Iona Jetty
A 4km jetty extending into the Strait of Georgia, offering stunning sunset views, wildlife, and a unique walking/biking experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Iona Jetty
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 4km jetty extending into the Strait of Georgia, offering stunning sunset views, wildlife, and a unique walking/biking experience.
"It's neat that you can see how far you have to keep going, a beautiful place to watch the sunset from."
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Jetty
The 4km jetty is best explored on foot or by bike. Consider renting a bike for a quicker journey .
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It's often windy on the jetty. Bring layers and sun protection, as there's little shade .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 4km Jetty Walkway
Iona Beach Regional Park
A unique 4km walk/bike path extending into the Strait of Georgia, offering stunning water and city views.
Sunset Spectacle
End of the Iona Jetty
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the water, a truly magical experience away from the city bustle.
Wildlife Encounters
Along the Jetty and Beach
Spot diverse birdlife, seals, and even eagles in this natural wetland and marine environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Walk
Timing is Key for Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Jetty
The 4km jetty is best explored on foot or by bike. Consider renting a bike for a quicker journey.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It's often windy on the jetty. Bring layers and sun protection, as there's little shade.
📸 Capture the Views
The jetty offers unique photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities, including eagles and seabirds.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk or Bike the Jetty
The 4km jetty is best explored on foot or by bike. Consider renting a bike for a quicker journey.
☀️ Dress for the Weather
It's often windy on the jetty. Bring layers and sun protection, as there's little shade.
📸 Capture the Views
The jetty offers unique photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
🐦 Birdwatching Paradise
Bring binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities, including eagles and seabirds.
💧 Mid-Jetty Rest Stop
A washroom and resting benches are available halfway along the jetty for comfort.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Iona Jetty for its unique 4km walk into the Strait of Georgia, offering stunning sunset views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The flat, accessible path is ideal for walking, biking, and dog-walking, providing a peaceful escape. Some find the jetty deceptively long, and it can get crowded, especially near the entrance during peak times.
"4 km’s of straight jetty, and a beautiful place to watch the sunset from. Gravel path is good for walking. The jetty appears deceptively short from a distance, but it’s neat that you can see how far you have to keep going. There is washroom at halfway and a few resting benches along the way. To see sunset, I recommend arriving a couple of hours prior to beat the crowds and find parking, so you can enjoy it best by the end of the jetty. Can get busy, especially near the entrance from the park. Good opportunity for birdwatching and seeing seabirds like cormorants and seaducks."
Ethan Kang
"A very interesting natural area. Dune grass and driftwood. Black sand on the beaches. Plenty of picnic benches. A place for quiet and birdwatching. The main area is a wetland beach and not really suitable for swimming. The jetty arms are really neat for hiking walking and biking. You get a long way into the water and away from land .It is often windy on the jetty but there are wind shelters and a bathroom."
Dave Kieda
"I found this beautiful, peaceful and delightful place in late 2023. If you need a place to take a walk, enjoy wildlife, listen to the sound of birds, the water lapping against the rocks, or just the wind as it brushes past you - you must visit. It’s dog friendly, bike friendly, and overall a great place to run in. Open from 7am to 9pm, be advised there are mosquitoes early in the morning, and there is hardly any shade so take your 😎
and a 🧢"
Caro Serratos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Iona Jetty is located within Iona Beach Regional Park in Richmond, BC. You can drive and park at the park entrance. For cyclists coming from East Vancouver, consider routes that avoid high-speed freeway shoulders and lead towards the airport area, though specific routes can be tricky to map.
Yes, there is parking available at the park. It can get busy, especially during peak times like sunset, so arriving early is recommended.
Public transport options to Iona Beach Regional Park are available, though they may involve transfers. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The gravel path on the jetty is generally good for walking, but its length and potential wind may pose challenges for wheelchair users. The main park area is more accessible.
Cyclists often use the Iona Jetty walkway. For access from East Vancouver, plan a route that safely navigates towards the airport vicinity, as direct routes can be challenging.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Iona Beach Regional Park and the Iona Jetty are free to access. There are no entrance fees required.
