Top Vancouver Engagement Session Locations: The Best Places for Every Season

Vancouver’s natural beauty is stunning year round, but certain locations shine in different seasons. Here are my favorite engagement session spots, each offering its own atmosphere, scenery, and character. Whether you’re drawn to forest trails, dramatic coastlines, or floral backdrops, these locations create beautiful, timeless images in any light.

Garden & Floral Locations

For couples who love curated greenery, vibrant florals, and timeless botanical backdrops.

• Van Dusen Botanical Garden
  Best for: Spring, Summer, Fall
  Why it works: Van Dusen showcases the best of each season with seasonal lush greenery, colourful blooms, and peaceful garden paths. It’s quiet and reliable in changing weather thanks to ample tree cover.

• University of British Columbia
  Best for: Spring, Summer, Fall
  Why it works: UBC offers a blend of striking architecture and natural scenery. The campus is easily accessible and often calm during off peak hours. Seasonal highlights include cherry blossoms in spring, fall colours in autumn, and beautiful garden spaces like the UBC Rose Garden and Nitobe Japanese Garden.

Forest & Trail Locations

Ideal for couples who want a natural setting filled with trees, filtered golden light, and cozy, earthy vibes.

• Stanley Park
  Best for: Spring through Fall
  Why it works: Stanley Park offers an incredible mix of forest, cityscape and ocean views. It’s perfect for couples who want variety within one location.

• Mount Seymour (Winter)
  Best for: Late January to February after a solid snowfall
  Why it works: Just 30 minutes from Vancouver, Mount Seymour is one of the most accessible options for snowy engagement sessions. The quiet trails and fresh snow create a true winter wonderland. Proper footwear and winter ready outfits are strongly recommended.

• Cleveland Dam
  Best for: All year round
  Why it works:  Located about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Cleveland Dam is easy to access and features stunning mountain views. With free parking and open scenery, it works beautifully in any weather.

• Iona Regional Park
  Best for: All year round
  Why it works: Iona Beach is a peaceful, open location that rarely feels crowded. With beach views, mountain backdrops, and driftwood lined shorelines, it’s ideal for couples seeking a quiet, natural setting. Free parking and flat trails make it especially easy to navigate.

Coastal & Ocean View Locations

• Lighthouse Park
  Best for: Spring, Summer, Fall
  Why it works: Lighthouse Park offers a beautiful blend of forested trails and sweeping ocean views. A short walk through the trees leads to dramatic cliffside lookouts and the iconic lighthouse. It’s ideal for couples who love nature and want a sense of adventure in their photos.

• Jericho Beach
  Best for: Spring, Summer, Fall
  Why it works: Jericho Beach combines sandy shoreline, ocean views, and mountain backdrops in one easy to navigate location. Most scenic spots are within a short walking distance. While parking is paid and summers can be busy, sunset sessions offer softer light and fewer crowds. For couples who are up for it, ending with a dip in the water adds a fun, candid touch.

• Whytecliff Park
  Best for: Spring, Summer, Fall
  Why it works: Whytecliff Park delivers dramatic coastal scenery with minimal walking. The iconic rocky shoreline is about ten minutes from the parking lot. Timing is important due to changing tides, but the park also offers a quieter cove and several intimate viewpoints. Weekday or off peak sessions are best, especially in summer.

City & Urban Landscape Locations

For couples who love modern architecture, city energy, and iconic Vancouver landmarks.

• Chinatown

  Best for: All season
  Why it works: Chinatown offers one of the most character filled backdrops in Vancouver. It works beautifully year round, from moody rain soaked streets to warm summer evenings. Sessions involve some walking, but routes are always planned to keep things relaxed and efficient. With plenty of covered areas and paid parking nearby, it’s perfect for couples who want a stylish city vibe with texture, colour, and atmosphere.

• New Westminster Quay

  Best for: All season
  Why it works: New Westminster Quay combines waterfront scenery with a relaxed urban feel. Overlooking the Fraser River, the area offers boardwalk views, clean architectural lines, and easy indoor options like the market and food court. With free street parking and nearby lot parking, it’s an accessible, stress free location for couples who want a laid back city session.