Discover the City of West Vancovuer. The Ultimate West Vancouver Neighborhood Guide

Introduction:

West Vancouver is one of the most prestigious and affluent communities in Greater Vancouver. Renowned for its spectacular ocean and mountain views, luxury homes, and exclusive neighborhoods, it attracts high-net-worth buyers seeking privacy, spacious estates, and upscale living. This area offers an exceptional quality of life, combining natural beauty with proximity to world-class amenities, making it a magnet for discerning families and professionals. Whether it’s the elegant mansions of British Properties or the vibrant seaside village of Dundarave, West Vancouver offers something for every luxury lifestyle.

📍 West Vancouver Subareas at a Glance

Neighborhoods Overview

Altamont

Altamont is one of West Vancouver’s most ultra-exclusive neighborhoods, featuring sprawling gated estates designed for privacy and luxury living. This prestigious area attracts affluent buyers seeking grand custom-built mansions surrounded by lush landscaping and quiet, secluded streets. Its proximity to top private schools and easy access to shopping and dining make Altamont a prime location for those who value exclusivity and comfort.

• Large gated properties with custom-built mansions
• Quiet, private, and secluded setting
• Close to elite private schools and luxury amenities
• Ideal for luxury buyers seeking privacy and security

Ambleside

Ambleside is a vibrant beachside village loved by families and retirees, offering a mix of charming single-family homes and modern condos. The neighborhood features stunning waterfront views along Ambleside Beach and a walkable village core with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy trails and weekend farmers’ markets, while families appreciate nearby top-rated schools like West Vancouver Secondary.

• Walkable village with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants
• Family-friendly parks and beach access at Ambleside Pier
• Popular weekend farmers’ markets and seasonal community events
• Close to top-rated West Vancouver schools including West Vancouver Secondary
• Scenic waterfront views and outdoor recreational trails

Bayridge

Bayridge is a peaceful residential neighborhood in West Vancouver, known for its West Coast-style homes, mature landscaping, and lush greenery. Spacious lots and quiet streets create an ideal environment for families seeking tranquility without sacrificing convenience. The area offers easy access to parks, recreation facilities, and reputable schools, making it highly desirable for long-term homeowners.

• Spacious lots with mature trees and greenery
• Quiet, family-friendly streets and environment
• Close to parks, recreation centers, and schools
• Homes featuring classic West Coast architectural styles

British Properties

The British Properties represent the pinnacle of luxury living in West Vancouver, boasting iconic gated mansions on expansive lots with panoramic views. This prestigious neighborhood offers proximity to exclusive golf clubs, private schools, and nature trails, appealing to discerning buyers seeking privacy, elegance, and grandeur. The community’s status and natural beauty make it one of the most coveted areas on the North Shore.

• Iconic gated mansions on expansive lots
• Prestigious golf clubs and private schools nearby
• Breathtaking panoramic views of ocean and mountains
• Quiet, secure, and highly exclusive neighborhood

Canterbury

Canterbury is a hillside neighborhood featuring luxury custom homes that offer privacy and stunning views over the city and ocean. The area is favored by families and professionals who want a quiet setting close to elite schools and urban amenities. Its peaceful streets and premium real estate make Canterbury a sought-after enclave in West Vancouver.

• Luxury custom homes with panoramic views
• Quiet, private streets ideal for families
• Proximity to elite West Vancouver schools
• Easy access to shopping and recreation

Caulfeild

Caulfeild is a family-oriented West Vancouver neighborhood offering ocean views, large lots, and a close-knit community atmosphere. The area is known for its West Coast architectural style homes and proximity to Caulfeild Elementary and Rockridge Secondary schools. Residents enjoy peaceful green spaces and easy access to local village amenities.

• Large, green lots with ocean views
• Classic West Coast architectural homes
• Close to Caulfeild Elementary and Rockridge Secondary
• Family-friendly neighborhood with community parks

Cedardale

Cedardale combines tranquility with convenient access to schools, shopping, and recreation. Spacious lots and mature trees create a serene environment, while nearby Collingwood School offers excellent private education options. The neighborhood’s blend of peaceful residential living and city accessibility appeals to families and professionals alike.

• Wide lots surrounded by mature trees
• Close proximity to Collingwood School (private)
• Easy access to shopping centers and parks
• Quiet, peaceful residential streets

Chartwell

Chartwell is an upscale hillside community featuring custom homes with panoramic views. The neighborhood’s scenic outlooks and proximity to prestigious schools like Chartwell Elementary make it attractive for families prioritizing education and lifestyle. Well-maintained parks and walking trails enhance the quality of life here.

