Looking for the best things to do in Squamish from a true local’s perspective? We asked our General Manager, William, to share his favourite spots, hikes, food, and adventures in town. A certified sea kayaking guide and instructor, proud dog dad, and self-proclaimed map enthusiast, Weilheim has called Squamish home for over a year and brings laid-back mountain vibes to the Squamish Adventure Inn every day.
Here are his top picks for exploring Squamish like a local.
Why Will Loves Living in Squamish
“Because the sea and the sky, ocean and mountains.”
Few places in the world offer this kind of access to both alpine terrain and coastal waters. In Squamish, you can hike a mountain in the morning and paddle the ocean in the afternoon. For outdoor lovers, it’s hard to beat.
A Dream Day Off in Squamish
If you had one perfect day in Squamish, this is he would spend it:
- Brunch at Fergie’s Café in the forest
- Porteau Cove to look for sea critters
- A relaxed walk at Alice Lake or the Squamish Estuary with his dog, Dukester
- Picking up a sandwich from Buvette along the way
“If you choose not to go out in the rain, you’ll have less adventures but the same amount of rain.”
A motto worth adopting when visiting the Pacific Northwest.
Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Squamish
Hike the Stawamus Chief
No trip to Squamish is complete without hiking The Chief. This iconic granite monolith offers panoramic views over Howe Sound and is one of the most famous hikes in British Columbia.
Best Hike in the Area: Panorama Ridge
A tougher choice, but Panorama Ridge wins for an all-day adventure and unreal alpine views. Expect glaciers, lakes, and some of the most photogenic scenery in the province.
Top Adventure: Kayaking Howe Sound
As a sea kayaking guide, Will recommends seeing Squamish from the water. Paddling Howe Sound gives you a completely different perspective of the mountains and coastline.
Easy Nature Fix: Alice Lake
Not every adventure needs to be epic. Gear up and explore the trails around Alice Lake for accessible forest, lakeside views, and a relaxing hike.
Best Food in Squamish
“Tough one — either Saha or Anh Fusion.”
- Saha Eatery for incredible Middle Eastern flavours
- Anh Noodle Fusion for fresh, flavourful Vietnamese cuisine
Both are local favourites and perfect after a long day outdoors.
What to Do in Squamish When It’s Raining
Rain is part of life here. Instead of waiting it out, embrace it:
- Walk the Squamish Estuary in misty weather
- Explore forest trails around Alice Lake
- Grab a long coffee break and plan your next adventure
- Visit Porteau Cove. Marine life doesn’t mind the rain.
You’ll still get the adventure. You’ll just get a little wetter.
Why Stay at the Squamish Adventure Inn?
“To meet other cool travellers and make trips together.”
Squamish is best experienced with others. Whether you’re hiking The Chief, planning a Panorama Ridge mission, or organizing a kayaking day on Howe Sound, the Squamish Adventure Inn is where travellers connect, share plans, and explore together.
Plan Your Squamish Adventure Like a Local
From brunch in the forest to kayaking the Sound, Will’s staff picks show exactly how to experience Squamish as a local. Follow his lead, embrace the weather, and don’t forget to look at the map once in a while.