Located a short two-hour drive away from Vancouver, Whistler is perhaps one of the most popular weekend getaway destinations during both winter and summer months. With summer ending soon, grab a hold of its tail and check out these 15 Whistler summer activities for your next weekend adventure!
Before we get started, remember my Tulum post? Well, after meeting Cat there and totally hitting it off right away, we just had to take another mini vacation together. So, she decided to visit BC and away to Whistler we went!
1. Cruise the sky with Sea to Sky Gondola.
Sea to Sky Gondola is actually in Squamish, but let’s kick off the “best things to do in Whistler” list with attraction sights along the Sea-to-Sky Highway first. (Which is, by the way, the only highway you can take to Whistler from Vancouver. Definitely make a pit-stop here either on your way there or way back.)
View from inside the gondola.
If you’ve been following my blog, you’ll know that I first visited Whistler three years ago. (Read all about my journey here.) Now forest fires are a big problem here in BC during summer. I didn’t escape the smog my first visit. However, we did get lucky this second time around. Regardless of which, I’ve noticed that there’s still a hint of haziness in the skies. Maybe this is just a summer heat type problem?
Above 3 photos from July 2015.
Versus these 3 photos from July 2018 featuring Cat from For Two, Please.
Apart from the gondola ride, Cat and I also went for a short hike. (We opted for the 10-minute one to the famous viewing platform.) A lot of visitors just do the bridge then go home. What they don’t know is that there are several different trails around the area each worth exploring. Don’t miss out on these during your Whistler summer vacation!
2. Go waterfall chasing at Shannon Falls.
Forget TLC’s advice and make your way to Shannon Falls.
Geographically speaking, Sea to Sky Gondola is north of Shannon Falls. You can, of course, stop at Shannon Falls first. OR you can park your car at Sea to Sky Gondola then take a short 10-minute walk back to the waterfalls. Parking at Shannon Falls is more limited though so I recommend the latter.
3. Hike down to Brandywine Falls.
Shannon Falls not impressive enough? Behold the jaw-dropping Brandywine Falls.
It’s an easy walk from the parkade to the waterfalls viewing platform. If you wish to get up close and personal, you’ll have to take a hike down to the base.
Way down to the falls.
I’ve made two attempts in these past few years. The first time we weren’t even sure where the unmarked trail started. The second (with Cathy) started similar to the first. We didn’t know where to go until we saw another group of avid hikers and we simply followed them. Unfortunately, it ended up unsuccessful. While I’d previously read online that there was a rope for helping you get down the boulders, there was actually nothing there. We could still get down, but it was a question of how would we get back up. We didn’t wanna risk it although I’ll most certainly be back again (hopefully with a climbing rope). More information on the trail can be found here for those interested.
Even though we didn’t make it to the bottom, we still found a relaxing spot for a quick picnic.
4. Reward yourself with a cold beverage at Whiskey Jack’s Umbrella Bar.
Finally, onto the actual Whistler summer activities…
Photo from Whistler Blackcomb official Facebook page.
Best thing you can reward yourself with after hiking? A glass of ice cold beer at Whiskey Jack’s Umbrella Bar. Come here during summer for their outdoor patio!
5. Challenge your fear of heights on the Whistler Suspension Bridge.
Maybe you’ll want to check this off your list before the beer. Or better yet the beer will help you get over your fear of heights. Aha! š
Photo Tourism Whistler, originally shot by Megan Wilson.
This is a fairly new Whistler attraction sight. Now do not, I repeat DO NOT follow Google Maps’ directions for getting here.
Google Maps took us through a gravel road (worst one I’ve ever been on AND I got the deepest, longest rock scratch on my car…) only to take us to Garibaldi Provincial Park. Both the umbrella bar and suspension bridge are located on the actual Whistler Mountain summit (aka Top of the World Summit). I’m guessing Google Maps was unable to distinguish that hence took us to the park nearby below the mountain? Maybe? I dunno… Either way, you’ll need to purchase Peak2Peak gondola tickets for accessing the summit. Tickets start at $58 for online pre-booking or $63 at the window and includes access to the suspension bridge.
Since we wasted too much time going around, we were a little too rushed on time. Anyhow, I do live in Vancouver so I’ll most likely be back – which I’ll be sure to update this post on. In the meanwhile, more information about the bridge can be found on Tourism Whistler’s website here.
6. Treat yourself to Araxi’s Seafood Tower.
Personally, I’m always craving cold foods during the hotter months. (Dollar oysters anyone?) If you’re like me, Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar has a delectable seafood tower that will satisfy your craving.
