Sustainable Itineraries

This Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to explore Richmond in a planet-friendly way! Discover how you can experience Richmond’s regenerative tourism with this sustainable itinerary!

GETTING HERE

Start the morning off by taking public transport into Richmond. Richmond has access to many bus routes and the Canada Line SkyTrain, making it easier for visitors to get around without a car.

Coming from afar? Try out Helijet or Seair! Both have acquired their BC Green certification through Tourism Richmond’s Regenerative Grant Program. Their businesses are committed to providing greener air travel. 

MORNING ACTIVITIES

Begin your day with a nice walk along Iona Beach Regional Park. If you’re feeling up for it, make the gorgeous 4 km walk along the Jetty. Here you might spot some of Richmond’s wildlife. Many birds can be seen flying around the beach and often seals and other marine life swim along the Jetty. Make sure to bring your camera!

Another great morning activity is exploring Richmond’s bike trails. Rent a bike from Village Bikes in Steveston or bring your own and start your day off with some exercise. Richmond has many bike trails across the city, each providing a unique Richmond experience. Check out these bike itineraries to get you started.

The morning is the perfect time to go birdwatching. Bring your binoculars and see if you can find birds flying above or hiding in the trees. Follow this birding map and see if you can spot all the birds located in Richmond.

LUNCH

After those morning activities, you might be feeling hungry for some fresh local food. We suggest stopping by these locations to fill your craving.

Make a stop at Steveston’s world-famous fish and chips spot, Pajo’s. Located on a floating dock right on the water, the view is the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy lunch. Pajo’s uses 100% OceanWise certified seafood, often coming from local suppliers, perfect for an eco-friendly day in Richmond. 

Feeling like a brunch instead? Try out Story Café. This well-known Richmond restaurant creates their menus with locally sourced ingredients and fun specials reflecting the season. This restaurant has something for everyone from brunch to delicious dinners; Story Café has it all.

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES

Feel like getting out on the water? Consider packing a lunch and getting on a harbour tour with either of the Steveston-based companies, Vancouver Whale Watch or Seabreeze Adventures. Departing at 12, the boats will take you out to sea to view the local marine life. These organizations prioritize sustainability and focus on environmental stewardship. All tours follow strict guidelines that ensure the safety of the local wildlife and a percentage of all ticket sales goes directly to marine research to continue this regenerative cycle. This is a great activity to support the community here on land and at sea.

If you prefer staying on land but still want to be by the water, consider a beach walk. Pack a picnic and head to one of the many Richmond beaches. A fan favourite is always Garry Point Park. If you feel like giving back to the community, walk along the beach and collect any items that don’t belong such as discarded cans or trash. Make sure to sort all collected items in the right bins for this beach cleanup. This is a great way to experience Richmond while also supporting our natural landscapes. 

There are also non-nature-based activities that are sustainable in Richmond, like shopping at locally owned stores. Steveston has many locally owned businesses that stock sustainable, local products. Check out A Monkey Tree Emporium, Village Books & Coffee House and Nikaido. If you’re in the heart of the city, stop by Richmond Centre and check out the Makers store which sells unique gifts by local artists.

SUSTAINABLE ACTIONS

Throughout your time in Richmond, you can always make small changes to reduce your waste. Here are some actions to take for a more sustainable experience. 

1. Reduce waste by not using take-out containers. Either eat in the restaurant or bring your own.
2. When buying coffee or drinks, consider bringing your own reusable mug. If you don’t have a reusable mug there are many locally owned stores in Richmond that have what you’re looking for.
3. Recycle and sort all materials into the correct bins located throughout Richmond.
4. Bring a water bottle and refill at a refill station.

Many of these activities can be done at any time, not just Earth Day and are a way to travel with less of an impact on our planet. Thank you for enjoying Richmond in a sustainable way!

Ready to celebrate Earth Day the regenerative way? Plan your Richmond itinerary, choose sustainable experiences, and travel with care, today and every day.

Last Updated on April 22, 2026 by Tourism Richmond