Biking Stanley Park, Vancouver + 7 Best Bike Rentals In 2024
Are You Planning On Biking Stanley Park And Renting A Bike? Here Is All You Need To Know!
If you’re looking to experience the best of Vancouver’s outdoor wonders, then biking Stanley Park should be at the top of your list.
Stanley Park is an iconic urban oasis, offering visitors an enchanting blend of lush greenery, scenic trails, and breathtaking waterfront views.
Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a leisurely explorer, biking through Stanley Park presents a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s natural charm.
In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through Stanley Park, highlighting the best bike rental shops, the must-see attractions, and tips on having a seamless experience.
7 Best Bike Rentals in Stanley Park, Vancouver
The first thing that you should know is that there are no bike rental shops inside Stanley Park.
Therefore, you should rent a bike before you enter Stanley Park, unless you want to use Mobi (see below).
Below is the list of the best bike rental places close to the park’s entrance.
Most of them are located at the intersection of W. Georga St. and Denman St.
Make sure you bring a valid Photo ID as well as a credit card (most major credit cards are accepted) in order to rent a bike in Stanley Park.
Also, all prices are in Canadian Dollars which is significantly cheaper than the American Dollar.
No reservations are needed as they have tons of bikes available.
Remember that in Vancouver you are required by law to wear a helmet.
The closing times are not set in stone, meaning they change based on weather and hours of sunlight – so double-check the times before you start your journey.
1. Yes Cycle
The place that we rented our bikes from was called Yes Cycle.
The staff at Yes Cycle was friendly and could help adjust the seat for you, help you pick the bike that you like, etc.
What I liked about Yes Cycle is that all the bikes are the same rate per person.
Also, they have a wide range of bicycles suited for all ages and fitness levels.
In addition, they have a flexible payment system where you Pay-As-You-Go, which means you can pay for the bike once you return it.
That way you don’t have to worry about returning the bike by a certain time.
They provide the bike, helmet, lock, and map.
In addition, they only offer full-day rentals; no half-day, overnight, or multiple days.
Below are the bikes that we rented, the one with the basket was mine because I needed to put my purse somewhere.
What bikes do they have: Single Bikes, Kid Bikes, Bike Attachments, E-Bikes, Scooters
Pros: large selections of bikes, really close to Stanley Park, all single bikes are the same price, can pay on return
Cons: expensive compared to the smaller shops, there could be a long line up in the summer
Location: They have two locations: Denman St (beside Stanley Park) & 1351 Burrard St (close to Granville Island)
Store Hours: Denman Location: 8 am to 9 pm; Burrard Location: 8 am to 8 pm
Check Rates: Yes Cycle
2. Spokes Bicycle Rentals
Spokes Bicycle Rentals is the largest and most famous bike rental beside Stanley Park.
With a wide selection of high-quality bikes suitable for all ages and skill levels, Spokes ensures that everyone can enjoy biking Stanley Park.
Whether you prefer traditional bicycles, tandem bikes for couples, or kids’ bikes for the little ones, Spokes has the perfect set of wheels for your exploration.
The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Spokes Bicycle Rentals are eager to assist you by helping you find the perfect bike that suits you, providing helpful tips, and answering all of your questions.
Additionally, each rental includes the bike, helmet, bike lock, basket, and a map of the area.
Half-day, all-day, overnight, and multi-day rental options are available.
What bikes do they have: Single Bikes, Mountain Bikes, E-Bikes, Tandem Bikes, Kid Bikes, Bike Attachments, Road Bikes
Pros: large selections of bikes, can pay on return, closest to Stanley Park, offers some of the best bikes in the area
Cons: expensive compared to the smaller shops, there could be a long line up in the summer
Location: They have two locations: 1798 W. Georgia St. (beside Stanley Park) & 870 Cordova St. West (close to Gastown)
Store Hours: Both locations are 8:00 am – 9:00 pm with the last rental available at 8:00 pm.
