Kitsilano: A Vibrant Vancouver Neighborhood with Charm

Vancouver, BC - Kitsilano, often referred to as “Kits” by locals, is one of Vancouver’s most vibrant and picturesque neighbourhoods. It is bounded by Burrard Street to the east, Alma Street to the west, 16th Avenue to the south, and the waters of English Bay to the north. This seaside neighbourhood is renowned for its stunning beaches, bustling shops, and a lively cultural scene.

Historically, Kitsilano was part of the traditional territories of the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. These Indigenous communities thrived in the region for thousands of years, enjoying its rich resources and favourable climate. The area became part of Vancouver’s growing cityscape during its expansion in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The area was named after Chief August Jack Khatsahlano, a prominent Squamish Nation leader who played a vital role in preserving the history and traditions of his people. The anglicized version of his name, “Kitsilano,” was adopted by settlers as the name of the neighborhood. Chief Khatsahlano’s legacy lives on in various forms throughout the area, including a commemorative plaque near Kits Beach.

With the opening of the Lulu Island Railway interurban line from Granville & Pacific to Richmond via Seventh Avenue and Arbutus Street to Kerrisdale in the 1890s, more of Kitsilano was put within easy range of downtown and housing and commercial areas carved out of the forests and swamp. The area was an inexpensive neighbourhood to live in the 1960s and attracted many from the counterculture movement across Canada and the United States and was known as one of the two hotbeds of the hippie culture in the city. Now it is mostly gentrified.

Today, Kitsilano is a blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. Its sandy beaches, like Kits Beach and Jericho Beach, attract locals and tourists alike, while West 4th Avenue and Broadway offer a diverse array of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The neighborhood’s unique blend of Indigenous history, cultural vibrancy, and scenic landscapes makes it a cherished part of Vancouver.

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