short road trips from vancouver

22 Weekend Getaways from Vancouver

By: Author Taryn Eyton

Posted on Last updated: May 1, 2024

While Vancouver is a beautiful city with lots to offer, sometimes you just want to get out of town. Living here my whole life, I’ve been on more weekend getaways from Vancouver than I can count. I’ve put together a great list of over 20 weekend trips you can do from Vancouver.

There’s something for everyone on this list from city-breaks to beach-town chill outs, to adventurous mountain towns, to foodie destinations, to luxurious glamping .

Since, I’m an outdoorsy person, most of the trips have an adventure focus, but there are lots of options for less sweaty activities too. All of these trips are a few hours’ drive (and in some cases ferry) away, and some of them you can do without a car.

So here are my picks for the most beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Hey there: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Here’s a custom Google Map I made for you. It shows all of these beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver, plus a few of the attractions, restaurants and attractions that I recommend.

Table of Contents

Bowen Island

Tiny Bowen Island is just minutes from Vancouver but feels worlds apart. This Howe Sound island is mostly forested, with lots of small beaches, which makes it a great place for kayaking and hiking.

The village of Snug Cove at the ferry dock has a few restaurants to choose from, but the pizza at Tuscany Restaurant is amazing. If you have a sweet tooth, check out Cocoa West Chocolatier for incredible (but expensive) handmade chocolates. Yoga and meditation are also really popular here, with several retreats on the island. 

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites: This all-suite hotel is located in Artisan Square just a few minutes from the ferry terminal. It’s the in same complex as tons of cute boutiques and Cocoa West Chocolatier. Book now .

Cabin Rentals: There are lots of really cute cabins on Bowen Island for rent. The Wildwood Cabins are gorgeously rustic and get amazing reviews. Book now .

READ NEXT: Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

For the last two years I’ve lived in Squamish , known as the adventure capital of Canada and one of the best small towns in Canada . It sits at the head of Howe Sound sandwiched between mountain ranges. It has world-class hiking , rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

For less heart-pumping adventures, ride the Sea to Sky Gondola up to a gorgeous mountain viewpoint, visit Shannon Falls, or swim at one of the lakes. If you get hungry, stop by Luz Tacos for burrito, Joe Pestos for woodfired pizza or Backcountry Brewing for pizza and craft beer.

READ NEXT: 70+ Things to do in Squamish (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Squamish

Sunwolf Riverside Cabins: We stayed in these adorable cabins on a winter trip to Squamish. Bonus: Fergie’s Restaurant is on the property so getting the best breakfast in town is easy! Book now

Howe Sound Inn: This boutique hotel in the heart of downtown has a great craft brewery downstairs. Book now

Alice Lake Provincial Park Campground: The large campground here is really popular. More info . (Or check out my list of the best campgrounds near Squamish .)

READ NEXT: Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler

Whistler is a great weekend trip from Vancouver at any time of year. In the summer you can ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola up the mountain for amazing views, go swimming in the lakes, stroll through the village, or hit up the famous mountain bike trails. Whistler also has some of the best hiking trails around.

READ NEXT: The Best Hikes in Whistler: A Guide to All the Trails

In the winter you can downhill ski and snowboard of course, but there are also has plenty of beautiful snowshoeing trails . Read my guide to the best things to do in Whistler in winter .

READ NEXT: Where to Go Snowshoeing in Whistler

Whistler Village has a huge variety of restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops. I loooove the baked goods from Purebread. We usually stop at High Mountain Brewing after a hike – it’s the original spot to get craft beer in town.

READ NEXT: 80+ Things to Do in Whistler (By a Local)

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Westin Resort and Spa: If you want to splurge, this is the place. My now-husband took me here to impress me when we were first dating. Book now

Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel: Apartment-style suite hotels are really popular in Whistler. This one is right in the village and gets great reviews. Book now

Camping: My guide to camping in Whistler has details for 18 campgrounds near Whistler .

READ NEXT: 40 Cheap and Free Things To Do in Whistler

Pemberton often gets overshadowed by Whistler, its flashier neighbour to the south. But Pemberton makes a great weekend getaway from Vancouver. It’s a chill, small town surrounded by mountains with lots of hiking and mountain biking trails. (Nearby Joffre Lakes is gorgeous.)

But it also has a strong farming and ranching history. Head to North Arm Farm for u-pick berries, a produce stand, and a cafe. Or book a horseback ride – Pemberton has more horses per capita than any other place in BC!

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge: Highly rated all-suite hotel near downtown Pemberton and an easy walk to the One Mile Lake trails. Book now

Cabins: There are lots of cute cabins and tiny houses for rent near Pemberton. This rustic (but luxe) log cabin looks amazing. Book now

Nairn Falls Provincial Park Campground: I’ve stayed at this campground a few times. It makes a great basecamp for day hikes in the area. More info

Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Sechelt is located on the Sunshine Coast, a short ferry ride from Vancouver, making it the perfect weekend trip. Make sure you also check out the nearby villages of Gibsons, Roberts Creek, and Halfmoon Bay next to the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by forest. There are tons of opportunities for hiking , mountain biking, and kayaking. But lots of people prefer to book a stay at a cabin or resort with a water view, then just chill out.

READ NEXT: 21 Best Hikes on the Sunshine Coast, BC

The Sechelt area is also an emerging destination for foodies and artisans with weekend farmer’s markets in Sechelt, Gibsons, and Roberts Creek. With lots of new craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses popping up, the area now has its own Sunshine Coast Ale Trail. My husband loves the beer at Persephone Brewing near the Langdale ferry terminal.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do in Sechelt

Where to Stay in Sechelt and the South Sunshine Coast

Rockwater Secret Cove Resort: This one has is special for me since it’s where I got engaged! The luxury tent cabins are unreal and worth the splurge! Book now

Cabins: There are tons of cute cabins for rent near Sechelt. This oceanfront cabin just outside of town is particularly spectacular. Book now  

Roberts Creek Provincial Park Campground: This forested campground is in between the ferry terminal and Sechelt. More info

Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

Sleepy Powell River is a bit more off the beaten path than Sechelt to the South. It’s a logging town with tons of outdoor adventure possibilities. The 180km-long Sunshine Coast Trail runs through the outskirts of town, making Powell River a great jumping-off point for  day hikes if you don’t have time for the whole thing.

The historic downtown is home to Townsite Brewing. On my last visit, we spent a fun couple of hours there tasting beer before heading to Costa del Sol in downtown Powell River for some tasty Mexican food. Don’t miss a trip to the cute village of Lund 30 minutes north of Powell River. Head to Nancy’s Bakery on the waterfront to get one of the famous cinnamon buns.

READ NEXT: The Best Things to do on the North Sunshine Coast, BC

Where to Stay in Powell River and the North Sunshine Coast

The Magical Dome: This quirky rental cabin near Lund has been on my list, but it was booked last time we went to Powell River. It looks like a hobbit house! Book now

Cabins: This eco-friendly cottage is right on the ocean. It’s located in the quiet Lang Bay area, in between Powell River and the ferry terminal. Book now .

Parksville is a beach town just north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. With kilometres of sandy beaches, it’s one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver. In summer they have an incredible sandcastle competition.

And there are gorgeous waterfalls if you head inland: check out Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls. The quirky Old Country Market in Coombs is also a short drive away. (It’s the place that famously has goats on the roof!)

Where to Stay in Parksville

Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Resort: I know people who return to this beachfront resort year after year. Their Grotto Spa also looks really cool.  Book now

Condos and Cabins: There are lots of vacation rentals really close to the beach. This oceanside cottage is really cute and has access to a pool. Book now

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park Campground: The campsites here are right next to a huge sandy beach. Listen for sea lions across the bay at night. More info

Tofino on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver and one of the best small towns in Canada for outdoor adventures . Explore the long sandy beaches, go for a hike in the lush rainforest, or hit the waves at Canada’s most famous surf spot.

If you’re looking to get a bit off the beaten path, head a bit south to the neighbouring town of Ucluelet, which is much quieter and just as cute. Or take a water taxi to the old-growth trees on  Meares Island or the sandy beaches of the Wild Side Trail on Flores Island.

Don’t miss the Tacofino food truck for some of the best tacos in BC. If you’re looking for sit down dinner, head to Shelter Restaurant. My husband and I had a great dinner there for our anniversary a few years ago.

Where to Stay in Tofino

Ocean Village: These adorable gothic-arched cabins are right on the water at Mackenzie Beach. Book now

Island Village at Fred Tibbs: We stayed at these waterfront condos right in the centre of Tofino on an anniversary trip. Book now .

Pacific Rim National Park Campground: The campsites at Green Point are right next to Long Beach, a huge sandy beach. More info

Southern Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are a group of over 200 small islands between Vancouver Island the mainland of British Columbia. Most people visit the larger Southern Gulf Islands: Saltspring, Galiano, Pender, Mayne, and Saturna. Each island has its own personality, but they all offer beautiful ocean views, beaches, forest hikes, farmer’s markets, and artisan studios.

Saltspring is the largest and most populated island, so it has the most things to do. Galiano is a bit smaller and a little more sleepy. Pender, Mayne, and Saturna have fewer shops, restaurants, and services than Saltspring and Galiano, so do a bit of research before you go to find out what’s available. 

READ NEXT: Four Outdoor Adventures on Galiano Island

Where to Stay on the Gulf Islands

Poets Cove Resort and Spa: I stayed at this waterfront resort on Pender Island once for a wedding and it’s gorgeous! Book now

Cabins: Over the years we’ve stayed at some great cabins on Saltspring and Galiano Island. This waterfront cabin on Galiano has a great garden. Book now

Ruckle Provincial Park Campground: I LOVE the walk-in campsites at Ruckle Provincial Park on Saltspring Island. They are right on the ocean and have amazing views. More info

Victoria is British Columbia’s capital city, but it’s not a stodgy government town. It has a beautiful harbour, interesting museums, historical buildings, a foodie scene, and easy access to beaches and trails. I’ve visited Victoria countless times as I have several good friends who live there.

One of my favourite things to do in Victoria is to bike the flat, scenic, and quiet Lochside and Galloping Goose trails. I also love walking in Beacon Hill park or along the Waterfront Trail on Dallas Road.

For indoor activities, I like the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Victoria’s compact downtown also is a great place to shop. I can’t go to Victoria without going to the fabulous Silk Road Tea store. If you want amazing baking, head to Fol Epi in Vic West. The croissants are sooo good.

Where to Stay in Victoria

Abbeymoore Manor: I’ve stayed at this historic B&B a few times since my friends used to live around the corner. It’s a beautiful house. And breakfast is included! Book now

Hotel Zed: This renovated motel has an amazing and photogenic retro vibe. It looks like an awesome place to stay on a budget. Book now

Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 260km-long loop road trip on Southern Vancouver Island. It’s the perfect length to drive over a weekend. The route starts and finishes in Victoria.

The first half of the route travels along the coast past Sooke. You can stop for hikes in the rainforest, waterfalls, or visits to wilderness beaches. Spend the night in Port Renfrew, my favourite small town, and visit Avatar Grove , home of Canada’s tallest trees and the starting point for the famous West Coast Trail .

READ NEXT: How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees

On the second half of the route, drive inland past more giant trees to Lake Cowichan and the farms in the Cowichan Valley. Finish the trip by heading back to Victoria along the Malahat Highway.

Read my complete guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route . It has everything you need to know to take this road trip including driving directions, where to stop, the best hikes, and more. 

READ NEXT: The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Where to Stay on the Pacific Marine Circle Route

Wild Renfrew: We stayed at these gorgeous waterfront cabins in Port Renfrew. They even have patios with fire pits. Book now

Trailhead Resort: This budget place is really popular with hikers starting or finishing the West Coast Trail. Book now

Pacheedaht Campground: I’ve camped here a few times and it’s gorgeous. Some of the sites are right on the beach. Call them to book: (250) 647-0090

Bellingham, Washington

Bellingham, Washington is more than a place to do some cross-border shopping or buy cheap groceries. It’s actually a cute college town on the ocean with a historic district called Fairhaven. Bellingham is also a craft beer haven with 16 micro-breweries, many of which are gastro-pubs as too.

One of the best things to do is cruise along Chuckanut Drive, a twisty road along the coast through the forest with some great views. There are also lots of hiking and mountain bike trails, quiet country roads for road biking, and kayaking in sheltered bays of Puget Sound.

Where to Stay in Bellingham, Washington

Hotel Leo: The rooms at this downtown hotel have really cool modern decor. Book now

Cabins: There are lots of cute rentals in Bellingham and on Chuckanut Drive. This unique house has a microbrewery in it along with a vacation rental! Book now

Larrabee State Park Campground: This campground on Chuckanut Drive is right on the water with easy access to hiking trails. More info

Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Tucked into the north end of Puget Sound, the Deception Pass area is strikingly beautiful: tiny tree-covered islands, swirling currents, and sea cliffs. I love hiking in Deception Pass State Park or enjoying the view from the famous bridge.

Long and narrow Whidbey Island has lots of other pretty spots too including Ebey’s Landing, WWII era defences at Fort Ebey and Fort Casey, wineries, farmers markets, whale watching tours, and sleepy historic towns. 

Where to Stay in Whidbey Island and Deception Pass, Washington

Captain Whidbey Inn: This historic house is now an amazing looking B&B. Book now.

Cabins: There are tons of vacation rentals on Whidbey Island. Lots of them are right on the water too. Thie beach house has a great deck. Book now

Deception Pass State Park Campground: I love camping here – you can walk to the beach and there are lots of hiking trails. More info  

Seattle, Washington

Seattle is a gorgeous city, sitting between the waters of Puget Sound and the snowy peak of Mount Rainier. Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the world’s first Starbucks, and the Museum of Pop Culture are all must-sees. Lots of visitors on a weekend getaway from Vancouver take in a baseball, football, or soccer game.

To get a bit more off-the-beaten-path, I recommend the Underground Tour , where you’ll learn a bit about the city while walking through historic underground tunnels.

This is also a great car-free getaway. It’s easy to take the bus from Vancouver to Seattle , and once you’re there, you can walk or take public transit.

Where to stay in Seattle

Ace Hotel: This hipster spot is in Belltown, a trendy neighbourhood close to downtown. Book now

Vacation Rentals: Seattle can be a pricey city, but you can usually find good deals on rental apartments. This adorable tree-top suite is right near the beach.   Book now .

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small resort community in the Fraser Valley. The main attraction is the hot springs, which are piped into a series of pools at the Harrison Hotsprings Resort as well to a public community pool. (Did you know we have lots of other amazing hot springs in Canada ?)

It’s also a great spot for hiking and mountain biking. In the summer, boating is really popular and there’s also a cool pop-up waterpark in the lake. And it’s less than an hour away, making it one of the closer weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa: Staying at this hotel gets you exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools. Book now

Sasquatch Provincial Park Campground: Camping at the lakes in this park is popular since it’s a short drive to Harrison Hot Springs. More info

Manning Park

E.C. Manning Provincial Park is one of BC’s most popular parks. In the winter it has a ski resort and lots of snowshoeing trails . In the summer it’s one of my favourite places to hike with kilometre upon kilometre of wildflower meadows.

You can also go canoeing on Lightning Lakes, walk nature trails, and spot wildlife. The ground squirrels are particularly cute. In the winter, they have a downhill ski area, cross-country skiing, and tons of snowshoeing trails . 

Where to Stay in Manning Park

Manning Park Resort: The only lodging in the heart of the park, they have cute cabins and a pool. Book now

Manning Provincial Park Campground: There are four campgrounds in the park, but the nicest sites are at Lightning Lake. More info

I have family in Kamloops, so I’ve spent a lot of time in the area. It has an incredible network of hiking and mountain biking trails, many of which are right in the city. The beaches along the riverfront are a great place to go for a swim or head out of town to the nearby lakes.

Kamloops has also gotten into the craft beer scene lately, with five breweries and two taphouses in town. With its sunny climate, a weekend in Kamloops can be just what you need to escape the rains in Vancouver in spring and fall. 

Where to Stay in Kamloops

Fairfield Inn and Suites: I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times recently while visiting family. It’s a newer hotel so the rooms are really nice, but the prices are quite reasonable. Plus it includes breakfast. Book now

Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel: This new hotel has a fabulous location right on the riverfront. Book now .

The Okanagan

The Okanagan is a big region, stretching from Sicamous in the north to Osoyoos in the south. Okanagan Lake runs through the middle of the valley, along with lots of other smaller lakes, perfect for boating and with great beaches. Explore some of the cute small towns like Vernon and Penticton or check out the many things to do in Kelowna .

If you head to Osoyoos, be sure to visit Nk’mip Desert Centre. It showcases Canada’s only desert and the culture of the local Sylix people. The hot and dry climate is also ideal for orchards and vineyards. There are over 200 wineries to visit, but I like the smaller organic ones near Summerland. Don’t miss everything apple at Davison Orchards – it’s one of the best things to do in Vernon .

READ NEXT: Explore Summerland’s Wineries by Bike

Where to Stay in the Okanagan

Sparkling Hill Resort: This adults-only spa-focused resort near Vernon has amazing views and luxe rooms. Book now

Hotel Zed: Like their sister location in Victoria, this budget motel in Kelowna has an incredible retro look. Book now

Okanagan Lake Provincial Park Campground: This large campground is right on the shores of Okanagan Lake. More info

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Wells Gray Provincial Park is located in British Columbia’s interior north of Kamloops near the town of Clearwater. It’s a huge park with giant lakes and lots of hiking trails. But it is famous for its waterfalls. There are 8 waterfalls easily accessible from the main park road, plus dozens more in the backcountry. Don’t miss 141m-high Helmcken Falls. It’s the 4th-tallest waterfall in Canada.

READ NEXT: Chasing Waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park

The park is in ranch country, so if you want to live like a cowboy, there are tons of lodges nearby where you can go horseback riding or have a cook-out. Wells Gray is definitely one of the best under-the-radar weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Where to Stay in Wells Gray

Wells Gray Guest Ranch: Located right in the park, this Western-style property has great cowboy vibes. Book now

Across the Creek Cabins: These cute cabins are nestled in the forest inside the park. B ook now

Wells Gray Provincial Park Campground: Camp near a waterfall and lake at the Clearwater Campground. More info

Revelstoke is the ultimate Canadian small town : it has world-class mountain biking, incredible hiking, skiing, and paragliding from the highest launch in North America. I liked it so much I went two years in row. It also has one of my favourite things: hot springs! There are several hot springs a near town, including the gorgeous undeveloped Halfway River Hot Springs .

Revelstoke also has a surprisingly robust culinary scene for such a small town with a little farmers markets, great restaurants, micro-breweries, and not one but TWO distilleries! Check out my guides to things to do in Revelstoke , the best hikes in Revelstoke , and the best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park to plan your trip. 

READ NEXT: 15 Things to do in Revelstoke in the Summer

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

The Regent Hotel: We stayed at this somewhat upscale, family-run hotel on our first trip to Revelstoke. It was nice without being pretentious. Book now

Boulder Mountain Resort:  I spent two nights at these adorable cabins just outside of Revelstoke last summer. They even come with fleece robes! Book now

The Cube: This budget hotel has a really cool cube-inspired look. It’s perfect for outdoorsy visitors because it has a gear drying room and a shared kitchen. Book now

Book a Cozy Cabin

Spend the weekend chilling out in nature at a cozy cabin. There are tons of adorable cabin rentals near Vancouver . Wake up deep in the forest, high in a treehouse, right beside the ocean, or in a luxury glamping tent.

I’ve stayed in a bunch of beautiful cabins – it’s one of my favourite weekend getaways from Vancouver.

READ NEXT: 25 Cozy Cabins Near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway

One of the cheapest ways to go on a weekend getaway from Vancouver is to go camping. There are lots of amazing camping spots fairly close to town. You can camp on a lake, by the ocean, or in the mountains. However, camping is popular so make a reservation in advance to make sure you get a spot. Below are some of my suggestions for the best campgrounds near Vancouver.

I’ve got a whole post with a big list of over 40 places to go camping near Vancouver . It includes options in the Sea to Sky, Fraser Valley, near Hope, in Washington State, and reachable via a short ferry on the Sunshine Coast, Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island.

With over 20 weekend trips from Vancouver on this list, I’m sure you’ll find one to add to your list. What is your favourite weekend getaway from Vancouver? Tell me in the comments.

More posts you’ll like:

• Cozy Cabins near Vancouver Perfect for a Weekend Getaway
• Camping Near Vancouver, BC: 40+ Best Campgrounds
• Best Small Towns in Canada for Outdoor Adventures
• The Best Things to do on the Sunshine Coast, BC
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Guide: Driving from Vancouver to Whistler
• Your Guide to the Best Hot Springs in Canada
• How to Take an Epic Canadian National Parks Road Trip
• Latest Posts

• BC Parks Day Passes 2024 – Everything You Need to Know - April 25, 2024
• Joffre Lakes Hike (By a Local) - April 25, 2024
• The Ultimate Yellowstone Packing List for Every Summer Visitor - April 24, 2024

Elise Raven Giuliana Andersen

Friday 18th of August 2023

I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the great content you consistently produce. It's informative, interesting, and always keeps me coming back for more!

Caroline Mercado

Saturday 9th of October 2021

16 Best Day Trips From Vancouver Canada

Residents proudly boast about our city, but I can’t not mention the best day trips from Vancouver.

Whether you label it a weekend retreat, a Vancouver escape, or a departure from city life, we have access to some of the most picturesque locations in the country, just a few hours away.

So, here’s to my Vancouver day trip guide for those seeking adventures in British Columbia.

Best Day Trips from Vancouver: Great 1 Day Trips for 2024

Victoria: Best Vancouver Island Day Trip from Vancouver

The capital city of British Columbia holds the distinction of being Canada’s warmest city, and it has also been voted the Best City for Women, Canada’s Most Bikeable City, and the 2nd Best Small City in the World.s

Also, with just one day below zero yearly, a trip to “the Garden City” is one of the best things to do in Vancouver in winter .