Check Rates: Spokes Bicycle Rentals
3. Jo-E Cycles
Jo-E Cycles is the third most popular bike rental shop around Stanley Park.
It is located only a block further than the other two Stanley Park bike rentals.
Jo-E Cycles prides itself on providing top-notch bikes for rent at highly competitive prices while ensuring the best-in-class service for its clientele.
With a wide range of options, Jo-E Cycles guarantees a memorable experience for all customers, making it a preferred choice for those seeking quality rentals and excellent service in the area.
Also, half-day, full-day, and overnight rentals are available.
The helmet, lock, basket, and map are included in the price.
They have bikes in cute colors such as teal or hot pink if you want some cool photos.
What bikes do they have: Comfort Bikes, MTB Bikes, Cruiser, City, Tandem, Cruiser Tandem, Kid Bikes, Bike Attachments, E-Bikes, Scooters
Pros: 10% group discount offered for 20+ bikes for 2+ hrs, close to Stanley Park
Cons: closes a bit early
Location: 768 Denman St
Store Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (dusk)
Check Rates: Jo-E Cycles
4. Freedom Bike Rentals
Freedom Bike Rentals offers a top-notch biking experience with its selection of well-maintained, high-quality bikes and exceptional customer service.
Also, helmets, locks, and baskets are all included in the price.
There are options for half-day (up to 5 hrs) rental and full-day (up to 10 hrs) rental but no overnight rental.
The half-day and full-day rental options are not available for the E-Scooters.
They also have bikes in cute colors such as teal or hot pink.
What bikes do they have: City Bikes, MTB Bike, Cruiser, Tandem, Kids Bikes, Bike Accessories, E-Scooters
Pros: Taxes are included in the price, close to Stanley Park, has long operating hours, cheaper than the bigger shops
Cons: not the biggest shop so not that many bikes available
Location: 730 Denman St
Store Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Check Rates: Freedom Bike Rental
5. Bikes And Blades Rentals
Bikes and Blades Rentals offers great customer service, prioritizing attention to detail to ensure the utmost guest satisfaction.
With a strong commitment to guest happiness, they ensure a memorable experience and high-quality of their bikes.
In addition, their prices include the helmet, lock, and basket.
Also, they offer half-day and all-day rentals (except for the scooters) and overnight rates (except for the scooters and for the rollerblades).
The rollerblades and the E-Bikes need to be rented for a minimum of 2 hrs.
What bikes do they have: Single Bikes, Tandem, Bike Accessories, E-Bikes, Scooters, Rollerblades
Pros: Only place that offers rollerblade rental, a discount of 10% for groups of 20+, cheaper than the bigger shops
Cons: Customers have commented that they couldn’t find good kid bikes (they do have a trailer, tag along and a baby seat), they don’t offer lockers
Location: 718 Denman St
Store Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Check Rates: Bikes and Blades (scroll to the middle)
6. Bikes On Robson
Bikes on Robson holds a clear vision of inspiring and supporting the community’s well-being by fostering biking as a way of life.
They aim to achieve this by offering top-notch bicycles, accessories, and services at affordable prices.
Their mission revolves around ensuring utmost customer satisfaction through exceptional customer service, professional bicycle tune-ups, and a wide range of bike services.
They have options for a full-day rental and for an overnight rental.
Helmets are included in the price, Locks cost 2$ and Baskets cost 5$.
What bikes do they have: City Bikes, Tandem, E-Scooters
Pros: smaller shop – can get personal help and attention, cheaper than the main shops, they offer 5% discount to match competitor prices
Cons: not the closest one, a smaller selection of bikes, shorter operating hours
Location: 1531 Robson Street
Store Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Check Rates: Bikes on Robson (HST Tax is not included in their prices)
7. Coal Harbour Bike Rental
Coal Harbour Bike Rental offers an exceptional experience with unbeatable value, top-notch service, and ultimate convenience.