7. Embark on a multimedia night walk with Vallea Lumina.
Vallea Lumina is Whistler’s newest immersive light show experience. Take a stroll through the woods as you follow along the spooky yet enchanting adventures of Dr. David Bogey.
- $29 for adults (16+)
- $24 for youth (6-15)
- Free for children 5 and under
Again, this is a brand new Whistler activity that has only recently started running since July 18th. It will run every night until closing night October 15th.
The whole experience takes an hour to complete. Do wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking the entire time. Keep in mind that certain areas are extremely dark as well and the ground is actually very dusty, which makes the downhill bits dangerously slippery.
8. Take a morning dip at Lost Lake.
Lost Lake is another sight that I’d previously checked off my list except I didn’t really even get to see the lake because it was covered by heavy smog! It’s nice to finally come back again and see things in a different light because this is, without question, one of the absolute must things to do in Whistler, BC.
Wouldn’t mind getting lost here! Note: you can access this pier via the trails on the right-hand side of the main lake/park area.
Try to arrive early in the day so you can enjoy its beauty all to yourself and catch a glimpse of a flawless reflection on the lake.
9. Relax and unwind at Scandinave Spa Whistler.
Scandinave is no doubt one of Vancouver’s most well-liked spa facilities. Even though this is a perfect Whistler itinerary item for the colder months, visiting during summer is great because you won’t be freezing your butt off outdoors going from pool to pool.
Hot pool.
Sauna room.
Cold pool.
Aerial view of all the outdoor pool facilities.
Yes, that is correct. Scandinave Spa Whistler has several different pools ranging from different temperatures of hot and cold. This is known as hydrotherapy and the idea behind this age-old Finnish tradition is so that it helps improve blood flow as well as activate the lymphatic system to help detoxify the body.
Complimentary fruits.
Café food options.
Baths alone at this Whistler spa is $70 per person until October 31st and $79 from then on. Massages aren’t included and start at $175. Packages are available too of course including one that gives you access to the baths + Vallea Lumina.
10. Enjoy breakfast for champs at Fairmont’s Wildflower Restaurant.
Okay, this isn’t strictly a Whistler summer activity (only) per say, but I do recommend coming in the summer time when the weather’s nicer. You can grab a seat outdoors or by the window and enjoy the lovely garden terrace views.
Buffet is priced at $35 per person. Before you dismiss this as any other ordinary buffet, I encourage you to give it a try. Despite it being buffet style, the food is definitely very fresh and made with quality ingredients. Wildflower has made to order dishes as well so worry not if buffets aren’t your thing. À la carte items start at $8 and ranges to $25.
11. Lose yourself in nature.
For those who love a little adrenaline rush, Whistler is home to crazy fun outdoor activities like zip-lining, mountain biking, white water rafting, bungee jumping, jet boating, rock climbing, and much much more.
While I did want to try bungee jumping one year for my birthday, I’m just not that much of an outdoor adventure type gal. Hiking, yes. Canoeing, yes. Low stress level activities, yes. Anything and everything else? Not a chance. Luckily, Tourism Whistler has all the information you need. Check out their full list of Whistler summer activities here.
12. Tour Whistler Village.
Proudly sporting my Araxi seafood tower food baby XDD.
These Olympics Rings are one of the most popular things to see in Whistler!
In preparation for the 2010 Winter Olympics, Whistler really upgraded its overall community facilities. To this day, it remains one of the most luxurious ski resorts I’ve visited. From brand-name shops to high-end restaurants, the village really is a spectacle on its own. Don’t forget to stroll around town and maybe even take a photo by the famous Inukshuk or Olympic Rings!
13. Check out Whistler Farmers Market.
Located at the Upper Village, Whistler Farmers Market takes place every Wednesday from 2:00 – 7:00PM and Sunday from 11:00AM to 4:00PM. You got amazing hand-crafted jewelry. Stunning photography prints for sale. Fresh picked berries. Organic vegan pies. Kombucha on tap. Ponchos. Sun dresses. Knitted blankets. The list never ends!
14. Taken advantage of patio season at Table Nineteen.
Table Nineteen Lakeside Eatery is a restaurant part of Nicklaus North Golf Course. Golfing’s not our thing, but that makes for a great summer outdoor activity as well. Otherwise if you prefer to sit and relax like us, order yourself a glass of sangria and enjoy the lakefront views.
