Welcome to Whistler, nature’s playground and home to North America’s largest ski resort. While Whistler is famous for its abundance of winter activities, one of my favourite times to visit is in the summer season! Here are the best things to do in Whistler this summer!
How to get to Whistler
Whistler is a popular tourist destination known worldwide. Assuming most people travel North from Vancouver, this blog gives you directions from the airport. Whistler is accessible via The Sea To Sky Highway (Highway 99). The highway winds through the mountains and beside the ocean. You will most likely want to make a few pit stops along the way for amazing views and photo ops!
Vancouver Airport services most major Airlines including Air Canada, WestJet, Air New Zealand, Qantas, Air France, British Airways and American Airlines. I always find the best flight deals using Skyscanner!
Vancouver Airport is approximately 2-2.5 hours from Whistler depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the Airport there are several shuttles that will bring you straight into Whistler, including, Sky Lynx and Whistler Connection. The shuttle will drop off at Village Gate bus shelter which is in the heart of Whistler Village. Most hotels are walkable from here, however if you are staying in the Upper Village you can walk to the Gondola Transit Exchange and take the number 5 which is free. If you are staying in the Creekside area of town, most shuttles will drop off here first before making their way to Village Gate – always make sure to ask the driver as some won’t automatically stop at Creekside!
Getting Around
If you’re hiring a car then you’re all set! Whistler is generally easy to navigate, but if you’re using public transport you may need to plan ahead. The public transport in Whistler is fairly easy to use, you can pick up a pamphlet from the visitors centre or use their website and nextride app. The buses here will cost $2.50 per ride and must be paid with exact change. Alternatively you can purchase bus tokens from the visitor centre. Buses generally run every 15-30 minutes. Some hotels in town will also offer a shuttle service. In the summer months, public transport is free on weekends, and certain holidays.
Where To Stay In Whistler
- Pangea Pod Hotel
If you are looking for a budget option but don’t quite want to stay in a hostel the Pangea Pod hotel is an affordable alternative. You will have private bunk beds with communal bathrooms and kitchens. This hotel is situated in the heart of Whistler Village, a short 2-minute walk from the Whistler Gondola. With lots of bars and restaurants on it’s doorsteps, you’ll never be bored. The average nightly cost of this hotel will set you back between $65 and $140. They also have an awesome rooftop cafe with live bands and a bar!
- The Westin Whistler
This hotel is stunning and also a close walk to restaurants, the Whistler gondola and all of the shops in the village. This is a luxurious hotel with all the amenities you could imagine. They offer indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness centre, valet parking and restaurants and shops downstairs. Each suite is spacious and includes a fireplace, kitchen and beautiful mountain views. It doesn’t get much better than this! Rooms are priced between $185 and $639, making it a pricier option but worth the experience.
Things to do in Whistler
- Peak 2 Peak Gondola
The Alpine Hiking on Whistler Mountain features some of the most breath-taking views you’ll ever see. Tickets for a sight-seeing and hiking pass are $69. The Mountain opens at 8:30 AM and lines can be long for tickets, so I’d recommend purchasing the day before to save time!
The ride up the Whistler Gondola gradually rises above the mountains and you’ll slowly get a birds-eye view of Whistler. The peak to peak gondola is the world’s longest continuous lift system, and highest lift of its kind; a 4.4 km journey taking 11 minutes between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. At the peak of the chair, you will find restaurants and picnic tables, so bring snacks to enjoy while you relax and watch the birds. I recommend checking out the Inukshuk on the way up Pika’s Traverse Trail. On the other side, Overlord trail will give you stunning views of the valley and take you to the top of the mountain where you can find a glacier lake with bright blue water.
- Bungee Jumping
For the adrenaline junkies like myself, I highly recommend going bungee jumping in Whistler! It is such a thrilling experience and a bucket list item that shouldn’t be missed. The bungee bridge overlooks the glacier fed Chekamus river with unbelievable views of the trees and mountain ranges that surround you. For first time jumpers, it costs $130 per person (tax included), and for second time jumpers, $80 per person (tax included). The team makes you feel safe, secure and will keep you laughing all day. I have jumped in both the winter and summer seasons, but prefer the experience in the summer!
- Scandinave Spa
Spend the afternoon pampering yourself at the Scandinave Spa. After a day of hiking and exploring, take some time out to recharge, enjoy the sounds of nature, and relax in the hydrotherapy pools.
A cycle is recommended of 15 minutes in the hot pools, 5-20 seconds in the cold pools followed by relaxing by the fire or in one the solariums. This cycle can be repeated as many times as you like and will sooth muscles and eliminate toxins.
The spa is surrounded by nature and all guests are enforced to be silent so everyone can truly be at peace. The spa costs between $85-110 depending on the day. The price includes all hot and cold pools, saunas and serenity rooms.
- Swim at the Lakes
Green lake is the largest lake in town with the most beautiful turquoise colour! It is located just outside of Whistler village, along the highway. You can choose between a small beach to lay down on or go a little further and set up a towel on the dock. Both locations offer kayak and SUP rentals as well. I also recommend swimming at Lost Lake, although you should be prepared for a larger crowd on the beach.