The rental shop is dedicated to catering to your every requirement and has a team of bike experts ready to assist you.
They will guide you in selecting the perfect bike that aligns with your preferences and needs.
Also, they only carry high-end brand bikes which are in excellent condition.
Coal Harbour Bike Rental has an option for a full-day renting but not overnight.
On their website, it doesn’t mention that they offer a free helmet (only for kid bikes), lock, or basket.
What bikes do they have: Hybrid Bikes, Electric, Tandem, Mountain, Cruiser, Road, Kid Bikes, Bike Accessories, Scooters
Pros: smaller shop – can get personal help and attention, cheaper than the bigger shops
Cons: it is located the furthest from Stanley Park, a smaller selection of bikes
Location: 1570 Coal Harbour Quay
Store Hours: 8:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Check Rates: Coal Harbour Bike Rental (scroll to the bottom)
Biking Stanley Park – Organized Tours
If all of this looks too confusing and complicated, don’t worry there are many guided bike tours of Stanley Park that you can choose from.
That way you don’t have to worry about renting a bike and figuring out how to do everything on your own.
Also, you will have an experienced guide with you who will show you all of the main landmarks in Stanley Park and provide valuable information & interesting facts.
If you are short on time, check out this 3-hour guided bike tour of Stanley Park which includes a ride along the Seawall as well as the bike and the helmet.
This organized bike tour of Stanley Park is hosted by a professional local guide who will know all the best spots for pictures and answer all of your questions.
👉 If you are looking for a comprehensive guided bike tour of Stanley Park, check out this one: Vancouver: Stanley Park Nature Bike Tour with Local Guide
If you want a longer tour, check out this 5 hours Stanley Park guided bike tour.
This guided tour includes Stanley Park but also visits Granville Island (where you will stop to buy lunch), False Creek, Olympic Village, Chinatown, and Gastown.
Therefore, this guided bike tour is more comprehensive and you see a few attractions on it.
You will spend about 1 hr and 30 mins biking in Stanley Park.
This Stanley Park bike tour, in Vancouver includes a professional guide, bike, helmet, and lock.
👉 If you are looking for a comprehensive guided bike tour of Vancouver, check out this one: Vancouver Highlights Bike Tour – The Grand Tour
Are there any E-Bike guided tours?
Alternatively, if you don’t feel like peddling that much, you can do an E-Bike guided tour of Stanley Park.
Keep in mind that E-Bike rentals and tours are overall more expensive than regular bikes.
This organized tour lasts 4 hrs and includes a professional guide, an E-Bike, and a helmet.
During the tour, you will spend a 1hr and 30 mins in Stanley Park including checking out Prospect Point (viewpoint on a hill).
From there you will have a chance to see the stunning views of Lions Gate Bridge and North Shore.
Afterward, you will visit False Creek, Yaletown, Chinatown, and Gastown.
👉 If you are looking for a comprehensive guided E-bike tour of Stanley Park + Vancouver, check out this one: Epic Electric Bike Tour of Vancouver
Does Vancouver have a bike share program?
Yes, the city of Vancouver offers a bike-sharing program called Mobi. Their bikes are blue and gray.
This program provides access to a network of bicycles stationed at various docking stations across the city.
Users can rent a bike for a short period, typically by the hour, using a mobile app or membership card.
There are three docking stations at the entrance of Stanley Park – 0209 Stanley Park – Information Booth, 0105 Stanley Park – Totem Poles, and 0101 Stanley Park – Vancouver Aquarium.
The benefit of renting those bikes is that you can rent them from one docking station and return them in a different one.
While with the biking rental shops, you will have to return them to the exact same shop you got them from.
Which means you have to make your way back to the intersection of W. Georga St. and Denman St.
The problem with renting the Mobi bikes is that there might not be any bikes available to rent, especially in the summer months in the Stanley Park area.
However, if you have their phone app it will show you how many bikes are available at each docking station.
