Sunrise and sunset of two of my favorite time of the day. While two are exactly the opposite, they both give a sense of peace to me.

I consider myself blessed that I am an early morning person. I like starting my day early, before sunset if possible. Because waking up early comes naturally to me, it wasn’t really a much of a struggle although sometimes I also get lazy. There were days where I woke up late but in general, my body alarm is set top wake up not later than 7am, 6am at most time.

And then there’s sunset .. between sunrise and sunset, I would choose sunset for few good reasons. First, sunset starts late almost when the day is done and winding off. My body willingly submit to sitting and doing nothing. Although the sun sets quickly in matter of minutes just like sunrise, the segway before sunset is quite long.Even after sunset, the ambience is still cozy and nice. I get to enjoy lounging and enjoying the view longer. I seriously don’t even want to move and leave my spot. I just want to sit there and be cozy.

I get the opportunity to catch the sunrise when I go for my morning run, very convenient and motivating. Because I run mostly during weekdays, I don’t have the luxury to stay around and enjoy the scenery. I have to rush back home to prepare for work. But nonetheless, I consider it a blessing to have the opportunity to start the morning like this.

Sunset on the other hand is quite tricky for me. I don’t get the luxury to enjoy it often, at least with a good view. I had to allocate some time to be at a certain place to watch sunset. The closest that I can have a good view is at Garry’s Point Park at Steveston Village. I used to go to this place before until I changed my phone carrier and lost signal in this area.

My new found place to watch sunset is at the West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk. I’ve just recently explored this area and I was so glad I did. I used to go to West Vancouver area with friends but never alone. We never explored the seaside area or hiking trails in the neighbourhood though. This Summer, I decided to do just that.

Centennial Seawalk:

Centennial Seawalk is a popular out-and-back trail near West Vancouver, British Columbia. It’s an easy 1.7-kilometre route from the bottom of 18th Street to Dundarave Park. This walk has scenic views of Burrard Inlet, the Coast Mountains, the Vancouver skyline and ships travelling under the Lions Gate Bridge and past the beach.

Route Information:

• When to do: Year-Round
• Backcountry Campsites: No
• Pets allowed: No
• Family friendly: Yes
• Route Signage: Average
• Crowd Levels: Moderate
• Route Type: Out and back

Route Description:

The Centennial Seawalk is a moderately trafficked trail in West Vancouver that follows closely alongside the shoreline and offers beautiful views out over the waters of the Burrard Inlet. Popular for sunrise/sunset walks, it’s best to arrive early to this trail to secure parking and beat the crowds. Setting out from Ambleside Park, walk along Argyle Avenue for 984ft until you get to the trails at Millenium Park. Follow the trail into the park on your left, as it makes its way closer to the water. Continue straight along the trail as it hugs the coastline and offers beautiful views out across the water that are made even better with the backdrop of a picturesque sunset. Continue to make your way along the coastal path, making sure to look back to see the iconic Lions Gate Bridge behind you.

After crossing McDonald Creek, the Centennial Seawalk will meander along the water’s edge for 0.9mi, ending up at Dundarave Park with its popular beach. After exploring the area, turn back and continue along the same trail, this time with the imposing view of the Lions Gate Bridge before you. Looking to your right, you will see Stanley Park across the water and before you know it, you will be back at the trailhead of the Centennial Seawalk.

How long is the West Vancouver Seawalk:

West Vancouver Seawall is a 2.8 mile (6,500-step) route located near West Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. This route has an elevation gain of about 19.7 ft and is rated as easy.

This is a fantastic coastal walk along the shoreline of West Vancouver. Much of the route follows a paved and elevated trail above the ocean, but there are a few spots on route with beach access. There are breathtaking views of the sound, Lions Gate Bridge and the surrounding mountains.

Getting to West Vancouver Seawalk:

Take bus 250 from downtown Vancouver and hop off on Marine Dr at the intersection with 24th St. Peruse the stores and coffee shops in Dundarave Village, then stroll downhill to the waterfront. Take in the panoramic coastline from Dundarave Pier, then weave eastwards along the shore-hugging Centennial Seawalk route, West Van’s favorite promenade. You’ll pass joggers, herons and public artworks.

After 2km, the trail comes to a halt. From here, head back up to the Marine Dr shops or weave over to Ambleside Park, where you’ll find a dramatic First Nations carved welcome figure facing the water.

This post, after a long segway of sunrise and sunset is mainly about my sunset walk at West Vancouver Centennial Seawalk. It was a beautiful peaceful place .. my new happy place indeed.

The first time I visited this please I started at 13th Street and walk down to 25 street, the entire stretch of the Seawalk. I immediately fell in love with the place. The Seawalk have a dedicated walking path and an opportunity to be up close to the water as possible. In fact, some people swim in this area.

Although the Stanley Park Seawall is closer, this Centennial Seawalk have great advantage for me. The opportunity to be close and touch the water, walk in the sandy beach, and wine and dine in the cozy restaurants, or a simple sip of hot cocoa and a slice of a delicious pastry in close by cafe. Plus, it accessible via public transit going back and forth. As for the parking, there seems to be shortage of parking area so have that in mind in case you visit this place.

The Seawalk have several benches facing the water. Almost every spot is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. I moved from one spot to another and all give the beautiful view of the sunset.

If you have kids, they have 2 kids park along the Seawalk, some picnic tables, concession stand and public washroom.

So if you are looking for a nice place to end your day quietly, head to Centennial Seawall. You will. not regret it 🙂

Thank You for stopping by. Until my next adventure. Byeee!

Bowen Island Videos:

• A Ferry ride from Vancouver to Bowen Island
• Easy 45 mins Hike to Dormat Point
• Good hike close to the ferry terminal – Kilarney Lake Loop Trail
• Quick stop for snack at Tell Your Friends Cafe
• A lovely promenade to relax at Lady Alexandra Promenade
• The BEST brunch place, The Artisan Eats Cafe
• A stroll at the Artisan Village Square
• A short hike away from the crowd at Wild Coast Nature Conservatory
• Cannot miss the Lighthouse at Cape Roger Curtis
• No effort hike at Sea Walk

British Columbia Attractions:

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