From towering whales offshore to seaweeds clinging to the intertidal zone, the ocean shapes life here on the West Coast. Throughout June, people around the world recognize World Oceans Month: a time to celebrate marine ecosystems and reflect on the importance of protecting our waters for future generations.
Here in Vancouver, the waters surrounding Stanley Park are home to an incredible diversity of life. Seabirds soar above Burrard Inlet, harbour seals surface along the seawall, kelp forests provide habitat beneath the waves, and migrating whales occasionally pass through local waters.
At Stanley Park Ecology, we believe that fostering connection to local ecosystems is an important part of conservation. This June, we’re hosting a variety of ocean- and water-themed programs that invite participants to explore, learn, and engage with the coastal environments around us.
Whales to Wings: Seawall Wildlife Walk for Oceans Week
June 6 | 9:30 – 11:30 am
Celebrate Oceans Week with a guided walk along Stanley Park’s seawall, where ocean meets forest and wildlife thrives at the shoreline. Participants will explore the rich biodiversity of the park’s coastal habitats while learning about local birds, marine mammals, ecology, and conservation.
From cormorants and gulls to the possibility of spotting seals or even distant whales, this walk highlights the many species connected to our coastal waters.
Test the Water! Water Quality Demo with Water Rangers
June 6 | 12:00 – 1:00 pm
Clean water is essential for healthy ecosystems, wildlife, and communities. Join the Water Rangers and us for an interactive water quality demonstration exploring how community science can help monitor and protect local waterways.
Participants will learn about water testing tools, indicators of ecosystem health, and the importance of freshwater and marine stewardship in an urban environment.
Seaweeds of Stanley Park
June 13 | 11:00 am – 12:30 pm
Seaweeds are some of the ocean’s unsung heroes. These fascinating marine algae provide habitat, food, oxygen production, and carbon storage, while also supporting coastal biodiversity.
On this guided exploration, participants will discover the diverse seaweeds found along Stanley Park’s shoreline and learn about their ecological roles, traditional uses, adaptations, and importance within marine ecosystems.
Whales to Wings: Seawall Wildlife Walk
June 20 | 9:30 – 11:30 am
June 27 | 9:30 – 11:30 am
Continue exploring Stanley Park’s coastal wildlife throughout June with additional Whales to Wings walks. Each outing offers a unique opportunity to observe seasonal changes, migratory birds, marine life, and the dynamic ecosystems that exist where land and sea meet.
Whether you’re new to local ecology or a longtime nature enthusiast, these walks offer a chance to slow down, observe closely, and deepen your connection to the coast.
Why World Oceans Month Matters
The ocean regulates our climate, produces much of the oxygen we breathe, and supports an immense web of biodiversity. Yet marine ecosystems face growing pressures from pollution, habitat loss, climate change, and declining biodiversity.
Connecting people to local shorelines and watersheds can inspire stewardship and action. By learning about the species and ecosystems around us, we can better understand our role in protecting them.
This June, we invite you to celebrate World Oceans Month by getting outside, learning something new, and exploring the incredible coastal ecosystems of Stanley Park.
To learn more and register for upcoming programs, visit Stanley Park Ecology Events.