The easiest way from Vancouver to Lions Bay is to drive north on the Sea to Sky Highway, Highway 99. The village sits on the eastern shore of Howe Sound, between Vancouver and Squamish, and the highway runs through it.
Driving up Highway 99
From the city you head to West Vancouver and pick up Highway 99 north, then follow the coast along Howe Sound. Lions Bay has several highway intersections, so watch for the signed exits into the village. Weekends, holidays and good weather bring heavy traffic to the corridor, mostly from people heading to Squamish and Whistler, so travel time can swing a lot. A midweek or early departure is quieter.
Check DriveBC before you leave. The highway can see closures and slowdowns for incidents, rockfall or winter weather, and a short trip can turn long.
By bus
TransLink runs the 262 bus to Lions Bay. Look up the current timetable and where to board in the TransLink trip planner, because stops and frequency change. A trip from downtown Vancouver typically means a transfer, so plan the connection rather than turning up and waiting. Service is lighter at night and on Sundays, so check the last return before you go for the day.
By water
No scheduled passenger ferry links Vancouver with Lions Bay. Anyone with a private boat can make the trip, but conditions on Howe Sound change quickly, and it only suits experienced boaters. Check marine forecasts and local rules before setting out.
Getting a ride
For a hiking day or an evening out, a taxi saves worrying about parking and the last bus. The taxi fare estimator gives a rough idea of cost, and Vancouver taxi covers pickups in the city. Ask about the return pickup when you book, since cell service and taxi coverage can be thinner on the way back from the village.
- Check DriveBC for the Sea to Sky corridor.
- Confirm bus times on TransLink the day before.
- Carry a layer, as it is often cooler near the water.