Things To Do
in Port Moody

Port Moody sits at the eastern tip of Burrard Inlet in Metro Vancouver, offering striking mountain backdrops and a lively waterfront. The city blends historic small-town charm with modern cafes, craft breweries, and a growing arts scene. Newport Village and Rocky Point Park anchor a walkable downtown, with trails, marinas, and family-friendly activities.

Nearby Belcarra Regional Park and Sasamat Lake provide quick access to nature and outdoor adventures year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Rocky Point Park
morning
:

Start your morning with a refreshing stroll along the scenic trails of Rocky Point Park. Enjoy the stunning views of Burrard Inlet and the surrounding mountains while keeping an eye out for local wildlife. Stop by the park's playground if you’re traveling with children, making it a perfect way to kick off your day.

afternoon
:

After a leisurely morning, spend your afternoon enjoying the various activities available at the park, such as kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm waters. If you're feeling hungry, grab a bite at one of the nearby food trucks offering delicious local fare. Relax on the beach with a book or people-watch as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, make your way to the park's pier to take in the breathtaking sunset views over the water. You can also bring a picnic dinner to enjoy against the picturesque backdrop. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront as the stars begin to twinkle above.

day 2
Visit the Port Moody Arts Centre
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to exploring creativity at the Port Moody Arts Centre, where you can appreciate various forms of art. Check out any current exhibits showcasing local artists or participate in a morning art workshop to unleash your own creativity. The arts centre is an inspiring space that fosters community engagement through culture.

afternoon
:

Continue your afternoon by visiting the nearby galleries and shops that often feature handcrafted items and artworks by local artisans. Engage with artists during open studio hours and learn more about their creative processes. Afterward, grab lunch at a charming café in the area that serves fresh, local ingredients.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a live performance or art event if there's one scheduled at the arts centre. Enjoy an array of performances ranging from music to theater, contributing to the vibrant arts scene in Port Moody. Wrap up the night by reflecting on the day's experiences over drinks with friends at a cozy pub nearby.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🏨Hotel room (per night)$120-220
🚆Public transit day pass$8-12
Coffee$2.50-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Waterfront scenery and easy access to nature
  • Walkable downtown with Newport Village and Rocky Point Park
  • Friendly, family-oriented communities with a growing arts scene
  • Proximity to Vancouver and other Metro Vancouver attractions
  • Smaller nightlife scene compared to downtown Vancouver
  • Rainy stretches; some outdoor plans depend on weather
  • Limited high-end shopping and big-city amenities within city limits

Places to Visit in Port Moody

Visit one of these nice places.

Rocky Point Park

Waterfront greenspace with a long seawall, marina views, and golden-hour reflections on Burrard Inlet.

Old Port Moody Station

Historic train station area with nostalgic architecture, rail lines, and seasonal events ideal for vintage cityscape shots.

Sasamat Lake shoreline

Calm lake scenery framed by evergreens; great for sunrise or sunset reflections and people-watching along the shore.

Belcarra Regional Park viewpoints

Elevated vantage points over the inlet; dramatic skies and forest textures for landscape photography.

Port Moody Inlet viewpoints

Hidden vantage spots along the water that capture boats, marinas, and mountains in the distance.

Culinary Guide

Food in Port Moody

Port Moody’s dining scene emphasizes fresh seafood, farm-to-table produce, casual bistros, and a growing craft-brewery culture that makes the waterfront area especially convivial.

Port Moody Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Salmon Chowder

Creamy BC salmon chowder featuring flaky fish and coastal herbs, a staple at waterfront eateries.

Must-Try!

Salmon Burger

Grilled or pan-seared salmon on a bun with greens and a tangy remoulade, common at casual spots near the water.

Spot Prawn Dish

Seasonal dish featuring locally caught spot prawns with garlic butter and citrus—a highlight in seafood-focused rooms.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Port Moody Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts (check summer schedules).

Waterfront Street Food Vendors

Rotating line-up of food trucks and casual bites along the Burrard Inlet waterfront near Rocky Point Park.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is mild, with wet winters and relatively dry summers by coastal Vancouver standards. Winter temperatures typically hover around 0-8°C (low temps may dip below freezing at night); summers are usually 18-25°C with cooler evenings near the water. Rain is common in fall and winter, so packing a waterproof layer is wise year-round. Overall, Port Moody offers comfortable outdoor enjoyment for most of the year with proper planning.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness and queuing

Line up patiently, say please and thank you, and hold doors for others when appropriate.