Over 3 billion flowers bloom here every year, making it a great stop to take in colonial architecture, have tea at the legendary Empress Hotel, and eat gourmet foods sourced from the area’s 1700+ farms.

It’s no wonder this is one of the top weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Getting to Victoria from Vancouver involves a 90-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island.

Wanting a full tour package? Check the best Vancouver tours to Victoria .

Whistler: Top Village Day Trip from Vancouver

How many major cities have a world-class ski resort just 90 minutes from Vancouver city center?

If you want an upgrade on Vancouver’s top ski mountains , this is one of those good day trips from Vancouver you’ll never forget.

Yes, Whistler has been voted Top Ski Resort in the World by various publications, and the 200+ marked runs famous for champagne powder make it a no-brainer for winter fun. But there are tons of things to do in Whistler besides skiing.

There are loads of great restaurants in Whistler , making it a gourmet foodie escape. It also offers great summer lake activities at Lost Lake, includes BC’s most beautiful hike at nearby Joffre Lakes, and is a top spa and mountain biking destination.

Looking for some culture? The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is the best window into local First Nations culture.

Fraser Valley Winery Tour: Best Wine Day Trip from Vancouver

Did you think we’re just a one-trick pony of snowy mountains and water activities? Well, think again. To the east of Vancouver, you’ll find temperate Langley and the prime wine-making region of the Fraser Valley.

Renting a car and taking a DIY drive is a great day trip escape from Vancouver. Vista D’oro is a great place to see old-school wine-making perfected, while Backyard Vineyards is a small-volume producer that makes some of the best BC VQA sparkling whites around.

Want to take the guesswork out of it? A winery tour can even pick you up at downtown  Vancouver hotels and take you straight to the action in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter van.

The small group tours include stops at up to five wineries over 6 hours.

Howe Sound: Best Vancouver Boat Day Trip

This picturesque body of water between Vancouver and the outdoor playground of Squamish is surrounded by a network of towering fjords. This makes it a great place to explore by boat. Renting one at Granville Island or Sewell’s Marina in Horseshoe Bay is a good start.

Expect to pay about $117.60 for 4 hours, so this day trip is best done in company.

Bombing around Vancouver’s waters is fun just for the ride, but strapping up with fishing gear and trying to land a big spring salmon (they can reach over 80 pounds) is one way to experience the Sound.

Looking to explore as part of a package? Then click the link below:

Grouse Mountain: Best Mountain Day Trip from Vancouver

Those towering North Shore Mountains that frame our city skyline aren’t just for show.

In fact, a 2800 metre gondola ride up from North Vancouver will transport you to a mountain paradise – complete with lumberjacks, bears, and beaver tails – but enough of the Canadian stereotypes.

Of course, the Wildlife Refuge and its star grizzlies, 30-minute lumberjack shows, and massive tail-shaped donuts are just the beginning. Some of my favourite things to do at Grouse Mountain are:

• Having a cold beer at Altitudes Bistro overlooking the city
• Going up to the highest point of the city at the Eye of the Wind
• Swinging through the Mountain Ropes Adventure

In winter, this is the area’s most accessible ski mountain, and in Vancouver in summer , you can hike up the mountain on the legendary Grouse Grind.

Squamish: Best of the Day Road Trips from Vancouver

When thinking of cool day trips from Vancouver, a trip up the legendary Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler (one of the world’s top-rated road trips) is in order.

About halfway up, you’ll come across this picturesque, sporty mountain town just 70 minutes from downtown Vancouver .

The name of the game here is outdoor adventure. Just look up at the imposing granite monolith that dwarfs the city. The Stawamus Chief offers a 4-hour intermediate hike with one of the best panoramic view rewards in the entire province.

Some other top things to do in Squamish include Via Ferrata climbing adventures (optimal for first-timers), some of the greatest white water rafting in the Lower Mainland, and a 2-hour Ropes Course Adventure .

You’ll also find Shannon Falls, British Columbia’s third-highest waterfall. Don’t forget too that there’s some amazing craft beer made in the area, the optimal nightcap for all that adventure.

Salt Spring Island: Top Island Day Trip from Vancouver

This tiny island in the Salish Sea, which is just 80 minutes by ferry from Vancouver, has a huge amount of character. This is one of the best places to visit from Vancouver if you’re seeking peace and quiet.

‘Canada’s Island of the Arts’ is a place to buy things that are fresh or made by hand. There are over 200 organic farms here, forming the base of British Columbia’s best little Artisan Market – some local farmers even provide their grass-fed lamb to the Queen.

Other highlights include small-batch smoked salmon, artisan gin, and apple pie moonshine. The 120 artisans here also sell jewellery, woodwork, pottery, fine art, body care, clothing, and more.

Don’t forget camping at Ruckle Park , tastings at Salt Spring Wild Cider , and visiting Salt Spring Island Cheese Company . Grabbing an Airbnb overnight and coming back with the trunk full of goodies is a Vancouver tradition.

Steveston Village: Best of the Cheap Day trips from Vancouver

This is one of the best day trips from Vancouver without a car. Yes, in just 40 minutes by Vancouver public transit , you can be whisked away to this tiny fishing village along the Fraser River.

On the fringes of the suburb of Richmond, this place has yet to be corrupted by big chain shops and six-lane highways.

Visiting Steveston gives great insight into the early economies of the area, in particular through the Gulf of Georgia Cannery Museum – a retrospect on the salmon industry of British Columbia and the many immigrant communities (primarily Japanese) that helped build the province.

Beyond this, a trip through Steveston is about artisan gift shops, fresh-off-the-boat seafood stands, and the obligatory load-up of fish and chips at the legendary Pajo’s . Not to mention, it’s a great place to take a Steveston whale-watching tour .

Seattle: Best City Day Trip from Vancouver

It’s hard to put this American supercity on the list because, let’s face it, you need way more than just a day.

That said, I’ve probably done this day trip from Vancouver 20+ times in my life. You can take the Vancouver to Seattle Bus , the Amtrack Cascades Train , or even a Vancouver to Seattle Seaplane flight .

It’s a little cumbersome, but it’s one of the best places to visit from Vancouver for locals due to:

• Major league American sports like the NFL, NHL and MLB
• A much more diverse concert and live music scene
• American brand-name shopping and discount outlet centres
• Unique tourist attractions like the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture
• Pike Place Market

Driving from Vancouver to Seattle for day trips takes just over two hours, more than doable with an early start.  If you’ve got a bit of extra time on your Vancouver itinerary and want a little piece of Americana, this is the best cultural day trip you can make.

Harrison Hot Springs: Best Winter Day Trip from Vancouver BC

This small Fraser Valley resort community is just 90 minutes from Vancouver. It has been one of the most fun day trips near Vancouver since 1886 when the Canadian Pacific Railway brought its lakeside springs within reach.

The two relaxing, rejuvenating springs heat up to 65 °C (149 °F). Harrison Hot Springs Resort is the star of the show here, creating five different pools of different temperatures for the ultimate spa getaway experience. With two restaurants on-site, this is the ultimate ‘not lift a finger’ Vancouver day trip.

You can rent a cottage out here to soak in the hot springs. But you can also take a lovely forest hike alongside numerous waterfalls along the Miami Bridges Walk. And, of course, taking part in any number of fishing or boating activities on Harrison Lake is also a fine option.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds of Vancouver’s best beaches in the summer, taking day trips to the lakeside beach here is a much better swimming option.

Sea to Sky Gondola: Top Day Trip for Views

An hour from Vancouver, this Swiss-style ski gondola whisks passengers 885 meters up Mount Habrich, providing amazing views of crystal blue Howe Sound and our Coast Mountain paradise.

The Sea to Sky Gondola is a mountain adventure wonderland that can be as hardcore as you want. Taking in the three panoramic view platforms and walking the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge is included in every ticket.

Of course, if you’re willing to get a little more advanced on your day trips from Vancouver, you can go off on backcountry hiking tours, snowshoeing and tubing (winter), and even rock climbing (summer).

Throw in interpretive tours on the ecology of the area and the rich history of the local Skwxwu7mesh Nation, and this outdoor escape gets educational.

There’s also a licensed bar, and the Sky Pilot Restaurant offers live music, wine tastings, and all sorts of events. So, this Vancouver day tour has it all.

Sunshine Coast: Best Coastal Day Trip from Vancouver

A quick hour ferry hop across Howe Sound from Horseshoe Bay brings Vancouverites to the Sunshine Coast, famous for low annual rainfall and long, sunny summers. If you need a beach here, then Savary Island is Canada’s answer to Bermuda (don’t laugh).

This 180 km stretch of coast is famous for its laid-back attitude, unspoiled beaches, arts and crafts, and sneaky good culinary scene that rivals some of Vancouver’s best restaurants .

Most folks head to Sechelt for the galleries and boutiques along Cowrie Street, which also offers all sorts of vintage shops, tap houses, and gourmet restaurants.

Lovers of paddle sports also find plenty to do here. The Powell River Canoe Route is a solid way to spend a day on the water, but kayaking along the fjords of Desolation Sound is probably the best bet.

Britannia Mining Museum: Best Day Trip with Kids from Vancouver

This historic mine near Squamish makes for a fun day trip from Vancouver for those visiting town with children. The Britannia Mining Museum was once one of the largest copper ore mines in the British Empire.

Since closing up shop, this imposing 20-storey building has transformed into a fully interactive museum that’ll put you in the boots of a turn-of-the-century miner.

The train ride through the historic haulage tunnel is the highlight. But any of the over 7000 artifacts (some brought to life by in-person demonstrations) really kick things up a notch.

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver with kids .

Visiting here also puts you on the Sea to Sky Highway, a scenic attraction in itself.

Garibaldi Provincial Park: Best of the Hiking Day Trips from Vancouver

The enormous Garibaldi Park is situated about halfway between Squamish and Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway. While it takes about an hour to reach, it’ll feel like you’re days from civilization.

The area’s rugged mountains are covered in over 150 glaciers, contrasting with the dense Douglas fir and red cedar forests. It’s simply a paradise for those seeking a quick Vancouver hiking tour.

Some must-do hikes include Garibaldi Lake Trail (18 km, about 5 hours) and Black Tusk Trail (28 km, about 10 hours). Both are packed full of full of strata volcanos, turquoise blue lakes, and viewpoints galore.

Other local highlights include nearby Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake, and Wedgemount Lake.

Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour : Best Day Trip from Vancouver BC for Beer Lovers

Indulge in Vancouver’s vibrant craft brewery culture with visits to three top-rated breweries .

This brewery tour provides sample an array of locally brewed beers while leaving the driving to someone else.

Gather downtown at the Waterfront Station for an intimate group excursion , featuring exclusive tours at each brewery and priority seating for swift access to the brews.

The meeting point is at 901 W Cordova St. which is just across from Lions Pub . Simply look for the van.

Bowen Island Dinner and Zodiac Boat Tour: Most Peaceful Day Trip from Vancouver

Experience the excitement of a 3-hour zodiac tour departing from Vancouver and heading to Bowen Island , located at the mouth of Howe Sound.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner and a refreshing drink at Doc Morgan’s , a popular spot on the island.

During the tour, you’ll also get to enjoy the thrill of a high-speed boat ride , ensuring an adventure-filled journey. Plus, we provide all the necessary ocean-ready gear for your comfort and safety.

Along the way, take in the stunning sights along the Vancouver waterfront , adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your memorable outing.

Great day Trips from Vancouver FAQs

Where can i go for a day trip near vancouver.

You can do a day trip near Vancouver to places like Whistler or Bowen Island. Here, you’ll enjoy beautiful scenery and fun outdoor activities.

Where do locals go for a weekend getaway from Vancouver?

Locals go for a weekend getaway from Vancouver to places like Whistler, the Sunshine Coast, or Vancouver Island.

These destinations offer diverse activities and scenic retreats within a short drive or ferry ride.

What are the best day trips from Vancouver?

The best day trips from Vancouver are discovering Whistler’s mountains, the charm of Victoria, or the tranquillity of Bowen Island. Each offers a unique escape, just a short journey from the city.

What are some day trips from Vancouver by car?

Day trips from Vancouver by car include Whistler, Victoria (via ferry), Squamish, the Fraser Valley wineries, and Harrison Hot Springs.

What are some day trips from Vancouver by bus?

Day trips from Vancouver by bus include Whistler, Victoria, Seattle, and local sightseeing tours.

Can you do a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver?

Yes, you can do a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver. The average drive from Vancouver to Whistler is 90 minutes, which is more than doable.

Can you do day trips from Vancouver to Seattle?

Yes, you can do day trips from Vancouver to Seattle, which is extremely common. The average drive time (not considering border waits) to Seattle from downtown Vancouver is 2.5 hours.

What is the best way to take a day trip to Victoria from Vancouver?

The best way to take a day trip to Victoria from Vancouver is via BC Ferries. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride through the picturesque Strait of Georgia, then explore Victoria’s charm, from the historic Inner Harbour to the Royal BC Museum.

Are there day trips from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?

Yes, there are day trips from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. Hop on a ferry to explore the island’s beauty, from Butchart Gardens to the charming city of Victoria, offering a perfect blend of nature and history.

Any Questions on a 1 day trip from Vancouver?

I’ve highlighted a few of my favourite places to visit from Vancouver, but perhaps you’re looking for something more tailored.

Feel free to drop your questions in the comments section below; I’m here to provide answers about exploring our stunning city or planning on a day trip from Vancouver.

Enjoy your one day trips from Vancouver! 🙂

Related posts

Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Areas to Stay

3 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

Vancouver in April: Top Events & Things to Do in 2024

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Planning a First Family Vacation
• Flight Booking Tips
• First Flight Packing and Prepping Tips
• First Flight Tips
• Tips for Dining Out with Kids
• Finding Attraction Discounts
• Family Accommodation Deals
• Family Destination Guides
• Unique Hotels of the World
• Airports and Airline Baggage Policy
• Packing List
• Babysitting Service Directory
• Baby Equipment Rental Directory
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Search for:

The 5 Best Road Trips from Vancouver

Last update: December 5th, 2023 at 07:52 am

Affiliate Disclosure: This best road trip from Vancouver post also contains additional affiliate links.  For more information, please see our  Terms of Use  and  Privacy Policy . 

5 Best Road Trips from Vancouver

Looking for some ideas for BC road trips from Vancouver? I originally wrote this post during those dark Covid days when doing short road trips from Vancouver was our only travel option. Truth be told, while we were reluctant at first (we dream of far-flung lands), we totally fell in love with our home province of British Columbia and discovered so many gorgeous places that we might have overlooked otherwise.

Whether you are a local or come from abroad, I hope you find inspiration in this guide to 5 of the best road trips from Vancouver to take this summer, and beyond. Please use the following menu to find what you need quickly.

Table of Contents

BC Road Trip Tips

Book flexible accommodation s.

Consider Logistics

Consider the logistics of getting to your desired destination. Reservations on BC Ferries , for example, are often necessary during the busy summer season. (Be sure to check for sailing availability before booking your accommodations.) Alternatively, consider visiting places that you can drive directly to without relying on a ferry.

EV Chargers

If you are planning on driving an EV on road trips from Vancouver, plan those charging stops ahead of time around BC’s network of fast charging stations (DC). Download the EV charging station app in advance.

Keep in mind the fact that A/C consumes more juice from your battery and your range will drop. (I only bank on 2/3 of the range that my EV is registering.)

Check Road Conditions

Before you set out on Vancouver road trip, check your route on the  DriveBC website  for unexpected events that could result in delays (construction etc.).

5 BC Road Trips from Vancouver

1. the sea to sky – whistler road trip.

2-5 Nights (~250 to 300km) 

Considered one of the most scenic roads in Canada, the Sea to Sky highway offers some incredible coastal mountain scenery. It is perfect if you are looking for a 2 to 3 day road trip from Vancouver (although there is lots to do if you have more time). Check out all these great stops:

The town of Squamish provides an excellent base for adventurers with a wide array of outdoor pursuits. Visitors can indulge in rock climbing, white water rafting, hiking, kayaking and more.

For those who love a great view without a lot of effort, the Sea to Sky Gondola whisks you up a mountain in minutes. At the top, you can choose from several hikes, traverse the suspension bridge, or relax on the beautiful patio.

If you would prefer a good workout, you can also hike from the bottom of the gondola to the Sea-to-Sky lookout (3-4 hours). Then for a small fee ($19), you can take the gondola back down.

After exploring the great outdoors, Squamish has an abundance of craft distilleries and locally-run restaurants to enjoy in and around town.

Where to stay: Sunwolf Riverside Cabins – Unplug for a few days by booking a secluded cabin by river. While most sleep 2-3, their gorgeous Fisherman’s Cottage can sleep up to 6. The property is pet friendly (small fee). Sunwolf also has an excellent restaurant on the property – Fergie’s Cafe .

Here is a 1 minute video of Sunwolf Squamish:

Learn more at: Explore Squamish

See also:   Tripadvisor’s Top 15 Things to do in Squamish

Drive 45 minutes further north and you will arrive in the world class resort town of Whistler. Not only do you have great hikes, mountain biking, paddle boarding, caneoing and more, you also have access to a wide array of resort shops and lovely full-service hotels. Restaurants range from tasty food carts to award-winning fine dining.

Whether you want to have a laid back afternoon by the lake, or ride one of the longest ziplines in North America – there is something for everyone.

Where to stay:   The Nita Lake Lodge  is located right beside the lake of the same name and has gorgeous west coast-styled studio to 2 bedroom suites. If you prefer something right in Whistler Village, the Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel is a big favourite among visitors.

Learn more at: Tourism Whistler

Drive just a little further north (+60km roundtrip) and you will arrive in the agriculturally rich Pemberton Valley. Go on a horseback riding adventure, get your bounty at the farmer’s market, or relax over a pint at the  The Beer Farmers brewery.

Where to stay: The  Pemberton Valley Lodge  suites hotel offers upscale amenities, an outdoor heated pool, and a hot tub with views of Mt. Currie.

Learn more at: Tourism Pemberton

For the Drive Back

To return from your Vancouver to Whistler road trip, you can backtrack along the same Sea-to-Sky Highway route. (The coastal views are actually better on the way back.) Alternatively, you can make a loop of it, carrying on from Pemberton to Lillooet, and then returning via the Fraser Canyon (which used to be the main highway into the BC interior before the Coquihalla Highway was built).

Also known as the Coast Mountain Circle Route , you can learn more about it here .

2. The Kootenays

7 Nights (~1700 to 1800km Loop)

See also this post on: A Kootenays Road Trip .

From backcountry adventures to luxury mountain lodges, The Kootenays deliver for people who love the outdoors. Located in the province’s southeast corner, this region includes 4 mountain ranges (the Rockies, Purcells, Selkirks and Monasheees), 4 National parks and 75 provincial parks.

Imagine hikes to aqua-hued lakes and majestic waterfalls, river rafting adventures, wildlife excursions and relaxing in natural hot springs at the day’s end. Here are some stops you should consider.

Note: This itinerary is great if you are looking for a 7 day road trip from Vancouver as there is a lot to see and do!

Within easy reach of Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Park, Revelstoke is the perfect place for mountain biking, dirt biking, and hiking, as well as white water rafting and stand up paddle boarding. This charming town, steeped in Canadian railway history, also has some excellent coffee houses, restaurants, brew pubs and distilleries.

Where to stay:

Basecamp Revelstoke is a boutique hotel situated just a short walk from Downtown Revelstoke, overlooking the Colombia River and only a 15 minute shuttle ride to the world-famous Revelstoke Mountain Resort. If Basecamp is fully booked (it usually is), The Coast Hillcrest  on the outskirts of town is a nice (and well-priced) option.

Learn more at: See Revelstoke

This little mountain town is a wonderful base from which to explore both Yoho National Park and Glacier National Park. Both have incredible hikes for all levels, ranging from less than an hour to several days for the more advanced.

Just a 15 minute drive outside of town is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, where you will find some fantastic adrenaline-inducing activities such as mountain biking and a very exciting Via Ferrata . Italian for “iron road”, a Via Ferrata is a protected climbing route with a steel cable running along the route that is fixed to the rock.

No visit to Kicking Horse is complete without stopping in to catch a peek of Boo the orphaned grizzly in his 20 acre habitat (daily tours available). Animal lovers might also enjoy visiting the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre  and Rocky Mountain Buffalo Ranch just outside of town (they are located very close to each other).

Recently, a brand new adventure park opened up in Golden. The Golden Skybridge offers two of Canada’s highest suspension bridges, an exhilarating zip line over a canyon, a Mountain Coaster, a treetop obstacle course, axe-throwing and much more. When my husband and I visited, we spent twice as long as we expected to because we were having so much fun!

Where to stay: Tucked into 12 acres of woodlands, the Moberly Lodge has cozy rooms and 2 self catering log cabins. If you would prefer to be in town, Golden has a really nice little hotel (new) called Rooms at Riveredge . For a real splurge, check out the Cathedral Mountain Lodge in nearby Field, BC.

Learn more at: Tourism Golden

See also: Our guide to the Best Things to do in Golden, B.C.

Hot Springs

Within the Kootenay region there are numerous places to enjoy naturally spring-fed hot pools. Several of the most popular are Radium and Fairmont near Kootenay National Park, and Ainsworth, just outside of Nelson. All of them offer towel rentals, and in a pinch, some of them even rent swimsuits.

See the full list of Kootenay hot springs.

Nelson 

The youthful, laid-back lifestyle of Nelson has long attracted artists, musicians and craftspeople looking to escape bigger cities. It’s also a very picturesque town, with over 350 beautifully preserved Victorian era buildings.

Nelson is equally attractive outside of town, with easy access to several provincial and national parks, as well as the water sports of Kootenay Lake.

Where to stay: The centrally-located Hume Hotel has beautiful modern-heritage rooms, a full service spa, a restaurant and a live music venue.

Learn more:  Kootenay Rockies Tourism

3. The Okanagan

3-7 Nights (~900 to 1000 km)

One of the most popular BC road trips from Vancouver is to explore the Okanagan Valley. This region gets exceptional summer weather and is famous for its fruit orchards, lake life and abundance of wineries.

