Getting a large group to Deep Cove can take a little planning, especially during the busy summer months when parking is limited, and the village fills up quickly. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, it’s very manageable. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about getting here smoothly and arriving ready to paddle.
Our Location
Deep Cove Kayak
2156 Banbury Road, North Vancouver, BC
Arriving with a large Bus
If your group is arriving by bus with more than 24 passenger seats, a permit is required to enter Deep Cove.
You must apply for a bus permit through the District of North Vancouver:
https://www.dnv.org/streets-transportation/bus-permit-deep-cove-and-lynn-canyon
When applying, please select “DNV Approved Deep Cove Kayak Group.”
This ensures the permit is issued free of charge and that you receive a map with the designated bus route and drop-off / pick-up zones
Even if your bus is only dropping off and not staying in Deep Cove, a permit is still required. The designated drop-off and pick-up zones are located on Deep Cove Road, about a 5-minute walk from us. These areas are intentionally away from residential streets to minimize disruption to our neighbours.
Arriving by Car
We strongly recommend carpooling, as parking in Deep Cove is limited and fills quickly, especially on sunny weekends and throughout the summer.
There is very limited on-street parking in the village, and the few spaces available are in extremely high demand. Several off-street parking lots are available, but most are paid, have time limits, and often fill early in the day.
If you are driving, please plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your start time to allow enough time to find parking and walk to our location.
Please refer to our parking map for details on lot locations, time limits, and payment requirements.
Public Transit
Public transit is a great option for groups and avoids the parking challenge altogether.
From Downtown Vancouver:
The simplest option is to take the #211 bus from Burrard Station, which goes directly to Deep Cove with no transfers.
If you are coming via the North Shore:
- Take the SeaBus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay
- From the bus terminal, take the #239 to Phibbs Exchange
- From Phibbs Exchange, transfer to either the #211 or #212 to Deep Cove
If you are travelling from elsewhere, we recommend checking the TransLink website for current routes and schedules.
Arrival at Deep Cove Kayak
When you arrive, please help us keep things flowing smoothly.
Please do not send your entire group into our front office at once, as the space is very small. We recommend choosing a meeting point outside, gathering your group there, and sending one person to check in.
It is likely that our Group and Private Bookings team will already be watching for your group and may meet you outside before you reach the office.
Your safety briefing and paddling talk are scheduled to begin at your activity start time. To ensure we can start on time, please have your group:
- Arrived and gathered
- All forms and waivers completed
- Washroom visits done
- Dressed and ready to paddle
about 15 minutes before your scheduled start time.
This helps us keep everyone on schedule and makes sure your group gets the full time on the water.