Whistler, Canada, is a stunning destination known for its world-class skiing, breathtaking landscapes, and outdoor adventures. If you are trying to figure out how to get to Whistler, you’re in luck! In this guide, we break down 10 different ways to make the trip, ensuring you’ll find the perfect mode of transport for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly shuttle or a luxurious private transfer, here’s everything you need to know about getting from Vancouver to Whistler.
Table of Contents
Airport Options
For travelers looking for the most convenient way to reach Whistler, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is your best bet. As the major airport serving the city, YVR offers the most transport links to Whistler, making it the ideal starting point for your journey. With a variety of shuttles, buses, and car rental options available right from the airport, it’s by far the easiest and most efficient choice.
While Abbotsford Airport (YXX) is another option, it’s a smaller airport primarily used by low-cost airlines such as Flair Airlines & Porter Airlines, and domestic flights. Located about 30-45 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Abbotsford has fewer flight options and limited ground transportation services to Whistler, which is why Vancouver Airport is generally the preferred choice for most travelers.
For those considering flying into the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), keep in mind that this option involves a longer journey. You would need to travel from Seattle to Vancouver by car, train, or bus, which takes about 2-3 hours by car and even longer by other modes of transport. While possible, this route adds significant time and logistics, making YVR the far more convenient option for a seamless trip to Whistler.
Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is technically an option, though a poor one. If you fly into Victoria Airport on Vancouver Island, you will need to make the journey to downtown Vancouver to get to Whistler. This involves a bus or taxi to the ferry terminal, take a ferry across to the Canada mainland, get a bus or taxi to downtown Vancouver, and then take a listed transport option to Whistler. It will likely be time consuming and costly, and for this reason it is not considered a reasonable option here.
| Airport | Distance |
| Vancouver Airport (YVR) | 84 mi / 135 km (about 2 – 2.5 hrs by car) |
| Abbotsford Airport (YXX) | 118 mi / 190km (about 2.5 – 3 hrs by car) |
| Seattle Tacoma (SEA) | 230 mi / 372 km (about 4.5 hrs by car, plus time spent at border crossing) |
Arrival Time Matters
If you arrive during the night (between 8 pm – 6 am), your options to get straight to Whistler will be limited, so plan accordingly. Your options overnight will usually only be private transfers that can be costly. It may be more economical to stay the night at a hotel in Vancouver and then travel to Whistler the next morning (though Vancouver hotels can be expensive!).
Let’s explore the best ways to get from Vancouver to Whistler.
Distances to Whistler:
1. YVR Skylynx
YVR Skylynx is a top-rated, hassle-free shuttle service that connects travelers from Vancouver Airport (YVR) directly to Whistler. Known for its smooth and convenient transfers, YVR Skylynx ensures your Whistler adventure kicks off on the right foot. The shuttle departs directly from Vancouver Airport, taking passengers on a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, a route renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, rugged mountain landscapes, and lush forests. It’s not just a ride; it’s part of the adventure.
Skylynx’s fleet consists of modern, spacious coaches that prioritize comfort. Each 52-seater bus is equipped with all the amenities you need for a pleasant journey. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, the buses provide ample legroom and generous luggage storage, so you’ll have a stress-free experience. Plus, the friendly and knowledgeable drivers often share insights about the scenic sights along the way, making the ride even more enjoyable.
One of the major benefits of YVR Skylynx is the flexibility it offers. With multiple daily departures from Vancouver Airport and various pick-up and drop-off locations, it caters to all kinds of travelers. Besides departing from Vancouver Airport, YVR Skylynx also picks up passengers at Pacific Central Station in Vancouver (ideal for those arriving by train or bus) and Burrard Street in downtown Vancouver. This is a great option for travelers already in the city or arriving by different modes of transport like cruise ships. Along the route, the bus makes additional stops in Squamish and at Whistler Creekside (upon request when booking), which is perfect if your accommodation is outside of Whistler Village.
Local residents from Squamish, Whistler, and Pemberton also benefit from an exclusive 10% discount when booking through the phone. You’ll need to provide proof of residency, such as a copy of your ID or a bank statement, to receive this discount.