The Okanagan corridor runs along Highway 97 from the ranch country of Vernon in the north, through Lake Country and the lively city of Kelowna, on to the fruit-filled orchards of Peachland and Penticton, and ends up in the wine country of Oliver and Osoyoos.

As you meander along the route, you are never far from the water with Kalamalka, Okanagan, Skaha, and Osoyoos lakes all along the way (plus a bunch of smaller ones). Whether you want to go boating, jet skiing, paddle boarding, or just want to kick back on a sandy beach, there is always a lake nearby.

Cyclists will enjoy riding along the Kettle Valley Trail,  which offer 650 km of pathways along a decommissioned rail line. The trail can be enjoyed as a day trip, or as a multi-day adventure, depending on rider ability.

For a different kind of ride, kids and rail buffs alike will love hopping on the 100 year old Kettle Valley Steam Train. The Spirit of Summerland takes guests on a scenic 90 minute ride through the Okanagan Valley.

Okanagan Wine Country

From Kelowna, down through the Naramata Bench, Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos, you are in BC’s best wine country with hundreds of wineries to choose from. Whether you are looking to pop by a small family run operation or a swanky world-class winery and tasting room, you will find something to entice your palate.

If you are interested in finding out about special events hosted by the wineries (including long table dinners), see  thewinefestivals.com .

See also: 12 New(ish) Wineries to Visit in the Okanagan (The Vancouver Sun) as well as these family friendly Okanagan wineries .

And of course, one can’t mention Osoyoos without bringing up the mysterious Spotted Lake. Kliluk, as it is known to the First Nations People of Osoyoos, is a mineral rich lake, full of calcium, sodium sulphates and magnesium sulphate. In the summer months, much of the water evaporates, leaving the unusual colours and rings of minerals.

Where to stay: Throughout the Okanagan Valley, there are some lovely places to stay. Some top picks include Sparkling Hill Wellness Spa in Vernon (adults only), and in Osoyoos, The Watermark Beachfront Resort and Spirit Ridge (nice for both couples and families).

Learn more:  Okanagan Valley from Hello BC .

Want to see a bit more? Check out this video of the Okanagan Corridor . It makes me want to hit the road right now!

4. Vancouver Island

4-7 Nights (~400 to 700km)

Note: For ferry options to get to Vancouver Island, please see the BC Ferries website. It is possible to take two different ferry routes (ex. arrive via Swartz Bay and return via Nanaimo) so that you do not need to retrace your whole drive on the return trip.

Begin your Vancouver Island adventure in the harbourfront city of Victoria. While many people visit for its quaint British charm (think classic pubs, afternoon tea service and carriage rides), the city has much more to offer than that.

Victoria is a great city for a stroll with Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown (Canada’s oldest!), Fisherman’s Wharf and the parliament buildings all close to the city center. The Royal B.C. Museum is a must-visit attraction with its exceptional west coast galleries. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful city views by taking a ride on the Victoria Harbour Ferry water taxi service.

Where to stay: For couples, the award-winning Magnolia Hotel and Spa is boutique hotel gem. For families looking for a special stay (and a pool), you can’t beat the Fairmont Empress Hotel .

Learn more at: Tourism Victoria

Cowichan Valley and Parksville Qualicum Beach

From Victoria, head north into the Cowichan Valley, a region well known for its agritourism. Think artisanal cheese, organic coffee roasters, award-winning cideries and distilleries.

When you have had your fill of food and drink, continue north to the seaside villages of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. With water warmed from low summer tides, this is the perfect spot for an evening stroll, beach combing and paddle boarding.

Where to stay: The  Bellstar Beach Club Resort   in Parksville offers spacious suites with beautiful ocean views.

Learn more at: Tourism Cowichan and Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism

Ucluelet and Tofino

Experience the best of the wild west coast by visiting the neighbouring communities of Ucluelet and Tofino. Hike through ancient forests, enjoy miles of sandy beaches, embark on a wildlife excursion (whales and bears!), take a surf lesson or two, and do some stellar stargazing.

Where to stay: Tofino has a great selection hotels. Two beachfront standouts are The Pacific Sands Resort and The Ocean Village Resort .

For longer stays, a vacation rental , preferably near one of the west coast beaches (Chesterman, Mackenzie, Cox Bay) may make for a more economical choice.

Learn more at: Discover Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino

See also: The 12 Best Things to do in Ucluelet

5. The Sunshine Coast

2-5 Nights (~200 to 360km)

Enjoy some of BC’s most beautiful scenery and marine life along this 180km stretch of coastline. This lovely region can be reached by a short ferry ride out of West Vancouver.

Tip: During busy summer months, book reservations ahead of time with BC Ferries .

Once you reach the Sunshine Coast, take your time working your way north while enjoying the gorgeous coastal views. Leave plenty of time to stroll around villages and marinas along the route. Even better? Time your visit to coincide with one of the many farmer’s markets .

From hiking the  Sunshine Coast Trail , to watching the tidal rapids of the  Skookumchuck Narrows  (“The Skook”) – there is plenty to see and do. Hone your mountain bike skills at  Sprockids Mountain Bike Park , or enjoy kayaking, biking, boating, diving, marine tours and more.

If you have the time, take a day trip via water taxi to Savary Island. This special spot is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia (and the warmest ocean water).

The Return Trip

Although most people head back the way they came, if you have more time, you may choose to do the full coastal route which takes your across the Straight of Georgia and back down Vancouver Island.

For inspiration, check out this little video of the Coast Circle Route .

Where to stay: The Painted Rock Resort & Spa – Madeira Park is a beautiful property located on the shores of Pender Harbour. It offers a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa, an on-site restaurant and guest accommodation with fully equipped kitchens.

Learn more:   Tourism Sunshine Coast

See also: Tripadvisor’s Top Things to do on the Sunshine Coast

More Travel Guides

• BC Kootenays Road Trip Guide
• Top Things to do in Golden, B.C.
• Bear Watching in Bella Coola, BC
• Assiniboine Lodge, BC – Hike In/Fly Out
• Purcell Mountain Lodge, BC – Alpine Hiking
• Vancouver to Banff Road Trip (Winter)
• Whistler with Kids Guide 
• Victoria with Kids Guide
• Tofino with Kids Guide

Recent Posts

16 Best Things to do in San Sebastian with Kids (2024 Guide)

A guide to visiting the seaside town of San Sebastian, Spain with kids. Read More

Renting a 4×4 in Iceland (2024 Guide!)

Everything you need to know about renting a 4x4 in Iceland. Read More

How to Find a NYC Family Photographer

Everything you need to know about booking a NYC family photographer! Read More

SilverStar Mountain Resort – Ski Guide

A family-friendly guide to SilverStar Mountain in Vernon, B.C. Read More

20 Best Family Friendly Paris Hotels (2024 Guide)

Discover the best hotels for families in Paris. Read More

The 8 Best Family Hotels in Reykjavik (2024)

Discover the top 8 family hotels in Reykjavik, Iceland. Read More

20 Things to do in Reykjavik with Kids (2024 Guide)

A family-friendly guide to Reykjavik, Iceland. Read More

Red Mountain Ski Resort, Rossland B.C. – The Guide

Discover the magic of Red Mountain Ski Resort in Rossland, B.C. Read More

6 Responses

Na7 whatsapp.

Love this list of road trips from Vancouver! Can’t wait to try out the Sunshine Coast route this summer. The scenery looks absolutely stunning. Thanks for sharing!

College Brawl

Love this post! I’ve been wanting to take a road trip from Vancouver for a while now, and the itinerary you provided looks like it would be an amazing adventure. Definitely saving this for my next summer trip planning 🚐🏞️

Love this list! Can’t wait to hit the road this summer and explore some of these beautiful destinations. Vancouver is such a lovely city, but it’s great to see some of the hidden gems nearby that are worth visiting. Thanks for sharing!

Road Tripper

Going from Vancouver to Halifax is my favorite road trip, do it every three years or so. If you follow the Trans Canada Highway you get to stop along every major Canadian city.

I love road trips! I’m so excited to try out some of these great Vancouver BC road trips this summer.

If they are contacted at the right time for the right purpose, then it can reap a lot of benefits. Honestly, there are so many of them. Again and again, I will be reading this blog to get the tips in a good way. They seem to be pretty valuable.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Select your country preferences

10 Day Road Trip From Vancouver

Ready to embark on an adventure-filled 10-day road trip from Vancouver? This meticulously planned itinerary takes you through some of the most beautiful and iconic destinations in Western Canada. Witness orcas in the wild, hike some of British Columbia’s best trails, and enjoy lakeside dining with a glass of award-winning wine. Book your RV rental in Vancouver and embark on a fun and activity-rich road trip in Canada that won’t have you spending hours behind the wheel every day!

• Packing Tips
• Driving & Camping Information
• Useful Apps

Day 1: Start Your Trip Exploring Vancouver

Start your journey by exploring the urban-meets-wilderness city of Vancouver. Visit the bustling Granville Island Public Market for local delicacies, take a leisurely stroll in Stanley Park, and don’t miss the panoramic view of the city from the top of Vancouver Lookout observation deck. This day in Vancouver guarantees an unforgettable start to your road trip, beginning with an RV rental in Vancouver for a convenient and comfortable adventure.

Campground recommendation : Burnaby Cariboo RV Park (located 25 minutes from downtown Vancouver)

Day 2: Check Out Victoria (British Columbia's Capital)

Take a ferry to Vancouver Island to the heart of Victoria and soak up the city’s historic charm. Visit the majestic Parliament Buildings, wander through the enchanting Butchart Gardens, and delve into Canadian history at the Royal BC Museum. This day in Victoria promises an unforgettable experience during your 10-day road trip from Vancouver.

Campground recommendation : Fort Victoria RV Park (located 10 minutes from downtown Victoria)

Day 3: Explore The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

This rugged national park on the west coast of Vancouver Island boasts incredible beaches, lush rainforests, and breathtaking vistas. Spend your day hiking through the famous West Coast Trail or take a scenic drive along the Pacific Rim Highway to soak in this stunning natural beauty. You can also try your hand at riding waves in Tofino – the surfing capital of Canada. A camper van rental in Vancouver sets the perfect stage for exploring these natural wonders during your 10-day road trip from Vancouver.

Campground recommendation : Bella Pacifica Campground (located 10 minutes from Tofino)

Day 4: Watch Orcas in the Wild at Campbell River

Campbell River, known as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World,’ is also a prime spot for whale watching. Book a tour and watch orcas in their natural habitat or visit the Elk Falls Provincial Park and don your hiking boots for a stroll through majestic old-growth forests.

Campground recommendation : Thunderbird RV Park & Resort (located 2 mins from downtown Campbell River)

Day 5: Visit Raging Waterfalls in Squamish

Hear the roar and feel the spray of the awe-inspiring Shannon Falls, the third-highest waterfall in British Columbia. Take a short hike to explore the beautiful Brandywine Falls Provincial Park and spend some time in Squamish, where you can enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like zip-lining, rock climbing, or white-water rafting.

Campground recommendation : Klahanie Campground (located 5 minutes from Squamish)

Day 6: Discover Off-The-Beaten Path Activities in Whistler

Long regarded as one of the best ski resorts in North America, Whistler has much more to offer than just skiing. Take a gondola ride up the mountain for stunning views of the surrounding landscape, go on a thrilling mountain bike ride, or simply relax and enjoy the charming alpine village atmosphere. When planning your 10-day road trip from Vancouver, consider the convenience of an RV rental in Vancouver for an immersive experience in Whistler’s diverse activities.

Campground recommendation : Riverside Resort Whistler (located 5 minutes from Whistler Village)

Day 7: Escape the Crowds in the Kamloops

The Kamloops region is full of hidden gems waiting to be explored. Spend the day waltzing through lush forests, fishing in crystal-clear creeks, or taking a scenic drive along Kamloops Lake. For anyone embarking on a 10-day road trip from Vancouver, this tranquil slice of paradise, ideal for activities like fishing and hiking, is a must-visit.

Campground recommendation : Kamloops RV Park (located 15 minutes from downtown Kamloops)

Day 8: Sample Award-Winning Wines in Kelowna

As your trip comes to a close, why not reflect on your adventures so far with a glass of award-winning wine in hand? Kelowna, located in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, is home to some of Canada’s best wineries. Take a tour, sample different wines and enjoy a delicious meal overlooking the beautiful Okanagan Lake.

Campground recommendation : Holiday Park Resort (located 15 minutes from downtown Kelowna)

Day 9: Wind Down at Harrison Hot Springs

Relax and unwind in the natural hot springs at Harrison Hot Springs. This charming village is nestled amongst breathtaking mountain views and offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and kayaking. After all that driving, we recommend simply soaking in the mineral-rich waters and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Next stop? Vancouver!

Campground recommendation : Springs RV resort (located 5 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs)

Day 10: Head Back to Vancouver For Your Last Day

Finally, it’s time to head back to Vancouver for the last day of your road trip in Canada. Enjoy an easy drive into the city and savor the picturesque scenery one last time. Finish up with a meal in the historic Gastown district before taking one final walk along the water front. Congrats! You’ve just completed an incredible 10 day road trip from Vancouver!

Packing Guide For Tour 10 Day Road Trip From Vancouver

What you pack for your camper van rental from Vancouver will really depend on the season (learn more about the best time to visit Vancouver and surrounding area). However, the following items are recommended no matter when you go:

• Comfortable walking and hiking shoes
• A waterproof jacket
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Layered clothing for varying weather conditions
• Swimsuit (you never know when you’ll stumble upon a beautiful lake)
• Waterproof backpack or daypack for outdoor activities
• Insect repellent for hikes and camping
• Water bottle
• Seasickness tablets (for ferry rides and whale-watching tours… just in case!)

Traffic and Camping Rules To Be Aware of During Your Road Trip in Canada

While on your 10 day road trip from Vancouver, it’s important to follow local traffic and camping norms:

• Always wear your seatbelt and follow posted speed limits.
• Canadians respect stop signs, and you may encounter four-way stops where drivers take turns to advance.
• Keep in mind that traffic comes to a complete stop when an emergency vehicle is passing.

As for campgrounds:

• Be sure to research and book campgrounds in advance as they can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
• Always adhere to campground rules and regulations, including proper disposal of waste and respecting quiet hours for fellow camper vans and motorhomes.
• When it comes to wild life, always maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed wild animals.
• Finally, always practise Leave No Trace principles and leave the natural areas you visit as pristine as when you arrived.

Useful Apps & Insider Tips For Your 10-Day Road Trip From Vancouver

Worried about how much you’ll spend on gas during your 10-day road trip from Vancouver?

• Download the GasBuddy app to find the cheapest gas prices along your route and save your Canadian loonies and toonies ($1 and $2 coins) for other activities.

And there you have it – your comprehensive guide to an unforgettable 10-day road trip from Vancouver! With this itinerary, you’re set to explore all the scenic beauty, captivating towns, and outstanding outdoor activities that British Columbia has to offer. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure!

More Road Trip Tips

• New Article
• Camping for beginners

Campgrounds in Europe

7 Day Road Trip Calgary to Vancouver

5-Day Southern California Road Trip

Camper Van & RV Road Trip

7-Day One-Way Mighty 5 Road Trip

4-Day One-Way West Coast Road Trip

Things to do in California with Kids

Packing Guide for Camping

Start your Vancouver adventure!

Hello, how can we help you?

• I want to change my booking
• I need information about the vehicles and/or equipment
• I need help operating my camper van or RV

Help & Support

Kontaktformular

Mo-Fr von 9:00 bis 18:00 Uhr: +49 (0)89 2154 1673

Language & Currency

Change language

Change Currency

17 AMAZING WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM VANCOUVER, BC

by Wild About BC | Vancouver

Living in Vancouver is amazing, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t love planning some weekend getaways from Vancouver. While city life is a lot of fun, it is still nice to plan weekend getaways in BC and discover all of the cool places to visit near Vancouver.

Whether you are just planning weekend trips from Vancouver, or you have a few extra days to plan longer Vancouver getaways, our guide will list all of the best getaways in BC that can be easily accessed from the city. All of the places we suggest for a Vancouver weekend trip can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you want a beach retreat in the summer or a ski holiday in the winter, our list of short trips from Vancouver will have you covered.

While we enjoy a lot of adventure on our getaways near Vancouver (think hiking, camping, snowboarding, and snowshoeing), we are confident you can enjoy each of these trips from Vancouver at a much more relaxed pace, if you prefer. There are also plenty of places to go near Vancouver that are perfect for spa retreats, great food, wildlife watching, storm watching, and an altogether much more relaxed time.

Choosing the best weekend trips from Vancouver is such a fun activity and we are spoiled with an abundance of fantastic choices. Having grown up in British Columbia, we have been on countless Vancouver weekend getaways and are always adding more to our list. Below are all of our favourite quick getaways from Vancouver!

Disclaimer – This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we receive a small commission if you make a purchase at NO extra cost to you. This will never impact our reviews and we only recommend products and services we firmly believe in. Thanks for your support!

Jump ahead to:

The Best Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

1. Whistler – 1.5 Hours

Let’s jump straight into one of the most popular places to spend a couple of nights, which is Whistler . As it is only 1.5 hours drive from downtown Vancouver this is one of our favourite short trips from Vancouver and it is one of the best year-round destinations.

For obvious reasons, it is one of our favourite winter getaways from Vancouver. It is the largest ski resort in North America so you can enjoy world-class skiing and there is a huge area of terrain to explore. In the summer months, you can explore the endless hikes in and around Whistler or get the adrenaline pumping with some mountain biking.

Whistler’s Scandinave Spa is a fantastic retreat if you want to enjoy one of the more romantic getaways from Vancouver and there are so many amazing restaurants to choose from in the evenings. Even the shoulder season is an awesome time to visit as prices tend to be much lower, but you can still get out and explore the surrounding area.

Top Activity in Whistler

Asides from the obvious skiing and hiking, one of the best things to do in Whistler is to zipline through the untouched wilderness. Get an aerial view of the forest and flowing rapids as you fly through the trees and get your adrenaline pumping.

>>Book your Whistler Zipline here

Where to Stay in Whistler

The Crystal Lodge – Stay in the heart of Whistler Village, only a few steps away from the lifts that will take you up either Whistler or Blackcomb mountains. Location is so important when staying in Whistler and it doesn’t get much better than this. We also think the value is excellent for a room here compared to many other accommodations in Whistler.

>>See prices and availability for The Crystal Lodge

2. Tofino – 5.5 Hours

Whistler may be the most popular for vacations from Vancouver but our personal favourite has to be Tofino . This little surf town is tucked away on the west coast of Vancouver Island and is unlike anywhere else. There are countless beaches, many of which you can surf at, spectacular coastlines, numerous adventure tours, lots of wildlife, and some of the best food we have ever eaten.

In fact, we love Tofino so much that we have written a completely separate guide of things to do in Tofino . If you plan on visiting Tofino, our favourite of the Vancouver Island getaways, then you should check it out to help plan your trip.

Tofino is also the best of the beach vacations from Vancouver as there are so many beautiful beaches to choose from. Our personal favourites are Tonquin Beach and Mackenzie Beach and you should definitely check out Cox Bay if you want to surf or explore the Cox Bay lookout hike for unparalleled views over Tofino.

You’ll enjoy beautiful scenery, amazing food and cocktails, shop at the cute boutique shops, catch some waves in the Pacific Ocean, explore the many trails, and keep your eyes peeled for all of the wildlife. Check out our guide on how to get to Tofino from Vancouver as there are several different options.

Top Activity in Tofino

Surfing! Dip your toes in the Pacific and enjoy a couple of hours catching waves surrounded by the natural beauty of the west coast.

>>Book your surf lesson here

Where to Stay in Tofino

Tofino Resort and Marina – Stay on the edge of Tofino town centre so you can walk to all of the great restaurants and shopping that Tofino has to offer. Tofino Resort and Marina also has incredible views of the Tofino waterways, and the onsite pub, the Hatch, has the best patio in Tofino for sunset drinks.

>>See prices and availability for Tofino Resort and Marina

3. Gibsons and Sechelt, The Sunshine Coast – 2 Hours

A short ferry ride across Howe Sound from Horseshoe Bay will take you to the Sunshine Coast. This is still part of the mainland but is only accessible from Vancouver by ferry or by taking a short flight for the weekend. The towns of Gibsons and Sechelt are very quaint and they have lots of good restaurants, shopping and beautiful scenery making it an ideal choice for our list of quick trips from Vancouver.

One of our favourite things to do in this part of the Sunshine Coast is to try out the different breweries and cider houses, and there are plenty to choose from. Our favourite brewery is Persephone Brewing Company in Gibsons but you should also check out Tapworks, The 101 Brewhouse, and Batch 44. For those with a sweeter tooth try the Bricker Cider Company and Sunday Cider.

There are also several beaches, hikes, and walks to enjoy. The S kookumchuck Narrows is a really cool natural phenomenon that is worth visiting . As the tide rushes through the narrows it creates whirlpools and even large waves. The waves are often ridden by kayakers and it is a wicked experience to sit on the rocks and watch them riding this unique wave just a few metres away.

Top Activity in Gibsons and Sechelt

Explore the beautiful coastline from the water on a kayak tour. Departing from Gibsons, you will get the chance to spot coastal wildlife, witness the stunning landscapes and get out on the water.

>>Book your kayak tour here

Where to Stay in Gibsons and Sechelt

Davis Bay Bed & Breakfast – Stay in the Sechelt area and enjoy breathtaking views over the water and the mountains. This is a great location to explore the rest of the island and you can do so with a full belly after enjoying a full English or Irish breakfast.

>>See prices and availability for Davis Bay Bed & Breakfast

4. Cultus Lake – 1 Hour 20 Minutes

If you are searching for short getaways from Vancouver or even just overnight trips from Vancouver, then Cultus Lake is an excellent choice. It is less than 1.5 hours drive from downtown Vancouver and when you arrive you get to enjoy the beautiful lake and surrounding mountains.