In addition to the marvellous water views, you can watch seaplanes take off. If you fancy an aerial journey, join Whistler Air on a seaplane tour through stunning vistas and majestic glaciers. (I guess you can call this a 14-b.)
Again, we didn’t have much time after the whole getting lost incident so we opted for drinks alone. Further information and pricing for the seaplane tours can be found here.
15. Compete in IRONMAN – or simply be a spectator.
For those unfamiliar with IRONMAN, it is essentially a worldwide triathlon that involves running, cycling, and swimming. We unintentionally planned our trip the same weekend as the race and boy was Whistler busy!
Athletes who compete train the entire year just for this. The major highway closes down for the cycling portion and streets in Whistler Village are also blocked off for the run. As for swimming, this year it took place at Rainbow Lake. It’s a huge event and a lot of people gather around to cheer on their friends and family or simply just to watch like us. It’s obviously not something you can decide to participate in on a whim, but if you’re up for it, there’s always next year š
More information about the race can be found on the IRONMAN official website here.
And there you have it! 15 Whistler summer activities.
Hope this post will give you a better idea of what to do in Whistler. And if Whistler wasn’t already on your bucket list, these 15 fun things to do in Whistler will entice you to visit I’m sure.
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That suspension bridge looks so scary yet I feel like I would give it try since the scenery is so beautiful! I’ve only been to Whistler during the winter so I would love to go and visit during the summer months.
I haven’t even been in the winter yet and I live here hahahaa. You must come back sometime during the summer tho!
Every time I see posts on Canada i am falling more and more in love with it! I would have to go during summer though as I am not used to snow at all. Your photo’s are beautiful and you seem like quiet the adventure junkie like us. I would love to try every single one of these activities in Whistler.
Aww that truly makes me so happy to hear, Lisa! Canada welcomes you any time and feel free to reach out if you ever have any questions or need recommendations for a future trip š
Wow Whistler looks amazing in the summer time. Note to self – go in summer and winter!
For sure! The scenery’s so different and definitely worth the trip!
Wow so many great things to do in the Whistler area. The views, nature are amazing. Seems like you can get your thing on outside work up a hunger and thirst, then come and eat some of the great food on offer.
Hahaa yes, that’s very true! It’s great to see a resort town with so many selections on not just the activities but the food too š
What a beautiful adventure you had in Whistler! I’m so sad I only saw Toronto, because it has nothing on this area. I’d definitely do the gondola, because those views remind me of Switzerland. I don’t think I could test my fear of heights on the suspension bridge however, the video is enough. As always, incredible photos, and I’m very hungry now!
Thanks Lisa! And what a bummer you only got to see the east coast. Toronto definitely has more of a big city vibe whereas Vancouver/BC is great for exploring the outdoors. You’ll have to come back for a visit sometime!!
I love the Sea to Sky Gondola and the Seafood Restaurant. Definitely on my list when I get there.
Whoohoo hope you’ll get to cross them off soon!
The sea to sky gondola and the suspension bridge look perfect to experience the glamorous scenery in Whistler. Your pictures are beautiful and I have to now add Whistler to my bucketlist.
Thanks so much Pujarini! That makes me so happy to hear that I was able to inspire you to visit!!
The waterfalls in Canada seem to be surreal. Absolutely stunning..travel goals is what they are!!
Couldn’t agree more! Canada is definitely one of the most beautiful countries in the world. (No bias though since I live here. It’s seriously stunning.)
Seems you had a fantastic summer and you’ve been to many awesome places. The waterfalls in Canada is so gorgeous!
My photos don’t even do them justice! Have you visited us yet Blaire?
Oh your post made me miss Whistler. I was there in summer too and did most of these activities. thanks for bringing back so many memories
You’re most welcome Anna! Hope you enjoyed visiting us in BC š
Getting on top of the mountain is the thing I love to do first when I visit a new place. I would go for this cable car I I happen to be in Whistler.
The cable car is a must! š
Looks like a very beautiful and adventurous place. The pictures are attractive and stunning. Thanks for sharing such an amazing article.
You’re most welcome David and thank you for the kind compliments!
I just read Cat’s piece on Whistler so it’s great to see your side of the adventure. The Sky Gondola looks beautiful. It reminds me of the zip line we took in Costa Rica. I used to live in Seattle for seven years and always enjoyed my jaunts up to Whistler.
Costa Rica! Ahh I haven’t been yet but I guess Whistler is close enough in the meanwhile. Will defs have to pay a visit now though!
That surely seems like one for the bucket list. Especially loved the pictures of Shannon Falls. it seems amazing to say the least!
