Summer in Vancouver (when it’s not raining) is spectacular. From sea to sky, there are plenty of outdoor activities to pique her interest. Here, are some ideas for outings sure to help her fall in love with the city — and you.
Do Yoga at Sunset
What can be more Zen than doing sun salutations while the sun sets over the ocean? It’s the downward dog days of summer, when Vancouverites take their yoga practice outdoors. Join Kula Karma Yoga outside Kitsilano Neighbourhood House (7th Avenue and Vine Street) Tuesdays at 6 p.m. for flow by donation with proceeds going to Covenant House. After class, float over to the Naam for some feel-good vegetarian fare and live acoustic music.
Catch an Outdoor Flick
Pack a picnic, a pair of lawn chairs or some blankets and take in one of the city’s free outdoor movies. Every Monday in July, you can catch a classic flick (think Ghostbusters, Goldfinger and Fried Green Tomatoes) in Robson Square compliments of the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association. Every Thursday in August, the Village on False Creek is presenting more sophisticated screenings complete with bistro tables available for reservation and some of the city’s finest food trucks providing refreshments. Fresh Air Cinema is also showcasing films around the Lower Mainland.
Tour the Waterfront in a Kayak
There’s something about the soothing sound of lapping water and the expanse of the ocean that really gets a girl in the mood. If you’re an experienced kayaker, rent a two-seater from Ecomarine and plan your own adventure. If you’re not sure which way to hold your paddle, don’t despair; Ecomarine offers a variety of guided paddles. Book a private tour or join a group and choose from a paddle around False Creek, English Bay or Stanley Park. Sunset tours are available on Friday and Saturday nights, and full moon paddles take place for three nights in mid-July and mid-August.
Fly Above Grouse
Grouse Mountain has a lot more to offer in the summer than just the Grind. Get her heart racing with a tandem paragliding flight launching from the Peak of Vancouver and landing in Cleveland Park. If the drop — and the cost of $229 — is a little steep for you, try the two-hour zipline adventure across the peaks and canyons of Grouse and Dam Mountains. After your adventure, relax over a beverage at Altitudes Bistro.
Enjoy Outdoor Theatre
Indulge her in a sophisticated soireé of Shakespeare on the beach at the city’s premier summertime event, Bard on the Beach. Make it extra-special by scoring tickets to the Bard-B-Q (July 30, Aug. 3 and Aug. 6), which includes a salmon barbecue during an extended intermission and fireworks following the performance.
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Image courtesy of Tracy O.