• Scenic hillside homes with panoramic views
• Custom-built houses with modern amenities
• Near prestigious Chartwell Elementary School
• Family-friendly parks and nature trails

Chelsea Park

Chelsea Park is a quiet West Vancouver neighborhood known for scenic views and modern custom homes. Located on elevated terrain, it offers peace and privacy for luxury buyers seeking a tranquil retreat close to city amenities. Its cul-de-sac streets add to the calm, secure environment.

• Quiet cul-de-sacs with newer custom-built homes
• Elevated locations offering beautiful views
• Private, peaceful neighborhood ideal for luxury buyers
• Close to parks, schools, and shopping

Cypress

Cypress is a family-friendly area near parks and beaches, valued for its mature trees and tranquil atmosphere. Proximity to Cypress Provincial Park provides ample outdoor recreational opportunities, while beach access adds to the coastal lifestyle. It’s a safe and welcoming community popular with active families and nature lovers.

• Close to Cypress Provincial Park and beaches
• Family-friendly, safe community with mature trees
• Opportunities for hiking, biking, and outdoor activities
• Quiet residential streets with spacious homes

Cypress Park Estates

Cypress Park Estates features luxury hillside estates with sweeping ocean views and a high degree of privacy. Large lots and exclusive properties characterize this neighborhood, which is also well-located near top schools and recreational facilities. It’s favored by buyers seeking upscale, serene living on the North Shore.

• Elevated luxury estates with panoramic ocean views
• Large lots offering privacy and exclusivity
• Close to top West Vancouver schools and parks
• Tranquil neighborhood surrounded by nature

Deer Ridge

Deer Ridge is a gated West Vancouver community offering luxury townhomes and condos with spectacular mountain and city views. The low-maintenance lifestyle and upscale amenities make it ideal for professionals and downsizers who want security and convenience without sacrificing style.

• Gated community with luxury townhomes and condos
• Spectacular mountain and city views
• Upscale amenities including fitness centers and secure parking
• Perfect for professionals and downsizers

Dundarave

Dundarave is a vibrant seaside village in West Vancouver known for upscale homes, boutique shops, restaurants, and beach access. The walkable village atmosphere and family-friendly environment create a welcoming community. Seasonal festivals and farmers’ markets enhance the local charm, while convenient transit options offer easy access to Vancouver.

• Walkable village with boutique shopping and dining
• Family-friendly neighborhood with sandy beach access
• Seasonal festivals and community farmers’ markets
• Easy transit and highway access to downtown Vancouver
• Upscale homes and waterfront properties

Eagle Harbour

Eagle Harbour offers a marina lifestyle with waterfront homes, forest surroundings, and peaceful beaches. The coastal living environment attracts buyers looking for a serene retreat close to nature but within reach of urban conveniences. The neighborhood’s marina access makes it a haven for boating enthusiasts.

• Waterfront homes with marina access
• Peaceful, scenic coastal living surrounded by forest
• Close to beaches and outdoor recreational spots
• Family-friendly community with a relaxed atmosphere

Eagleridge

Eagleridge is a hillside neighborhood featuring luxury custom estates with breathtaking ocean views and a forested setting. Its privacy and natural beauty attract discerning buyers seeking a tranquil and prestigious location close to West Vancouver amenities.

• Custom luxury estates with panoramic ocean views
• Forested, private hillside setting
• Close to schools, shopping, and parks
• Exclusive neighborhood with spacious properties

Furry Creek

Furry Creek is a resort-style golf community north of Horseshoe Bay, offering waterfront homes and access to a championship golf course. The scenic tranquility and outdoor lifestyle appeal to buyers looking for leisure and luxury in one package.

• Waterfront estates in a golf course community
• Access to championship golf course and marina
• Scenic natural surroundings and tranquil setting
• Ideal for golf enthusiasts and nature lovers

Gleneagles

Gleneagles is a family-oriented golf course neighborhood near Horseshoe Bay, featuring spacious homes and easy access to hiking and biking trails. It offers a balanced lifestyle combining outdoor recreation with community amenities, popular with active families and retirees.

• Family-friendly golf course community
• Access to trails, parks, and outdoor activities
• Spacious single-family homes
• Close to Horseshoe Bay village amenities

Glenmore

Glenmore is an upper-level West Vancouver neighborhood offering mountain and city views with quiet streets. It’s close to Cypress Bowl for outdoor recreation and is favored by families and professionals seeking a peaceful residential setting with convenient access to urban amenities.

• Quiet neighborhood with mountain and city views
• Proximity to Cypress Bowl for skiing and hiking
• Family-friendly homes on spacious lots
• Easy access to schools, parks, and shopping

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a lively ferry village with waterfront homes, shops, and restaurants. Its ferry terminal offers easy access to Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast, making it popular with commuters. The walkable village atmosphere combined with beautiful waterfront condos and family-friendly community events creates a dynamic yet relaxed lifestyle.

