A Morning Adventure in Deep Cove, North Vancouver: Hiking, Coffee, & Views!
James Hammond the waterfront at Deep Cove
Deep Cove in North Vancouver is one of my favorite places to hang out when looking for somewhere different yet serene.
Deep Cove is a small, picturesque village located at the eastern edge of North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It sits on the shores of Indian Arm, a fjord that stretches north from Burrard Inlet, surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Vancouver, Deep Cove offers a peaceful escape from the city, known for its waterfront views, outdoor activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking, and access to trails like the popular Quarry Rock hike.
Deep Cove has something for everyone, whether looking for a chilled morning like my YouTube episode below or for an adventure-filled day.
This is a trendy spot, so make sure you get there early to nab a parking spot, and don’t get embroiled in a queue at Honey’s when ordering your donut and coffee.
However, let’s go over the details below.
Top Attractions in Deep Cove.
There is a plethora of options in this tiny place for activities.
1. Kayaking on Indian Arm
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the calm waters of Indian Arm. Glide past serene forested shores, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this coastal inlet.
Tip: Deep Cove gets busy quickly, so like most activities here, I would get in quick to hire a kayak for two reasons: one, you are guaranteed to get one and two, it isn’t too busy on the water.
Thoughts: I am not a water guy, but I have been known to kayak in a few places, and this is somewhere I would consider as the water is so calm, and when you are finished kayaking, the township is right there for you to reflect on your experience.
2. Hike to Quarry Rock
This short but rewarding hike takes you through beautiful forested trails to a rocky viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Deep Cove and Indian Arm. It's perfect for a morning adventure with incredible photo opportunities. The climb is only 100m in elevation, with a few steps to navigate. We have done this walk numerous times.
Tip: Go to Honey’s before your hike so you can enjoy your donut on the rock at the top while looking out to Indian Arm and Deep Cove. Suppose you take a flask of coffee; even better!
Thoughts: I love easy hikes, and this one is no exception. I love the views at the top! The initial start of the trail is up quite a few steps, so once you get over that part, this is an easy trail to Quarry Rock.
3. Enjoy a Coffee and Donut at Honey’s Donuts
Honey’s Donuts is a local favorite for coffee and freshly baked donuts. Start your morning with a warm cup of coffee and indulge in one of their famous treats, then enjoy it by the waterfront.
Tip: Honey’s opens at 6 a.m., and there are no queues before 0930, but once you start approaching 10 a.m., you can wait a while to order and find a seat outside.
Thoughts: The donuts are so fluffy and huge. We normally get coffee elsewhere, but this is a very popular space for a cup of caffeine, so treat yourself to that, too. Not to worry if you can find a seat; you can take it down to the waterfront and sit in the numerous parks or benches by the water.
4. Paddleboarding in the Cove
For a different experience on the water, rent a paddleboard and cruise around the calm waters of the cove. Paddleboarding provides a peaceful way to take in the natural beauty surrounding Deep Cove.
Tip: As with kayaking previously, get there early and get out on the water. Deep Cove Kayaks is the place to rent a kayak if you do not own one.
Thoughts: The water is so calm that it would be a dream condition to paddleboard. Get off at one of the little islands or beach heads to chill out and look back at Deep Cove. The options are endless!
5. Take a Walk Along Deep Cove’s Waterfront
Stroll along the waterfront and take in the tranquil views of the cove. The morning light reflecting on the water creates a perfect setting for a relaxing walk, with benches to sit and enjoy the scenery.
Tip: If you hang around the edges of the grassy areas, you will be away from the crowds, and you can grab your own little piece of grass to sit on and admire the views.
Thoughts: What a view! Great for people-watching with your coffee as you watch people go out on their boats or kayaks. There is plenty of space for a picnic, so bring your goodies and have lunch with a view!
At the top of Quarry Rock overlooking Indian Arm
How do you get to Deep Cove? What are the parking regulations?
Bus #211 from Burrard Station
The easiest way to get to Deep Cove from Downtown Vancouver is to hop on the 211 bus from Burrard Station. This will vary depending on the time of day you go, as you must get over one of the bridges to North Shore. For cost, this will be one journey on your Compass Card, which is currently $3.20 and lasts ninety minutes for one journey.
Driving tips
It would be best to head towards the Iron Works Memorial Bridge, taking exit 22b for Mount Seymour Parkway, then follow signs for Deep Cove. Give yourself time, as the Iron Works Bridge can be busy and clogged up.
Another reason to leave early is because of the parking restrictions. Annoyingly, Deep Cove has three-hour parking slots dotted around the village, but if you do not get there early enough, you will not get one close to the waterfront.
We arrived at 0945 and were too late for a closer parking spot, so we had to park about a ten-minute walk from the village. Not horrendous, but just a warning. I would also watch your time especially at weekends when it gets busy as the local parking wardens will be checking cars.
Alternative coffee shops in Deep Cove.
Cafe Orso
Cafe Orso is great for comfortable seats, great coffee, and air conditioning on a hot day. They offer standard coffee fares, but they also do great breakfast and lunch options. They are located right at the back of the main strip in Deep Cove, which means many people miss this little gem.
Caf/EH
Also known as Sorry Coffee, this is another favourite of ours in Deep Cove as they have great coffee and a lovely patio at the back with umbrellas for shade. This place gets extremely busy so you will need to get lucky. But not to worry, they are located next to Cafe Orso so you can weigh it all up in minutes.
Cafe Orso in Deep Cove
Alternative activities in Deep Cove.
1. Canoe to Twin Islands
For the adventurous, paddle out to Twin Islands, located in Indian Arm. These small islands offer a remote and peaceful escape, perfect for a quick morning trip.
2. Explore the Deep Cove Cultural Centre
Discover local art and history at the Deep Cove Cultural Centre. The centre hosts the Seymour Art Gallery, presenting works from local artists, and often has exhibits and community events.
3. Book a Sailing Tour
If you're looking for something more adventurous, book a morning sailing tour around Indian Arm. You'll get to see hidden waterfalls, islands, and stunning views of the coastline.
View out to Indian Arm
Choices at Honey's
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Deep Cove itinerary for our morning adventure
0900-0930 Journey to Deep Cove
0930-0945 Parking and getting a doughnut at Honey’s
1000-1200 View of the waterfront and Quarry Rock Hike
1200-1245 Cafe Orso
1245-1330 Waterfront Pier and views
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Summary of Deep Cove.
Deep Cove has everything for anyone looking for a day trip or just a morning.
You can make a full day of it by renting kayaks or paddleboards, but I prefer to look at the water rather than be in or on it.
I love Deep Cove. It offers amazing views, great walks, decent lunch options, trendy cafes, and lots of parking if you arrive early enough.
The view at the top of Quarry Rock is special and worth the forty-five-minute walk up.
When you get to the top with your doughnut and homemade coffee, there is nothing better than sitting on that rock, sipping your coffee, munching away at your doughnut with the view of Indian Arm.
I absolutely love it, and if you want to see more of what I am writing, you can watch my YouTube video on my Roaming with Hammo channel.
You can watch this episode on my YouTube channel here.
Happy exploring Deep Cove!
Deep Cove from a distance on Quarry Rock
The view of Indian Arm from a height