Keep in mind that you will need to have internet on your phone to do that.
There is an option for Pay Per Ride or a 24-hour pass, check all the prices for Mobi here.
Are there any walking tours of Stanley Park?
If you decide that you don’t feel like biking at all, there are options for having a walking tour instead.
The walking tour below lasts 2 hr and starts at 4 pm.
At a leisurely pace, walking the entire Seawall typically takes around 2-3 hours.
Numerous trails and pathways meander through the gardens, forests, and waterfront areas of Stanley Park.
As a result, visitors can decide to explore particular sections of the park and take shorter walks based on their preferences.
👉 If you are looking for an organized walking tour of Stanley Park, check out this option: Vancouver Secrets of Stanley Park Walking Tour
Things To See In Stanley Park
Stanley Park, one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions, offers a plethora of sights and experiences for visitors to enjoy.
It is known for its lush forests, picturesque walking and biking trails, and the scenic Seawall.
The park is home to various attractions and sights – see a list of the main ones below.
Lost Lagoon
The Lost Lagoon is a serene man-made body of water located right at the entrance of Stanley Park.
It is a large, freshwater lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic trails.
The Lost Lagoon is home to a variety of wildlife, including ducks, geese, herons, swans, etc.
At the center, you will see the Jubilee Fountain which is a large fountain installation.
Visitors can stroll along the pathways surrounding the lagoon, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
Also, the Lost Lagoon area features beautiful gardens, benches, and picnic spots.
🦄 If you want more information about other nature-related activities to do in Vancouver, check out this blog post: Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge, Grouse Mountain & Lynn Canyon
Totems At Brockton Point
The Totems at Brockton Point are a collection of First Nations totem poles displayed in Stanley Park.
They were originally carved by Indigenous artists from different tribes across British Columbia, and have been a part of the park since the 1920s.
The totem poles vary in size and design, with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, each telling a unique story and depicting ancestral legends, family history, or spiritual beliefs.
The totem poles at Brockton Point are some of the most visited and photographed attractions in Stanley Park.
There is a total of nine totems and if you have never seen totem poles before you will be impressed at how beautiful and tall they are.
Girl In A Wetsuit
The Girl in a Wetsuit statue is a bronze sculpture that depicts a woman sitting on a rock, with one arm resting on her knee.
It was created by the Hungarian-born Canadian artist Elek Imredy in 1972.
The Girl in a Wetsuit is often compared to Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid statue, as both sculptures depict a woman sitting on a rock near the water’s edge.
According to Imredy, he intended to sculpt a life-sized scuba diver on the rock as the sport was gaining popularity in Vancouver during that time.
Depending on the level of the tide, you will see a different amount of the rock where the statue is perched on.
Lions Gate Bridge
Its official name is First Narrows Bridge, but most people call it the Lions Gate Bridge.
It was completed in 1938 and was named after two mountain peaks on the North Shore, known as the Lions.
It is the Canadian version of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco but this one is greenish.
The Lions Gate Bridge spans the Burrard Inlet, connecting the city of Vancouver to the North Shore municipalities of West Vancouver and North Vancouver.
If you are biking on Stanley Park’s Seawall you will pass underneath the bridge.
The bridge is open for car, bike, and pedestrian traffic.
Siwash Rock (Pineapple Rock)
Siwash Rock, also known as Pineapple Rock due to its shape, is a rock outcropping protruding from the waters beside Stanley Park.
It’s composed of basalt, which is a type of volcanic rock that is common in the region.
The rock is approximately 18 meters (60 feet) tall and has a bunch of trees and shrubs growing on the top.
Siwash Rock is considered a sacred site by the Indigenous People of the area, the Squamish Nation, who refer to the rock as “Slhx̱í7lsh” in their language.
According to their folklore, Siwash Rock is a representation of a warrior who was transformed into stone as a symbol of his devotion and purity towards fatherhood.
