Header Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Mark Mackay
*** Kindly note that we no longer have a partnership with Xplorie offering the free activities. Stay tuned for new offerings in the near future. ***
The summer heat has arrived! Now is the perfect time to soak up the sun and get out on the water. Whistler has many swimmable lakes and even more Whistler water activities to stay cool and refreshed this summer!
Feel at home in the mountains with Harmony Whistler Vacations.
The River of Golden Dreams
The River of Golden Dreams was named after the river’s gentle current mixed with a golden sunset day. There are many different ways to float this river including a canoe, kayak, inflatable boat or on a paddle board. You can do this through a tour with experienced guides or on your own self-guided trip. No matter how you go, the River of Golden dreams does not disappoint, with stunning views around every bend. You may even spot some local wildlife flying above, swimming below or watching you from the banks of the river.
Local Tip: There are many banks to stop at along the way. Pack a lunch and have a little picnic by the river!
Paddle Boarding
The calm lakes in Whistler are perfect to get out your SUP. Choose from Lost lake, Alpha lake, Alta lake or even Green lake and take in the stunning scenery that is Whistler.
Local Tip: Enjoy one free adult one hour Stand Up Paddle Board or Single Kayak rental from Wayside park per unit, per paid night stay. Reservation required. Non-cumulative and non-transferable. Unused admissions expire daily.
Paddle Board Yoga
Enjoy scenic views of Whistler/ Blackcomb mountains from the middle of a lake, on a stand-up paddle board, all while practicing yoga.
Bring your practice to the water and trade your yoga mat for a stand-up paddle board. The water brings calm to your nervous system and challenges your balance during each pose. This class teaches you how to find your inner center working the deep core muscles, practice awareness, being present, surrender. This is your practice whether you choose to practice while the boards are floating around the lake or simply anchored in a calm area. Expect a fun, flowing and possibly refreshing class!
Local Tip: All levels are welcome and if you have your own board, it’s half price!
Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting and energetic activities you can do on holiday. Whistler offers everything you want from a softer, family trip on the Cheakamus, bouncy fun rapids on Green river to big rapids next to stunning waterfalls and glaciers when you ride the Elaho.
Local Tip: As an activity the whole family can enjoy, white water rafting consistently ranks as one of the most popular outdoor adventures in Whistler!
Kayaking
Whistler Eco Tours has been bringing people back to nature since 2001. Experience the local flora, fauna, and geology of Whistler while gliding on top of the water. A visit to Whistler would not be complete without a paddle around the lake!
Local Tip: Enjoy one free adult one hour Single Kayak or Stand Up Paddle Board rental per unit, per paid night stay. Reservation required. Non-cumulative and non-transferable. Unused admissions expire daily.
Fishing
With many lakes, rivers and streams throughout Whistler and Pemberton, Fishing is one of the most popular summer sports. With over 20 years of fishing experience, Whistler Year-Round Fishing guides will select a water body that will give you the best chance of catching Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout or Cutthroat Trout (depending on the time of year).
Local Tip: All anglers ages 16 and up require a valid BC Fishing License
Sailing
Have you ever wanted to learn how to sail? Now you can, with Whistler Sailing Association. This fully accredited Sailing School offers affordable ‘Learn to Sail’ courses and clinics for all ages and abilities.
Local Tip: If you would like to learn with a friend or family member, or simply just go for a ride, Whistler Sailing Association offers private lessons and Guided Sailing Tours that are tailored to you and available by request.
Seaplane
A seaplane flight or tour is a unique way of getting on the water this summer! Located on Green Lake, Whistler Harbour Air Seaplanes offers some of the most scenic tours and direct flights between Vancouver, Richmond (YVR South) and Victoria. They also provide complimentary shuttle pick-up and drop-off between Whistler Village and the seaplane dock.
Local Tip: Afraid of heights? No problem! If you take the valley trail down to Green Lake, you have the perfect spot to watch the planes take off and land on this glacier fed lake.
And of Course, Docks and Swimming
There are lots of different spots to spend those hot summer days at. Some beach locations offer kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals, snack stores, picnic tables with built in BBQs, volleyball nets, offleash dog parks and much more!
Lost Lake – Located in Lost Lake Park amongst biking and walking trails. The closest lake to the Village. A sandy beach with washrooms, concessions and docks as well as an off-leash dog area (Canine Cove) close by.
Alta Lake – There are several beaches located on this lake with kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals available.
Alpha Lake – Located in the Creekside area, this lake has docks, a volleyball area as well as a large off-leash dog area (Arfa Park).
Nita Lake – A small lake in Creekside area with dock, pebble beach and the lake is stocked full of rainbow trout for fishing.
Green Lake – The coldest lake in Whistler and not very swimmer friendly. However, it is a breath-taking beautiful lake with a float plane dock and a boat launch making it a popular watersports / wakeboarding spot!
Local Tip: Be sure you are water competent for natural environments before swimming – this is not your home pool!
UNTIL NEXT TIME
Operating since 2014, Harmony Whistler Vacations is Whistler’s locally owned & operated boutique Vacation Management company. We are dedicated to helping guests discover their inner adventure through our CONCIERGE SERVICES and 24 /7 support to deliver the perfect Whistler vacation. We manage over 60 vacation VACATION RENTAL PROPERTIES in Whistler and carry the highest standards for our homes. Our small team will always provide unparalleled service and deliver a personable experience for our guests. Our goal is to make you feel at home in the mountains so that you can create lifelong memories with family and friends.
We want you to Feel at Home in the Mountains
Be a repeat guest with Harmony Whistler Vacations to receive our return guest special offer (see BOOKING POLICIES for more info).
