Squamish Travel Guide
Learn about the best things to do, see, and taste in Squamish, BC. Discover the rich culture and beauty of Sea to Sky's stunning destination.
- Introduction to Squamish
- List of Places to Visit in Squamish
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Squamish
- Best Things to Do in Squamish: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Squamish
- Food and Drink Scene of Squamish
- Where to Stay in Squamish: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Squamish: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Squamish
- Best Time to Visit Squamish
- Do’s and Don’ts of Squamish
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Squamish: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Squamish
- Where to Go Next from Squamish: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Squamish
Nestled in the heart of rugged British Columbia, Squamish is a charming coastal community located between Vancouver and the world-renowned Whistler resort. With towering mountains, a vibrant marine environment, and diverse cultural experiences, this is truly a place where adventure thrives.
List of Places to Visit in Squamish
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre
- Britannia Mine Museum
- West Coast Railway Heritage Park
- Stawamus Chief Provincial Park
Natural Attractions of Squamish: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Shannon Falls Provincial Park
- Alice Lake Provincial Park
- Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park
Hiking/Biking Routes of Squamish
Squamish is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The town offers endless trails for hiking and biking, each providing unique views of the ocean and mountains. Some popular hiking/biking routes to explore are:
- Four Lakes Trail
- Smoke Bluffs Park
- Elfin Lakes Trail
- Diamond Head Trail
Best Things to Do in Squamish: Activities and Tours
- White Water Rafting
- Rock Climbing
- Zipline Tours
- Helicopter Tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Squamish
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1-2 | Hiking in Garibaldi Provincial Park |
| Day 3 | Sea to Sky Gondola and Brandywine Falls |
| Day 4 | Britannia Mines Museum and West Coast Railway |
| Day 5 | Mountain Biking in Alice Lake Provincial Park |
| Day 6 | Kayaking in the Howe Sound |
| Day 7 | Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and Shannon Falls |
Food and Drink Scene of Squamish
Must-Try Dishes
- Squamish Bars
- Whistling Kettle
- Norman Rudy’s
- Zephyr Cafe
Local Beverages
- Howe Sound Brewing
- Geo Cider Co.
Where to Stay in Squamish: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Sea to Sky Hotel
- Mountain Retreat Hotel
- Sandman Hotel and Suites Squamish
- Squamish Adventure Inn
What to Buy in Squamish: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Shirts and Caps from the Sea to Sky Gondola
- Wood Carvings from out of the Cedar Shop at Britannia Mine
- Local craft beer from Howe Sound Brewing
- Honey from Bee’s Knees Honey Shoppe
Local Culture and Customs of Squamish
Squamish has a rich culture and rich history. The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre offers an unforgettable opportunity to learn more about the indigenous people of the area.
Best Time to Visit Squamish
Squamish is an all-year-round destination, with something to do in every season. However, the summer months (June to August) offer ideal weather conditions for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Squamish
Do:
- Respect the natural beauty of the area by minimizing environmental impact
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Ask for permission before taking pictures of indigenous people
Don’t:
- Engage in littering or vandalism
- Disrupt local wildlife
- Drive under the influence of alcohol or drug
Safety and Health
Safety in Squamish
Squamish is a relatively safe town. However, visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from the wilderness, such as carrying a map and GPS with them while hiking.
Health in Squamish
Visitors to Squamish should bring sunscreen and a hat to protect themselves from sunburn. Additionally, it is essential to stay hydrated, particularly when engaging in outdoor activities.
Getting to Squamish: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Squamish
- Vancouver International Airport
- Whistler Municipal Airport
Bus Stations Near Squamish
- Squamish Bus Company
Other Options
- Water Taxi
How to Get Around in Squamish
Squamish offers public transportation with BC Transit. Alternately, visitors can rent a car for flexibility.
Where to Go Next from Squamish: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Whistler
- Vancouver
- Victoria
- Tofino
Conclusion
With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse activities, Squamish is a must-visit destination for adventurers of all kinds. Whether you come for the scenery, adventure, or culture, you will fall in love with what this town has to offer.
