Some days are so busy and hectic that you can’t wait for night to arrive. It’s on those kind of days that I just love to find a beautiful spot to sit and watch the sun go down on a beautiful summer day. Sometimes I make a dinner thing out of it and bring a picnic and a bottle of wine. Other times I make it a work out and hike or walk to a rewarding spot to watch the sunset. It just feels so good to sit down, relax and watch the world wind down.

Here are some great places around Vancouver to watch the sunset:

Spanish Banks – This is the westernmost beach along the Westside of Vancouver, other than Wreck Beach. It’s especially fun to watch the sunset here on a Sunday when tons of people gather for a drumming circle and you can enjoy the beats along with the beauty

Queen Elizabeth Park – With awesome views of Vancouver this is a wonderful place to watch the sunset. The park also has loads of nice trails to walk along, so you can get in a bit of exercise before or after sunset if you feel like it.

Prospect Point – Whether you view the sunset from the viewing area or from the beautiful patio at the prospect point cafe, this is an awesome place to wind down after a busy day.

Second and Third Beach – These two beaches are also in Stanley Park. Both have a great view of Burrard Inlet and therefore make great places to sit and enjoy the sunset. If you’re up for it, you can always take a spin around the seawall while you’re there!

Wreck Beach – This is a great spot if you don’t mind nudity! Wreck Beach is a clothing optional beach at the point of UBC. There’s a huge staircase leading down to it, which can be a great workout as well.

Lighthouse Park – If you can get over to West Vancouver, Lighthouse park is a great place to watch the sunset and get in a good run/walk if you’re up for it.

Ambleside Beach – Also in West Vancouver, this beach offers a wonderful view of the summer sunset. If you feel like going for a walk or run while you are in West Vancouver, you can go along the seawall from Ambleside all the way to Dundarave. A round trip is about 3.5KM.

Burnaby Mountain – This is a perfect spot to hike up to to watch the sunset, or drive.

Iona Beach – Just across the Fraser River in Richmond, Iona Beach is a unique place to enjoy a picnic because it is right beside YVR. Not only can you catch the sunset from here, you can also watch the planes take off and land.

So when a tough day has really taken it’s toll on you, think about winding down by watching the sun finish it’s work for the day. Enjoying nature is sometimes the best way to relieve stress. (Photo Courtesy of keepitsurreal)