Stanley Park Seawall

Overview

The Stanley Park Seawall is a 9-kilometre paved waterfront path circling Stanley Park, passing through coastal forest, beaches, and rocky headlands. It forms part of the larger 28-kilometre Vancouver Seawall, the longest uninterrupted waterfront path in the world.

Highlights

• Siwash Rock: A natural sea stack sacred to the Squamish Nation, estimated at 32 million years old.
• Totem Poles at Brockton Point: Nine carved poles from various First Nations.
• Diverse Scenery: Sandy beaches, rocky shores, cathedral forest, Lions Gate Bridge, and harbour views.

History

Construction began in 1917 under master stonemason James Cunningham, who dedicated 32 years to the project. The Stanley Park section wasn't completed until 1980—63 years after work began.

Visitor Tips

• Direction: One-way for cyclists (counterclockwise) but pedestrians can walk either direction.
• Bike Rental: Shops on Denman and Georgia Streets offer bikes by the hour; the full loop takes about 1.5 hours.
• Duration: 2–3 hours walking, 1–1.5 hours cycling.