Known for its majestic setting combining mountains and water, Squamish, BC offers fantastic outdoor activities including some of the best hiking and mountain biking around. There's also freshwater and saltwater fishing, while scuba divers and snorkelers can explore the wealth of marine life and sunken wrecks in Howe Sound. Accommodation choices in Squamish range from private cabins and cozy apartments, to spacious homes featuring spectacular mountain views. You'll have everything you need to enjoy an adventurous and relaxing vacation here.
Dining Out in Squamish
Squamish has got you covered for your dining and imbibing needs. If you’d like to savour a good cup of java, trendy Counterpart Coffee roasts their own beans onsite. A selection of regular and seasonal coffees are available. For beverages of a different kind, The Copper Coil Still & Grill has craft beers and wine on offer. It offers great pub-style food, including brisket sandwiches featuring its own smoked meat.
For a quintessentially Canadian taste, Howe Sound Brewing offers up its own classic poutine, the unique concoction of french fries, gravy, and cheese curds. They also have tasty pub eats and their own lineup of craft brews. The Salted Vine Kitchen + Bar serves some of the best seafood around, using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Try selections like their popular scallop ceviche, paired with one of their handcrafted cocktails.
Exploring Around Beautiful Squamish
One of Squamish's best qualities is its close proximity to major attractions. It’s a 64km drive north from cosmopolitan Vancouver, and 60km from the world-class ski town of Whistler. Don’t miss the underground train tour at the Britannia Mine Museum in nearby Britannia Beach, just 13km south. This former copper mine serves as a reminder of the industry that once dominated this area, providing insights on its history and operations.
Soak up incredible views of Shannon Falls, the water, and mountains during the exhilarating Sea to Sky Gondola ride. At the top, there's various walking and hiking trails, plus rock climbing. Alice Lake Provincial Park is another fantastic location nearby, with views of densely forested peaks, and four spectacular lakes. It's also a popular destination for kayaking and canoeing.
Can't-miss Local Events
Squamish's natural beauty inspires throughout the year. Bald eagle watchers from around the world descend on the town from November through January. The Squamish Farmer's Market takes place every Saturday from April to December, with over 100 local vendors and craftspeople displaying the best of their wares in the downtown area.
Summer is when Squamish really comes alive. The Wind Festival for the Arts is a popular July weekend event, featuring local artists, live performers, and fun family activities. The Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival takes place in August. This five-day celebration of local heritage includes forestry-related competitions and demonstrations, an 8K run, and pancake breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical availability of vacation rentals in Squamish?
At the moment, there are 130 vacation homes from 7 different providers in Squamish.
What are the most popular vacation home amenities in Squamish?
When looking to book a vacation home in Squamish, the most requested amenities include Pool, Internet, and Pets allowed.
Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Squamish?
Yes, there are 45 pet-friendly vacation rentals in Squamish, with an average nightly price of $383.
What's the best month to visit Squamish?
The warmest time of year in Squamish is July and August, with the nightly price of a vacation home starting at $76.