About
Historic waterfront park on the site of West Vancouver's first non-native settlement (1872, Navvy Jack Thomas). Award-winning pirate ship playground, spray park, sand play area, fishing pier with sunset views of Lions Gate Bridge and Stanley Park, and a central position on the Seawalk. Panoramic ocean and mountain views. Part of the Ambleside Waterfront Plan — continuous parkland by spring 2026.
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Historic site - Navvy Jack Thomas home (1872)
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Named after John Lawson, "father" of West Vancouver
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Splash pad with pirate ship playground
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Gravel/sand beach for swimming
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Pier for fishing and sunset watching
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Midpoint of Centennial Seawalk
Best Suited For
The Crowd
- 👨👩👧Families
- 🧒Kids
- 🧳Tourists
- 🔹Walkers
- 📷Photographers
The Occasion
- 🔹Playground
- 🔹Spray Park
- 🔹Fishing
- 🌇Sunset Watching
- 🔹Seawalk
- 🧺Picnic
Park Information
Admission
Free
Amenities
Park Rules
What to Bring & Insider Tips
Best Seasons
Location
Getting Here
17th Street & Argyle Ave, West Vancouver, BC
🚇 Transit
John Lawson Park is a short walk from the frequent bus routes on Marine Drive, which connect West Vancouver to downtown Vancouver and the Lonsdale Quay SeaBus terminal. The SkyTrain doesn't run on the North Shore, so bus or SeaBus is your best transit bet.
🚗 Parking
A small pay-parking lot is available right at the park, but spots are a hot commodity, especially on sunny weekends. Your best bet is to hunt for limited street parking on nearby side streets and be prepared for a short walk.