relax in our comfortable Vancouver hotel suites near all the best summer entertainment. Take advantage of our boutique hotel’s prime location and the pedestrian-friendly city when planning your trip. Seamlessly switch from festival to patio to sprawling park, soaking up all the best that summer in Vancouver has to offer.