• Waterfront homes near ferry terminal
• Walkable village with shops, cafes, and restaurants
• Ferry access to Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast
• Family-friendly community with seasonal events

Howe Sound

Howe Sound is a remote and rugged coastal area offering privacy and stunning natural scenery. Waterfront homes here attract buyers seeking seclusion and a connection to nature, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a quiet lifestyle on the North Shore.

• Remote waterfront homes with stunning natural views
• Secluded lifestyle ideal for nature lovers
• Access to hiking, boating, and outdoor recreation
• Quiet and peaceful coastal environment

Lions Bay

Lions Bay is a quaint seaside village with oceanfront homes, hiking trails, and a close-knit community atmosphere. The village feel and easy access to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking make it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Oceanfront homes with breathtaking views
• Village atmosphere with friendly community events
• Access to hiking trails and water sports
• Family-oriented and outdoor-focused lifestyle

Olde Caulfeild

Olde Caulfeild is an exclusive West Vancouver neighborhood with large lots, mature trees, and prestigious homes near the water. It combines spacious properties with a family-friendly environment and access to excellent local schools, making it highly desirable for luxury homebuyers.

• Spacious, mature lots with large custom homes
• Family-friendly neighborhood with excellent schools
• Close to waterfront parks and recreational areas
• Quiet, prestigious community

Panorama Village

Panorama Village offers a mix of condos, townhomes, and single-family homes in a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood. Conveniently located close to schools, shopping, and transit, it provides low-maintenance living options that appeal to downsizers and young families alike.

• Mixed housing options: condos, townhomes, and houses
• Family-friendly community with nearby schools
• Close to shopping centers and transit routes
• Quiet and convenient neighborhood

Park Royal

Park Royal surrounds the major shopping center and transit hub in West Vancouver, offering a diverse range of housing options from condos to single-family homes. Its proximity to extensive shopping, dining, and transit makes it ideal for buyers wanting urban convenience combined with access to nature.

• Proximity to major shopping center and transit
• Variety of housing types for different needs
• Family-oriented community with parks and schools nearby
• Easy access to downtown Vancouver via transit

Passage Island

Passage Island is a private island community accessible only by boat, featuring exclusive waterfront estates. Its secluded and quiet environment provides a unique island lifestyle, ideal for buyers seeking privacy and natural beauty close to West Vancouver.

• Private island with exclusive waterfront homes
• Accessible only by boat for ultimate privacy
• Scenic, natural surroundings and tranquil lifestyle
• Unique and rare real estate opportunity

Porteau Cove

Porteau Cove is known for its natural beauty and waterfront homes near parks and hiking areas. It offers a scenic environment perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate access to beaches, camping sites, and forest trails.

• Waterfront properties near parks and hiking trails
• Access to outdoor recreation like camping and kayaking
• Scenic, peaceful coastal environment
• Popular for nature lovers and adventurers

Queens

Queens is a quiet, family-oriented neighborhood with large lots located near the British Properties. Its spacious homes and access to excellent schools and parks make it a desirable community for families looking for a peaceful lifestyle with urban convenience.

• Family-friendly neighborhood with large lots
• Close to prestigious British Properties
• Access to parks and top-rated schools
• Quiet residential streets ideal for families

Rockridge

Rockridge is a hillside community featuring luxury custom homes with panoramic ocean and mountain views. The private setting and upscale residences attract buyers looking for exclusive properties with modern design and scenic surroundings.

• Luxury custom homes with breathtaking views
• Private hillside setting with spacious lots
• Close to top West Vancouver schools and amenities
• Upscale neighborhood with modern architecture

Sandy Cove

Sandy Cove is a small waterfront neighborhood with beach access and a strong community feel. It offers beachfront living with family-friendly parks and quiet streets, making it a peaceful retreat for residents seeking coastal charm.

• Beachfront neighborhood with direct beach access
• Family-friendly parks and community atmosphere
• Quiet and peaceful environment
• Ideal for those seeking coastal lifestyle

Sentinel Hill

Sentinel Hill is an exclusive neighborhood featuring luxury hillside homes with sweeping views of the ocean and city. Its proximity to ferry terminals and top schools makes it highly desirable for professionals and families seeking prestige and convenience.

• Luxury custom estates with panoramic vistas
• Close to ferry terminals and transportation hubs
• Family-friendly with nearby top-rated schools
• Exclusive, quiet hillside community

Upper Caulfeild

Upper Caulfeild is an upscale West Vancouver neighborhood with large homes, green spaces, and private streets. It’s favored by families for its spacious lots, tranquility, and access to some of the best schools on the North Shore.

