Start your journey in Vancouver, Canada, by heading northwest on Georgia Street from the city center. Follow signs for Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway), which provides the most direct route to the ferry terminal. Make sure to stay in the right lanes as you approach the outskirts of downtown to smoothly transition onto the highway.
Continue on Highway 1 for approximately 10 kilometers, watching for signs pointing to Horseshoe Bay. As you near West Vancouver, switch to Highway 99 southbound, which will take you directly toward the ferry terminal area. The highway offers a scenic route through suburban neighborhoods and lush coastal landscapes, making the drive both practical and enjoyable.
Follow Highway 99 until you see signs for Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal. Take the exit toward the terminal, and continue straight until you reach the parking area or passenger drop-off zone. The entire drive from downtown Vancouver typically takes around 30 minutes, but be mindful of peak hours, especially during weekends and holiday seasons, to avoid delays.
Step-by-step driving route including traffic tips and parking options at Horseshoe Bay
Start on Georgia Street heading west from downtown Vancouver, BC, and follow signs to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) westbound. Merge onto Highway 1 and stay in the right lane, then exit at the Lions Gate Bridge / BC-1W / BC-99. Cross Lions Gate Bridge, enjoying moderate traffic during peak hours, and immediately after crossing, follow signs for Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal.
Approaching Horseshoe Bay and parking tips
Continue along Marine Drive, turning left onto Nelson Avenue. The entrance to the Horseshoe Bay ferry parking lot is well-marked; arrive early in peak seasons to secure a spot. Parking at Horseshoe Bay is free but can fill quickly on weekends and summer days. For easiest access, arrive at least an hour before your intended departure time.
As you enter the lot, follow signs for passenger pick-up or multi-day parking if you’re planning a longer stay. Consider alternative options like nearby paid parking lots or street parking on nearby streets such as Marine Drive or Bruce Street, which offer additional spaces but may require walking a few minutes to the terminal. During busy periods, parking staff may direct you to lesser-known lots or overflow areas.
Traffic tips for a smooth drive
Monitor live traffic updates on navigation apps before departure for real-time congestion reports. During weekday rush hours, especially mornings and late afternoons, expect heavier traffic approaching Lions Gate Bridge and Marine Drive. If possible, plan your trip during mid-morning or early evening to avoid peak congestion times. Be patient around toll booths and entry points, and obey parking regulations to avoid fines.
For faster passage through busy stretches, keep to the right lanes when merging onto Highway 1 and utilize alternative routes via David or Fulton Streets if congestion occurs on main arteries. Parking near Horseshoe Bay tends to be busiest from late morning to early evening, so an early departure maximizes your chances of finding a convenient spot.
Public transportation options: bus routes, schedules, and transfer details from Downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay
Take the BC Transit #250 bus directly from Downtown Vancouver at the Granville Street station or Pacific Central Station. This route runs frequently from early morning until late evening, usually every 15 to 30 minutes, providing a reliable connection to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal. Check the schedule online for specific departure times, especially on weekends or holidays.
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure. The bus journeys typically last around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The route passes through key neighborhoods like West Vancouver and West Vancouver Municipal Hall, offering scenic views along the way.
In case you need a transfer or are traveling from a different part of Vancouver, use the TransLink Trip Planning tool to find the best connections. Generally, you can transfer at Burrard Station or Pacific Central Station if you are starting from other downtown locations or neighboring districts.
Verify current schedules and route details on the BC Transit or TransLink websites before your trip to ensure smooth travel. Remember to purchase a reusable Compass Card or single-ride tickets at ticket machines or from bus operators for convenience and faster boarding.