What’s really great about Cultus Lake is that most of the accommodation is a stone’s throw from the lake itself. This means you’ll probably get great views over the lake and it will only be a few seconds from your door to reach the edge of the lake for a swim. The accommodation is also very reasonably priced, making this one of the better cheap weekend getaways from Vancouver.

You’ll also find a small waterpark here that is open in the summer months which is a lot of fun for both the kids and the grown-ups. There is an excellent trail that circles the entire lake which is best tackled on a bike. You can easily spend a whole weekend here but this is one of our top choices for a one-night getaway from Vancouver.

Top Activity in Cultus Lake

Take a swim in the lake and bask in the sun on the beach.

Where to Stay in Cultus Lake

Cultus Lakehaus – We recently rented this house on Cultus Lake with some friends and it was perfect. The house is beautiful, has a rooftop patio, and a front patio that is covered with heaters.

5. Victoria – 3 Hours

The capital city of British Columbia is a really great place to spend the weekend exploring and another one of the epic getaways on Vancouver Island. We lived here for a while and loved the city centre which is situated around the inner harbour.

There are few cities that can boast such a spectacular setting right in the heart of downtown. The waterways here are buzzing with activity and you’ll be able to see water taxies, seaplanes, and boats constantly moving through the water.

There are plenty of fun things to do here ( read our full guide on things to do in Victoria here ), starting with exploring the city’s Inner Harbour and Fisherman’s Wharf. Walk along the water and soak in the fantastic views and make your way to the floating village of Fisherman’s Wharf where you may spot some friendly seals who seem to spend their day swimming underneath the wooden walkways.

You can also search for Fan Tan Alley, Canada’s narrowest street, visit the Butchart Gardens, go whale watching, look for the best brunch in Victoria , visit all of the craft breweries, hang out at the beach, and so much more. There will be no shortage of things for you to do here and you can easily extend this trip to be a long weekend. This is also one of our favourite romantic getaways near Vancouver and is one of the best getaways in BC for couples.

Top Activity in Victoria

Enjoy a half-day whale watching tour spotting orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales in one of the most spectacular settings anywhere in the world.

>>Book your whale watching tour here

Where to Stay in Victoria

Helm’s Inn –  Situated right on the corner of Beacon Hill Park and just minutes away from the inner harbour, this is an amazing location. The rooms are fantastic and select rooms also come with a kitchenette so you can cook your own meals.

>>See prices and availability for Helm’s Inn here

6. Squamish – 1 Hour

If you are after a weekend full of adventure then make the short trip up the road to Squamish. Whether you want to hike, mountain bike, kiteboard, or ride your dirt bike, this is the place to go. Squamish has endless hiking trails and some of our favourites are the Chief, Crooked Falls , Cheakamus Canyon , Slhanay trail , and Murrin Loop .

This is also an excellent choice for weekend trips from Vancouver in the winter. There are lots of good snowshoe trails and lots of world-class backcountry skiing to be enjoyed in the surrounding mountains. You’re also just a short drive to Whistler if you want to ski there but avoid the crowds and the high prices for accommodation.

Top Activity in Squamish

Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola – If you don’t fancy having to hike for hours to enjoy incredible views then take the Sea to Sky Gondola up the mountain instead. You’ll get jaw-dropping views over Howe Sound and there is a cool suspension bridge at the top too.

>>Book your Sea to Sky Gondola Tickets here

Where to Stay in Squamish

Howe Sound Inn & Brewing Company –  Is there any better place to stay than at a craft brewery? The Inn is in a fantastic location and has awesome rustic rooms. You can also hang out in the sauna or grab a massage after a full day of hiking.

>>See prices and availability for Howe Sound Inn here

7. Bowen Island – 1 Hour

Bowen Island is such a quaint and pretty part of BC and even though it is only an hour from downtown Vancouver it feels like you are a million miles away. You can enjoy a much more laid-back and relaxed pace of life as you explore this wonderful island in Howe Sound.

Once you are on the island you can hike, cycle, and walk around or you can enjoy some great food and explore the boutique shops in Snug Cove. One of our favourite things to do on Bowen Island is to hike Mt Gardner . It is a challenging enough hike as you start right at sea level but the views from the top are worth all of the effort.

Top Activity on Bowen Island

Bowen Island Dinner and Zodiac Tour – Take in the sights of Vancouver and Bowen Island as you rush by them on a zodiac that will take you to Bowen Island. Once there enjoy a delicious dinner at Doc Morgan’s.

>>Book your Zodiac tour here

Where to Stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites on Bowen – Stay within walking distance of Snug Cove and enjoy easy access to the rest of the Island as well. You’ll also enjoy the beautiful views and tasty food from the cafe downstairs.

>>See prices and availability for Artisan Suites here

8. Pemberton – 2 Hours 10 Minutes

A short drive north of Whistler is the town of Pemberton, which is a small town surrounded by epic mountains. Like Whistler, this is a great place to come for some outdoor adventures in the mountains and it can be enjoyed year-round. The incredible backcountry skiing and backcountry lodges located nearby make this one of the best weekend getaways from Vancouver in winter.

While not in Pemberton itself, one of the highlights of any trip to this part of British Columbia is a visit to Joffre Lakes . This set of three glacial blue lakes is absolutely breathtaking and it isn’t too difficult of a hike. If you want to avoid the crowds at Joffre then head a few minutes up the road to Rohr Lake , another alpine lake that is a sensational blue colour.

There are also some hot springs that can be visited from Pemberton, although they are a bit of a journey to get to. This is an excellent place to spend the weekend, especially for adventure lovers.

Top Activity in Pemberton

Horseback Ride in Pemberton – Explore the Pemberton Valley on horseback and take in all of the beautiful surroundings with your expert guide.

>>Book your horseback ride here

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge – Relax in the outdoor pool and hot tub or enjoy the mountain views while sitting by the fireplace in your room.

>>See prices and availability for Pemberton Valley Lodge here

9. Kelowna and Big White – 4 Hours

Explore slightly further afield and head into the interior to visit Kelowna. The city is located in the Okanagan which is renowned for producing some of the best wines in Canada. The wineries are scattered throughout the region and trying all of the local wineries is a brilliant way to spend a weekend.

Kelowna is perched on the shores of Okanagan Lake and you can enjoy swimming in the lake, or take your boat with you and spend some time out on the water. With the hot summers the Okanagan experiences every year, a dip in the lake is a great way to cool down.

Kelowna is also situated near Big White Ski Resort which is home to some of the best snow anywhere in the world. We were fortunate enough to do a winter season here and we can confirm that the champagne powder that they advertize lives up to its name. With excellent snow and little to no lift lines, this is a great alternative to the likes of Whistler when you are considering winter getaways near Vancouver.

Top Activity in Kelowna

Wine Tour – It’s one of the main reasons people love to visit the Okanagan and it should be top of your list of things to do. Plus, you can take plenty of wine home with you to enjoy for the rest of the year.

>>Book your Kelowna wine tour here

Where to Stay in Kelowna

Delta Hotels by Marriott Grand Okanagan Resort – Stay in the heart of downtown and just a few steps from the beach in this beautiful resort. Take your choice of swimming in the lake or the swimming pool.

>>See prices and availability for the Grand Okanagan Resort here

10. Pender Island – 3 Hours

While we recommend visiting as many of the Gulf Islands as possible, we wanted to pick out a couple that we favour above the others. Pender Island is an awesome island getaway and a couple of days here is plenty of time to explore.

One of the best things to do here is to play disc golf in Golf Island Disc Park in North Pender Island. There are several routes you can follow through the forest and it is a really fun course to play on for beginners and experts alike.

Mount Norman is a relatively short hike with incredible views from the top over the surrounding islands. There is a really cool wooden viewing platform at the top which is a great place to watch the sunset. You can also check out Twin Island Cidery and Sea Star Vineyards. Twin Island Cidery is particularly cool as they have a tiny tasting room where you can try their delicious ciders before you buy (we are huge fans of their Forage Fine Perry pear cider).

Top Activity on Pender Island

Disc Golf – It’s fun and free, plus if you don’t have your own discs there are some available at the information board for you to borrow.

Where to Stay on Pender Island

Woods on Pender – Make this one of the more romantic getaways in BC by staying at the Woods on Pender . You can stay in airstreams or a small cabin and each unit has its own private hot tub making this an ideal couples getaway from Vancouver.

>> Check out our full blog post on the Best Things to Do On Pender Island .

11. Salt Spring Island – 2.5 Hours

Another of the Gulf Islands that you should definitely consider visiting is Salt Spring Island. This offers a similar experience to Pender Island but is also unique in its own way. Kick-off your weekend by sampling wines from local wineries , Garry Oaks Winery and Salt Spring Vineyards, which are all made with locally produced grapes.

Then head over to Salt Spring Wild Cider House to taste their delicious range of ciders. Chances are you have tried some of it before as it is widely available across BC. But there’s nothing like a flight of ciders from where it is actually made and the tasting room is situated on a hillside with beautiful views over the surrounding countryside.

Ruckle Provincial Park is a great spot for easy to moderate hikes and many of the trails are right along the impressive shoreline. Keep an eye out for any whales swimming close by and look up to try and spot eagles which are commonly spotted here.

There are quite a few cute cabins tucked away in the woods so this is a great spot if you are looking for cabin getaways from Vancouver.

Top Activity on Salt Spring Island

Visit Salt Spring Wild Ciders – Ice cold drinks with a view, do we need to say any more?

Where to Stay on Salt Spring Island

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island – Stay in these cute cabins on the edge of Bullocks Lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while still having easy access to the rest of the island.

>>See prices and availability for the Cottages here

12. Powell River, the Sunshine Coast – 4.5 Hours

Head further north on the Sunshine Coast and you will find the town of Powell River. This is a long journey and we would recommend taking an extra day or two to make this a long weekend unless you choose to fly up here. But once you arrive you will find plenty of cool things to do in Powell River .

The main reason that we visited Powell River was to check out the Tin Hat Hut , one of the huts along the Sunshine Coast Trail. The hike up here is moderate, even with a backpack, but it is 100% worth it. This is one of our favourite hikes in BC as the wooden hut perched on the rocks, overlooking the lakes, forest, and the ocean is phenomenal.

This hike can be done as a day trip, a quick overnight trip or as a multi-day trip to explore more of the trail. The Sunshine Coast Trail is a 180-kilometre backcountry trail so there is plenty to explore here.

We also highly recommend visiting Savary Island when you are up this direction as it is quite close by. It is home to a unique community, connected by one main gravel road. You’ll find lots of cool cabins, forest trails, and beautiful beaches on Savary Island and you may be lucky enough to spot some whales on the ferry ride over like we did.

In Powell River itself, you can head to Townsite Brewing Inc, check out the Hulks, visit Inland Lake Provincial Park, or hang out at Willingdon Beach.

Top Activity in Powell River

Hike to Tin Hat Hut – Take your overnight gear up and spend a night in the Tin Hat Hut. The sunsets up here are ridiculous and you won’t regret spending a night up here. Keep an eye out for black bears on your drive in and out from the trailhead.

Where to Stay in Powell River

Beach Gardens Resort Powell River  – There aren’t too many options to choose from in terms of hotels in Powell River, but the Beach Gardens Resort and Marina is probably the best choice. It is in a great location, just a short drive from the town centre and it is right on the water so you’ll get nice views out over the water. Like most accommodation in Powell River, it is also very reasonably priced so it is a good option for cheap getaways from Vancouver, BC.

>>See prices and availability for Beach Gardens Resort here

13. Seattle – 2 Hours 45 Minutes

Head south of the border into the United States and spend a weekend in the funky city of Seattle. Sitting right on the edge of the water and with mountains in the background, Seattle is a pretty city to visit and not unlike Vancouver in this regard. But it is the culture that seems to attract people to visit Seattle.

There is a vibrant food, arts, and music scene here, and city explorers will love wandering around this quirky city with so many hidden gems. You can visit the original Starbucks location, shop around at Pike Place Market and watch fishmongers toss the fish to each other, visit the Space Needle, or catch a baseball or football game.

Many Vancouverites love a visit to Seattle when the Toronto Blue Jays are playing the Seattle Mariners. It is much easier to watch Canada’s only Major League Baseball team by making the short trip to Seattle, rather than flying over to Toronto.

Wandering around the city is so interesting and you’ll stumble across some cool places like the Fremont Troll and the Post Alley gum wall. This is a great trip for those that want more of a city escape and even though it is across the border it is an easy drive or a short flight.

Top Activity in Seattle

Pike Place Market Food Tour – Explore this iconic public market on a walking/food tour. Learn all about the history of this market while sampling some delicious food along the way.

>>Book your Pike Place Market Food Tour here

Where to Stay in Seattle

Hotel Theodore – When you come to Seattle you want to stay in the heart of Seattle so you have easy access to all of the cool sites. Hotel Theodore puts you right in amongst the action and you will be a few minutes’ walk from most of the top attractions, including Pike Place Market.

>>Click here to see prices and availability for Hotel Theodore

14. Parksville and Qualicum Beach – 3 Hours 10 Minutes

Having grown up in Qualicum Beach, I love sharing my love for this small town. The Parksville and Qualicum Beach area is another beautiful part of Vancouver Island. If you are after somewhere with a bit more to do on your doorstep then I would recommend heading to Parksville, the busier big-brother to Qualicum’s sleepy style.

Parksville is much larger and has lots of shops, restaurants, and other fun things to do. Parksville Beach is an awesome spot to spend the day soaking up some sun and swimming in the water to keep cool. This side of the Island has calm and relatively warm water compared to the west side of the Island. You can also explore Rathtrevor Provincial Park and explore some of the cool trails or hang out at the beach here.

Qualicum Beach is a much smaller town and is ideal if you are looking for a more peaceful getaway. The beach here is beautiful and is rarely that busy. In town, you’ll find boutique shops to peruse and a few good places to eat. One of the best additions to Qualicum in recent times is Fern + Cedar Brewing Company. Here you can grab some delicious beers and the food is excellent too.

The surrounding area for both these places is amazing and you’ll find plenty of hikes, waterfalls, and viewpoints to enjoy. A couple of our favourites are Little Qualicum Falls and Englishman River Falls. While you’re in the area keep an eye out for whales swimming by in the ocean. We’ve been lucky enough to spot orcas swimming right past Qualicum Beach.

Top Activity in Parksville and Qualicum Beach

Spend the day lazing on the beach at either Parksville or Qualicum Beach. If the beach isn’t your thing, there are tons of golf courses to check out!

Where to Stay in Parksville and Qualicum Beach

The Beach Club Resort – If you are going to come to a beachfront town you may as well stay right on the beach. Walk out of the front door of your hotel and right onto Parksville Beach. You can also get stunning views out over the water from your room.

>>See prices and availability for the Beach Club Resort

15. Port Renfrew – 4.5 Hours

Another of our favourite spots on Vancouver Island is the southwest coast. We have it listed as Port Renfrew but we really mean this whole stretch of the coast down to Jordan River. This is a rugged and beautiful part of the island and there is so much to explore here.

The Juan de Fuca Trail and all of the beaches along it are the main highlights of any trip here. Plus, you can camp on many of the beaches along the trail which makes for an epic adventure. You can check out Mystic Beach , surf and discover the hidden waterfall at Sombrio Beach , relax at Sandcut Beach , and check out the tide pools at Botanical Beach.

If you head a short drive inland from Port Renfrew you can check out the Fairy Lake Bonsai Tree , which is an unusual natural phenomenon. Exploring this section of Vancouver Island is mostly about enjoying the outdoors and seeing nature at its finest. Make sure to drop in at the Renfrew Pub for unbeatable views and one of the best burgers in BC.

Top Activity in Port Renfrew

Surf – Catch some waves at Jordan River or head to Sombrio Beach. There are plenty of waves to go around and far fewer people surfing here than the likes of Tofino.

Where to Stay in Port Renfrew

This is one place we highly recommend camping, especially at Mystic Beach. If you don’t fancy camping check out our top accommodation recommendation below.

Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages – Stay right on the water, wake up to amazing views every morning and relax on their private beach.

>>See prices and availability for Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages here

16. Kamloops and Sun Peaks – 4 Hours 30 Minutes

Kamloops is another good place in the interior to spend a long weekend. As it is a bit further out we recommend taking an extra day or two to make the most of your trip out here. You’ll find a wealth of hiking and mountain bike trails close to the city and there are plenty of breweries to explore in town.

While a summer trip here is worth taking, we recommend this as one of the best winter getaways near Vancouver as you have access to Sun Peaks Ski Resort. This is the second-largest ski resort in Canada, with Whistler being the only bigger ski resort. With lots of terrain to explore and the light, fluffy snow interior BC is known for, you’ll have an amazing time riding here.

Top Activity in Kamloops and Sun Peaks

Skiing and snowboarding – Visit in the winter months to experience world-class skiing and snowboarding on the second biggest ski hill in Canada .

Where to Stay in Kamloops and Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre – If you are coming in the winter then you have to stay in Sun Peaks village so you can enjoy ski-in ski-out riding. Staying at the Grand Hotel puts you just 100 metres from the lifts so you have the best access on the mountain.

>>See prices and availability for Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre

17. Harrison Hot Springs – 1 Hour 50 Minutes

Looking for romantic getaways from Vancouver? Then why not head to Harrison Hot Springs and enjoy a weekend by Harrison Lake. This is a great couples getaway as you can spend some time relaxing in Harrison Hot Springs Spa. Soak in the naturally heated pool and get a massage for the ultimate day of relaxation.

This is also a great getaway for families, especially in the summer as there are lots of activities you can enjoy on the lake. The best of these is the inflatable water park on the lake . Spend a couple of hours playing on this giant, inflatable water park that is fun no matter what age you are. You can also relax on the beach, rent jet skis and tour the lake, or play golf at one of the two local courses.

Top Activity in Harrison Hot Springs

Relax in some hot springs – Whether it is at the spa, the local pool, or you explore deeper into the wilderness to find some hidden hot springs, this is the best way to relax and enjoy your weekend.

Where to Stay in Harrison Hot Springs

The Lodge on Harrison Lake – Relax on your private beach and enjoy the views in this waterfront location just outside the town centre.

>>See prices and availability for the Lodge on Harrison Lake here

Final Thoughts

We are incredibly lucky to live in such a magnificent part of the world and have easy access to so many other amazing places to spend the weekend. Whether you are searching for outdoor adventures or you prefer to spend your weekend eating and drinking, there are plenty of options for everyone.

Personally, we think you should start at the top of your list and work your way down as all of the locations we listed are worth visiting at least once, while others should be visited every single year (this is Tofino for us)!

Planning a weekend getaway? Check out some of our more in-depth destination guides here:

• 17 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOFINO
• THINGS TO DO ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
• 15 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN VICTORIA, BC
• VANCOUVER ISLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY
• BEST THINGS TO DO IN POWELL RIVER
• TIN HAT HUT HIKE | Sunshine Coast Trail

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Submit Comment

Hi, we’re Luke and Roxy, a couple of adventurers that are head over heels in love with British Columbia, Canada.

We share our activities and outdoor adventures with the hope of inspiring others to get out and enjoy beautiful BC!

Thanks for visiting our blog!

Popular Posts

ST MARKS SUMMIT HIKE | Cypress Mountain

THINGS TO DO ON VANCOUVER ISLAND | Complete Bucket List

COX BAY TRAIL | 

Epic view in tofino, stay connected.

Get the latest adventures, tips and guides straight to your inbox

Get your FREE day hike packing list!

  subscribe to our email list and get your free downloadable day hike checklist straight to your inbox. , success check your email for your packing list..

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our  Privacy Policy .

Download your FREE Vancouver itinerary!

 subscribe to our email list and get your free downloadable pdf vancouver itinerary straight to your inbox. , success check your email for your downloadable pdf guide., download your free checklist of things to do in tofino,  subscribe to our email list and get your free downloadable checklist of things to do in tofino straight to your inbox. , success check your email for your checklist., download your free checklist of things to do on vancouver island,  subscribe to our email list and get your free downloadable checklist of things to do on vancouver island straight to your inbox. , download your free banff bucket list,  subscribe to our email list and get your free downloadable banff bucket list straight to your inbox. , success check your email for your banff bucket list..

• Get outside
• Food & Drink
• Unique things to do
• Rainy day activities
• Pet friendly
• Escape the City
• Event listing
• Contributors

8 Actually awesome road trips from Vancouver

Looking to get out of town for a while? Check out this list of 8 actually awesome road trips from Vancouver! Let's make some memories!

Vancouver’s nice and all, but sometimes it’s more fun to escape the city. Whether you’ve only got a weekend or an extended amount of time, we’ve got you covered. Check out the ideas below for some unique ideas for an actually awesome road trip from Vancouver.

Journey to Mystic Beach on Vancouver Island

Distance from Vancouver : About 4 h 28 min (181.9km) Why it made this list: Everyone usually mentions Tofino as the best place to go for a road trip from Vancouver. We agree, but wanted to stray from the ordinary. Mystic Beach is located in Sooke, an awesome little community on Vancouver Island that’s near the start of the Juan de Fuca trail. The beaches and nature here are awesome, but the highlight is the rope swing. Pro-tip:  If it’s the summer, take some time to check out the Sooke Potholes. Take a refreshing dip in the popular swimming hang out and maybe do a little bit of cliff jumping if you’re up to it.

Visit Das Biergarten in Leavenworth, WA

Distance from Vancouver : About 4 h 43 min (343.2km) Why it made this list:  If you wanted to go to Europe this year but couldn’t afford a plane ticket, this is your next best option. Drive into the awe-inducing Cascade mountains to a town that has been entirely modeled after a Bavarian village. It’s a place where you can drink a comically-oversized beer and eat sausages served by people wearing lederhosen. Basically: paradise. Pro-tip:  If you prefer the Dutch way of life, head to Lyndon, WA instead. They are known for their Dutch-inspired wind mills.

