Ah, Kitsilano — the laid-back Vancouver neighbourhood where beach vibes meet big-city energy.
Better known as “Kits” to locals, the area is a total vibe: we’re talking sunbathing in summer, outdoor yoga classes, awesome coffee shops, and sunsets that stop you in your tracks.
Whether you’re up for browsing boutiques, hitting up some of the city’s best brunch spots, or just soaking up unbeatable ocean views, Kits is the perfect place to spend a day. Here’s a look at what this West Side gem has to offer.
Shopping
No trip to Kits is complete without a stroll down West 4th Ave, the neighbourhood’s main street for retail therapy. Here you’ll find favourites like ARC’TERYX, Lululemon, Aritzia, and Reformation, as well as a bunch of small local stores.
Head to The Latest Scoop for soft knits, chic loungewear, and jewelry, or stop by Gravity Pope to check out its seriously impressive shoe wall and wide selection of women’s and men’s clothing.
After something a little different? Step inside Banyen Books & Sound for a diverse range of spiritual books, yoga supplies, candles, unique gifts, and more.
Other recommendations:
Coffee
Need a caffeine fix between boutique-hopping and beach-strolling? Good news: Kitsilano is overflowing with great coffee spots.
49th Parallel is a longtime local favourite, serving up expertly crafted espresso and a selection of Lucky’s Doughnuts in a bright, modern space. Or, pop into Jitters Caffe, a cozy, eclectic café decorated with mismatched furniture and local art.
Meanwhile, Platform 7 serves coffee in a unique Victorian London train station–inspired setting, complete with moody lighting and European vibes that make it ideal for rainy-day sipping.
Other recommendations:
Restaurants
Kitsilano is basically Vancouver’s go-to for fresh, flavourful, and feel-good eats.
Kick things off at TurF, a spot that’s part café and part fitness studio and offers up brunch classics like avocado toast, breakfast burritos, green juices, and smoothies.
For dinner, Nook is a cozy spot for wood-fired pizza and indulgent pasta dishes, while Ramen Danbo delivers delicious bowls of Fukuoka-style tonkotsu ramen that have earned it a cult following.
Plant-based? Enjoy something upscale at Chi, a fully vegan Vietnamese fusion spot created by Chef Chi Le from MasterChef Vietnam, or head to The Naam, one of the city’s oldest vegetarian and vegan restaurants, for a big menu of comfort food. Pro tip: Be sure to grab a seat on the cute garden patio!
Other recommendations:
Drinks
Whether you’re winding down after a beach day or kicking off a night out, Kits has plenty of great spots to grab a drink.
The Fringe Café, tucked away on West Broadway, is a quirky hole-in-the-wall spot with funky cocktails, local and imported brews, and pub grub — ideal for a casual date or catching up with a friend.
If you’re craving a more social vibe, head to Local Public Eatery right by the beach. With a big sunny patio, a buzzing crowd, and a solid lineup of craft beers and cocktails, it’s the go-to spot for post-beach drinks and golden hour hangs.
For something a little more unique, check out The Cider House, a bar and tasting room featuring BC-made ciders. Try them by the pint, or sample a few on a flight!
Other recommendations:
Activities
Kits Beach is basically the heart and soul of the neighbourhood. Soak up sun on the sand, join a volleyball game, shoot some hoops on the basketball court, or take a dip in the outdoor saltwater pool (open in summer), it’s the ultimate spot to have some fun or just lie back and people-watch.
For some alfresco entertainment, swing by the Kitsilano Showboat, an iconic outdoor community stage right by the beach. With free concerts and theatre performances during the summer, it’s a must-see while in the area.
If you’re a cinema lover, don’t miss the Hollywood Theatre. This beloved indie movie house screens cult classics and indie flicks and hosts live events, all in a retro setting with old-school charm.
Other recommendations:
Happy exploring!
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