Vancouver Beaches & Downtown: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Vancouver , Canada

Vancouver Beaches & Downtown: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience breathtaking coastal scenery, tranquility, and history with this self-guided driving tour of Vancouver’s beaches. Learn about prominent figures like Old English Joe, Vancouver’s very first lifeguard, and Chief August Jack Khahtsahlano. Take in spacious beaches and look for the famed “Jericho Beach Bunnies.” Then cruise through the campus of the University of British Columbia and stroll through a lush canopy on the Greenheart TreeWalk!

Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together!

After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

Available options

Vancouver Beaches & Downtown: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

What's included

Easy-to-use app: download Action’s Tour Guide App onto your phone

Great value: purchase per car, not per person. More affordable than bus or guided tours!

Engaging storytelling: Uncover unique tales and thrilling history for a memorable journey!

Perfect narrator: nothing can beat listening to a great voice. Proven with tons of rave reviews!

Offline maps: no signal, no problem! Works perfectly without cellular or wifi.

Comprehensive route and stops: See it all, miss nothing, leave no stone unturned!

Go at your own pace: Start anytime, pause anywhere, enjoy breaks for snacks and photos freely!

Hands-free: audio stories play on their own based on your location. Easy to use!

Detailed itinerary

Sunset Beach is right here. This sheltered strip of sand features calm waters, concessions, and even a grassy field for those who don’t feel like slipping into a pair of sandals!

Note: The tour is over 9 miles long, with more than 19 audio stories, and takes about 1-2 hours to complete.

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

We’re coming up on the oldest bridge in Vancouver, the Burrard Street Bridge. The beautiful exterior of this bridge actually hides some bizarre secrets. Hidden within the south tower is an entire stairwell, which once connected the bridge to Vanier Park. It was sealed off nearly 100 years ago, but here’s the thing… nobody knows why!

Kitsilano Beach Park is coming up on our right. Keep your eyes open for spectacular views of the beach and English Bay. If you have time to stop, don’t miss the heated outdoor pool, which is also Canada’s longest pool at 137 meters! The pool is saltwater and is open seasonally from May to September.

Welcome to Kitsilano! Known to the locals as “Kits,” many consider this neighborhood one of the most desirable places to live in British Columbia, especially for young professionals.

We’re about to pass Jericho Beach Park. Jericho Beach derives its name from Jeremiah Rogers, a 19th century logger who once worked in this area.

Directly ahead is Locarno Beach, perfect for a peaceful getaway. This beach is actually quiet by law! Amplified sound is not permitted, so don’t expect to encounter many beach parties here. Park in any of the lots coming up if you want to visit, or continue driving.

This beach is the most spacious in the Vancouver area. Its sandy banks stretch a mile along the far western edge of Vancouver City. Because of its proximity to the University of British Columbia, the beach attracts college students looking for a break from the books, as well as other adventurous types hoping for some good waves.

We’re heading toward the University of British Columbia. In many ways, the story of Vancouver’s largest university mirrors the story of the city as a whole, especially in regards to the university’s relationship with First Nations people.

Look for the traditional Japanese garden on our left as we pass. This is Nitobe Memorial Garden, and calling it a Japanese garden isn’t just lip service. When Japan’s 125th emperor, Akihito strolled through the garden in 2009, he reportedly said, “I am in Japan” because of the authenticity of the garden.

That brings us to the conclusion of our tour at the UBC Botanical Garden. From here, you can explore the famous Treewalk, or just stroll around the garden itself! If you haven’t already taken my tour of Vancouver Downtown, don’t forget to give it a shot to see more of this amazing city!

What's not included

Attraction passes, entry tickets, or reservations

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How To Access: After booking, you’ll get an email and text with setup instructions and password (search “audio tour” in emails and texts). • Download the separate tour app by Action • Enter the password sent by email and text. • MUST download the tour while in strong wifi/cellular. • Works offline after download.

How to start touring: Open Action’s separate audio tour guide app once onsite. • If there is just one tour, launch it. • If multiple tour versions exist, launch the one with your planned starting point and direction.

Go to the starting point No one will meet you at the start. This tour is self-guided Enter the first story’s point and the audio will begin automatically Follow the audio cues to the next story, which will also play automatically. Enjoy hands-free exploring. If you face audio issues, contact support. Stick to the tour route & speed limit for the best experience.

Travel worry-free: Use the tour app anytime, on any day, and over multiple days. Start and pause the tour whenever you like, taking breaks and exploring side excursions at your own pace. Skip anything you don’t care about or explore bonus content for everything that interests you

Savings tips: Driving tours: purchase just one tour for everyone in the car

Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months.

Audio Setup: Connect your phone to your car's stereo system using Bluetooth, USB, or AUX. For the best experience, consider using headphones for walking tours. Audio playback is compatible with Apple CarPlay, with navigation features coming soon. Support for Android Auto is also on the way.

For the best experience, please use an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, an Android device running version 9 or later, or an iPad/tablet with GPS and cellular connectivity, as these are recommended for navigation.