Second Beach
There are three main beaches in Stanley Park. They are Third Beach, Second Beach, and First Beach (also called English Bay Beach).
Second Beach is located on the western side of Stanley Park, south of Third Beach.
Families enjoy this beach as it has a lot of green areas as well as two playground areas for children.
Also, there are picnic tables and barbecue pits available for public use.
The beach features a large, heated, outdoor swimming pool that is open from May to September each year.
Second Beach makes for a great stop on your biking journey around Stanley Park – go for a swim to cool off, then jump back on the bike and keep going.
🦄 If you want more information about all the attractions in Stanley Park, check out this blog post: 20 Things To Do In Stanley Park, Vancouver
Biking Stanley Park – Park Rules
There are a few rules to keep in mind before you decide to bike in Stanley Park.
▶️ Ride in the correct direction: In Stanley Park, you have to bike only in one direction – anticlockwise.
This means you have to start at the Lost Lagoon and go around until you reach English Bay.
Once you start biking on the Seawall you are in for the full trip.
▶️ Stay on Designated Paths: Stick to the designated bike paths and trails, and avoid riding on pedestrian-only paths.
The bike lanes are clearly marked in Stanley Park. The pedestrians (+ runners/joggers) path is on the right (closer to the water) and they can walk in both directions.
Therefore the bikers are on the left side of the path (that includes E-Bikes, Scooters, Rollerblades, etc). Vehicles cannot go on the Seawall.
▶️ Stopping on the biking path – If you wish to stop and take pics, it’s best not to do so while still on the bike path.
Make sure to move yourself and your bike off the path when taking a break, allowing other cyclists and pedestrians to pass freely.
Given the high traffic on the Stanley Park Seawall, it’s essential to be mindful and considerate of others.
Biking Stanley Park – Safety Tips
Biking in Stanley Park can be a fantastic experience, but it’s essential to prioritize safety while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Here are some safety tips for biking in Stanley Park:
▶️ Wear a Helmet: Always wear a properly fitted helmet when biking to protect your head in case of accidents. In Vancouver, it is the law to wear one.
▶️ Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from other cyclists and pedestrians, especially if you are not a confident biker. Use a warning bell if you have one on the bike to signal other road users. Do not wear headphones that cover both ears.
▶️ Be Mindful of Speed: Control your speed and be prepared for sudden stops or obstacles. The Seawall is flat and easy to bike on but it has a lot of turns.
▶️ Stay Hydrated: Bring enough water to stay hydrated, especially on warm days. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes and don’t forget your raincoat.
👉 Grab your own LARQ Bottle Filtered. The Nano Zero Filter technology removes lead, heavy metals, chlorine, microplastics, and other particulates in the water.
▶️ Check Your Bike: Before starting your ride, ensure that your bike is in good working condition with properly inflated tires and functional brakes. Also, make sure the seat is the right height for you.
▶️ Ride During Daylight: Avoid biking in the park after dark when visibility is limited or if the weather is bad. Be careful when the pavement is wet since it will take longer for your brakes to grip and stop the bike.
▶️ Ride with Others: If possible, bike with a group or a buddy for added safety and enjoyment.
▶️ Be Prepared: Carry essential items such as a bike repair kit, a map of the park, and a charged phone in case of emergencies.
FAQs About Biking Stanley Park
Below you will find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to biking Stanley Park.
Where is Stanley Park, Vancouver?
Stanley Park is situated on the western edge of downtown Vancouver.
It is surrounded by water on three sides – Burrard Inlet to the north, Coal Harbour to the east, and English Bay to the west.
The park covers an area of approximately 1,000 acres and is easily accessible from various points in the city.
Why is Stanley Park so famous?
Stanley Park is famous for its abundant natural beauty, cultural significance, and wide range of attractions and activities available.
The park offers spectacular views of the city skyline and the North Shore Mountains.
