What better way to figure out if a neighbourhood is right for you and your family than to directly immerse yourself in it?

Skip the recommendations for tourists and explore like a local.

Here’s how I would spend the perfect day in West Vancouver. Best of all, no driving is required!

Start the morning off just right with a mouthwatering slice of organic pie from Savary Island Pie Company on Marine Drive in the Ambleside neighbourhood of West Vancouver. This local gem exudes a rustic charm while bringing you closer to your neighbours sitting beside you.

Walk two blocks over to The Bar Method where you can burn off those calories with a gratifying workout. This incredibly fun exercise may have you questioning yourself whether you’re actually working out or dancing!

After an intense class at the studio, walk another five blocks, past the local library where you can browse through the collection or attend an event, to the world-class West Vancouver Community Centre. Unwind in the beautiful aquatic centre complete with a lazy river, steam room, and multiple hot tubs. Then participate in one of the many classes offered, whether in art, music, meditation, languages, or many more.

Next, head on over to Bene Sushi for lunch, where you will enjoy both classic and exploratory Japanese cuisine. The high quality food is served in a beautiful dining area, complete with ridiculously comfortable private booths combined with modern fixtures.

After lunch, walk over to the waterfront area, where you can take a leisurely stroll (or join the many joggers, if you’re so inclined!) along the West Vancouver seawall. I especially recommend settling down in the Dundarave area to enjoy the spectacular views of Downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park, the Lions Gate Bridge, Kitsilano, and even Vancouver Island. Read a good book while listening to the waves crashing against the shore or go back up to Marine Drive to explore the eclectic shops of Dundarave Village.

After an afternoon spent exploring, sit back at one of my favourite dinnertime restaurants. If you’re still looking to enjoy the stunning views, watch the sunset from the patio at West Vancouver’s waterfront location of The Beachhouse, where you will be served a first-class meal using fresh and sustainable ingredients.

If you’re in the mood for Italian food, don’t miss out on Mangia e Bevi Ristorante serving fine delicious cuisine. The owners succeed in gathering the community together through a large family-style dining ambiance as well as devoted philanthropic engagement, raising money for BC Children’s Hospital and Lions Gate Hospital.

If at some point you find yourself at Park Royal, make sure you stop by Whole Foods to try my favourite date square bar – you won’t regret it!
I hope you enjoy the itinerary for my perfect day. Keep in mind that this only covers a small area in West Vancouver – this wonderful city has even more to offer! Feel free to contact me for more insider tips and recommendations for getting to know West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Downtown Vancouver, and Brentwood.