Westin Bayshore Review: Vancouver’s Ultimate Waterfront Retreat

After a year of exploring various Canadian provinces, we were excited to return to Vancouver for a weekend getaway. This city, which we once called home for over 7 years, serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Coast Mountains of British Columbia. We had planned a fun weekend escape reconnecting with old acquaintances and discovering both familiar and new hotspots.

In search of the perfect sanctuary for our weekend escapades, we found ourselves drawn to The Westin Bayshore. Nestled on the fringes of Stanley Park, this hotel offered an idyllic haven in one of Vancouver’s most breathtaking spots.

In a nutshell: Why we chose the Westin Bayshore

Check-in

As we pulled up to the entrance, a valet greeted us with an infectious smile, eagerly assisting us with our luggage before whisking away our rental car for valet parking. The stress-free arrival was exactly what we needed to kick off our stay on a high note.

The entrance was serene, with a large marble and honey-coloured wood lobby. Breaking the otherwise neutral interior were the vibrant bursts of colour from the H Tasting Lounge’s plush velvet seating and a purple neon sign encouraging us to share our experiences with the #bayshoremoments tag.

Check-in was effortless, handled promptly by attentive staff who guided us through the process and familiarised us with the hotel’s offerings and the local area. 

Thoughtful note: Throughout our stay, a little pop-up station was placed in the lobby, offering fresh popcorn with a selection of toppings and sauces, free for visitors.

Rooms

The Westin Bayshore, with its rich history spanning over 60 years, has seamlessly incorporated contemporary design elements into its rooms, offering a delightful blend of casual luxury. 

We stayed in a Harbour View room, which we highly recommend when booking a room at the hotel. The moment we stepped inside, floor-to-ceiling windows unveiled a breathtaking panorama, showcasing the lively harbour, the tranquil expanse of Stanley Park and the majestic North Shore Mountains. Next to the window, a cosy chaise lounge chair beckoned us to unwind and enjoy the beauty outside. And, of course, the Westin’s legendary “Heavenly Bed” lived up to its name, providing pure comfort and a restful sleep wrapped in luxurious sheets.

Room Service:

On our first morning, we treated ourselves to breakfast in bed. It was the perfect way to start the day, enjoying the views while preparing ourselves for the adventures ahead. The convenience and luxury of room service added an extra touch of pampering to our stay.

Amenities

The hotel features resort-like offerings with its exceptional amenities, such as the outdoor pool, excellent restaurants, a rejuvenating spa and fitness facilities. After exploring Vancouver, we loved returning to the hotel, indulging in its amenities and enjoying the perfect sanctuary to relax and revitalise.

The pool

The pool at the Westin Bayshore is a true oasis that oozes carefree summer vibes. Its intimate setting, heated waters and perfect positioning to soak up the daytime sun create the ideal atmosphere for a relaxing experience. We couldn’t resist spending some leisurely moments here, basking in the warm morning rays and later taking a refreshing dip in the afternoon, all while enjoying the convenience of the poolside bar for a refreshing drink.

To add to the allure, several barrel saunas are dotted around the outdoor pool area. These serene sanctuaries offer the perfect retreat for a little “us-time,” soothing tired muscles after a day spent exploring the vibrant city.

Thoughtful note: In the evening, the poolside seating area transformed into a cosy spot for sunset and late-night gatherings. Adirondack chairs were strategically placed around gas fires, casting a warm glow that added to the inviting ambiance. Delicate lights adorned the trees, softly illuminating the surroundings.

BikeWESTIN

One of the standout features is the renowned BikeWESTIN program, an exclusive offering available to hotel guests, which allows you to enjoy complimentary 2-hour bike rentals.

With the Vancouver Seawall and Stanley Park nearby, we hopped on a bike and set off on a leisurely 2-hour bike ride around the magnificent oceanside pathways, the park’s old-growth cedar forests and picturesque beaches. It was nice to be back and rediscover one of our old favourite pastimes.

Peloton bikes

Embracing the latest in fitness innovation, The Westin Bayshore proudly presents the introduction of Peloton bikes within its esteemed Peloton® + WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio.

While our schedule didn’t allow us to enjoy this perk, we were impressed by the inclusion of Peloton bikes at The Westin Bayshore. It’s an extraordinary addition that sets the hotel apart from the standard gym offerings typically found elsewhere. 

Restaurants

Throughout our stay, we had explored the diverse range of dining options available inside the hotel. The Westin Bayshore boasts a selection of remarkable restaurants, each offering a unique culinary journey.

H Tasting Lounge

H Tasting Lounge is a culinary oasis that never fails to impress us. We’ve visited several times while living in Vancouver and couldn’t wait to revisit during our stay at the Westin Bayshore. From the first sip to the last bite, H Tasting Lounge takes you on a tantalising journey from crafted cocktails to delectable bites.

Apart from the elegant velvet seating inside, H Tasting Lounge features a unique dining experience in their translucent domes on their patio. When available, we recommend booking a dome and indulging in their afternoon tea while taking in the waterfront views. The availability of the domes changes with the seasons. From special Mother’s Day treats to unforgettable New Year’s celebrations, H Tasting Lounge never fails to create extraordinary moments.

T & Co cafe

Our days were packed while staying at the Westin Bayshore, so we were often limited on time. This is why we appreciated the T & Co cafe for a quick stop and refuel before heading out. The Café offers a selection of coffee (Starbucks), made-to-order smoothies and energising bites & snacks.

H2 Kitchen + Bar

For a taste of Southern-style cuisine and an impressive selection of local beer and wine, H2 Kitchen + Bar is the place to be. This vibrant hotspot celebrates the vibrant flavours of the region with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients. Adding to the atmosphere, most evenings at H2 Kitchen + Bar are accompanied by the soulful melodies of live music, which further enhanced our dining experience.

Final thoughts

Our stay at The Westin Bayshore was exceptional. The hotel’s commitment to excellence was evident in their impeccable service, from the friendly valet who greeted us with a smile to the attentive staff who took care of our every need. 

The breathtaking views from the hotel were simply unparalleled. and the prime location of the hotel made it incredibly convenient to explore Vancouver’s stunning attractions, including the seawall, downtown scene, sandy beaches and historic Gastown. 

The comfort and convenience provided by The Westin Bayshore made it the perfect sanctuary for an unforgettable getaway. We wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone planning a Vancouver a trip to Vancouver.

We were hosted by Westin Bayshore on our trip. As always, all opinions are our own and you will always read our genuine thoughts and experiences.