A Little Island with a Big Heart—Granville Highlights

by Dennis Augustine

After a leisurely breakfast at our hotel—enjoying the sweeping views and fresh offerings on the Fairmont Vancouver’s concierge floor—Cecile and I set off on foot toward the waterfront. We walked to the Hornby Street dock and hopped on an Aquabus, a charming little water taxi that whisked us across False Creek to Granville Island.

The ride itself was a treat—calm, breezy, and scenic. Honestly, it’s hard to beat the view of the city from the water. We stepped off to discover an urban oasis tucked under the Granville Street Bridge, alive with color, music, and the scent of fresh baked goods in the air.

We wandered through the Public Market, where local vendors were offering everything from smoked salmon and artisan cheeses to handmade pastries and floral bouquets. We peeked into art studios, admired the outdoor murals, and soaked in the relaxed, creative energy that fills the island.

On the pier, musicians played as kids ran along the boardwalk and seagulls circled above. It’s the kind of place where time slows down—where you can linger over a coffee, or just sit back and watch the boats drift by.

After exploring, we grabbed a taxi back to the hotel. Granville Island is everything a travel moment should be: artful, effortless—and unforgettable.