Make the Journey the Destination… on the way to Kelowna

Distance from Vancouver : About 4 h 35 min (389.5 km) Why it made this list:  Kelowna is a fun place to go by itself, it’s got warm weather, golf courses, a nice lake, wineries, and a lot of other fun things. But, if you’re heading up to that area, it’s also fun to make a few pit stops along the way. For your first stop, pull over at Bridal Falls for a short walk to a stunning waterfall. Then, drive a few more kms to check out Othello Tunnels near Hope, BC. Pro-tip:  Make sure to watch Rambo before checking out Othello Tunnels so you can experience it from a whole new light.

Walk amongst the giant rocks at Cannon Beach

Distance from Vancouver:  6 h 12 min (549.0 km) – longer depending on border lineups Why it made this list: Driving down the Oregon Coast is a great way to spend a few days. It offers amazing views and fun pit stops and one of the nicest ending destinations in the West Coast. Cannon Beach is probably one of the most highly-photographed locations for good reason. The rocks rise out of the ocean some sort of giant rock beast, and the sunsets and misty mornings just add to the spectacle. Spend a good chunk of time here if you can. Otherwise, keep driving down the coast making as many pit stops as you can. Also – bring a dog if you have one, it’s a dog paradise down there! Pro-tip: If you have extra time, head into Portland for some great food, cheap beer, and large selection of books. Also, if you can, make a stop in Astoria or eat a taco in Taco.

Do the Hot Springs Loop

Distance from Vancouver:  6 h 3 min (570.6 km) to the starting point… Why it made this list:  Sitting in a car can be a literal pain in the ass, so nothing’s better than getting out and stretching in some toasty warm hot springs. There are several ideas for driving the Hot Springs Loop in BC, but we recommend starting in Pemberton and heading to Revelstoke before hitting up the other awesome natural & pool hot springs in BC. Here’s a great little map to get you started. If you can somehow tie in a bunch of skiing/snowboarding days or hiking – it’ll make the hot springs even more enjoyable! Pro-tip : Try and talk to locals to see if they’ll give up any goods on the natural hot springs in the area. Going to mountain pools is always much more enjoyable than a community pool-like setting.

Embrace your inner viking in Valhalla

Distance from Vancouver:  7 h 55 min (660.3 km) to Nelson Why it made this list:  We love hiking and we love hiking in landscapes that make you stop and say “holy crap” at least 10 times an hour. Plus this Provincial Park has a mountain called Gimli. Plus, there’s mountain goats that seem to follow you around, as if looking to share your black forest ham sandwich. Bring your overnight tent and your hiking shoes, you’re going to want to camp in the mountains at this place. If you let out a viking yell at the top, we won’t blame you. Pro-tip:  Spend some time in Nelson if you can. Their laid-back, hippie culture is very easy to get accustomed to. If you’re into Harry Potter, check out North Woven Brooms .

Check out the oddities of BC

Distance from Vancouver:  Depends on which oddities you want to see Why it made this list:  There’s something really fun checking out the strange tourist stops at small towns in BC. We’ve come across The Enchanted Forest (with the tallest tree house in the world), there’s the always popular Goats on the Roof store in Coombs on the way to Tofino, there’s the Spotted Lake in Osoyoos , the “ almost tallest rose in the world ” in Kelowna, and probably tons of other random and weird things around! Make it your mission to find the strangest thing on this road trip, and let us know what it is. Pro-tip: Sometimes the best way to find these weird attractions is to follow creepy, hand-made signs down dirt roads. But then again, that may be a terrible idea.

Cool down in the heat of the summer

Distance:  3 h 30 min (116.6 km) including ferry Why it made this list:  Grab some buddies, some beer, and some floaties, because one of the best road trips from Vancouver to cool off is in the Cowichan River on Vancouver Island. This river is so perfect for floating that there’s even a tour company that will drive you up the river and drop you off, so you don’t have to worry about two cars. The float takes about 2.5 hours and is extremely relaxing. Although, make sure you bring something to entertain yourself, because sometimes the current can be a little slow. Pro-tip: Vancouver Island has some great cliff jumping areas in Nanaimo as well as on the highway to Tofino. They are pretty popular with locals and fairly easy to find if you do some Google searching. Always watch other people before you jump, be safe not a statistic!

Further Reading...

A weekend away to Salt Spring Island

Unique Airbnb listings in BC

Day trip to Newcastle Island Provincial Park

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

5 freshwater swimming holes in Vancouver

What the frolf: disc golf in vancouver, boredinvancouver.

Join the Adventure: Get my Banff 4 day itinerary straight to your inbox!

17 Best Weekend Getaways From Vancouver [2024 Guide]

Looking for an exciting weekend getaway from Vancouver? This post has you covered!

Vancouver, the gateway to British Columbia, sits on the border of Canada and the USA, making it an ideal hub for weekend getaways. Renowned for its outdoor wonders, Vancouver offers the perfect blend of urban sophistication and close proximity to majestic mountains and pristine nature.

Since moving to British Columbia in 2016, I’ve explored a lot of this province. I try to make an effort to spend almost every weekend on short trips from Vancouver (I am working on my British Columbia bucket list!)

This guide is tailored for those seeking both short and extended escapes from the city. These handpicked getaways are easily accessible by car (and in some cases, a ferry ride) and can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Keep reading to discover some hidden gems and well-known favourites as well as find inspiration and practical tips to plan your perfect getaway from Vancouver.

A City Girl Outside contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for reading!

Best Weekend Getaways From Vancouver

1. victoria.

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a great destination for a romantic getaway from Vancouver. Victoria’s downtown is situated around the inner harbour, which is an architectural beauty. Take some time to visit the iconic Empress Hotel, Parliament Buildings, and hop on a water taxi for a scenic ride.

I’ve been lucky to visit Victoria many times as I have friends who live there. One of my favourite activities is hiking. There are plenty of  easy hikes in Victoria  suitable for all fitness levels.

The Malahat Skywalk is Victoria’s newest attraction. This elevated spiral walkway offers stunning views of the Saanich Inlet, Finlayson Arm, and more. Located near Goldstream, you can drive here or join a day tour.

The Butchart Gardens is an absolute must when visiting Victoria. Renowned for its magnificent floral displays, this National Historic Site of Canada covers over 55 acres of beautifully manicured gardens.

Brunch in Victoria is hard to beat. If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. The Blue Fox Café is one of the best brunches I’ve had anywhere! I also recommend Floyd’s Diner in James Bay.

Fisherman’s Wharf is a charming waterfront setting with colourful floating homes and bustling shops. It’s a great place to sample Victoria’s best fish and chips (Barb’s Fish & Chips is my recommendation!), or even spot some friendly harbour seals.

The frequent ferry service to Victoria mean it is one of the best short day trips from Vancouver, however I recommend at least  3 days in Victoria  to truly experience this city over a weekend.

Where to stay in Victoria

The Fairmont Empress Hotel

Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Helm’s Inn

2. Whistler

I’ve called Whistler home since 2016 and know it inside out! It’s a 1.5 hour drive from downtown Vancouver, making it a top winter weekend getaway. And the best part? Whistler is an amazing destination all year round!

With 200 marked runs and status as the largest ski resort in North America, you can experience world-class skiing and snowboarding. But skiing is just one of many things to do in Whistler in winter .

If visiting  Whistler as a non-skier , there is still plenty to do! Cross-country skiing and  snowshoeing in Whistler  offer a slower pace, while booking a snowmobile tour will give you a great adrenaline rush! (Snowmobiling was one of my first dates with my husband!)

While the winter is what Whistler is famous for, I personally prefer the summers in Whistler . You can ride the  Peak 2 Peak Gondola  for stunning mountain vistas, take a dip in one of the refreshing  lakes in Whistler , stroll through the charming village, or hit the famous mountain bike trails. And if you’re up for a hike, Whistler boasts some of the  best hiking trails  around.

For the ultimate off-road adventure, hop on an ATV tour in Whistler and explore the rugged terrain! If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in BC, Whistler’s Scandinave Spa provides the perfect retreat. And when it comes to dining options, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the plethora of amazing fine-dining restaurants, brunch options and  cheap eats in Whistler .

Where to stay in Whistler

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler

The four Seasons Resort & Spa

The Crystal Lodge

Pangea Pod Hotel

Tofino stands out as the ultimate beach getaway from Vancouver, boasting an array of stunning beaches. My personal favourites include Tonquin Beach and Chesterman. If you’re into surfing or seeking unbeatable views of Tofino, make sure to visit Cox Bay for some waves or take the Cox Bay lookout hike.

I love Tofino so much that I’ve dedicated an entire guide to the  amazing things you can do in Tofino . If you’re planning a visit to Tofino, I recommend spending at least  3 days in Tofino .

Don’t miss the mouthwatering tacos from the famous Tacofino food truck—a must-try for the best tacos in BC. Tacofino is a staple in Tofino, but be prepared for a long wait. When I first visited in 2017, I waited about 10 minutes. However, on my most recent trip in 2022, the wait was over 2 hours! This place is super popular!

Tofino Brewing Company is renowned for its innovative and flavourful brews, which are deeply inspired by Tofino’s rugged coastline and vibrant community.

Venturing a little further from Tofino, you’ll find the stunning Pacific Rim National Park. This expansive park is celebrated for its pristine beaches and temperate rainforests

Make sure not to forget the Canso Plane Crash hike. This 5km round-trip hike takes you through lush, mossy forests and culminates at the site of a WWII-era bomber crash.

Where to stay in Tofino

Pacific Sands Beach Resort

Middle Beach Lodge

Related: Best Things To Do In Tofino – Vancouver Island’s Ultimate Beach Destination

4. Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island makes up part of the Gulf Islands that lie off the coast of mainland BC. I celebrated both my birthday and Thanksgiving in Salt Spring Island and it has been one of my favourite getaways from Vancouver since.

Salt Spring Island is home to a close-knit community that values sustainability and organic farming. You’ll find farm stands, vineyards, and local artisans creating unique products across the island.

The island is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. You can visit local galleries and studios, showcasing the works of talented artists and artisans.

Make sure you don’t skip the awesome Saturday Market! It’s the place to be for local crafts, fresh produce, and yummy treats. Happening every Saturday from April to October, the market features over 100 local vendors.

One stop that shouldn’t be missed is the Salt Spring Island Cheese Farm. They offer a selection of artisanal goat cheeses with an array of flavours (definitely try the truffle, it’s so good!) After sampling the famous goat cheese, a stop at Salt Spring Wild Cider is a great way to wash it all down.

Salt Spring Island has a plethora of hiking trails. My personal favourites are Mount Erskine, which is covered in magical fairy houses, and Mount Maxwell, which is the perfect sunset spot.

Where to stay on Salt Spring Island

The Sanctuary Resort & Spa

5. Bowen Island

Bowen Island is located just a short ferry ride away from the mainland, meaning it tops the list of quick getaways from Vancouver. The peaceful and slower pace of life on Bowen Island makes it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

Once you arrive on the island, there are plenty of  things to do on Bowen Island . Head to the quaint town of Snug Cove to indulge in delicious food (I really recommend Tuscany!) and stop for a coffee at the Snug Café.

One of the highlights of Bowen Island is hiking Mount Gardner. Although it presents a challenge as the trail starts at sea level, the breathtaking views of Howe Sound from the mountaintop make every effort worthwhile.

Bowen Island is also a haven for wellness enthusiasts, with its assortment of rejuvenating yoga retreats. The most popular being Nectar Yoga B&B, which offers a tranquil atmosphere and daily yoga classes.

Head to Cape Roger Curtis to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific Ocean, or take a stroll along Bowen Island’s many beaches for some relaxation and beachcombing.

Where to stay on Bowen Island

Artisan Suites on Bowen

English Rose Cottage

6. Squamish

Squamish is just a short drive on the  Sea to Sky Highway  which means it’s one of the best overnight trips from Vancouver. Known as the Adventure Capital of Canada, Squamish offers world-class opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and kiteboarding.

I spend many weekends in Squamish as it’s just a 40-minute drive and there is always so much to discover. The Downtown area has a great blend of unique shops and cafes. For the best donuts I absolutely love Sunflower Bakery (they also serve my favourite Vancouver coffee, 49th Parallel) and the Cloudburst Café.

Hiking is one of the  top things to do in Squamish . The magnificent Stawamus Chief is one of the best hikes in Squamish and showcases stunning views of Howe Sound. As one of the largest granite monoliths in the world, it also attracts rock climbers from far and wide.

Besides the Chief, there are some  easy hikes in Squamish , including hidden gems such as  Mamquam Falls  that you can access year-round. The Murrin Loop, which I’ve always referred to as “The mini Chief” offers similar views across Howe Sound.

Adjacent to the Chief, you can find the stunning Shannon Falls, BC’s third tallest waterfall. The nearby  Sea to Sky Gondola  is a popular Squamish attraction that offers a different perspective of the nearby fjords.

Local breweries such as Backcountry Brewing, A-Frame Brewing, and Howe Sound Brewing offer a wide range of delicious and innovative brews. Backcountry is my personal favourite, but I enjoy a visit to them all!

Where to stay in Squamish

Executive Suites Hotel & Resort

Sandman Hotel & Suites

7. Galiano Island

Galiano Island  is a serene sanctuary located in the Gulf Islands, between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. A short 1-hour ferry ride from Tsawwassen ferry terminal, the island is a perfect retreat for relaxation.

The island is named after the 18th-century Spanish explorer Dionisio Alcalá Galiano and is home to a warm and welcoming community.

A highlight of Galiano Island is Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park, perfect for kayaking, boating, birdwatching, and picnicking. Scenic trails offer panoramic views of surrounding islands and the Strait of Georgia.

A trip to Galiano Island wouldn’t be complete without tackling the Mount Galiano hike. This moderate-level trail rewards with breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf Islands and the distant Vancouver Island from the summit.

Dine at the famous Pilgrimme Restaurant, listed among Canada’s top 100 restaurants. Specializing in local, seasonal, and foraged ingredients, Pilgrimme offers a unique culinary experience that beautifully captures the flavours of the island.

Where to stay on Galiano Island

Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa

8. Pemberton

Located just 30-minutes north of Whistler, Pemberton doesn’t draw as many tourists, and I think that’s a great reason to check it out! Spending a weekend in Pemberton is just the right amount of time to see this small mountain town. Since it’s less touristy than Whistler, it still has that small town feel which I love! 

Pemberton is home to many amazing hikes and mountain bike trails. You can also take helicopter rides and go horseback riding through the Lillooet River . North Arm Farm is a fun area to take kids or check out the awesome views of Mount Currie. 

Pemberton is also a good place to base yourself if you’re an avid hiker. Pemberton is around a 30-40 minute drive from the famous Joffre Lakes hike. There are also many more trails to explore for all fitness levels in the surrounding area. If visiting in the summer, One Mile Lake is the place to go to cool off and try some stand-up paddle boarding. 

Where to stay in Pemberton

Pemberton Valley Lodge

Kelowna makes up part of the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia’s premier wine making region, which makes it a perfect romantic getaway in BC. A mere four-hour drive from Vancouver, Kelowna promises a refreshing blend of adventure, relaxation and culinary delights.

Kelowna is famous for its thriving wine industry, with over 40 wineries within a 20-minute drive. The  Mission Hill Winery  and  Summerhill Pyramid Winery  are two of the most iconic wineries. The best way to experience Kelowna’s vineyards is through a wine tasting tour. 

There are a myriad of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. Myra Canyon, with its historic railway trestles and tunnels, is an easy hike in Kelowna.

Kelowna’s waterfront boasts beautiful beaches and parks, such as Boyce-Gyro Beach Park, where you can soak in the sun, swim in the warm waters of Okanagan Lake, or try your hand at paddle boarding.

The city’s arts and culture scene is lively, with numerous galleries, including the  Kelowna Art Gallery , and theatres showcasing local and international talent.

Where to stay in Kelowna

The Royal Kelowna – Bellstar Hotels & Resorts

Sandman Hotel & Suites Kelowna

10. Port Renfrew & Jordan River

Port Renfrew is often referred to as “the end of the road” as it marks the western terminus of Highway 14. But don’t let that deter you – this small town is the perfect escape. It’s a great addition to any Vancouver Island road trip or as part of the Pacific Marine Circle route.

A  weekend in Jordan River  and Port Renfrew offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. One of the must-do activities in Port Renfrew is visiting Avatar Grove, home to some of the oldest and largest trees on Vancouver Island.

If you have the time I seriously recommend making the trip out to see Big Lonely Doug, currently the second-largest Douglas Fir in Canada standing at over 66 metres tall.

Botanical Beach, known for its unique tidal pools and stunning rock formations, is a must-do in Port Renfrew. The best time to visit is during low tide when you can see all sorts of marine life in the pools.

Don’t forget a visit to Mystic Beach, a secluded beach boasts beautiful sand, massive driftwood logs, and a stunning waterfall that cascades onto the beach.

Sombrio Beach is where you can find a beautiful hidden waterfall tucked away in a mossy cave – you can check out my guide for more information.

11. Ucluelet

Ucluelet, known by locals as “Ukee”, is a coastal town located on the western edge of Vancouver Island, approximately a six-hour drive from Vancouver. It’s a fantastic alternative to nearby Tofino, particularly during Storm Watching season.

Ucluelet is most famous for the Wild Pacific Trail, a 9km trail that showcases breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, lush rainforest, and the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

Another top thing to do in Ucluelet is the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse. Built in 1915, this operational lighthouse sits on a rocky point offering a panoramic view of the ocean. It’s a perfect spot for whale watching, particularly between March and April when grey whales migrate along the coast.

The Ucluelet Aquarium is a catch and release Aquarium showcasing BC’s marine life, and gives us an insight into the different species that call this area home. 

Visit the local art galleries or the Ucluelet First Nation’s community center, where you can learn about the Nuu-Chah-Nulth culture, attend a traditional feast, or take part in an indigenous art workshop.

Where to stay in Ucluelet

Waters Edge Shoreside Suites

The Cabins At Terrace Beach

12. Revelstoke

Revelstoke, located between the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, is a charming town a five-hour drive from Vancouver.

The renowned Revelstoke Mountain Resort offers world-class skiing, with North America’s highest vertical descent and over 3000 acres of terrain suitable for all levels. Other winter activities in Revelstoke include snowmobiling, Nordic skiing, and snowshoeing.

In summer, Revelstoke offers hiking, mountain biking, white-water rafting, and fishing. Mount Revelstoke National Park with lush valleys, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic views is a hiker’s dream.

Don’t miss the scenic drive up Mount Revelstoke on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway for breathtaking views – one of the best things to do in Revelstoke.

Where to stay in Revelstoke

Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Coast Hillcrest Hotel

13. Sechelt & The Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine coast of British Columbia stretches 177km from Howe Sound to the start of Desolation Sound, so there are multiple destinations for a weekend away from Vancouver. 

Located on the Sunshine Coast, Sechelt is a small town with big views. Hike up to the top of Mount Richardson for an incredible view of Sechelt and surroundings. For a more relaxing day, visit Porpoise Bay Provincial Park for a peaceful walk along the beach.

Sechelt offers some unique dining experiences, such as The Lighthouse Pub, a floating restaurant with delicious food and stunning views. For some local seafood, head to Blue Ocean Bar & Grill for fresh catches and seafood platters.

One of the best ways to experience Sechelt is by kayak or paddleboard. You can rent equipment from various locations in town. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and even whales in the surrounding waters.

And don’t forget to grab some locally made treats at the Sechelt Farmers’ Market, held every Saturday from April to September. For beer enthusiasts the  Sunshine Coast Ale Trail  is just one of the many things that attract visitors to this area every year. 

Where to stay on the Sunshine Coast

• Gibsons: Gibsons Garden Hotel
• Sechelt: Tranquility Bay Waterfront Inn

14. Kamloops

Kamloops  is located at the confluence of two branches of the Thompson River. The city boasts a sun-kissed climate with over 2000 hours of sunshine each year, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, golfing, fishing and more.

During the winter months there are plenty of opportunities for downhill skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing. The nearby Sun Peaks Resort is a world-class ski destination with over 1,700 hectares of skiable terrain.

But Kamloops isn’t just a winter destination. The region is home to several stunning hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.

One of the many highlights of a summer trip to Kamloops includes exploring the local wineries. Kamloops Wine Trail is a burgeoning wine region that is creating quite a buzz in the wine world. You can check out one of three award winning wineries – Harper’s Trail, Monte Creek Ranch, and Privato Vineyard and Winery.

15. Seattle, Washington

Only a three-hour drive from Vancouver,  Seattle , Washington is a bustling city that blends urban sophistication with nature. Seattle is home to iconic attractions such as the Space Needle and the bustling Pike Place Market.

And let’s not forget, Seattle is known for its thriving coffee culture, with cozy coffee shops around every corner, including the very first Starbucks.

Chihuly Garden and Glass showcases stunning glass sculptures, and the Seattle Art Museum hosts an extensive collection that covers various periods and styles. Book worms can pay a visit to the flagship store of Elliott Bay Book Company, one of the most loved independent bookstores in the country.

Take a ferry ride to Bainbridge Island for some hiking, wine tasting, and art galleries, or enjoy the city’s waterways through a captivating Argosy Harbor Cruise.

The city’s proximity to mountains is excellent for exploring further afield – Snoqualmie Falls and Scenic Hot Springs are just two of my favourite places to explore.

Where to stay in Seattle

Hilton Garden Inn Seattle Downtown

Grand Hyatt Seattle

16. Manning Park

Manning Park is an enticing year-round destination, approximately a three-hour drive from Vancouver. It is one of my favourite short road trips from Vancouver, and I even celebrated my birthday here.

During winter, Manning Park is renowned for winter sports, offering a variety of slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. Other winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snow tubing.

In the summer, Manning Park is a hiker’s haven with over 300 kilometres of picturesque trails. The Frosty Mountain trail is particularly popular in the fall, leading to the highest peak in the park with stunning views of alpine meadows and golden larches.

The park is also known for its rich biodiversity, making it a hotspot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Visitors can spot various wildlife species such as black bears, mule deer, and over 200 bird species.

One of the park’s biggest attractions is the iconic Lightning Lake, offering activities such as canoeing, swimming, and fishing for rainbow trout. Manning Park provides exceptional stargazing opportunities due to its remote location away from the city lights.