Meeting point

Begin from Morton Park, 1800 Morton Ave, Vancouver, BC V6G 1V3, Canada. After booking the tour, search your emails and texts for "audio tour". Your tour is VALID FOR ONE YEAR so follow these instructions NOW to finish setting up the tour while you have Wi-Fi/data. Do NOT wait until you are onsite.

Important notes

1. Find The Setup Instructions NOW:
• Download the App: actiontourguide.com/app
• Find Your Password: Search your email or text messages for “Action Tour Guide”
• Enter Password: Open the app and enter your 8-digit password
• Download the Tour NOW while you have Wi-Fi or cell service
• Offline Ready: Once downloaded, the tour works without internet
• Need Help? Visit: actiontourguide.com/redeem

2. Download The Tour NOW:
• Download NOW over WiFi or cellular data ahead of your trip.
• Don’t wait until travel day - your tour is VALID FOR ONE YEAR from purchase.
• Your password redemption is limited to the number of travelers booked. Please enter the same password on each device.

3. Audio Tour Tips:
• This is a self-guided audio tour - no one will meet you at the starting point.
• Entrance and attraction tickets are not included. Please book those separately.
• Curious how it works? Watch a quick video here: actiontourguide.com/tutorial
• For the best audio, connect to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, or listen from your phone speaker.
• CarPlay and Android Auto aren’t supported yet.
• Valid for 12 months - listen to your tour on any day without changing your travel date or rebooking!

4. Help & Support:
• Visit our FAQs: actiontourguide.com/faq
• Chat online: actiontourguide.com
• Call: 1-714-333-0534
• Email: support@actiontourguide.com

About Vancouver

Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and outdoor activities. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, it offers a unique blend of urban living and wilderness adventures.

Top Attractions

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is a 400-hectare public park that boasts stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and the city skyline. It is one of the largest urban parks in North America and offers a variety of recreational activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free (Vancouver Aquarium has an admission fee)

Granville Island

Granville Island is a bustling hub of activity, known for its public market, artisan shops, and waterfront restaurants. It is a great place to sample local food, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy live performances.

Market/Entertainment Half day Free to explore, costs vary for food and shopping

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park offers a thrilling experience with its suspension bridge, treetop walkways, and cliffwalk. It provides a unique perspective of the lush rainforest and offers educational programs about the local ecosystem.

Adventure/Nature 2-3 hours Moderate (around $55 CAD for adults)

Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver's oldest neighborhood, known for its Victorian-era architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place to explore the city's history, shop for unique items, and enjoy a variety of dining options.

Historical/Shopping Half day Free to explore, costs vary for shopping and dining

MuseuM of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia is a world-renowned museum that showcases the art and culture of the First Nations peoples. It features an impressive collection of totem poles, carvings, and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around $18 CAD for adults)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sushi

Vancouver is renowned for its high-quality sushi, thanks to its proximity to the Pacific Ocean and a large Japanese community. Fresh, locally-sourced ingredients are used to create delicious sushi rolls and sashimi.

Dinner Contains fish, seafood, and sometimes raw ingredients

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Vancouver.

Snack Contains dairy and often meat-based gravy

Japadog

A Vancouver street food staple, Japadog is a hot dog with Japanese-inspired toppings such as teriyaki sauce, seaweed, and bonito flakes. It's a unique and delicious snack to try while exploring the city.

Snack Contains meat and sometimes seafood

Bubble Tea

Originating from Taiwan, bubble tea is a popular beverage in Vancouver. It consists of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls, served either hot or cold. There are many flavors and variations to choose from.

Drink Varies by flavor, often contains dairy and sugar

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Snowboarding Rock climbing Kayaking Spa Beach Picnic

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and driest time of the year, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city's beaches and parks. It's also the peak tourist season with the most crowds.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Punjabi, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vancouver is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any major city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Vancouver International Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Pacific Central Station

By bus

Pacific Central Station, Greyhound Bus Depot

Getting around

Public transport

The SkyTrain is a fast, efficient, and affordable way to get around Vancouver. It consists of three lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown West End Kitsilano Gastown Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Whistler

120 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Whistler is a world-renowned mountain resort known for its skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor activities. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering stunning mountain views and a variety of recreational opportunities.

Victoria

100 km from Vancouver • Full day to overnight

Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, known for its historic architecture, charming streets, and vibrant cultural scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Steveston Village

25 km from Vancouver • Half day to full day

Steveston Village is a historic fishing village located in Richmond, known for its waterfront views, fresh seafood, and charming shops. It's a popular day trip destination from Vancouver, offering a taste of coastal life and local flavors.

Festivals

Vancouver International Film Festival • Late September to mid-October Celebration of Light • July to August Vancouver Folk Music Festival • Mid-July

Pro tips

Use the SkyTrain and other public transportation options to get around the city efficiently and affordably
Visit Granville Island Public Market for a taste of local flavors and unique gifts
Explore Stanley Park by bike or on foot to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty
Try local specialties, such as sushi, poutine, and Japadog, for an authentic Vancouver experience
Book accommodations and popular attractions in advance, especially during peak seasons and events