YVR Skylynx is one of the best transportation options available for those traveling between Vancouver Airport and Whistler. We’ve personally used this service on multiple occasions to and from the airport and can confidently recommend it for its reliability, comfort, and overall value.
One benefit of using this service – YVR Skylynx buses have toilets on board (except the express service). Other companies like Epic Rides do not have bathrooms on board.
A word of advice: YVR Skylynx operates on a strict schedule, so be sure to arrive at your bus stop on time, as the buses leave precisely as scheduled and will not usually wait for any latecomers. If you think your flight might be running late, or you might take a while to get through immigration and baggage collection at Vancouver Airport, it’s best to book a later bus to avoid missing your ride. Although there is a ticket booth inside the international arrivals gate at Vancouver Airport, buses often fill up quickly, especially during peak times.
Booking your ticket in advance through the YVR Skylynx website is highly recommended to secure your spot. We also recommend booking the flexible ticket, because if your flight is delayed YVR Skylynx may assist you in getting you on the next bus, but there is no guarantee.
Check out the YVR Skylynx website here for booking details and availability.
2. Epic Rides
If you’re looking for an affordable and convenient way to travel from downtown Vancouver to Whistler, Epic Rides is another excellent option. They operate 52-seater coaches and provide a service similar to YVR Skylynx, though with a few key differences.
Unlike YVR Skylynx, Epic Rides does not operate out of Vancouver Airport (YVR). Instead, they only run services between Burrard Street in downtown Vancouver and Whistler Village. Additionally, they don’t make multiple stops along the way, which means they won’t be stopping at Pacific Central Station, Squamish, or Whistler Creekside. This non-stop approach makes Epic Rides a great choice for travelers already in downtown Vancouver who want to get to Whistler as quickly as possible.
Epic Rides is competitively priced, typically offering rates similar to YVR Skylynx. If you’re flying into Vancouver Airport and still want to use Epic Rides, you can take public transport to get to downtown Vancouver first. The Skytrain, Vancouver’s public transit system, provides a convenient connection between the airport and Burrard Station, which is the pick-up and drop-off point for Epic Rides.
To get to Burrard Station from Vancouver Airport, follow these simple steps:
- – Take the Canada Line Skytrain from YVR Airport to Waterfront Station.
- – At Waterfront Station, switch to the Expo Line and travel one stop to Burrard Station.
- – Exit Burrard Station, and the waiting point for Epic Rides (and also Skylynx) is opposite the station, in front of
Once you exit Burrard station, the pick up and drop off point for Epic Rides (and also YVR Skylynx) is just adjacent to the station, in front of the Hyatt Regency Vancouver hotel.
Though Epic Rides doesn’t operate directly from the airport, it’s still a solid choice if you’re already in the city. Both Epic Rides and YVR Skylynx offer similar levels of comfort, with spacious, air-conditioned coaches and professional drivers. However, YVR Skylynx may be the more convenient option if you’re coming straight from the airport since it eliminates the need for multiple transport transfers.
If you’re starting your journey from downtown Vancouver, though, Epic Rides could be the faster choice since it doesn’t make any additional stops in Squamish or Whistler Creekside, shaving off some travel time. All in all, for budget-conscious travelers already in the city, Epic Rides remains a solid and efficient option to get you to Whistler in comfort.
Check out Epic Rides for booking and details here.
3. Whistler Connection
Whistler Connection offers a flexible, door-to-door shuttle service that sets itself apart from options like YVR Skylynx by working around your personal schedule. Instead of following a set timetable, Whistler Connection tracks your flight arrival details and adjusts accordingly. If your flight is delayed, no worries—they’ve got you covered. They guarantee a departure time within two hours of your arrival at Vancouver Airport (YVR), so you won’t be left waiting long to start your journey to Whistler.
This service is particularly useful for travelers arriving after the last YVR Skylynx bus has left but before the final shuttle of the night. For example, during the winter months, Whistler Connection serves passengers arriving at YVR between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. in the winter, and 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. in the summer, making it an ideal choice for those landing later in the day but still wanting to make it to Whistler that evening.
While Whistler Connection is slightly more expensive than YVR Skylynx, it offers additional perks that make it worth considering—especially for those seeking convenience. They provide direct drop-off service at your hotel or accommodation in Whistler for an extra nominal fee, eliminating the need for additional transport once you arrive.
