Stanley Park sits at the tip of Vancouver's downtown peninsula, wrapped by the seawall and filled with forest, lakes and beaches. Its size is the main planning challenge: the seawall around the park is roughly 10 km, too far for many visitors on foot in a single outing. The better approach is to choose a section that fits your time and energy. For how the park fits into a wider visit, see things to do in Vancouver.
Check current closures first
Sections of the seawall close from time to time for maintenance, slope work or storms. In autumn 2026 the City closed the seawall between Lumberman's Arch and Third Beach for safety and accessibility upgrades, including removal of the old cyclist "maze gates," with a signed detour through Beaver Lake and intermittent closures possible until November 20, 2026. Check the City's notice before setting out.
Choose by time available
| Time | Suggestion | Starting point |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1 hour | Coal Harbour to the park entrance and back, or a stroll around Lost Lagoon | Downtown / Georgia Street entrance |
| 1–2 hours | Seawall from Coal Harbour to Brockton Point and back | Coal Harbour |
| Half day on foot | Brockton Point, then inland trails to Beaver Lake, back via Lost Lagoon | Coal Harbour |
| Half day by bike | The full seawall loop, with stops | Bike rentals near the park's Denman Street side |
| Half day with kids | The Vancouver Aquarium plus a short loop nearby | Aquarium |
Allow time for a relaxed pace.
Seawall sections
- Coal Harbour to Brockton Point (east side). Harbour views, marinas, floatplanes and the North Shore mountains. Level and popular.
- Brockton Point to Prospect Point (north side). Passes under the Lions Gate Bridge with views across the water. Prospect Point sits above the seawall.
- Prospect Point to Third Beach and Second Beach (west side). Ocean views and beaches facing English Bay. This side is more exposed to weather and is where closures for slope work most often occur.
- Second Beach to English Bay. Leads out of the park into the West End.
Inland alternatives
Forest trails cross the park's interior. Beaver Lake and Lost Lagoon are popular, shorter options and are also where detours are routed during seawall closures. Pick up or download a park map, as interior trails are easy to get turned around on.
Cycling or walking?
The City of Vancouver says the seawall has separate paths: walkers and joggers on the side closest to the water, cyclists and inline skaters on the inner path. Follow the posted signs, including direction-of-travel rules for cyclists. Cycling is the most practical way to do the full loop in a half day. Bike rentals are available near the park; families with young children often prefer walking a single section instead.
Access and toilets
- The seawall is paved and largely level, with some slopes at access points.
- Benches are spaced along the route.
- Washroom buildings are located at several points in the park; some are seasonal. Check the Park Board's map for locations and opening.
- For travellers who can't walk far, consider getting to a viewpoint by car or taxi and taking a short stroll. See Vancouver for mixed ages and limited walking.
Combine Stanley Park with…
- The Vancouver Aquarium, inside the park: see the Vancouver Aquarium.
- Canada Place and Coal Harbour: see things to do near Canada Place.
- A full first day: see one day in Vancouver.
If you're walking from Coal Harbour, you'll pass Harbour Air's downtown seaplane terminal on the way into the park. If you'd like to see the park from above, our guide to Vancouver seaplane tours explains what's involved.
FAQs
Which section suits my available time? Under two hours: Coal Harbour to Brockton Point and back. A half day: the full loop by bike, or Brockton Point plus inland trails on foot.
Are any paths closed? Check the City's seawall notices on the day.
Is it safe to walk the park alone? The seawall is busy in daylight. As anywhere, stick to well-used routes and avoid isolated trails after dark.