17. Harrison Hot Springs

Just an hour and a half drive from Vancouver, Harrison Hot Springs is an idyllic retreat known for its stunning lake, beautiful mountains, and famous hot springs. It’s a top last-minute getaway from Vancouver.

The main attraction is the therapeutic hot springs themselves, offering a rejuvenating experience. Enjoy exceptional hiking trails like Spirit Trail or Miami Bridges Walk, with breathtaking views.

Water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are also popular on Harrison Lake. Don’t miss the Agassiz-Harrison Museum and Kilby Historic Site for local history insights.

Explore the quaint village with unique shops, art galleries, and delightful cafés. Foodies will love the fresh, locally-sourced cuisine in various restaurants, with highlights like the renowned European fare of the Black Forest Restaurant and the casual dining experience at Muddy Waters Cafe, focusing on local ingredients.

Want to explore more of British Columbia? Check out these other posts!

• 3 Days in Tofino Itinerary
• 3 Days in Victoria Itinerary
• 2 Days in Vancouver Itinerary
• Things to do in Vancouver in Winter
• Best Things to do in Squamish
• Best Things to do on Salt Spring Island
• Best Things to do on Bowen Island
• Jordan River Weekend Itinerary

Click A Pin Below To Save For Later!

About Rachael

Rachael is an avid adventurer and writer, originally hailing from London, England. She embarked on a life-changing journey by moving to Canada in 2016. Settling in the picturesque town of Whistler, British Columbia, Rachael found solace in the majestic beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

A City Girl Outside invites readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and encourages them to embrace the transformative power of exploration.

Similar Posts

23 Best Things To Do On Salt Spring Island [2024]

Wedgemount Lake Near Whistler – Hiking guide [2024]

5 Of Whistler’s Best Coffee Shops

Lake Louise To Jasper Drive – 17 Amazing Stops! [2024 Guide]

29 Best Things To Do In Lake Louise, Alberta [2024]

4 Days In Jasper National Park – Summer Itinerary

One comment.

Lovely article! I’m from Seattle and so I’ve taken many day trips and weekend trips to Vancouver, but not the other way around. I’m glad to see Victoria is on this list as I absolutely adore Vancouver Island. I’m looking forward to when border restrictions are lifted so I can visit some other cool places in this list!

Comments are closed.

Traveling Canucks

Canada Family Travel Blog

The Best Road Trip from Vancouver for first time visitors

03/14/2024 By Traveling Canucks 12 Comments Categories: Adventures British Columbia National Park Travel Tips Trip Ideas Vancouver Vancouver Island Victoria Whistler

Vancouver Road Trip itinerary

As residents of Vancouver, we’re often asked about the best things to do in Vancouver . The next most common question is – what is the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors?

It’s a great question. You have plenty of options in British Columbia. Do you go east to the Okanagan or west to Vancouver Island  or north to Whistler and Pemberton?

In our opinion, British Columbia is the best place in the world to visit (and live). It’s a bold statement – I know. However, if you ask anyone who’s visited British Columbia, you’ll likely hear glowing reviews about it’s easy access to nature and endless outdoor adventure.

Today, we share what we believe is the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors. This 10 day road trip itinerary starts and finishes in Vancouver, with 1 day to explore the city of Vancouver. That said, we would encourage you to spend at least 2 or 3 days in Vancouver.

Before we get started, there are a few things to note:

• This Vancouver road trip is based on 10 days (add or subtract days based on your time)
• The road trip can be done in any season, but it’s best during the summer months
• This itinerary is designed for car driving with hotel accommodations, not camping. However, there are many campgrounds along this road trip route, if that’s your preference. Make campground reservations in the summer!

If you only have a few days in Vancouver, check out these  25 day trips from Vancouver .

Best Road Trip from Vancouver, Canada

Table of Contents

Skip ahead using the Table of Contents.

Day 1 & 2 – Explore Vancouver

Depending on when you arrive in Vancouver, you’ll want to spend your first two days exploring the city. There’s so much to see and do in Vancouver that two days is likely not enough time, but we want to stay within this 10 day itinerary. Add a few extras days at the end of the road trip if you have more time.

What makes Vancouver special is that it’s a vibrant cosmopolitan city surrounded by mountains AND ocean, which means there’s literally something for everyone.

In one day, you can hike in the mountains, relax on the beach, catch a show or professional sports game, dine at a variety of upscale restaurants and finish the night at Granville’s legendary entertainment district.

Here are the top things to do in Vancouver:

• Explore Stanley Park and ride bikes around its popular Seawall
• Walk across the bouncy Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver
• Take the tram to the peak of Grouse Mountain or hike the Grouse Grind
• See the iconic Steam Clock in historical Gastown
• Soak up the 360 degree views from Vanouver Lookout tower
• Shop, eat and be entertained at Granville’s Entertainment district
• Pick up some artisan goods at Granville Island Public Market
• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery , Vancouver Aquarium and/or Science World
• Get outside! Vancouver is home to world class mountain biking, hiking trails, kayaking, whale watching, skiing and snowboarding.
• Witness orcas in the wild on a Vancouver whale watching tour
• Here’s a list of 25 FREE things to do in Vancouver

Related post: 25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver

Day 3 – Take the ferry to Victoria

The road trip begins on Day 3, when you catch a morning ferry from the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (Vancouver) to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal (Victoria). Check the BC ferry schedule here .

Plan to arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour before your departure time. It’s wise to book a reservation ahead of time, especially if you’re traveling over a holiday weekend.

The ferry takes about 1.5 hours. The drive from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria is about 30 minutes.

Once you’ve settled into your hotel, head to Victoria’s picturesque Inner Harbour (see photo below). There are plenty of Victoria restaurants and cafes located here. The downtown area is very walkable.

Plan to spend your evening wandering around the Inner Harbour and charming downtown area.

Day 4 – Enjoy a full day in Victoria

There are a few places in this world that we will revisit again and again. Victoria is one of them. We love the city’s old town character and laid back vibe. Victoria is a relatively big city, but it doesn’t feel or act that way.

Things to do in Victoria:

• Hop on a water taxi and explore Victoria’s bustling Inner Harbour
• Enjoy Royal Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress
• Get educated at the Royal British Columbia Museum
• Take a horse drawn carriage tour around downtown Victoria
• Walk down Fan Tan Alley  in Chinatown, said to be the narrowest street in Canada
• Stroll through Beacon Hill Park  and watch the sunset from Finlayson Point
• Whale watching tour and/or visit the impressive Butchart Gardens

Related post: 20 Things You Should Do in Victoria

Where to stay in victoria.

We’ve stayed at the Magnolia Hotel , Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Best Western Carlton Plaza and we would recommend them. They are centrally located and family friendly.

Where to eat in Victoria?

You will not go hungry in Victoria. There are endless options for every type of cuisine. Being on the west coast, we’d recommend you dine at a seafood restaurant. The west coast is also known for quality sushi and Japanese cuisine.

• Fresh oysters and share plates at 10 Acres Commons
• Fish tacos and fish & chips at Red Fish Blue Fish
• Patio with waterfront views at LURE Restaurant & Bar
• Popular Brew pubs – Spinnakers , Swans Brewpub and CANOE brewpub
• Other favourites – Barb & Banker and Irish Times

Here’s a downloadable Victoria map pdf

Day 5 – Drive from Victoria to Parksville

Take it easy and enjoy a late breakfast in Victoria before driving north to Parksville, a popular beach town located on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Parksville is famous for its long, sandy beaches that recede over one kilometer at low tide.

The drive from Victoria to Parksville is only 2 hours. However, there are plenty of fun road trip stops that you should check out.

• Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University (30-60 minutes)
• Take a hike in Goldstream Provincial Park (45-90 minutes)
• Split Rock Lookout on the Malahat Highway (10 minutes)
• See the world’s largest hockey stick and puck in Duncan (10 minutes)
• Check out the Murals of Chemainus (45-90 minutes)
• Optional – visit the Harbourfront Walkway in Nanaimo (60-90 minutes)

Where to stay in Parksville?

Parksville is a tourist driven town, so you have plenty of options for accommodations.

If you’re looking for an upscale experience, check out the  Tigh Na Mara Seaside Resort . You can stay in a private cabin or ocean view suite.

For budget accommodations, check out the Travelodge by Wyndham Parksville . This is where we stayed this past summer. It’s good value. The rooms are clean and updated, it has a pool and hot tub, and breakfast is included.

We’ve also stayed at the Ocean Sands Resort  and would recommend it. It’s less expensive than Tigh Na Mara and it has similar ocean front views.

Fun Fact – Vancouver Island is the largest Pacific island east of New Zealand.

 Low tide at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park  in Parksville

Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University. This castle is featured in the X-men and Deadpool movies.

Split Rock Lookout on the Malahat Highway

The world’s largest hockey stick in Duncan, British Columbia.

The Murals of Chemainus on Vancouver Island

Day 5 – Drive from Parksville to Ucluelet

Before you hit the road, make sure you spend some time walking along the beach in Parksville . You can either visit Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park or the beach at Parksville Community Park (pictured above).

The drive from Parksville to Ucluelet takes about 2.5 hours, but you’ll want to make a few stops along the way.

The first stop you’ll want to visit is the Coombs Old Country Market , famous for its Goats on the Roof . The market is located about 15 minutes west of Parksville, so it’s an ideal location for coffee or an early lunch (depending on when you leave Parksville). See photos below.

After Coombs, continue west towards  Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park . This is a nice place for an easy forest hike to see waterfalls. There are 6 km of walking trails throughout the park.

Next on the road trip is a visit to MacMillan Provincial Park, home to the ancient Douglas fir in  Cathedral Grove . The highway splits the park, so you will drive right through it.

There is limited parking at Cathedral Grove and it can get quite busy, but don’t give up! This place is definitely worth visiting. Some of the trees are more than 800 years old and 9 metres in circumference.

Plan to spend about 45 minutes here.

After witnessing the incredible trees in Cathedral Grove , continue driving west to Port Alberni . This is an ideal spot to grab a quick lunch, fuel up your vehicle and restock your supplies.

The drive from Port Alberni to Ucluelet is about 1.5 hours. This stretch of highway is stunning, so make sure you have your camera handy.

You should arrive in Ucluelet by late afternoon.

After you check-in to your accommodations, head to the ocean to watch the sunset from either Big Beach or the Wild Pacific Trail. See photo below as evidence.

Here are maps for beaches in Tofino and Ucluelet .

Goats on the Roof at Coombs Market in the town of Coombs.

Day 6 & 7 – Ucluelet and Tofino

The towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are located on the northern and southern points of a peninsula that stretches along the west coast of Vancouver Island. This is where you will find  Pacific Rim National Park , one of Canada’s greatest natural treasures.

I’m grouping these two towns together because you should visit both, but you don’t need to switch accommodations. Pick a spot and stay there for 3 nights, which will give you two FULL days in Tofino and/or Ucluelet.

It’s about a 40 minute drive from Tofino to Ucluelet, and vice versa.

Things to do in Tofino and Ucluelet:

• The beaches on the coast are home to the best surfing in Canada
• Sea kayaking through the pristine waters of Clayoquot and Barkley Sound
• Cultural canoe tours and Bear watching tours
• See orcas and gray whales on a whale watching tour (March to October)
• Guided fishing excursions in the ocean or freshwater lakes
• Endless hiking trails in Pacific Rim National Park and Wild Pacific Trail
• Storm watching during winter months
• Visit the Ucluelet Aquarium and the  Amphitrite Point Lighthouse
• Scenic flight tour in a sea plane or helicopter
• Watch the sunset from the shores of Chesterman Spit

Where to Stay in Ucluelet

We stayed at the Big Beach BÄRN in Ucluelet and would highly recommend it. The views from the balcony are outstanding. Tell the host, Pete Raab , the Traveling Canucks sent you.

• For waterfront accommodations, check out  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort or Snug Harbour Inn .
• For less expensive accommodations, check out the Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina .

Where to Stay in Tofino

There are several beach resorts in Tofino. Over the years, we’ve stayed at a number of these beach resorts and would recommend the following:

• Best Western Tin Wis Resort on Mackenzie Beach. The restaurant here is good, too.
• Middle Beach Lodge on Mackenzie Beach
• Cox Bay Beach Resort  on Cox bay beach
• Pacific Sands Beach Resort on Cox Bay beach

Where to eat in Tofino and Ucluelet

• Visit the tasting room at Tofino Brewing Company
• Dinner in Tofino, visit Shelter Restaurant , Sobo Restaurant and/or 1909 Kitchen .
• Casual eats in Tofino, visit Surfside Grill ,  Wolf in the Fog ,  Wildside Grill and/or Tacofino .
• Dinner in Ucluelet, visit Norwoods Restaurant or Black Rock Resort.
• Casual eats in Ucluelet, visit the Cedar Grill, Ukee Dogs Eatery and/or Ravenlady Oyster Forte .

Related:  Sea kayaking the coast of Vancouver Island

Calm waters at the rugged Big Beach in Ucluelet

Big skies over the beach in Pacific Rim National Park in Tofino.

The above photo is low tide at South Chesterman Beach in Tofino.

Tofino Sea kayaking tour around Clayoquot Sound.

Harbour views from the town of Tofino.

Surfing at Wickaninnish Beach in Pacific Rim National Park.

Day 8 – Travel from Tofino to Whistler

Your time on the coast has come to an end. It’s time to trade the sandy surf for snow-capped peaks. You’ll want to get a good start to the day and be on the road by 10:00 AM. This is the longest travel day on this 10 day road trip from Vancouver.

Drive from Tofino to Nanaimo and take the ferry back to the Mainland, where you will continue to Whistler.

The drive from Tofino to Nanaimo ferry terminal takes about 3 hours. There’s typically a 3:00 PM ferry that you will want to catch from Departure Bay. It’s smart to make a reservation for the ferry crossing ahead of time. Arrive at the ferry terminal at least one hour early.

Check the BC ferry schedule here .

The ferry from Departure Bay (Nanaimo) to Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) takes about 1.5 hours. When you disembark the ferry, drive on the highway until you see a turnoff that says ‘BC Ferries’ or ‘Horseshoe Bay’. It will be about 5-7 minutes before you see the signs.

You need to turnaround and head back towards the ferry terminal where you just came from. It’s a weird system. You will turn off the highway, take a left and cross the bridge across the highway, then left again so you can get back on the highway. This time you will be driving west/north, towards Whistler.

Use your GPS, just in case. You don’t want to actually return to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. You want to follow the road signs for Squamish and Whistler.

If you’re hungry, stop in the town of Squamish for dinner. There are several restaurants and fast food joints just off the highway. The total drive time from Horseshoe Bay to Whistler is about 1.5 hours.

You should arrive in Whistler around 7:00 PM.

Related:  Should you visit the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish?

The sundeck of the BC Ferries. That’s the Coastal Mountain Range in the distance.

Day 9 – Explore Whistler

Whistler is our happy place. We try to visit this alpine village every few months. It’s a four season resort, so there’s always something to do, regardless of the month or season.

You can easily spend a week in Whistler, so you’ll have to be selective with your full day. Do you want to hike in the mountains? Kayak on a freshwater lake? Indulge in a spa day or sit on a patio and relax?

Our recommendation would be to do the Peak 2 Peak 360 Experience (gondola up the mountain, alpine hiking, suspension bridge, etc), have lunch at Christine’s On Blackcomb , then back to your Whistler hotel for soak in the hot tub or pool, then head to Whistler Village and find a patio for dinner. 

Things to do in Whistler:

• Take the Peak 2 Peak 360 Experience – read more here . Give yourself 3 to 4 hours for this experience.
• Rejuvenate and relax at the traditional Scandinave Spa
• Golf at 3 different courses, including the impressive Nicklaus North Golf Course
• SUP or kayaking at Lost Lake, Alta Lake or Green Lake
• Downhill mountain biking and/or cross-country trail riding
• Zipline course, ATV in the mountains, white water rafting or bungee jumping
• Helicopter excursion or float plane sightseeing tour
• Bear viewing tour and/or nature safari
• Hike to stunning alpine lakes at either Garibali Lake , Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Chekamus Lake, Elfin Lakes or Wedgemount Lake
• Here are a few more ideas for Whistler summer activities

Related post: 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer

Where to stay in whistler:.

• For an upscale experience, stay at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Whistler ,  Sundial Boutique Hotel  or  Four Seasons Resort Whistler .
• For accommodations in the heart of Whistler Village, check out the Pan Pacific Whistler Village , Crystal Lodge and Suites or The Westin Resort .
• For accommodation on a lake, check out Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler Creekside

Where to Eat in Whistler:

• Popular patios in Whistler Village are Garibaldi Lift Co or Longhorn Saloon & Grill
• For delicious brunch, check out Stonesedge Kitchen, Elements or Brickworks
• Looking something a little different, check out Sushi Village or Mongolie Grill
• For casual brewpub experience, check out Merlin’s Bar & Grill, Amsterdam Pub, Dubh Linn Gate Irish  Pub or Whistler Brewhouse

Here’s a Whistler Village map and Whistler Blackcomb trail map .

Walking across the new suspension bridge at Whistler Mountain.

The above photo is Joffre Lakes Provincial Park , located an hour north of Whistler.

Day 10 – Whistler to Vancouver

After one final soak in the hot tub and a delicious brunch in the Village, pack up your car and drive south to Vancouver. This is the final day of your epic British Columbia road trip. If you are flying home this day, plan for delays on the drive to the airport as Vancouver traffic can be quite heavy.

The drive time from Whistler to Vancouver is about 2 hours, but you’ll want to make a few stops along the way.

About 15 minutes south of Whistler is Brandywine Falls Provincial Park . See photo below. Keep an eye out for the signs, you might miss the turnoff if you’re not paying attention.

To see the waterfall, you will walk through a nice forest trail for about 15 minutes. Plan to spend about 45 minutes here.

Brandywine Falls, located about 15 minutes south of Whistler.

The next stop is Shannon Falls Provincial Park (pictured above) and Sea to Sky Gondola  in Squamish.

If you’ve got time, we recommend taking the gondola to the Sea to Sky Summit lodge. There are lots of hiking trails and viewpoints at the top of the gondola. You can also enjoy lunch on the patio at the lodge. The views from here are amazing.

If you’re tight on time, skip the gondola and visit Shannon Falls instead. The falls are only a 5 minute walk from the parking lot, so you’ll only need about 30 minutes here.

Road trip from Squamish to Vancouver

If you’d like to do a few more stops, consider the  Britannia Mine Museum in the town of Britannia Beach or walk on the old pier at Porteau Cove Provincial Park . Both stops are located just off the highway.

If the weather is nice, make sure you pull over at Tantalus lookout point to see the massive glacier on the Tantalus Range. The lookout is between Whistler and Squamish. Here’s the location .

Check out the Squamish Adventure Centre for things to do in Squamish.

Related post – 15 things to do in Squamish this summer

Mountain views from the top of the Sea to Sky Gondola .

Where to stay in Vancouver

There are plenty of  hotels in Vancouver  to choose from, ranging from upscale five star hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between.

• Most of the popular Vancouver tourist attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider this when selecting where to stay in Vancouver.
• Downtown hotels often require additional fees for overnight parking – sometimes as high as $40 per night. Consider this when booking hotels and car rentals.
• If you prefer to stay closer to the mountains, consider staying at the  Lonsdale Quay Hotel  or the  Holiday Inn North Vancouver .

British Columbia Travel tips and things to know:

• Pick up and return your vehicle rental at the Vancouver airport. Save up to 30% on car rentals here .
• If you visit during the winter, make sure you have snow tires for the drive to Whistler.
• Search for Vancouver hotel accommodations here . Most of the popular attractions are located in the downtown area. You may need to pay extra for parking – sometimes as high as $40 per night.
• Vancouver is Wifi friendly with over 550 locations. Look for a Free Wifi location .
• It’s wise to book reservations for the ferry to and from Vancouver Island, especially if you’re visiting over a holiday weekend. Here’s the list of holidays in BC . Check ferry schedule here .

Looking for more Canada road trips inspiration? Check out Road Trip Alberta and Road Trip Manitoba . 

Read more travel blog posts from Canada:

• 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer
• 25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver
• Best things to do in Penticton with kids
• 8 Things to do in New Brunswick with kids
• The Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway
• Salmon fishing at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River

Have you taken a road trip from Vancouver?

What did we miss? What would you add to this itinerary?

Leave us a comment below. Our readers thank you!

Related posts:

10/28/2018 at 9:55 am

I love this article! My family loves road trips and this looks like a fantastic one to try! There seem to be so many fun and different activities along the way. I appreciate all of the tips on where to stay and eat that you provide. Thanks for all of the information. We will definitely be putting it to good use.

11/02/2018 at 10:32 am

This is awesome! I live in Vancouver and really need to do more exploring in my own backyard. Sad to say I haven’t made it to most of these spots, which I guess is always the case with your own hometown. I guess I have to get to work! Ucluelet looks so pretty. And glad you made it to Porteau Cove; we were there this summer and it was beautiful!

11/21/2018 at 8:12 am

How beautiful! What stunning colours and variety. This certainly does sound like an amazing route!

11/21/2018 at 4:46 pm

I’m really hoping to get to Canada next year and this road trip looks like a pretty great place to start! The hockey puck and stick are on par with the “big” things we have in Australia – The Big Banana, The Big Sheep 🙂

11/25/2018 at 9:25 am

Nice photography and nice piece of article. A road trip is far better then any other mean of traveling as you can enjoy a lot more moments of happiness.

12/06/2018 at 7:21 am

Great details! I’m going to save this for our trip to Vancouver sometime soon! I think a campervan would be great to check out all of these places. Thanks for sharing.

06/02/2019 at 6:32 am

Just found this blog while getting ideas for a trip we have planned in July. So far we have 3 nights in Vancouver and a motorhome for 10 nights booked and were thinking we’d want to cover Whistler, Tofino, Victoria and places in between, so all you tips are great!

