The perfect one day itinerary in Port Moody and it costs almost nothing 🌿🦅🍦
Port Moody is 30 minutes from Vancouver and most people drive right past it. Here’s exactly what to do with a full day 👇
🐟 Stop 1 — Pajo’s Fish & Chips | Rocky Point Park
A Port Moody institution since 1985. Family-owned, still going strong after 40 years. Fresh local BC seafood — 100% OceanWise certified. Crispy fish, unlimited fries and drinks, eaten at a waterfront picnic table. The perfect start to the day.
📍 Rocky Point Park, 2800 Murray St, Port Moody
🌊 Stop 2 — The Shoreline Trail
Walk off lunch on Port Moody’s most iconic trail. 6km round trip, about 2 hours, easy for all fitness levels. Winds along Burrard Inlet connecting all 6 of Port Moody’s waterfront parks. Stunning views of the inlet, Burnaby Mountain and the North Shore mountains the whole way. Keep your eyes open for bald eagles, harbour seals, otters and shorebirds 🦅🦭
📍 Rocky Point Park to Old Orchard Park, Port Moody
🏭 Stop 3 — Old Mill Site Park
Halfway along the trail — stop here. The ruins of the McNair Cedar Mill, destroyed by fire in 1949, are sitting right on the beach of Burrard Inlet. Concrete foundations and old structures in one of the most unique and photogenic spots in Metro Vancouver. Almost nobody talks about this place.
📍 538 San Remo Dr, Port Moody
🦢 Stop 4 — Great Blue Heron Rookery
Take the upper trail and look up. Up to 20 Great Blue Heron nests in the trees above your head. One of the most spectacular free wildlife experiences in Metro Vancouver. Nesting season runs January 15 to September 15 — peak activity in late March to early April. Keep your voice low and stay on the trail.
📍 Along the Shoreline Trail upper path, Old Mill Site Park
🍦 Stop 5 — Rocky Point Ice Cream
End the day the right way. Handcrafted small batch ice cream made from scratch since 1997 — right inside Rocky Point Park. I had ube honeycomb and earl grey & honey. Both were incredible. They even have a doggie cone for your furry trail companion 🐶
📍 2800 Murray St, Port Moody | Open daily 9am–10pm
🚉 Getting there: SkyTrain to Inlet Centre or Moody Centre Station (Evergreen Extension)
🅿️ Paid parking available at Rocky Point Park
✅ Perfect for: walkers, cyclists, families, dog owners, photographers, and birdwatchers of all ages and fitness levels
Save this for your next Port Moody day and tag someone you’d bring 👇🌿
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Port Moody is a true hidden gem just a short trip from Vancouver, offering a wonderful blend of nature, history, and local cuisine all within easy reach. After enjoying Pajo’s Fish & Chips at Rocky Point Park, the Shoreline Trail provides a refreshing way to digest and soak in stunning views of the Burrard Inlet and surrounding mountains. This trail is not only beautiful but also accessible for walkers and cyclists of all ages and fitness levels, making it perfect for families and pet owners. One of the highlights of the day is visiting the Old Mill Site Park, where the remnants of the McNair Cedar Mill offer a unique glance into Port Moody’s industrial past against a striking beach backdrop. It’s a great spot for photography enthusiasts who appreciate history etched into the landscape. Nature lovers will find the Great Blue Heron Rookery particularly captivating. From late January through September, these majestic birds nest right above you, creating an almost magical experience that connects visitors with the local wildlife. Remember to keep noise levels low to preserve this serene habitat. To round off the day, indulging in handcrafted small-batch ice cream at Rocky Point Ice Cream is a treat not to miss. Their inventive flavors like ube honeycomb and earl grey & honey deliver a refreshing sweetness after a day exploring. They also thoughtfully cater to dogs, so your four-legged friends can enjoy a cone too. Getting to Port Moody is convenient via the SkyTrain Evergreen Extension, and parking options are available for those who prefer to drive. This itinerary emphasizes budget-friendly activities that still immerse you in the rich natural beauty and community spirit of the area. It’s ideal for photography lovers, bird watchers, families, dog owners, and anyone wanting to escape the city bustle without spending much. Overall, this itinerary showcases why Port Moody is a must-visit for locals and travelers seeking an authentic, nature-filled day trip near Vancouver.