Discover Family Fun in Horseshoe Bay: Your Perfect Spring Weekend Escape
Explore Horseshoe Bay this spring! Enjoy waterfront walks, parks, shops, ferry watching, and adventure—perfect for a spring family outing.
WBN News Sea to Sky
✍️ By Karalee Greer | WBN News – Sea to Sky | April 25, 2025
Horseshoe Bay is a fun spot to explore for a family day outing. Great all year but the beautiful spring weather calls out to explore...
Looking for a fresh, scenic family adventure? Horseshoe Bay, a historic coastal gem on Vancouver’s North Shore, is the perfect spring weekend destination for all ages. Originally a small fishing and ferry village, Horseshoe Bay has evolved into a vibrant gateway to Howe Sound, blending rich West Coast history with modern amenities and new green spaces.
History of Horseshoe Bay
Horseshoe Bay, located at the western tip of West Vancouver, is named for its distinctive horseshoe-shaped cove. The area was originally inhabited by the Squamish Nation (Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw), whose people fished and harvested shellfish in the rich local waters for generations before European contact.
European settlement began in the late 19th century, with early pioneers and loggers drawn by the protected harbor and proximity to Vancouver. By the early 1900s, Horseshoe Bay was a small fishing village, popular with sports fishers and summer vacationers seeking a retreat from the city. The area’s rugged coastline and scenic beauty made it a natural choice for waterfront cottages and lodges.
Ferry services became central to the community’s development. The first regular boat service began in the 1920s, linking Horseshoe Bay to nearby Bowen Island and Sunshine Coast. In 1951, BC Ferries established the Horseshoe Bay terminal, which quickly grew into one of the busiest transportation hubs in British Columbia, providing a vital link between Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Sunshine Coast.
Horseshoe Bay Village
Over the decades, Horseshoe Bay Village evolved from a quiet fishing outpost to a vibrant seaside community. Today, it blends its historical character—charming cottages, local shops, and heritage sites—with modern amenities.
The newly revitalized Shorefront Park welcomes families with its open lawns, playful waterfront promenade, and picnic areas—ideal for relaxing and soaking up panoramic mountain and ocean views. Let the kids explore the interactive marine-themed playground or enjoy a family picnic with a view of the bustling marina.
Walk along the waterfront to watch BC Ferries arrive and depart—a favorite for children and adults alike. Learn about the bay’s maritime past and marvel at the massive ferries maneuvering through the scenic cove. For extra adventure, hire a local fishing guide for the day and discover why Horseshoe Bay is a top spot for West Coast angling—salmon, lingcod, and even the occasional halibut await!
After some seaside exploring, treat the family to classic fish & chips at Troll’s Restaurant or sample waterfront dining at Bay Moorings, where local flavors meet unbeatable views. Browse the village’s boutique shops for souvenirs, or simply relax in the park’s green spaces.
End the outing by beachcombing along the shoreline or hiking one of the nearby trails, where families can spot marine life and breathe in the salty air. Horseshoe Bay promises a blend of fun, nature, and relaxation—making it the ultimate weekend family escape, just a short drive from Vancouver.
Tags: #WBN News - Sea to Sky Edition #Karalee Greer #Horseshoe Bay #Family Fun #Vancouver Day Trips #Waterfront Fun #West Coast Life
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