Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Whistler, British Columbia is an easy weekend getaway from Seattle. While Whistler Blackcomb is well known for its world-renowned winter and spring skiing, it is also an incredible (and often underrated) summer destination. As the snow melts, Whistler Blackcomb unveils its lush green landscapes, offering a plethora of outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. From mountain biking and hiking on world-class trails to leisurely afternoons at crystal-clear lakes, Whistler Blackcomb in the summertime is a haven for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. And don’t forget about the picturesque village at the base of the mountains, which offers visitors a vibrant restaurant and bar scene, top-rate shopping and spas, and an abundance of luxury and boutique hotels.
Keep reading as we recommend how to get to Whistler from Seattle, where to stay, where to eat and drink, and which activities are best in the warmer months. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a combination of both, a summer getaway to Whistler promises an unforgettable experience.
Getting There: Harbour Air
Flying from Seattle to Vancouver, BC with Harbour Air offers a unique and scenic experience compared to traditional commercial flights. Harbour Air is a seaplane service, meaning that the flights take off and land on water rather than at conventional airports. The flight departs from Seattle’s Lake Union or Lake Washington marina and lands in Downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour, making it convenient for accessing both city centers. The flight is quick, typically only lasting about an hour, and it is absolutely stunning. This flight provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest, including the Cascade and Olympic Mountains, Mount Baker, the Salish Sea, and the islands dotting the Puget Sound and Strait of Georgia. The check-in process is quick and streamlined, with fewer formalities than a regular airport. You’ll need to arrive just 25 to 30 minutes before your flight, and there’s no need for lengthy security checks.
Harbour Air operates small, comfortable seaplanes with limited seating, offering an intimate flying experience. The planes are typically quieter and less crowded, and each seat has a window view. Another thing we love about Harbour Air is that it has been transitioning to electric seaplanes, making it a more environmentally friendly option. Flying with Harbour Air from Seattle to Vancouver is not just a way of getting to Canada, it’s an experience in itself, combining efficiency with some of the most spectacular aerial views of the Pacific Northwest. Once you land in Vancouver, you can take another Harbour Air seaplane to Whistler, landing on the beautiful Green Lake. You can also take a shuttle bus from Vancouver to Whistler, which offers a picturesque ride through the mountains and is about two hours long.
Alternatively, you can drive from Seattle to Whistler, which is another fantastic option and is about a four-and-a-half-hour drive.
Where to Stay: The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler
The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler offers a comfortable and luxurious experience, perfect for both summer and winter getaways. The resort is conveniently located in Whistler Village, providing easy access to the ski lifts, scenic gondolas, and bars and restaurants in the village. The Westin has thoughtfully appointed suites that come equipped with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and stunning mountain views. The Spa at Whistler is a highlight of The Westin resort and offers a wide range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The Spa features 24 treatment rooms, a eucalyptus steam room, and an indoor/outdoor pool, making it a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure. The Westin has two onsite restaurants, Grill & Vine and FireRock Lounge, as well as a grab-and-go station with sandwiches and coffee.
Where to Eat + Drink
Wild Blue Restaurant & Bar
Located in the pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village, Wild Blue offers an upscale dining experience centered around fresh, locally-sourced seafood. Wild Blue has quickly gained recognition since its opening, and for good reason. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a celebratory dinner. The culinary team at Wild Blue is led by renowned chefs, and the menu features elevated Pacific Northwest cuisine using sustainable and local ingredients. While the menu changes seasonally, there are several dishes that have consistently received rave reviews, like the sablefish, the house-made cavatelli with fontina and black truffles, and the warm chocolate fondant cake. Other favorites include the BC king salmon, the Pacific octopus appetizer, and the Alderwood grilled ribeye steak. Wild Blue has an extensive wine list that features Okanagan Valley wines that are carefully curated to pair with the menu offerings. Wild Blue provides a memorable dining experience that combines exceptional food and wine, attentive service, and a stylish ambiance.
Bar Oso
Bar Oso is located in the heart of Whistler Village and offers a vibrant, Spanish-inspired experience in a cozy, contemporary setting. Known for its tapas-style dishes, Bar Oso specializes in house-made charcuterie, pintxos (i.e. small snacks), and handcrafted cocktails. The long, convivial bar is the perfect place to meet for dinner and drinks. “Oso,” meaning “bear” in Spanish, is an homage to Whistler’s wildlife, as it’s common to spot roaming black bears in Whistler in the summertime. Leading the day-to-day operations at Bar Oso, Chef Jorge Muñoz Santos is a native of Madrid and grew up in his family’s restaurant, surrounded by the lively Spanish culture of food and hospitality. Chef Jorge brings a taste of Spain to the mountains with his love for tapas. Menu highlights include the jamon iberico, the charred octopus, and the perfectly crisp and creamy croquetas. Bar Oso has an extensive gin menu, with its gin cocktails being highlighted by creative infusions and garnishes such as yuzu, sakura flower, and arbequina olives. Dining at Bar Oso is sure to be a flavorful, social dining experience.
Christine’s on Blackcomb
Christine’s on Blackcomb offers an elevated experience with stunning mountain views, located at the top of Blackcomb Mountain in Whistler. This upscale restaurant is known for its contemporary, Pacific Northwest cuisine, craft cocktails, and fresh, local seafood. The scenic surroundings make it a popular spot for a leisurely meal, especially during ski season or summer sightseeing. Menu highlights include the seared albacore tuna and the charred steelhead. Another favorite is the burrata with sundried tomato pesto, roasted peaches, heirloom tomatoes, confit garlic toast, and prosciutto. Every dish at Christine’s is prepared with the finest ingredients, and it has a diverse wine list to complement. Christine’s is open for lunch in both summer and winter, and has an inside dining area as well as a sprawling patio.
Whistler Blackcomb Summer Alpine Experience Pass
Whistler Blackcomb offers an abundance of summer activities, most notably hiking and mountain biking. One of the best ways to do it all is the Summer Alpine Experience pass, which includes unlimited access to the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola and the Peak Express Chair. This allows access to over 50km of hiking trails, wildflower meadows, ancient glaciers and the Cloudraker Skybridge. It also gets you access to elevated mountain-top dining and events, including the unforgettable Feast that takes place at the Umbrella Bar every weekend until Sept. 1.
Popular hikes include the High Note Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and Cheakamus Lake, and the Musical Bumps Trail, which takes you through meadows filled with beautiful wildflowers. Whistler Blackcomb is world-renowned for its summer mountain biking, particularly at Whistler Mountain Bike Park, which is considered one of the best bike parks in the world. In addition to these activities, Whistler Blackcomb offers alpine sightseeing and zip-lining.