In our experience, we’ve found Whistler Connection to be particularly useful for evening flights. For example, when we’ve landed at Vancouver Airport between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m., this service has saved us from having to spend the night in Vancouver. Instead, we’ve been able to head straight to Whistler without delay. We’ve occasionally flown the BA85 flight from London Heathrow to Vancouver that arrives around 7pm to Whistler, which is too late for YVR Skylynx service, but still within the operating hours of Whistler Connection, which makes it the perfect choice.
However, during daytime hours, we often choose YVR Skylynx for its lower cost, unless we need the added convenience of a direct-to-door service.
Another benefit of Whistler Connection is that they have a booth conveniently located inside the international arrivals terminal at Vancouver Airport. If you’re flying in from outside Canada, you can book your shuttle directly at the booth once you land. However, if you’re on a domestic flight, you won’t have access to this booth. In that case, you’ll need to call their customer service line once you’ve arrived to arrange your transfer.
Visit Whistler Connection’s website here for more details and booking options.
4. Whistler Executive Transportation: Premium Private Transfers
If you’re looking for a luxurious, private way to get from Vancouver Airport (YVR) to Whistler, Whistler Executive Transportation is the premium service you need. Offering private transfers in a fleet of new, upscale vehicles, including luxury SUVs and premium minivans, this service is perfect for travelers who want to ride in comfort and style.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or as part of a larger group, Whistler Executive Transportation provides an elite level of service. Their spacious vehicles can accommodate groups of up to 14 passengers, making them an excellent choice for large families or groups of friends. You’ll enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey with plenty of space for both passengers and luggage.
Beyond airport transfers, Whistler Executive Transportation also offers chauffeur services for your stay in Whistler. Whether you need transportation for a day trip around the local area or a ride for a special occasion, you can hire their professional chauffeurs on an hourly basis. This service is ideal for those looking to explore Whistler in luxury without the hassle of driving.
Whistler Executive Transportation can be arranged at all hours of the day and night – perfect if you are arriving to Vancouver Airport late at night or early in the morning.
If convenience, privacy, and luxury are your priorities, Whistler Executive Transportation is the way to go for a seamless and comfortable trip between Vancouver and Whistler.
Learn more or book your private transfer with Whistler Executive Transportation here.
5. Helicopter
For a truly unforgettable arrival, why not take a helicopter from Vancouver to Whistler? The journey takes about 30 minutes and offers spectacular aerial views of Vancouver, the Sea-to-Sky Highway, and the coastal mountains.
- Highlights:
- – A private helicopter ride provides breathtaking views and quick access to Whistler.
- – Perfect for special occasions or those looking to splurge.
Keep in mind this luxury option will be costly, starting at around $4500 CAD for a helicopter (up to 5 passengers), making it easily the most expensive but also the fastest way to reach Whistler.
Check out more details on helicopter transfers here.
6. Floatplane
For those seeking an memorable and scenic way to reach Whistler, Harbour Air offers seasonal floatplane flights that are perfect for the adventurous traveler. These flights land on Green Lake in Whistler, but because the lake freezes over during winter, this service is only available in the warmer months, typically from spring through fall.
The floatplane base in Whistler is located at the stunning Nicklaus North Golf Club, which is just a short drive from Whistler Village. Harbour Air provides complimentary shuttle services from the floatplane dock to many hotels in the village, adding an extra layer of convenience to your journey.
Flights to Whistler can depart from either Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver, Richmond (just near Vancouver Airport) and Victoria. These flights offering breathtaking aerial views of the city, coastal mountains, and forested landscapes. To get to Coal Harbour from Vancouver Airport (YVR), you’ll need to take a train or taxi, however if you take a flight from Richmond (YVR South) they do offer a complimentary shuttle from the YVR Airport to the Floatplane base in Richmond.
Operating exclusively during the warmer months, a floatplane journey with Harbour Air is not only a quick way to reach Whistler but also a unique and thrilling experience. For more details and to check availability, visit their website.
Check out Harbour Air for booking and more information.