09/04/2019 at 7:01 pm

Oh your website is so wonderful. I’m planning a holiday for 5 from the other side of the world and it’s just so helpful to understand what’s possible in a day, and also what’s preferable. Travelling with kids just isn’t factored in to many travel blogs/advice. Thanks so much for taking the time to put this together – you’ve saved me so much time and angst!

09/16/2019 at 12:01 pm

You’re very welcome. I’m so glad you found the post helpful!

07/31/2023 at 10:12 am

We’ve been planning a trip to BC for awhile and overwhelmed with all there is to do and see in that beautiful part of the country, so this article was particularly appealing. Great ideas and so thorough. You’ve condensed much of the information it’s taken me days to uncover into one source. So very, very helpful. Thank you.

07/31/2023 at 12:13 pm

Great! Thanks for the feedback. I’m glad you found this post helpful. Let us know if you have any questions – we know this area very well.

08/19/2023 at 12:50 pm

As someone who also values the beauty of British Columbia, I have to agree that it’s a truly exceptional place to visit. The way you’ve highlighted the best of both worlds, with city life and natural wonders, is fantastic. I’m especially drawn to your recommendations for outdoor activities like hiking, whale watching, and the Peak 2 Peak 360 Experience in Whistler – those moments are what make a road trip unforgettable.

Thanks for sharing your local insights on where to stay, dine, and the hidden gems along the way.

Cheers, Femi.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Yes - Subscribe me to your monthly newsletter!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This site uses cookies. You can find out more information about the data we collect on our Privacy Policy page.

• Things To Do
• Food & Drink
• Content Guidelines
• Partnerships
• Curiocity on Facebook
• Curiocity on Twitter
• Curiocity on Youtube
• Curiocity on Pinterest
• Curiocity on Instagram

Our cities are ever-evolving and full of exciting, untapped potential. We exist to help people navigate it all.

7 scenic road trip destinations to check out in BC this winter

Who says winter can't be a time for road trips??

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on Pinterest
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Whatsapp
• Share in an Email

While summer might be the classic road trip season, Vancouverites can certainly plan a cozy winter getaway and still have plenty of options when it comes to hitting the open road. After all, there are a ton of winter cabins with hot tubs and festive towns to check out around B.C., so why not take advantage of all the season has to offer? Here are 7 scenic road trips you can take from Vancouver this winter.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Tourism Tofino (@tourismtofino)

Yes, even in wintertime – Tofino is one scenic spot, and definitely ranks as a top road trip destination no matter the season. Fill your car with surfboards (or just rent them when you get there) and enjoy a bit of winter surfing. The scenic journey will begin with a ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Vancouver Island, and end with a drive through massive old-growth forests on the way to the surf capital of the country – plus, one of the greatest beaches in the world!

Join their annual  Jingle into Christmas  tradition and walk down the beach, meet local merchants & vendors around town, and visit the outdoor Tofino Night Market.

Where:  Vancouver Island, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 5.5 hours

Bordered by the beautiful Okanagan Lake and Lake Kalamalka, Vernon is a BC hot spot for many reasons. Hike along the rail trail, stay afloat on one of the three inviting lakes, go wine tasting, bike your way through the challenging bike trails, or take a stroll along the cute little downtown street, which is lined with holiday decor this time of year. Consider Vernon as the less crowded version of Kelowna. Sweeping views and tons to do, minus the waves of tourists.

Where: Okanagan Valley, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 5 hours

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Destination Osoyoos (@osoyoosbc)

Even smaller than Vernon is the cute town of Osoyoos, home to Canada’s only desert. Apart from the unreal views all around, two things make Osoyoos perfect for a chill-cation: Great wineries, beautiful beaches, and snow-capped mountains that envelop you in winter charm. Everywhere you look, you’ll find a lake which means you can easily go for a cold plunge, if that’s your thing. Or you can hit the slopes at Mount Baldy and check out the all-new tube park , visit the Art Gallery, or peruse the cute cafes and specialty shops on Main Street.

Whether you take the oft-travelled Trans Canada Highway or opt for the extra scenic Highway 7 to Highway 1 route, Kelowna is a hot spot for foodies, wine enthusiasts, and folks looking for their next outdoor adventure no matter the time of year. Regardless of whether or not you fall in love with BC bubbly while you’re there, there’s still plenty to do by way of outdoor fun.

Feel like switching things up? Take a quick detour to Merritt, BC – the country music capital of Canada. The small town has all the charm, history, and friendliness you’d expect, and they’re very proud of the slew of iconic artists who have performed there. Think Keith Urban, The Dixie Chicks, and Tim McGraw – the classics.

Where: Okanagan Valley, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 4 hours

Recent Posts: This popular winter terrace with holiday lights is returning to Vancouver next month A huge Christmas festival with over one million lights is coming to Langley next month

Photo via Shutterstock

Lillooet is your typical BC beauty lined with mountains, lakes, and rushing creeks scattered in the hilly areas. Naturally, there are enough trails and water activities to keep you busy all day long, plus a ton of first-come-first-serve campsites that are perfect for getting away from the city and enjoying a good campfire & smores setup. So long as you have plenty of layers and are okay with the cold!

Where: Northeast of Vancouver, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 3.5 hours

Harrison Hot Springs Village

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Harrison River Valley (@tourismharrison)

Soothing hot waters, quiet spas and relaxing massages are what come to mind when thinking of Harrison Hot Springs. And so for that reason, we want to put the hot springs on your road trip map this winter.

Where: Fraser Valley, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 1.5 hours

Skagit Valley Provincial Park

Did someone say winter hike? Skagit Valley Provincial Park is a stunning place to set up shop for a day or two – and it’s not just a hike-bike-fish-boat destination. Of course, you can do all of those things in the summertime, but it’s also a great spot to enjoy different climate zones. First, you’ll encounter a fir and fern-covered damp rainforest along the coast. As you climb higher, however, you’ll find yourself treading the dry, rocky, pine-lined forest. Definitely a worthwhile adventure, if you ask us!

Where: Hope, BC Drive time from Vancouver: 4.25 hours

And that’s the list, Vancouver. We hope you make the most of the season and get in some quality road trips while the weather is fair and hit the slopes!

Curiocity Staff

Read more in things to do.

North Vancouver's free night market will have live DJs and an outdoor beer garden

5 plant sales to check out in Metro Vancouver to fulfill your garden dreams

Go Canucks, go! What to know about catching the next Vancouver playoff game

Justin Timberlake is in Vancouver tonight & here's how much last-minute tickets cost

The best of your city in 5 minutes or less..

Curiocity’s newsletter has the deals, stories, recommendations, and tips you actually want to see - right to your inbox twice a week.

• * Required fields
• Email Address *

By subscribing, I agree to the Terms & Privacy Policy .

The 21 Best Day Trips From Vancouver (In 2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2023

Categories Canada

British Columbia is a beautiful part of Canada with green forests, impressive mountains , and a long and rugged coastline.

While you should definitely spend a couple of days in Vancouver , there are lots of great day trips around Vancouver.

It doesn't matter if you are looking to spend some time at a lovely lake , overcome your fears while walking a 70-meter (230 ft) high suspension bridge, or hop on a short ferry ride to explore quaint little Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast, this post with the best day trips from Vancouver has got you covered!

The best day trips from Vancouver

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Vancouver best day trips

In this article, you'll find a list of the best day trips to take from Vancouver, British Columbia. These day trips are all within driving distance and can be comfortably visited in one day.

This post has been created in collaboration with several other travel bloggers, who have kindly shared their expert advice about their favorite Vancouver day trips.

Each of the Vancouver tours mentioned in this post can be visited independently (by car, ferry, coach, or public transport).

However, if you prefer, there are also some really great guided tours. Here is my top 5:

• North Shore day trip from Vancouver (Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain)
• Sunshine Coast Escape (small group tour)
• The Great Squamish day trip from Vancouver
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip from Vancouver
• Whistler small-group day trip from Vancouver

Day trips from Vancouver: map

On the map above you can find all the day trips included in this post.

Click here for the interactive map .

21 best Vancouver day trips

• Abbotsford ( 1 hour, 70 km)
• Alouette Lake ( 1 hour 15 minutes, 65 km)
• Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park ( 1 hour 20 minutes, 120 km)
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park ( 10 minutes, 9 km)
• Garibaldi Lake ( 1 hour and 30 minutes, 100 km)
• George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (45 minutes, 35 km)
• Gibsons ( 30 minutes by car + 40-minute by ferry, 46 km)
• Grouse Mountain ( 30 minutes, 12 km)
• Harrison Hot Springs ( 1 hour and 30 minutes, 132 km)
• Horseshoe Bay ( 30 minutes, 21 km)
• Ladner Creek Trestle ( 2 hours, 180 km)
• Lynn Canyon Park ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Nanaimo (25 minutes by car + 1 hour and 40 minutes by ferry, 81 km)
• Pemberton ( 2 hours, 154 km)
• Porteau Cove ( 30 minutes, 45 km)
• Richmond ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Salt Spring Island ( 45 minutes by car + 1 hour and 25 minutes by ferry , 85 km)
• Squamish (60 minutes, 65 km)
• Steveston ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Victoria ( 45 minutes by car + 1 hour and 30 minutes by ferry + plus 45-60 minutes by bus, 116 km)
• Whistler ( 1 hour and 40 minutes, 120 km)

1. Abbotsford

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour (70 km)

Why you should visit Abbotsford

Claudia from The Travelling Mom : situated in the agricultural heart of the Fraser Valley is the sprawling community of Abbotsford.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia, Abbotsford proudly maintains its farming roots with orchards and U-Pick blueberry fields lining the back roads and highways.

Abbotsford's small and walkable downtown has seen an influx of millennial entrepreneurs opening up coffee shops, bakeries, chic boutiques, and excellent farm-to-table restaurants that are still, for now, local secrets. 

Spend a day trip sipping high tea at Tracycakes or nourish the body with fresh juice from the Habit Project.

Linger over a leisurely brunch of creamed mushrooms on toast and fluffy pancakes at Little Brother, where everything from the butter to the yogurt is made from scratch.

Wander the curated aisles of Spruce Collective, a treasure-trove of housewares and gifts, cruise the stacks at Hemingway’s Books or find your next favorite outfit at Montrose & George General Store.

Walk off the day’s feasting with a stroll around the lake at Willband Creek Park. Keep an eye out for the more than 230 species of birds that frequent this wild space, including blue herons, ducks, finches, and bald eagles!

Where to stay in Abbotsford

If you decide to spend more than one day in Abbotsford, the Brookside Inn is a lovely boutique hotel just out of town.

Alternatively, the Sandman Hotel and Suites is located in the city center of Abbotsford and rooms have a fully equipped kitchen, washer, and dryer.

2. Alouette Lake

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour 15 minutes (65 km)

Why you should visit Alouette Lake

Bailey from Destinationless Travel : one of the best short road trips from Vancouver is Alouette Lake.

You see, contrary to popular belief, swimming in a beautiful lake surrounded by mountain peaks isn’t just an activity done in Whistler . Alouette Lake is actually located right in Maple Ridge!

From Vancouver city center it takes a little over an hour (by car) to get to Alouette Lake, making it an ideal day trip without having to do too much driving.

In fact, Vancouver’s Park Bus operates from downtown Vancouver to Alouette Lake so you don’t even need a car!

Alouette Lake is a pristine freshwater lake, a perfect place for swimming, picnics, fishing, or even boating. There is actually a designated swimming area near a beach with both a grass and sand area.

There are picnic tables and bathroom facilities and it is common to see many families hanging out for the day with BBQs set up.

Alouette Lake is located within Golden Ears Provincial Park. Within the park, there are many hiking trails and even campgrounds. So, if you want to turn your day trip into a weekend trip, you can!

Important note: during the summer months the park can get very busy and the parking lot fills up quickly. So it’s best to head to there in the morning to beat the crowds!

Where to stay around Alouette Lake

If you are planning to spend more than a day around Alouette Lake, check out this lovely villa located near Maple Ridge.

3. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour 20 minutes (120 km)

Why you should visit Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Shev from Shev Strolls : Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park is a popular pit stop for road-trippers heading to and from the West Coast.

The easy access point from Highway 1 is halfway between Hope and Abbotsford (see #1) making it a great place to get out, stretch your legs, and enjoy a waterfall!

The provincial accessible site consists of a parking area with washrooms, picnic tables, and plenty of shade from the ancient trees. Once parked, you embark on the short, 10-15 minute hike through the trees to the base of the falls.

The walk itself is gorgeous as it weaves back and forth over Bridal Falls creek up to the base of the falls.

While it's only a short walk, you can easily make an event of it by taking photos with the mossy, fallen logs, and little babbling trickles of water down the creek.

To top it off, the walk to Bridal Falls is also totally wheelchair accessible!

If you are looking for another gorgeous stroll through the woods, The Othello Tunnels in Hope are also worth the visit, though they have been closed the last year or so because of weather damage.

Where to stay near the Bridal Veil Falls

Camperland Bridal Falls RV Resort & Cabins is the closest accommodation near the park (just 1km from the entrance).

Alternatively, take a 15-minute drive to the comfortable and well-reviewed Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Chilliwack. Both are nice places to stay if you plan to explore more sights in the area.

4. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 10 minutes (9 km)

Why you should visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Carol from Wandering Carol: the Capilano Suspension Bridge (pictured above) is much more than a bridge, it’s a step into a West Coast rainforest of towering evergreens, fragrant cedars, boardwalks, canyons, and ponds.

In addition to crossing the dramatic suspension bridge, which is 137 meters (450 feet) long and hovers 70 meters (230 feet) over the Capilano River, you can catch your breath from the panoramic views on the Cliffwalk.

This cantilevered walkway curls around a granite cliff high over the Capilano Canyon. Or try the Treetops Adventure, which will give you a bird’s eye view of the forest floor.

The easiest way to get here is with the free shuttle that leaves from specific downtown pickup points including Canada Place and runs year-round.

One of  Vancouver's top attractions , the suspension bridge is only 20 minutes away from downtown, but it feels like a dreamy world away!

Purchase your online ticket here.

5. Garibaldi Lake

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes (100 km)

Why you should visit Garibaldi Provincial Park

Erika from Erika’s Travels : Garibaldi Provincial Park lies an hour and a half north of the city of Vancouver, along British Columbia’s Sea to Sky Highway .

Featuring turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and evergreen forests, the park is a popular refuge for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Garibaldi Provincial Park contains over 90km of hiking trails, the area’s most popular hikes begin at the Rubble Creek trailhead. 

Mountain-ringed Garibaldi Lake is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in the provincial park. For stellar views of the blue-green water, many day-trippers choose to hike to the top of Panorama Ridge .

The hike to Panorama Ridge is a 34-kilometer (21 miles) round-trip haul that affords stunning views of Garibaldi Lake and Black Tusk Mountain. 

Due to the hike’s length and moderate level of difficulty, day-trippers from Vancouver should arrive at the trailhead by sunrise. Alternatively, campsites along the route cater to hikers who wish to spend multiple days in the area.

Though the hike to Panorama Ridge is a challenging climb to accomplish in a day, Garibaldi Lake’s jaw-dropping scenery has made the park an increasingly popular day trip from Vancouver. 

Where to stay near Garibaldi Lake

If you want to spend more than a day exploring Garibaldi Lake (and you really should!), my recommendation is to make a reservation at one of the campgrounds .

Alternatively, you can book a hotel in Whistler or stay in Squamish .

6. George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Driving distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes (35 km)

Why you should visit the Bird Sanctuary

Susanna from Curiosity Saves Travel : the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a great day trip from Vancouver, whether you are an avid birder or just someone who enjoys a relaxing nature walk.

The sanctuary is an hour south of downtown Vancouver and accessible by car ( click here for the best car rental deals ). Your experience will very much depend on the time of year you visit. In spring, millions of migratory birds pass through.

Early summer is the best time to see baby ducklings. Late summer and autumn are ideal for shorebirds like sandpipers and yellowlegs.

The Snow Goose is present for most of the winter months. You can easily spend about 2 hours walking the accessible winding gravel trails through forests where little songbirds flit about or along the river delta for chances to see soaring birds of prey.

Due to capacity limitations, you must reserve a parking spot online for either morning or afternoon. Once you park, you purchase an entrance ticket from the visitor center, learn about what birds are in the area, and get a map.

Don’t forget your binoculars and camera .

7. Gibsons (Sunshine Coast)

Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal (by car) followed by a 40-minute ferry ride to Gibsons (46 km).

Why you should visit Gibsons (and the Sunshine Coast in general!)

Gemma from Two Scots Abroad : the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia is a delightful all-season escape from the city. In fact, locals will joke that once you visit, you won't want to go back to Vancouver. 

Your coastal day trip starts with a forty-minute ferry ride from Vancouver to Gibsons. The ride is stunning in summer and in winter. You can choose a top deck seat to watch the scenery.

Gibsons is quite a big town in comparison to others on the coast. There are plenty of restaurants to dine at, some shops, and a handful of craft breweries. 

Sechelt, BC is another big town. One of my favorite things to do here is to watch the seaplanes arrive and depart while drinking a cold beverage. There is also a great paddleboard area just out of town. 

You can get around all the little towns and villages on the coast but you have to rely on public transport timing unless you rent a bike or travel by car. If you have a car, you can head far north, making pitstops at the many lakes. 

Where to stay in Gibsons

If you decide to spend more than a day on the Sunshine Coast (and once again I recommend that you do;-), the lovely Bonniebrook Lodge is a great place to stay.

Located just 5 km from downtown Gibsons, this historic lodge offers comfortable suites with a balcony and whirlpool tub. 

8. Grouse Mountain

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (12 km)

Why you should visit Grouse Mountain

Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia : take a leisurely Skyride to Grouse Mountain and you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean.

If are up for the challenge you can hike the grueling and challenging Grouse Grind mountain. 

Once on top of the mountains, you can see of grizzly bears at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, ravens, and eagles.

Don’t miss the lumberjack show where they compete against each other and showcase their skills in log rolling, a 60-foot tree climb, and axe throwing among others. 

There is plenty to do on the mountain, from ziplines to guided nature walks and hikes. Our favorite was the open chairlifts to the summit, soaring to an altitude of 1250 meter high (4100 feet) above sea level.

The scenic Peak Chairlift will transport you to the apex of Grouse Mountain. At the summit, the panorama is just a spectacular panorama.

You can easily spend half a day at Grouse Mountain, or more. Drive here from downtown Vancouver or take the free shuttle (only in summer) from Canada Place. Read more about the shuttle here .

Click here to book your tickets to Grouse Mountain

9. Harrison Hot Springs

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes (132 km)

Why you should visit Harrison Hot Springs

Lesley from Freedom56travel : Harrison Hot Springs is a fun day trip from Vancouver! An easy 90-minute drive from Vancouver, this little community is perched on the edge of beautiful Harrison Lake in the picturesque Fraser Valley. 

I suggest taking Highway 7 out to Harrison Hot Springs instead of Highway 1, this scenic drive is much nicer and less busy too!

A day trip in the summer is always a treat because you can swim in Harrison Lake.  There’s also great paddling via kayak and canoe in the lake and you can rent your watercraft at the Harrison Resort dock. 

One of the biggest attractions in Harrison Hot Springs is their Sasquatch, of course.

Described as ‘a bi-pedal mammal of exceptional size', this hairy beast is known to roam the Harrison Hot Springs area, with many reported sightings.

The Sasquatch is a beloved fixture in the oral tradition of the local First Nations people.

There are lots of great places to eat in Harrison Hot Springs, especially along Esplanade Ave in front of the lagoon. Try the Muddy Waters Café , near the Sasquatch statue.

10. Horseshoe Bay

Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes by car or 44 minutes from Waterfront station by train/bus (21 km).

Why you should visit Horseshoe Bay

Alex from The Swedish Nomad : Horseshoe Bay is a lovely town and an easy day trip from Vancouver. There are many quaint little shops and restaurants, where you can pick up a souvenir or two.

The Butter Lane Bake Shop and Tea House are some of the best places to buy mouthwateringly freshly baked goods. They also serve some of the finest teas.

If you are looking for a nice restaurant, I suggest eating at the Boathouse restaurant or Troll's. 

One of the most popular things to do in Horseshoe Bay is to explore the network of fjords by boat, either on your own or on a small cruise.

Furthermore, you can go scuba diving, kayaking, and animal spotting, or simply enjoy the beautiful views. From Horseshoe Bay, you can also visit lovely Bowen Island and Howe Sound. 

11. Ladner Creek Trestle

Driving distance from Vancouver: 2 hours (180 km)

Why you should visit the Ladner Creek Trestle

Roxy from The Coastal Campaign : the Ladner Creek Trestle near Hope is an epic little hike that makes for a great day trip from Vancouver!

The hike itself is relatively easy and it takes around 30 minutes to reach the old trestle bridge that used to form part of the Kettle Valley Railway. The trestle is a beautiful old bridge tucked away in the mountains, curving high over Ladner Creek and surrounded by pine trees.

The journey to the pullout on the Coquihalla Highway takes just over two hours from Vancouver.

To hike to the Ladner Creek Trestle, hang out and enjoy the view and make the return journey to the car park, which should take 1.5 – 2 hours.

Important note: while the trail is relatively easy, it is best done in summer to avoid snow on the ground or slippery terrain.

This hike is one of British Columbia's best-kept secrets, meaning you shouldn’t have to share the trail with too many other people. The view of this beautiful bridge is well worth the journey from Vancouver!

12. Lynn Canyon Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (16 km)

Why you should visit the Lynn Canyon Park

Claire from Backpacking Bella: the best day trip from Vancouver on our  cross-Canada adventure  was to the beautiful Lynn Canyon Park.

While you should also visit the famous Capilano Suspension bridge (mentioned earlier in this post), you can also find a suspension bridge in Lynn Canyon Park. This one is less crowded and (as an added bonus) totally free!

Lynn Canyon Park is located in North Vancouver, about half an hour’s drive from downtown Vancouver. Don't worry if you don't have a car, you can also get there by public transport (a journey by bus takes just over an hour).