The park and jetty are open daily from 7 am to 9 pm, offering ample time to enjoy the views and wildlife.
No, tickets are not required for Iona Jetty as it is a public park. Entry is free and open to all.
Yes, Iona Jetty and the surrounding park are dog-friendly, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Parking at Iona Beach Regional Park is typically free, but it's always a good idea to check for any posted signage regarding parking regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, with golden hues and silhouettes. Early mornings are also great for capturing wildlife and softer light.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the jetty extending into the water, cityscapes of Vancouver, wildlife, and planes landing at YVR airport.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography, especially of wildlife.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light conditions during sunset.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and park rules. It's advisable to check current regulations before flying a drone in the area.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
Walking the full 4 km length of the jetty and back can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
Yes, there is a washroom located halfway along the jetty, and several resting benches are available for visitors.
You can spot various seabirds like cormorants and seaducks, as well as seals. Eagles are also frequently seen in the area.
Yes, it's a great place for families and dog walking. The flat, paved path is easy for children to navigate, though supervision is recommended due to the water.
Wear comfortable walking shoes or athletic shoes. Given the potential for wind and sun, layers of clothing and sun protection (hat, sunscreen) are advisable.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The flat, wide path is safe for little ones to walk or even ride their bikes, though keeping a close eye is always recommended near the water.Pack snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited to a washroom halfway. The chance to see birds and seals adds an educational and exciting element for kids. It's a great way to get them active in a beautiful natural setting, away from screens and city noise.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation to the park and any snacks or water you bring. The experience of walking or cycling the jetty, enjoying the views, and observing wildlife costs nothing, making it a highly economical way to spend a few hours exploring the Vancouver area.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to keep your dog on a leash, especially near the water and wildlife, and always clean up after them. The long, open path provides plenty of space for dogs to enjoy a good walk and sniff around.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Iona Jetty
The jetty's construction allows people to walk or cycle far out into the water, providing a sense of being immersed in the marine environment.This engineering feat now serves a dual purpose: managing wastewater and providing a popular destination for walking, biking, and wildlife observation. The journey to the end of the jetty is a significant undertaking, often described as walking 4 km into the water. This perspective offers a unique vantage point to see Vancouver from a different angle and appreciate the vastness of the Salish Sea.
While its primary function is infrastructure, the Iona Jetty has become a beloved local spot. Its straightforward, flat path makes it accessible for many, and the experience of being surrounded by water and open sky is a major draw. It's a testament to how functional structures can become cherished public spaces, offering both practical benefits and recreational enjoyment.
Wildlife Watching at Iona Jetty
The jetty's extension into the Strait of Georgia provides a unique habitat that supports this rich biodiversity.Visitors often report seeing seals in the waters around the jetty, adding to the marine life encounters. The natural setting, with its dune grass and driftwood, further enhances the feeling of being in a wild, untamed landscape. Even on a windy day, the opportunity to observe these creatures in their natural habitat is a significant draw for many.
For the best wildlife viewing experience, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are often more active. Bringing binoculars can greatly enhance your ability to spot and identify the various species. The peaceful atmosphere, punctuated by the sounds of birds and lapping water, makes Iona Jetty a truly rewarding destination for nature lovers.
Cycling and Active Recreation
+1 Many local cycling groups organize rides to the jetty, enjoying the scenic route and the unique experience of cycling far out into the water.For those looking for a longer adventure, the jetty can be combined with other trails in the area, such as the Salish Trail at UBC, creating extended cycling routes.
The straightforward nature of the jetty path means cyclists can focus on enjoying the journey and the views, rather than navigating complex terrain. It's a great option for both casual riders and those seeking a good cardio session.Beyond cycling, the jetty is also a popular spot for running and walking. The consistent length and lack of significant elevation changes make it a predictable and enjoyable route for fitness activities. The open environment and fresh sea air contribute to a refreshing and invigorating experience for all who visit to get active.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit