Waterfront and Harbour Hotels in Vancouver

The Loden Vancouver is a 77-room boutique hotel in Coal Harbour, close to the waterfront and downtown sights, and it welcomes both families and pets. With a 9.7 score from 285 reviews, service is the standout. There is a hot tub and a sauna, but no pool is listed, so I would suggest it for families with older children who will spend their days walking the seawall towards Stanley Park rather than splashing at the hotel.

The Como Hotel has an outstanding 9.3 rating from 164 reviews and a city-centre address a short walk from English Bay Beach and Coal Harbour, which makes outings with children easy on foot. Family rooms are air-conditioned with private bathrooms, parquet floors and a tea and coffee maker, and free bicycles are available for a ride along the water. A terrace and outdoor seating give some air between outings. There is no pool or restaurant mentioned.

Times Square Suites in Vancouver's West End works like a furnished apartment for families: each spacious suite has an equipped kitchen, a gas fireplace, and its own washing machine and tumble dryer, a real help with children's clothes on a longer trip. Some suites have balconies. Stanley Park is close by for walks and bike rides, and the rooftop patio looks out over Coal Harbour and the North Shore Mountains.

The EXchange Hotel sits in downtown Vancouver near the Waterfront Centre Mall and the Vancouver Lookout at Harbour Centre, whose viewing deck is an easy outing with children. Rooms are air-conditioned with free WiFi. The hotel leans more towards couples than young families, but parents can enjoy the spa and wellness centre, and Hydra Estiatorio serves Greek seafood on site. Pets are accepted too.

I would suggest the AZUR Legacy Collection Hotel to families who want downtown Vancouver on foot, with easy access to the waterfront and the main attractions. Rooms are modern and air-conditioned with private bathrooms. The restaurant, bar and terrace keep meals simple after a day of walking, and the 24-hour front desk and concierge help plan outings with children. There is no pool listed, so it suits city-focused families most.

Auberge Vancouver Hotel is a four-star downtown hotel with an indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, and I would recommend it to families who want a pool and a kitchenette-style room. Rooms include a refrigerator, a microwave and a coffee maker, and select rooms look over the harbour or the mountains. Gastown is a short walk away. Ask for a view room when you book.