Tobacco and quiet hours

Smoke-free public spaces; respect quiet hours in residential areas and parks after dusk where posted.

Indigenous awareness

Be respectful of Indigenous lands and local history; follow posted signage and closures.

Safety Guide

Safety

Port Moody is generally a safe, family-friendly community. Standard safety tips apply: stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night in less crowded areas, keep valuables secure near the waterfront, and follow local park rules. Emergency services are readily accessible in the Metro Vancouver area, with major hospitals in nearby cities if needed.

Tipping in Port Moody

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Canada, 15-20% is standard for restaurant service if the service is satisfactory. Tip at tables and for takeout where appropriate; round up for small sums in casual venues.

Payment Methods

Credit/debit cards, contactless payments, and cash are widely accepted; many places also support mobile wallets. Taxes are typically added at the point of sale.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with mild evenings; expect dry spells interspersed with coastal showers. Perfect for waterfront strolls, kayaking, and outdoor dining. Peak crowds at Rocky Point Park and Newport Village.

Fall

Crisp air and turning foliage create rich colors along trails and lake shores. Layered clothing recommended; trails stay popular for hiking and photography.

Winter

Mild to cool with frequent rain; snow is rare but possible on higher elevations. Great for cozy cafés, indoor culture, and quiet shoreline walks after a rain shower.

Spring

Milder temperatures and blooming plants along water edges and parks. Ideal for outdoor markets, early-season hikes, and light outdoor meals.

Nightlife Guide

Port Moody at Night

Port Moody offers a relaxed nightlife with cozy pubs, craft breweries, and casual lounges. Twin Sails Brewing is a local favorite for flights and small bites, while nearby venues host live music and seasonal events. The Inlet Theatre and neighborhood pubs provide cultural options and a friendly, community-centered vibe.

Hiking in Port Moody

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Buntzen Lake Trail

Popular forested loop with lake views; a solid half-day hike with moderate elevation.

Belcarra Regional Park Trails

Scenic routes with ocean vistas and forested paths; good for shorter hikes and photography.

Sasamat Lake Trails

Gentle to moderate trails around the lake; water activities nearby add to the experience.

Airports

How to reach Port Moody by plane.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Main international gateway to the Vancouver area; about 40-60 minutes by car or transit depending on traffic; excellent flight options and connections.

Boundary Bay Airport (YBW)

Small regional airport near Delta; primarily general aviation and private flights; not a typical traveler hub but useful for private aviation.

Getting Around

Walkability

Port Moody is highly walkable in Newport Village and around Rocky Point Park, with pleasant waterfront routes. Some residential neighborhoods and trailheads require short drives, but the core areas are very pedestrian-friendly and well-connected by sidewalks and signage.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families choose Port Moody for its parks, schools, and safe neighborhoods.

Young Professionals

Accessible housing and proximity to Vancouver attract professionals seeking a quieter pace with easy city access.

Seniors

Relaxed communities with parks and cultural activities that appeal to retirees.

Cultural Communities

Diverse residents contribute to a welcoming, multicultural atmosphere across the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A core sport across British Columbia with local amateur and school teams; many residents enjoy local rinks and community leagues.

Kayaking and Rowing

Water-based sports popular on Burrard Inlet and nearby lakes, with rentals available in season.

Soccer

Community leagues and pickup games are common in parks and school fields.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typical of the Greater Vancouver area: moderate to heavy during weekday rush hours, with additional delays expected on major routes to Vancouver and Coquitlam. Public transit options like the SkyTrain Evergreen Extension and West Coast Express commuter rail help reduce driving needs for some trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Port Moody.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most menus include vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls, and adaptable mains; don’t hesitate to ask for substitutions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

For primary care, Port Moody has local clinics; for hospital services, residents commonly use facilities in nearby Coquitlam, Burnaby, and Vancouver. Major regional hospitals in the area include Royal Columbian Hospital (New Westminster) and Vancouver General Hospital, with specialty care available across the Lower Mainland. Travel insurance is recommended for visitors.

Discover Canada

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