Thank you Sreekar!
I’ve been dying to go to whistler! Vallea Lumina looks soo cool! There are other multimedia experiences poping like that in Quebec like Foresta Lumina in Coaticook!
Haha yah! They’re all organized by the same company!!!
We’ve only ever visited Whistler in winter. It’s such a great summer destination. And Araxi is wonderful!
Oh it was divine. Hope you’ll get to visit us in the summer next time, Joanne!
Gorgeous pictures. I was there quite a few years ago. Didnāt realize how much there was to do.
It’s definitely one of the busier ski resorts with the most to do!
Every single place you’ve been to in Whistler is amazing! I love the photos! It looks like paradise. The Gondola must be a wonderful experience. You look great in your photos! And I must say, thank you for introducing to me Whistler. I haven’t heard of it before.
Thank you so much Kirstie! Glad to have introduced you to this beautiful gem and hope you’ll get to visit sometime soon in the near future!
Iāve only been to Whistler once and it was on a day trip from Vancouver and was still snow covered. It was beautiful then so I canāt imagine getting to see it like this! We did the gondola and the views were incredible, but seeing your photos I now want to go back and see these views with that gorgeous aqua water! Reminds me a little of Peyto Lake! Brandywine Falls and Vallea Lumina? Both totally going on my bucket list and staying at the Fairmont. I love them and have stayed in several across Canada and now want to stay in every one Canada has!
Peyto Lake! Yes, they do look similar, don’t they!? It’s funny because I’m the total opposite. I’ve been living in Vancouver for years yet still have never been to Whistler during the winter XDD
Amazing nature. You get some great photos, i could imagine my self under that waterfall, or next to the lake. Thank you very much for sharing this.
You’re most welcome, Samir!
Wow, Whistler looks like an incredible destination! A visit there has been high on my wish list for a long time, and your photos reaffirm that! The nature is just jaw-droppingly beautiful. Brandywine Falls looks particularly impressive, and I’d love to reward myself at Whiskey Jackās Umbrella Bar after a long day of trekking. I’m also impressed by the Vallea Lumina, what a unique concept!
Right!? It’s Vallea Lumina’s first year here in BC and it’s definitely a cool one to check out. Hope you’ll finally get to make your Whistler dream trip a reality! š
Wow Whistler is beautiful! I’d love to check out the views from the Sea to Sky Gondola, but I’m not sure I would dare to do the suspension bridge! The spa sounds much more like my thing, nice and relaxed š
Hahaa Scandinave will definitely have you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Highly recommended!
While making an itinerary for this area, we were debating whether to include Whistler or leave it out. After reading your post, my mind is made. Not question of dropping it at all. Every picture makes me want to go .
That’s the way to go, Punita! Where else in the area are you visiting? Again, I’m based here in Vancouver so feel free to reach out for recommendations if your’e in need of any š
Wow, you photos are amazing! I am legit booking a trip to Whistler ASAP! Haha! Id love to hang out on that suspension bridge. I have a fear of heights so that should be fun haha! And I would go on all the hiking tracks too. Amazing place!
That makes me so happy to hear, Kreete!!!!! Love it when I’m able to inspire people to visit some of my favorite places. Let me know what you think!
Your captures are sure to make people fall in love with summer again. Never Knew that so many activities could be done at Whistler! Great compilation
Aww thank you Meenakshi! Hope this will inspire you to pay Whistler a visit š
OMG!!! So beautiful during summer. Whixh do u prefer, Whistler or Banff?
Ooo that’s tough! I’ve been to Banff more times than Whistler so I guess the answer is the latter!
That skywalk would have been some experience. I love the whole feel here – so pure and natural. It would be amazing to hike around. It would be a perfect getaway from people staying around and I envy them
Why envy when you can visit? š
Whistler looks unbelievable in the snow, and maybe even better in the summer! amazing blog, fantastic photos! keep it up
Really appreciate it Dave!
Cool!!! My friend recently moved to Canada. I’m gonna send this to him.
The views, the gondola ride. the suspension bridge, the waterfalls – everything is spectacular! So stunning.
Guess now you gotta visit him and visit us in Canada! š
Wow, Whistler looks amazing, especially for an outdoor enthusiast like me! Sea to Sky Gondola has some pretty unparalleled views and the waterfalls look very nice, especially Shannon Falls. However, for me, the Lost Lake and the Whistler suspension bridge steal the show!
Whistler in the summer would be perfect for you then! There are so many outdoor activities to do and I think you’d really like it here in BC š