• Spacious lots in a quiet, exclusive setting
• Family-friendly community with parks and trails
• Close to top West Vancouver schools
• Private streets enhancing safety and privacy

West Bay

West Bay is known for its waterfront estates featuring private beaches, docks, and spectacular views of the ocean. This prestigious community attracts luxury buyers looking for exclusive waterfront living with privacy and elegance.

• Waterfront estates with private beaches and docks
• Spectacular ocean views and prestigious addresses
• Exclusive and private community
• Ideal for luxury waterfront living

Westhill

Westhill is a peaceful residential neighborhood offering family homes on large lots. With proximity to parks and schools, it is popular among families seeking spacious properties in a quiet, green environment.

• Family-oriented community with spacious homes
• Large lots surrounded by mature landscaping
• Close to parks, schools, and recreational facilities
• Quiet and safe neighborhood

Westmount

Westmount features large luxury homes set on mature landscaped lots in a quiet, residential setting. Private streets and proximity to recreation centers make it a desirable neighborhood for families and professionals seeking comfort and convenience.

• Detached luxury homes with mature landscaping
• Private streets ensuring security and peace
• Close to parks, recreation, and schools
• Family-friendly and prestigious community

Whitby Estates

Whitby Estates offers large estate lots with custom luxury homes and beautifully maintained gardens. Its quiet environment and spacious properties attract buyers who appreciate privacy, elegance, and a serene lifestyle.

• Large estate lots with custom-built luxury homes
• Beautifully landscaped gardens and outdoor spaces
• Quiet, peaceful neighborhood ideal for families
• Exclusive community with upscale residences

Whytecliff

Whytecliff is a coastal neighborhood near Whytecliff Park, known for its waterfront homes and easy access to nature trails and parks. Popular with families and nature lovers, it offers a relaxed coastal lifestyle with stunning ocean views.

• Waterfront properties near Whytecliff Park
• Close to hiking trails and natural parks
• Family-friendly and popular with outdoor enthusiasts
• Scenic coastal living with ocean vistas

Schools in West Vancouver

West Vancouver is home to some of the best public and private schools in Metro Vancouver, a major draw for families.

Public Schools

• Caulfeild Elementary — well-regarded neighborhood school
• Chartwell Elementary — strong academic programs
• Rockridge Secondary — top-rated public high school

Private Schools

• Collingwood School — elite independent school (K-12) known for academics and extracurriculars
• Mulgrave School — private school with IB program and extensive facilities
• St. Thomas Aquinas Regional Secondary — Catholic private school

Restaurants

West Vancouver offers a diverse dining scene, ranging from upscale fine dining to casual waterfront eateries.

• Seasons in the Park (Queen Elizabeth Park) — upscale dining with stunning views
• The Beach House Restaurant (Dundarave) — seafood and oceanfront ambiance
• The Gull (Horseshoe Bay) — classic West Coast cuisine
• Tap & Barrel (Ambleside) — casual dining with local brews and great views
• Maggie’s Blue Rose (Ambleside) — popular Mexican-inspired dishes
• West Vancouver Yacht Club Restaurant — exclusive dining with waterfront views

Shopping

West Vancouver residents enjoy convenient access to upscale shopping centers and boutique stores.

• Park Royal Shopping Centre — major shopping mall with luxury brands, grocery, and services
• Ambleside Village — boutique shops, cafes, and services within walking distance of the beach
• Dundarave Village — quaint shops, art galleries, and local businesses
• Horseshoe Bay Village — artisan shops and specialty stores near the ferry terminal

Parks & Recreation

West Vancouver’s parks and natural spaces offer residents abundant outdoor opportunities.

• Lighthouse Park — iconic forest trails and ocean views
• Whytecliff Park — popular for hiking, diving, and wildlife viewing
• Cypress Provincial Park — year-round outdoor activities including skiing and hiking
• Ambleside Park — beach, playgrounds, and picnic areas
• Marine Drive Waterfront — walking and biking paths along the shore

Transportation

West Vancouver is well connected by transit and roadways, providing easy access to Vancouver and surrounding areas.

• Major routes include Marine Drive and Highway 1 via the Lions Gate Bridge
• Frequent bus service connects to Downtown Vancouver and surrounding neighborhoods
• Ferry service from Horseshoe Bay to Vancouver Island and Sunshine Coast

Work With Us

Navigating the luxury real estate market in West Vancouver requires deep local expertise, strong negotiation skills, and a personalized approach. As a dedicated real estate professional with extensive knowledge of West Vancouver’s unique neighborhoods and market trends, I am committed to helping you find your dream home or sell your property for top value.

Whether you are buying an exclusive estate in the British Properties, a waterfront home in West Bay, or investing in one of the vibrant village areas, I provide tailored service to meet your needs with integrity, professionalism, and discretion.

Let’s connect and explore how we can make your West Vancouver real estate goals a reality. Contact us today to get started!