If you’ve never had your butcher offer you a free bag of bones for your dog, or had your barista warmly welcome you by your first name, you’re missing out on that neighbourhood that everyone should be searching for. We’re here to help you find it.
Lay of the land.
Divided into distinct sections with their own unique charm, Vancouver is unquestionably home to one of the great North American downtowns. Among the neighbourhoods, Coal Harbour stands out as the newest addition, boasting a modern look with some of the best views in the city.
Often referred to as "Billionaire’s Row," the Upper Alberni stretch in Coal Harbour is the epitome of luxury. This neighbourhood, which began its journey with the iconic Hotel Vancouver, has transformed into Vancouver's Rodeo Drive, housing brands like Louis Vuitton, St. John and Hermès. Developers are eyeing this prime real estate, ushering in the second phase of Coal Harbour with ultra-luxury developments. The changing skyline, marked by the towering Shangri-La and other high-rises, is a testament to the evolving nature of downtown's residential and commercial spaces.
As you move closer to the water, you’ll spot the Olympic Torch, which stands tall beside the Convention Centre, marking the heart of Coal Harbour. Surrounded by iconic buildings, this area is a hub of activity, with the financial district just a stone's throw away. The blend of commercial and residential spaces gives the area a unique vibe, attracting young professionals and tourists alike. With cruise ships docking and events galore, there's never a dull moment here.
Unsurprisingly, you find more peace and quiet in Coal Harbour as you move closer to Stanley Park. Situated on the serene Burrard Inlet and a short walk from the park, Coal Harbour Quay offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. This residential neighbourhood, which will soon be home to a brand new elementary school and the refurbished Westin Bayshore, is perfect for those seeking urban living with a touch of nature. The area still provides great access to restaurants and retail spaces, offering a balanced lifestyle for residents.
On the house.
Coal Harbour's real estate scene is buzzing with activity. The new boutique development at 1818 Alberni by Landa Global Properties stands out as a beacon of luxury. With its limited units and exclusive amenities (including access to a Rolls Royce driver and yacht rentals), it's arguably Canada's most exclusive condo space. The open-concept design, coupled with top-notch finishes, makes it a turn-key luxury property. Turnover in this building is expected to be rare, making it a prized possession for its owners.
Another notable feature in the area is the mix of commercial and residential real estate. Many buildings in Coal Harbour feature both, with individuals living in close proximity to where they work. With so many young professionals calling Coal Harbour home, the city is interested in expanding the area’s offering to allow residents to stay in the neighbourhood as they grow their families.
As the area evolves, Coal Harbour is undergoing a transformation, with a new phase of construction emerging along Georgia and Alberni. The neighbourhood's architecture is a testament to Vancouver's innovative spirit, combining sleek designs with functional spaces that are move-in ready.
Room for activities.
Coal Harbour is a playground for both the urban enthusiast and the nature lover. Nestled between the bustling downtown and the tranquil waterfront, residents and visitors can indulge in a myriad of activities. The marina offers opportunities for sailing and kayaking, while the nearby Stanley Park provides miles of scenic trails for jogging, cycling and leisurely walks.
The Seawall, stretching around Coal Harbour, is a favourite spot for both locals and tourists, offering unparalleled views of the city skyline and the North Shore Mountains. For art aficionados, public art installations dot the landscape, turning a simple stroll into a cultural experience. And when the sun sets, Coal Harbour's upscale lounges and patio bars come alive, offering a sophisticated nightlife experience with panoramic views.
Whether you're looking to engage in outdoor sports, enjoy waterfront dining, or simply relax by the bay, Coal Harbour has an activity to suit every mood and preference.
Down to business.
Coal Harbour is dotted with upscale restaurants offering gourmet dining experiences, while trendy cafes provide serene views of the marina, perfect for a casual meet-up. These are a few of our favourite local businesses in the area.
Learn more: Cardero’s
Cardero's
A culinary gem in Coal Harbour, Cardero’s is owned by the esteemed Sequoia Company of Restaurants, which also boasts renowned establishments like Teahouse, the Sandbar, and Seasons. Under the expert guidance of Executive Chef Jason Kleinfeld, the menu is a symphony of flavours, specializing in surf and turf. Seafood enthusiasts can indulge in fresh oysters served raw on the half shell, or their equally delectable fried oysters. The mussels & frites and signature wok squid have become staples for regulars, while the seaside platter offers a lavish spread featuring baked BBQ Ribs, grilled prawns, salmon and scallops, all complemented by a tangy lemon caper butter. To elevate the dining experience, Cardero's also hosts live music, setting the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable evening by the waterfront.
Learn more: H Tasting Lounge
H Tasting Lounge
Situated in the heart of the Coal Harbour Quay at the Westin Bayshore, H Tasting Lounge is a hot spot for connoisseurs of fine drinks. Dive into a world of exquisite flavours as you indulge in an unparalleled cocktail experience. With a team of premium bartenders at the helm, every drink is a masterpiece. Their signature cocktail program boasts a range of fresh gins, aged rums, and other hand picked spirits. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the choice of glassware and the precise cut of the ice to the optimal serving temperature, ensuring that each sip is nothing short of perfection.
For those looking for a mid-day treat, the lounge offers a tempting Happy Hour from 3-5 pm daily, featuring delicious finger foods and seasonal drinks starting at just $5.
Image captured from: @htastinglounge
Learn more: Breaking Bean
Breaking Bean
If it’s great coffee and pastries you’re after, Breaking Bean is the place to visit. You might recognize their logo, an homage to the hit AMC series Breaking Bad, which draws plenty of attraction from tourists looking to snap a quick photo. But don’t just enjoy the outside of Breaking Bean, step inside for a sausage and egg croissant and a flat white, and you’ll soon see why this is a local favourite in Coal Harbour.
Image captured from: @breakingbeankafe
School's in session.
Downtown Vancouver's educational offerings reflect the city's cosmopolitan nature. From elementary to higher education, the downtown core is home to a variety of institutions that cater to its diverse population.
Several renowned institutions, both public and private, offer curriculums tailored to meet the needs of the urban community. Additionally, the presence of international language schools and specialty training centres ensures that residents and international students alike have ample opportunities for learning and growth.
The commitment to education in Downtown Vancouver is evident in its efforts to integrate learning into the very fabric of city life, as we learned in RealTours. Local real estate expert Milad Khavari showed us where a new elementary school is being built in Coal Harbour, giving families more options and more reasons to stay in the area.
