July 5, 2004

11:27 PM

My husband and I will be in Vancouver for 4-5 days in early October. I know that's prime whale-watching season, and we'd also like to do some kayaking. Any tips on good companies that do this sort of thing? Also looking for a cool hotel and any other must-sees in the area. Renting a car is a possibility if necessary.
posted by gokart4xmas to (3 comments total)

I have no idea who is a "good" whale watching company, but there are tours that leave from docks all over the city. Same with ocean kayak rentals.

We need a little more info regarding your interests for what else to see. Vancouver is currently in the midst of a culinary boom, there's probably no where else in North America that it's better to be hungry in right now.
posted by Keith Talent at 8:44 AM on July 6, 2004

I always put up visitors in the Sylvia Hotel. If you don't mind walking it is a great location. Easy 2 block walk to two very frequent buses. Their summer rates are posted now, but I know off season you can often get good deals. Great view of English Bay, close to Stanley Park, and you can't starve on Denman Street.

As for Kayaks, an easy location for renting is on Granville Island. Just open the yellow pages when you get to town. I prefer kayaking out in Deep Cove but you will need a rental car to get out there.

Whale watching really needs to be done on Vancouver Island. The pod population in the Georgia Strait is miniscule to what is around the west side of the Island.

Also remember, our Thanksgiving is Monday Oct 11, so things like hotels might be a bit more busy that weekend.

Weather wise, prepare for everything but snow. It will be sunny one day and pouring the next, especially later in the month.
posted by Razzle Bathbone at 9:34 AM on July 6, 2004

I stayed at the Sylvia once. It's not fancy-schmancy or anything, but I had no complaints, the price was right and it's in a good location (I had a nice view on English Bay).
posted by transient at 1:14 PM on July 6, 2004