It is home to old-growth forests, scenic trails, and beaches, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Also, Stanley Park is culturally significant, as it is situated on the traditional lands of the Coast Salish people.
In addition, Stanley Park is a sanctuary for wildlife, including raccoons, squirrels, and various bird species.
What is the Seawall in Stanley Park?
The Seawall is the world’s longest uninterrupted waterfront path.
It is the most popular trail within the park and runs along the park’s waterfront.
The Seawall is a flat, paved pathway that offers comfortable and easy biking.
How long is the Stanley Park Seawall?
The Stanley Park famous Seawall stretches for about 10 km (6.2 miles), outlining the outermost border.
Check out this Stanley Park bike trail map for more info.
The Seawall continues after English Bay Beach (leaves Stanley Park) and continues all the way to Kitsilano Beach.
How long does it take to bike the Seawall?
The time it takes to bike the Seawall in Stanley Park can vary depending on factors such as your biking speed, stops for sightseeing or taking photos, and your level of physical fitness.
However, biking the entire length of the Seawall in Stanley Park typically takes around 1-2 hours.
Also, it’s important to note that the Seawall can be busy, especially during peak tourist season causing the bike traffic to move slower.
Additionally, if you plan to explore other areas of Stanley Park beyond the Seawall, such as the interior trails or attractions like the Totem Poles you should budget additional time accordingly.
👉 If you are looking for an organized biking tour around Staley Park, here is a good option: Vancouver: Stanley Park Bicycle Tour
What is the best time to visit Stanley Park?
The best time to visit Stanley Park in Vancouver is during the spring, summer, and early fall months when the weather is mild and pleasant.
The park is open year-round, but these seasons offer the most favorable conditions for outdoor activities and exploring the park’s attractions.
Spring (April to June) brings blooming flowers, lush greenery, and milder temperatures but also a lot of rain.
Summer (July to August) is the peak tourist season, and the park can be quite busy, especially on the weekends. However, the warm and sunny weather allows for various outdoor activities, picnics, and enjoying the beaches and waterfront areas.
Early Fall (September to October) is another pleasant time to visit, with the added bonus of beautiful autumn foliage adding colors to the park’s landscape.
Keep in mind that Vancouver’s weather can be unpredictable, and it rains frequently so make sure you check the forecast beforehand.
Hotels Near Stanley Park
There are many hotels in Vancouver, however, there are not that many that are located close to Stanley Park.
Having said that, below you will find my two recommendations, the first one is more on the budget side and the second is more luxurious.
Times Square Suites Hotel
- Times Square Suites Hotel is a budget option with over 1,150 reviews and 9.3 ratings
- It is located 1.2 km from Stanley Park and bike rental shops, Starbucks, and an Italian restaurant are located below the apartments
- This property has spacious, fully furnished suites with fully equipped kitchens and gas fireplaces, a rooftop patio with stunning views
- Free WiFi available, paid parking at CAD 25 per day
👉 Check availability for your dates: Times Square Suites Hotel
The Westin Bayshore
- Waterfront resort-style property with newly renovated guestrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the harbor, mountains, and city skyline
- The Westin Bayshore is located 1.5 km away from Stanley Park, 1,000 meters from Burrard Metro Station
- Features an outdoor (heated) and indoor pool, an on-site spa, a fitness center
- Also, has Free WiFi throughout the property; paid parking for CAD 45 per day
👉 Check availability for your dates: The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
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Conclusion: Biking Stanley Park, Vancouver
In conclusion, biking in Stanley Park offers an incredible and unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks.
The scenic Seawall trail provides a leisurely and enjoyable ride, offering stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and lush greenery.
For the best biking adventure, I highly recommend visiting Yes Cycle Bike Shop.
With their wide selection of well-maintained bikes and exceptional customer service, they ensure that every visitor has the perfect ride for their journey through Stanley Park.
So, don’t miss the chance to pedal your way through this stunning park and create lasting memories of one of Vancouver’s most beloved destinations.
