Sea to Sky Travel Guide

Discover the best of Sea to Sky, from the cultural attractions to outdoor adventures and scenic views. Plan your trip to this stunning region in British Columbia, Canada with our guide.


Introduction to Sea to Sky

Sea to Sky is a stunning region located in Lower Mainland, British Columbia, Canada. This picturesque area is known for its natural beauty and endless outdoor recreation opportunities, making it the perfect destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. From its towering mountain peaks and sparkling lakes to its charming towns and rich cultural heritage, Sea to Sky has something to offer for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit, hike and bike routes, activities and tours, where to stay, what to eat, souvenirs to bring home, local culture, tips, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Sea to Sky

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre: This museum showcases the art, culture, and history of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations through interactive exhibits, guided tours, and workshops.

  • Brackendale Art Gallery: This unique gallery features stunning artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery created by local artists.

  • Britannia Mine Museum: Visitors can experience the life of miners in the 1900s at this museum, which provides a glimpse into the mining world through guided tours, exhibits, and gold panning.

  • Stawamus Chief Provincial Park: This park is known for its granite cliffs and towering peaks, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Natural Attractions of Sea to Sky: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort: This world-famous ski resort is a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders. It also offers year-round activities such as hiking, biking, and zip-lining.

  • Garibaldi Provincial Park: This park is home to breathtaking landscapes and trails for outdoor enthusiasts, including Black Tusk, Panorama Ridge, Garibaldi Lake, and more.

  • Brandywine Falls Provincial Park: This park has a stunning waterfall that drops from a granite cliff, and offers hiking and biking trails.

  • Sea to Sky Gondola: Take a ride on the gondola to enjoy stunning views of Howe Sound, Shannon Falls, and the surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sea to Sky

  • Sea to Summit Trail: This trail is an 11-km hike that starts from the base of the Sea to Sky Gondola and ends at the Summit Lodge, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of Howe Sound, Squamish, and the surrounding mountains.

  • Stawamus Chief Trail: This is a popular hiking trail that leads to the three peaks of Stawamus Chief, offering unparalleled views of Howe Sound and Squamish.

  • Cheakamus Lake Trail: This trail is an 8-km hike that takes visitors to the stunning Cheakamus Lake, which offers crystal-clear water and beautiful scenery.

  • Whistler Mountain Bike Park: This park has a wide variety of trails for mountain bikers of all skill levels, covering over 80 km.

Best Things to Do in Sea to Sky: Activities and Tours

  • Rock climbing: Sea to Sky has world-class rock climbing sites such as Stawamus Chief and Smoke Bluffs.

  • Whitewater Rafting: Visitors can experience thrilling whitewater rafting trips on the Elaho and Squamish rivers.

  • Wildlife Watching: Sea to Sky is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, bald eagles, and more.

  • Zipline tours: Visitors can zip through the air at breathtaking speeds while enjoying stunning views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sea to Sky

Day 1: Arrival at Vancouver International Airport Day 2: Explore Squamish and hike the Stawamus Chief Trail Day 3: Visit the Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort and take the Peak 2 Peak gondola Day 4: Enjoy a wildlife safari tour and zipline adventure in the Whistler area Day 5: Go mountain biking in Whistler Mountain Bike Park or hiking in Garibaldi Provincial Park Day 6: Visit Brandywine Falls and enjoy a picnic lunch Day 7: Departure from Vancouver International Airport

Food and Drink Scene of Sea to Sky

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked salmon: Sea to Sky is known for its freshly caught salmon, which can be enjoyed smoked and served with cream cheese on a bagel.

  • Poutine: A Canadian favorite, poutine is a dish made of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

  • Burgers: There are several local restaurants that offer delicious burgers made with locally sourced beef.

  • Seafood: Fresh and delicious seafood such as oysters, clams, and scallops are available at many restaurants in the area.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: The Sea to Sky region has several top-notch breweries that offer a wide variety of locally brewed beer.

  • Wine: There are several wineries in the area that produce award-winning wines.

  • Spirits: Visitors can enjoy locally distilled spirits such as vodka, gin, and whiskey.

Where to Stay in Sea to Sky: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Nita Lake Lodge: This luxurious lodge offers spacious suites and stunning views of Nita Lake and the surrounding mountains.

  • Executive Suites Hotel and Resort: Featuring modern suites with a fully equipped kitchen and a balcony, the Executive Suites Hotel is a great option for families.

  • Squamish Adventure Inn: This hostel offers affordable and comfortable accommodation, ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.

  • The Howe Sound Inn and Brewing Company: This cozy and rustic guesthouse features a popular local brewery.

What to Buy in Sea to Sky: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Whistler Blackcomb T-Shirts

  • Locally made pottery or jewellery

  • Maple syrup

  • Locally made jam and honey

Local Culture and Customs of Sea to Sky

Sea to Sky has a rich cultural heritage, with its indigenous communities playing a vital role in the region’s history. Visitors should be respectful and seek opportunities to learn more about the traditions and customs of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations, such as attending cultural events and visiting the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre.

Best Time to Visit Sea to Sky

The best time to visit Sea to Sky is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny, and the hiking, biking, and outdoor activities are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sea to Sky

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Support local businesses
  • Stay on designated trails while hiking and biking

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on the trails
  • Feed the wildlife
  • Smoke in the forests

Safety and Health

Safety in Sea to Sky

Visitors should always be aware of bears and other wildlife while hiking and biking in the area. It’s recommended to bring bear spray and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising a bear.

Health in Sea to Sky

Visitors should stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while hiking in the area to avoid dehydration and sunburn. They should also be aware of altitude sickness while hiking in the mountains and avoid overexertion.

Getting to Sea to Sky: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sea to Sky

  • Vancouver International Airport: The closest major airport to Sea to Sky, which is located about 80 km south of the region.

Bus Stations Near Sea to Sky

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in downtown Vancouver, Greyhound offers bus service to Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton.

Other Options

  • Driving: Sea to Sky is accessible by car via the Sea to Sky Highway, which connects Vancouver to Whistler and Pemberton.

How to Get Around in Sea to Sky

Visitors can explore Sea to Sky by car, bike, or on foot. Public transportation options are limited, but there are several shuttle services available for those who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Sea to Sky: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Vancouver: Visit the famous Stanley Park, shop in Gastown, and enjoy the vibrant food and drink scene in Vancouver.

  • Victoria: Take a ferry from Tsawwassen to Victoria and explore the gardens and museums in this charming city.

  • Sunshine Coast: Explore the rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and charming communities on the Sunshine Coast.

Conclusion

Sea to Sky is a beautiful and rugged destination that offers endless opportunities for adventure and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re looking for stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, or thrilling adventures, Sea to Sky has it all. We hope this comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your perfect trip to this stunning region in British Columbia, Canada.

Britannia Beach Britannia Beach Lower Joffre Lake Lower Joffre Lake Skiing at Whistler Skiing at Whistler Whistler village Whistler village


    Garibaldi Provincial Park
    Squamish