7. Car Hire
If you’re planning to explore Whistler and its surrounding areas, or if you’re staying outside Whistler Village and need to drive to the ski hill, renting a car is a great option. It’s especially cost-effective if you’re traveling with a group of 3-4 passengers, or more if you rent a larger vehicle.
Car rental at Vancouver Airport (YVR) is straightforward, with major companies like Alamo, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, and Budget conveniently located just across from the terminals in the parking structure. Once you collect your luggage, simply walk across the crosswalks to reach the rental car offices. From there, you’ll be on your way in no time.
If you’re visiting in winter, it’s crucial to ensure your rental car is equipped with snow tires, as they are mandatory when driving the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler. Proper tires will keep you safe and compliant with road regulations.
If you just want to drive one-way and leave the rental car in Whistler, you should book with Avis. Avis operate a small rental car agency in Whistler out of the Cascade Lodge located in the heart of Whistler Village. This is the only car rental company in Whistler so if that is your plan, you should book with Avis. If you plan to drive back to Vancouver or the airport (or another location) then you can choose your preferred rental agency.
The drive from Vancouver Airport to Whistler typically takes about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to travel at your own pace and even make scenic stops along the way. For more details on car rental options, check the Vancouver Airport website.
Learn more about renting a car at Vancouver Airport here.
8. Poparide
Another option for getting from Vancouver to Whistler is Poparide, a rideshare platform where drivers offer spare seats in their vehicles for a small fee. Fares are set by the driver and typically range between $10-$20 per seat, making it one of the cheapest ways to get to Whistler.
However, there are some caveats with this option. Poparide’s reliability is dependent on drivers offering seats for the trip, meaning availability can be hit or miss. Once you book a ride, you’ll coordinate the pickup time and location directly with the driver. You can also check driver ratings before booking, which helps gauge how reliable they might be.
That said, be aware of potential downsides. Some drivers may cancel at the last minute, leaving you scrambling for another option. Additionally, luggage space can be limited depending on the car, so this might not be the best choice if you’re traveling with lots of gear or bulky luggage.
Given the unpredictable nature of this service, Poparide shouldn’t be your top choice for getting to Whistler. However, if you’re flexible with your schedule and looking for a cheap ride, it can be worth considering.
Check out Poparide for more information here.
9. Taxi
While taking a taxi from Vancouver to Whistler is technically an option, it’s probably the least practical and most challenging one. The fare would likely range between $200-$400, and the real difficulty is finding a driver willing to make the lengthy trip. Many airport taxis may decline the request unless they see it as worthwhile due to the distance and time involved.
Because of these challenges, we don’t recommend relying on taxis to get to Whistler. Instead, consider one of the more affordable, reliable options listed above, which only require a little bit of planning ahead. However, if you’re determined to try, taxis are available at the rank outside the arrivals area at Vancouver Airport. Just be sure to check with the driver to see if they’re willing to make the trip.
10. Uber/Lyft
As of 2020, Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare companies are available in Vancouver, offering convenient options for getting around the city. However, these services are not available in Whistler, and you won’t be able to set Whistler as your destination in the app.
Consider one of the dedicated shuttles or other transportation alternatives listed above for your journey to Whistler.
Frequently Asked Questions
(i). Which airport should I fly into when visiting Whistler?
The closest airport to Whistler, Canada is Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This should be your first choice when trying to get to Whistler.
(ii). What’s the cheapest way to get to Whistler from Vancouver?
The cheapest options are YVR Skylynx and Epic Rides, both offering shuttle services at affordable prices. Epic Rides offers round trip tickets between Vancouver and Whistler for $44. YVR Skylynx currently offers round trip between downtown Vancouver and Whistler for $42, while a round trip from the Vancouver Airport to Whistler starts at $75.
(iii). What is the quickest way to get to Whistler from Vancouver?
The fastest mode of transportation to Whistler is by air. Harbour Air floatplanes or chartered helicopter will get you into Whistler the fastest.
(iv). How long does it take to get from Vancouver to Whistler?
The journey typically takes 2 – 2.5 hours, depending on your mode of transport and traffic conditions.
(v). Is there Uber service from Vancouver to Whistler?
While Uber & Lyft operate in Vancouver, they does not operate is Whistler, and so rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are not an option for this journey.
