- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Squamish
Squamish's heritage unfolds from its logging and railway roots. Historic sites near the downtown core, like the West Coast Railway Heritage Park, showcase its resource-town past. Even the old Brackendale Art Gallery, a converted schoolhouse, reflects this history, revealing what is Squamish famous for.
Nestled between the towering Stawamus Chief (700m granite monolith) and the Squamish River estuary, the district offers diverse landscapes. Hike trails like Murrin Park Loop for unique views. Evenings often involve stargazing from Porteau Cove Provincial Park, one of the top attractions in Squamish.
Explore downtown eateries offering Pacific Northwest flavors, often featuring locally caught salmon or foraged mushrooms. Craft breweries, like Howe Sound Brewing, offer unique beers. Experiencing these flavors, especially the seasonal farmer's market finds, are among the best reasons to visit Squamish.
- SquamishCanada
- SquamishCanada
- SquamishCanada
- SquamishCanada
Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Junmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Augwarm, busy
- Sep-Octcooler, fewer tourists
- Wintercold, snow possible
- #ComfortableShoes
- #RainJacket
- #LayeredClothing
- #ReusableWaterBottle
- #DayPack
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 days including side trips
- Canadian Dollar (CAD)
- English & French
- Both are official languages here
- #StawamusChiefMountain
- #SeaToSkyGondola
- #ShannonFalls
- #GaribaldiProvincialPark
- #SquamishEstuary
- #HoweSound
- Hiking to the Chief's summit
- Rock climbing at the Bluffs
- Visiting the Britannia Mine Museum
- Exploring Sea to Sky Gondola
- Kayaking on Howe Sound
Things to do in Squamish
Discover
Squamish boasts stunning sights like the Sea to Sky Gondola, Shannon Falls, and the towering Stawamus Chief Mountain. Nature lovers explore the majestic landscapes and numerous Squamish attractions that define this beautiful town.
Experience
Top things to experience in Squamish include hiking breathtaking trails, attending local cultural activities such as arts festivals, and enjoying seasonal events like the famous Squamish Constellation Festival during the summer.
Sea to Sky Gondola
Scenic gondola ride with stunning mountain views.
Shannon Falls
Impressive waterfall and public park with trails.
Stawamus Chief Mountain
Iconic hiking destination with panoramic views.
Brackendale Art Gallery
Local gallery featuring regional artists' works.
Alice Lake Provincial Park
Beautiful park with trails and swimming lakes.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Squamish, consider Vancouver International Airport (YVR). A Squamish shuttle bus offers direct transport (1.5-2 hrs, ~$60). Car rental from YVR is a scenic 1-hour drive. No train to Squamish service.
Getting Around
Public transport in Squamish is limited to local buses; schedules vary. Driving is often essential for accessing outdoor areas. Taxis are available. Walking and biking are good for downtown.
Local Essentials
For Squamish travel tips for first-timers, book popular tours/accommodations well ahead, especially peak season. Cell service can be spotty on trails; download offline maps. Carry bear spray if hiking. Pay-parking common downtown.
Where to Stay in Squamish
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Squamish, including grilled salmon, butter chicken, and maple syrup treats. Also try bannock, craft-brewed kombucha, and smoked meats influenced by Coast Salish and multicultural culinary traditions.
Enjoy
Taste the best bars in Squamish for vibrant nightlife. Be sure to check out places like The Watershed Grill and The Salted Vine Kitchen + Bar, both buzzing spots. Reservations are a smart idea to skip the wait.
Sushi Sen
Delicious sushi made fresh daily.
The Watershed Grill
Offers delightful seafood dishes, scenic views abound.
Essence of India
Authentic Indian flavors, perfect for spice lovers.
Pepe's Chophouse & Seafood
Serves fresh seafood and meat options.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Discover Squamish cultural activities celebrating local heritage. Experience the annual Squamish Days Loggers Sports Festival, a must-see tradition showcasing skills. Explore the history behind these events, offering insight into the region's past.
Enjoy
Explore Squamish's modern side with exciting music and art events. The Squamish Constellation Festival features diverse musical acts. Discover ongoing art installations and performances, adding to the list of things to do in Squamish.
Squamish Days Loggers Sports
Annual summer loggers competition and parade.
Christmas in the Village
Festive holiday market and celebrations in December.
Whistler Film Festival
Premier Canadian mountain town film festival in December.
Squamish Farmers' Market
Local produce and artisan market every Sunday, May-October.
Bike the Bluff
Annual mountain bike race event in late September.
Stawamus Chief took my breath away
The climb up the Stawamus Chief is no small thing but the view from the top makes every step worth it. The granite walls are just massive and the whole area feels raw and wild. Great little town too - friendly locals and good coffee spots nearby.
Best winter outdoor trip I've had in years
Coming from the UK I wasn't sure what to expect but Squamish in winter is something else. The mountains are right there, snow-capped and huge. We drove the Sea to Sky Highway and I genuinely couldn't stop pulling over for photos. The town itself is relaxed and easy to get around - not overcrowded at all.
Kite surfing at Squamish Spit is unreal
The wind at the Squamish Spit is so consistent - kite surfers were out there shredding every single day we visited. Even just watching was worth it. The setting with the mountains in the background is like nothing I've seen. Solid food options close by too.
Rock climbing paradise - seriously
We came specifically for the climbing and Squamish delivered big time. The granite routes around the Chief are world-class and there's options for every level. The climbing community here is super welcoming. Stayed a few nights and felt like we barely scratched the surface of what's available.
Perfect base for exploring the Sea to Sky corridor
Squamish sits right between Vancouver and Whistler and it's honestly the best of both worlds. You get the mountain scenery without the Whistler price tag. The town has decent restaurants and coffee shops - tried a wild salmon chowder at a local spot and it was absolutely top notch. Great stop for families too.
Snow, mountains and zero crowds - loved it
Came up in December and the whole place felt calm and crisp. Shannon Falls is stunning even in winter - the frozen mist around the base is something else. Squamish doesn't feel like a tourist trap at all which is refreshing. The locals are genuinely helpful and down to earth.