Sure enough, Lynn Canyon Park has a suspended walkway where you can cross 50 meters above a scenic, tree-covered canyon, as a waterfall crashes far beneath you. But there is much more to this park besides the bridge!

Boulders and tree stumps are ready to be jumped on, serene swimming holes beg to be dived into and you can hike one of the many winding trails in this century-old forest.

Lynn Canyon Park is open daily all year round, except for Christmas and New Year. It has some great picnic spots and a cafe, though this is closed during the winter.

The park also has an ecology center which is great for kids. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes so you can properly explore this naturally stunning place!

If you're a photographer, grab your camera and book this excellent small-group photography tour of Lynn Canyon (led by a professional photographer guide).

13. Nanaimo

Distance from Vancouver: 25 minutes by car plus 1 hour and 40 minutes by ferry (81 km) .

Why you should visit Nanaimo

While most people head to Victoria (see #14), another great place to visit on Vancouver Island is Nanaimo.

As the second largest city on the island and the landing place for most people traveling to Vancouver Island by boat, Nanaimo is a great place to spend a day .

Stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway, admire the views over Protection Island, hike up to Mount Benson, and sample some tasty Nanaimo bars.

Have a drink at the Dinghy Dock Pub, visit the Nanaimo Museum and enjoy everything this lovely city on Vancouver Island has to offer.

Where to stay in Nanaimo

The Coast Bastion Hotel and AnnArthur Guest House are great places to spend the night if you decide to stay longer (and believe me, you'll want to stay much longer).

14. Pemberton

Driving distance from Vancouver: 2 hours (154 km)

Why you should visit Pemberton

Rachael from A City Girl Outside : Pemberton is one of the best day trips from Vancouver and a lesser-visited destination.

Pemberton is often overshadowed by nearby Whistler but there is plenty to do here and many hidden gems.

The town of Pemberton itself is a small quaint town a short 30 minutes north of Whistler, with a wonderful small-town vibe. It's surrounded by picturesque mountains and local farms.

Some of the best farms to visit in the Pemberton area are North Arm Farm and Laughing Crow Organics. North Arm Farm is the closest to the main Downtown area and is great for blueberry and strawberry picking, it also has amazing views of Mount Currie which towers over Pemberton.  

Laughing Crow Organics Farm can be found on Pemberton Meadows Road. The farm has an onsite craft brewery called the “Beer Farmers”.

Laughing Crow Organics offers seasonal events such as the tulip fields in the spring, the sunflower fields in late summer, and a pumpkin patch in the fall. 

Pemberton is also a hiker's paradise. One of the most famous hikes in British Columbia, Joffre Lakes, is just a 20-minute drive from the town of Pemberton. This popular hike leads to three stunning glacial blue lakes. 

Where to stay in Pemberton

The Pemberton Valley Lodge is the best place to stay in Pemberton. This centrally located hotel not only offers spacious and clean rooms but some of the best views in the Sea to Sky. 

15. Porteau Cove

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (45 km)

Why you should visit Porteau Cove

Riana of Teaspoon of Adventure : one of the best day trips from Vancouver is Porteau Cove. Porteau Cove Provincial Park is a beautiful campground and beach area between Vancouver and Whistler.

I love Porteau Cove because it’s super close to the city (only a 30-minute drive!) and has some of the most incredible views over Howe Sound and to the mountains. It’s an ideal campground because of its location and beauty. 

There’s a ton to do (when you’re done taking in the beautiful views). You can swim on the beach, go kayaking or canoeing, or even go scuba diving, as there is a man-made reef and sunken ships to explore.

There are trails and a small hill to hike. And at night, this place has the most stunning and bright view of the stars, completely unobstructed by the city lights. 

What's more: visiting the park for the day is free of charge!

Where to stay in Porteau Cove

If you have more time available, I would suggest booking a campsite for a couple of nights at Porteau Cove. Many of the sites are right on the water!

16. Richmond

Why you should visit Richmond

Kenny from Knycx Journeying : Richmond is a coastal city in the south of Vancouver and a member municipality of Metro Vancouver.

The city is close to the Vancouver International Airport, as well as the BC Ferries terminal that connects to Vancouver Island. 

The development of Richmond started with the influx of foreign immigrants decades ago, it is a wonderful location to add to a tourist’s Vancouver itinerary as it has an interesting and vibrant mix of cultures and heritages from all around the world.   

Visit the Britannia Shipyards, ride the Steveston Interurban Tram, explore the Richmond Museum, check out the Richmond Art Gallery, and go on a shopping spree at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet.

Don’t forget to sample all the authentic Asian cuisines or enjoy an afternoon tea at London Heritage Farm.

End your day trip and enjoy the view of sunset at Steveston Heritage Fishing Village (see #19). 

17. Salt Spring Island

Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes by car plus 1 hour and 25 minutes by ferry (85 km)

Why you should visit Salt Spring Island

Lina from Bucket List Places: the Vancouver area has hundreds of islands and coves that can be explored by boat or ferry but Salt Spring Island is one that will stick in your memory for years to come.

The eclectic town of Ganges, a popular stop on any Gulf Islands and  San Juan Islands boating itinerary , features dozens of art galleries, shops, and delicious restaurants which is worth the day trip just to explore the town itself. 

A drive and ferry take approximately 2.5 hours from Vancouver but there are also sea planes that have regular flights that can get you there even quicker.

Of course, if you want the ability to explore beyond the Ganges, bringing your own car is a must to see all the great things Salt Spring Island has to offer. 

Salt Spring Island has so many different activities to offer, anyone can find something that fits their wants.

From beach combing to hiking, and visiting art galleries to fine dining, Salt Spring is one of those places that you could really explore for days.

Where to stay on Salt Spring Island

If you find that one day is just not enough, make sure to spend the night at The Sanctuary Retreat and soak in the views in their bathtub. 

18. Squamish

Driving distance from Vancouver: 60 minutes (65 km)

Why you should visit Squamish

Lori from the Voyage Writers : one of the best day tours from Vancouver is Squamish! Located an hour from Vancouver, Squamish B.C. is often referred to as ‘the outdoor recreation capital of Canada'.

There are outdoor activities for every season and whether on the water or on land, there is something for everyone!

A popular activity is the Sea to Sky Gondola . Open all year round, the 10-minute gondola ride to the summit will take your breath away. Click here to book your tickets.

Through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the gondola, you’ll have sweeping views of the waters of Howe Sound, the coastal forest, and surrounding mountains. Furthermore, there are hiking trails, the Sky Pilot suspension bridge, and viewing platforms.

Or visit Shannon Falls Provincial Park for an easy stroll and to admire the third-highest waterfall in BC (335 meters).

Feeling hungry? There is a cafe at the Summit Lodge. Alternatively, head into town and check out the Squamish Tasting Trail for samples of cider beer, coffee, food, and dessert.

If you are driving, take the Sea to Sky Highway/Highway 99. Alternatively, there are shuttles and tours leaving from Vancouver.

Whatever you choose to do while in Squamish, you will surely appreciate the beautiful nature British Columbia has to offer!

Where to stay in Squamish

If you want to spend more time in Squamish, there are several hotels, motels, cabins, hostels, or campgrounds for overnight stays.

The Mountain Retreat is a good and affordable hotel, campsites can be found on this site or via the free  iOverlander app .

19. Steveston

Why you should visit Steveston

Toni from Enchanted Serendipity : Steveston, a seaside town just south of Vancouver, should be at the top of your list for any day trip out of Vancouver. 

Steveston is easily accessible from Vancouver by car and public transport. From Waterfront Station (which operates a Skyrail), you need to take the Canada Line (light blue) to Richmond – Brighouse Station. Then, catch a bus (#402) to Steveston Village.

There are other buses that get you to this area besides the #402 so I always use Google Maps for up-to-date transport information.

One way, it is a minimum journey of 45 minutes, but it can sometimes take just under an hour. 

So why do people make the effort to get down to Steveston? The entire town of Steveston is just quaint and charming and historic, but it’s not the only reason…

For some, it is the awesome marina views the harbor offers, I don’t think I have ever seen a more pretty seaside setting. Or the fish market which allows customers to purchase fresh fish right off the fishing boats themselves.

But for me and many like me, it is the filming locations that can be found here. Steveston features as the charming town Storybrooke in the ABC drama ‘ Once Upon A Time ‘.

In fact, 90% of exterior shots from the show were filmed here! The shooting locations can be found along Moncton Street if you are a fan of the series you will immediately recognize it the minute you arrive.

Fans of the series Supernatural will also recognize Steveston from key episodes. Other productions from ‘X-Files' to ‘Sliders' have used cute little Steveston as a filming location too.

When you’re walking around the town it's easy to see why. Filming locations aside, Steveston is just a beautiful place.

It holds so much history within it, given it was founded in the 1880s. History buffs will get a lot out of a visit here. No matter what you decide to do there, an afternoon or full day here is a real highlight.

I lived in Vancouver and Steveston was one of my best memories from all of the explorings I did, as well as that of my friends!

20. Victoria

Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes by car plus 90 minutes by ferry plus another 45-60 minutes by bus (116 km).

Why you should visit Victoria

One of the prettiest cities in Canada as well as the capital city of British Columbia is Victoria.

While Victoria it's quite a journey for one day (why not spend a weekend in Victoria ), it is doable, though not recommended with young kids.

From Vancouver, it takes approximately 45 minutes by car to drive to Tsawassen where the ferry departs to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island.

The ferry takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, however, it's an activity in itself as the scenery is stunning. If you are very lucky you may even spot a killer whale!

From Swartz Bay, it's another 45-60 minutes to downtown Victoria by bus (bus 70 or 72). Altogether, expect the journey to take at least 4 hours.

Once you have arrived in Victoria, visit the beautiful British Columbia Parliament Building. You can do a free tour or visit independently.

Across the Parliament Building is the Fairmont Empress Hotel , where you can enjoy the hugely popular  Tea at the Empress .

Walk along the Inner Harbor and soon you will arrive in the historic center of Victoria, with beautiful old buildings, colorful street art (especially in Chinatown), and lots of cute shops and cafes.

Families with kids should visit the petting zoo and playgrounds in Beacon Hill Park, while nature lovers can join a whale-watching tour .

Take a stroll around Fisherman's Wharf or visit Craigdarroch Castle, an impressive mansion built by Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish-Canadian coal mine developer.

Before you head back to Vancouver, eat some tacos at Tacofino or grab a beer at one of the many breweries .

Where to stay in Victoria

If you decide to spend more than a day in Victoria (which is highly recommended because Victoria is such a fun and friendly city) there are lots of accommodation options, suitable for any budget.

Luxury travelers will want to stay at the aforementioned 5-star Fairmont Empress Hotel . The  Helms Inn  and the Oswego Hotel are excellent options if you're looking to spend a bit less on accommodation. Be sure to check out my Victoria hotel guide for more details.

Camping on Vancouver Island is another good option, there are many beautiful sites, both official campgrounds as well as free sites.

21. Whistler

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 40 minutes (120 km)

Why you should visit Whistler

Whistler is also called British Columbia's best outdoor escape and with reason. No matter the season of your visit, there are always lots of things to do in Whistler!

From hiking one of the many trails in summer to riding the snowy slopes from the end of November until late April.

From fun festivals in autumn, such as the Whistler Village Beer Festival and Whistler Writers Festival, to the annual World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April, Whistler is fun all year!

An absolutely spectacular activity is a glacier tour by floatplane . On this 30-minute flight, you can admire green alpine meadows, rugged snow-capped peaks, and the blue waters of Garibaldi Lake from the sky.

Or take the Guinness World Record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola to the top of Blackcomb Mountain.

The views from the longest and highest Gondola in the world are breathtaking and there are more excellent hiking trails at the top. Click here to book your Peak 2 Peak Gondola ticket.

Whistler's center is a pedestrian-only area with colorful houses, restaurants, and shops. Go for a stroll, take your picture at the Olympic Rings (see above) or get an ice cream at Cows .

A great (and very affordable) place to grab some lunch is Purebread , a family bakery with an extensive selection of freshly baked goodies.

Where to stay in Whistler

If you want to spend more time in and around Whistler, the Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel is a great option right in the village center.

Plan your Canada trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals with Kiwi.com . ? Rent a campervan for your Canada road trip (or a car via Rentalcars.com ). ? Arrange your Canada working holiday with Global Work & Travel . ? Plan your journey with the Canada Lonely Planet . ?️ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ? Join the best tours in Canada via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Vancouver day trips: in conclusion

I hope this post has given you lots of inspiration to spend a bit more time in Vancouver and the surrounding area. As you have read, there are many worthwhile Vancouver day tours, suitable for all types of travelers.

If you plan to travel more in Canada , also read these posts:

• 25 most charming small towns in Canada
• 40 things to do on Vancouver Island
• Canada travel budget
• Buy a car or camper van in Canada as a tourist
• A guide to the cute town of Nelson BC

17 fantastic day trips from Vancouver you need to take

There’s nothing like packing up the car for a day trip adventure within your own backyard. From Vancouver, you don’t have to venture too far out of the city to experience an exciting escape that can transform your state of mind from urban to wild in just a few hours. Whether it’s tiptoeing through tulips in Abbotsford , riding a tram over a rushing river gorge or ziplining in Whistler , these 17 day trips from Vancouver will help you support local and explore your own wonderful, west coast backyard.

17 fantastic day trips from Vancouver

Get ready to enjoy some of the best places in Metro Vancouver! These incredible Vancouver day trip destinations offer something for everyone. Note: Distances are measured departing from downtown Vancouver.

Discover Abbotsford in the Fraser Valley

Abbotsford is an agricultural and bible belt community in the Fraser Valley. It’s also one of the fastest growing cities in British Columbia. The bustling shops, cafes and restaurants in its downtown show the new energy that’s making Abbotsford a destination for day trippers from the city.

In the city’s historic downtown, enjoy healthy pressed juices at the HABIT Project. Sip roasted coffee goodness at Oldhand Café and savor unicorn cakes at Tracycakes, more baked goodies at Duft and Co Bakehouse and tasty seafood at Bow and Stern.

Looking to tipple? Go mead tasting at Campbell’s Gold Honey Farm, sample award-winning wines at Singletree Winery, or sip great craft ales and lagers at Fieldhouse Brewing.

Need to work off the food coma? The Discovery Trail connects the city with an extensive trail system that winds through forests, ponds, parks and includes off-leash dog areas.

Birders will enjoy the peace and avian life at Willband Creek Park. Keep an eye out for some of the 230 different bird species in this lovely urban wetland, including herons, hawks, eagles and smaller birds.

Distance: 90 km

Use the map below to search for hotel and short-term rental options

Board the boat to Bowen Island

The scenic 20-minute short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island is a journey to a laid-back day of island life. Bowen Island is one of our favorite and best day trips, and was once a popular holiday destination for mainlanders, who arrived via the Union Steamship Company. You can still book charming USC historical cottages for a weekend stay. 

For day trippers, enjoy a beautiful hike around Killarney Lake or a brisk and hilly bike ride along the island’s winding roads. 

Pop into the Snug Cove or Artisan Square shops (and Cocoa West for chocolate) for beach picnic supplies to enjoy in Crippen Park or Cape Roger Curtis.

If you’re feeling active, rent kayaks in the Cove to paddle along the shoreline, or tighten your boots for a climb up Mount Gardener, the highest point on the island.

Distance: 27 km (car and ferry)

Chill out in Chilliwack

Head east into the sprawling farmland of Chilliwack for fresh air adventures. Check out the hiking trails at Cheam Peak or walks in Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park. You’ll find family fun at Cultus Lake Adventure Park, including a water park, roller coaster and other rides to keep the littles and older tweens busy all day. 

This is prime agricultural land so don’t leave without a baker’s dozen of supersweet Chilliwack corn from the green and yellow drive-in Corn Barn during summertime. Wander through the sunflower fields in August, and the corn mazes and pumpkin patches in fall.

Take a detour north off of Highway 1 towards Agassiz and Harrison Mills to check out the Kilby Historic Site. This museum of rural life includes townsite buildings from the early 20 th century.

Food: Shandhar Hut Indian Cuisine, Bubba’s Big Bites, Corner Nook Café. 

Distance: 110 km

Explore Squamish

Head north for a scenic 45-minute drive (depending on the Sea to Sky Highway) for a fun day trip to Squamish. Squamish does bill itself as the “Adventure Capital of Canada.” So if mountain biking, kite surfing, hiking and river rafting are up your sleeve, welcome to an adventurous day in paradise. 

But even if you have no intention of doing any of those activities, you will have a grand day out in this vibrant mountain town.

Stop at Porteau Cove to walk out onto the pier and look for seals and scuba divers. Pan for gold or delve deep into the mines at the brilliant and family-friendly Britannia Mine Museum , in Britannia Beach, a village of the Sea to Sky Highway.

Stop at Shannon Falls to admire the rushing waterfall. Ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for stunning views of the Howe Sound Fjord and Garibaldi mountain range. Cross the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge if you dare (it’s not that bad, really). Or enjoy a free interpretive tour with a First Nations guide along the Spirit Trail.

Outdoorsy types will enjoy hiking to the summit of the Stawamus Chief, an impressive granite monolith. Others will be content trying to spot the tiny dots of humans rock climbing the face.

Food: Refuel at the Watershed Grill,  Fergie’s Café at SunWolf or Sunny Chiba’s.

Distance: 64 km

Tour Fort Langley and Langley Township

Travel back in time to the 19 th century Fort Langley National Historic Site, the ‘ birthplace of British Columbia .’ This former Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading hub is located along the Fraser River. It’s a great place to enjoy live demonstrations of blacksmithing, oak barrel making and gold panning. 

From the Fort, enjoy a stroll through the lovely shops, cafes and restaurants in the small downtown of Fort Langley . Take a self-guided Circle Farm Tour of local farms, dairies, and wineries. Sample artisanal cheeses, fruit and dairy products, and visit with the family farm animals.

Food: Saba Cafe and Bistro, Wendel’s Bookstore & Café, The Bench

Distance: 48 km

Discover the Shipyards District

The  Shipyards District is located on the North Vancouver waterfront and is accessible by car, though it’s more fun to get to by SeaBus cruise (just 12 minutes) from downtown Vancouver. 

Once dominated by the city’s shipbuilding industry, the Shipyards is now home to art galleries, shops and a bustling public market. It’s also got fabulous views of the Vancouver city skyline, especially at sunset time. 

Check out the rotating art exhibits at the Polygon Gallery with admission by donation. Stroll the more than 80 shops and stalls at Lonsdale Quay Market, including fresh food, sushi, pizza, artisanal pickles and the Market Kitchen. Take a public art walking tour of the area and stay on the lookout for astrolabs, a one-armed mariner with a trumpet and 50 miniature cows.

Still looking for north shore activities? Take a walk in Lynn Canyon Park and cross the suspension bridge – it’s free! Rent kayaks in Deep Cove. This small village in North Vancouver is the perfect launch point for a day on the water. You can rent single or double kayaks on site or launch your own in Panorama Park.

Paddle over to Jug Island near Belcarra Regional Park or head up Indian Arm if you’re up for a challenge. Refuel for lunch at Honey’s Doughnuts in the Cove, then tackle the popular Quarry Rock Hike for a great view of Burrard Inlet and the city skylines of Burnaby and Vancouver.

Distance: 15-20 km

Ride up to Grouse Mountain and explore Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Two north shore attractions offer exciting opportunities for spending the day outside, especially for families. The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a 140 metre (460 ft) long suspension bridge that’s 70 metres (230 ft) above the Capilano River. And FYI, crossing it is not for anyone who’s afraid of heights or bouncy bridges. You’ve been warned.

The Park also includes a story centre, guided history and nature tours, and a fun Treetops Adventure with seven suspended footbridges. The brave can attempt the Cliffwalk whose narrow, cantilevered bridges, stairs and platforms follow a granite precipice along the River.

Grouse Mountain , the Peak of Vancouver, is accessible via the Skyride Gondola and is a popular winter destination with skiing, riding, skating and snowshoeing.

During the summer months, visitors can enjoy zip lines, a wildlife refuge with two famous grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola, lumberjack shows, a Theatre in the Sky, and delicious nachos and stellar sunset views at the restaurant.

Distance: 12 km

Head to Harrison Hot Springs

The village of Harrison Hot Springs is ‘just up the road,’ that road being Highway 1, to be exact. Situated on beautiful Harrison Lake, the small town was indeed made famous by its two hot springs, as well as the legendary Sasquatch. There’s even a museum dedicated to the famous mythical creature which makes for a fascinating visit.

In addition to boating, fishing, hiking, biking and sandcastle-building, the hot springs are a big draw for visitors. The public can access the hot springs at the public pool in the centre of the village. 

There’s a great lakefront walk to view the sunset, and more than two dozen restaurants and cafes to service visitors. Our favorites include Morgan’s Bistro, Black Forest Restaurant and Muddy Waters Café. 

Distance: 132 km 

Ride the Hell’s Gate AirTram

An attraction that combines the history of the province’s exploration with the thrill of crossing a raging river, Hell’s Gate Airtram is one of the steepest fully suspended trams in North America. 

When you aboard the tram you are leaving the Cascade Mountain range and docking at the foot of the Coast Pacific Mountain Range. The Tram is a double reversible cable way that crosses the 110 foot wide “Hell’s Gate” gorge.

Visit during the spring runoff in May/June to get the full rush of the river flowing through what explorer Simon Fraser called an ‘awesome gorge”.

Food: Hell’s Gate has food service, but if you have time to venture slightly further north, check out JB’s Drive-In diner in Boston Bar.

Distance: 220 km

Take a self-guided tour of Vancouver’s public art murals

As day trips from Vancouver go, this one’s a bit of a cheat as it’s in the city. But, heading to East Vancouver for the  Vancouver Mural Festival is worth it, I promise. The Festival is the city’s largest free public art celebration, having commissioned a wide variety of exterior mural paintings as part of its annual public art program.

Mural enthusiasts can download a free interactive map to plan a self-guided walking route. There are 100 murals in the city’s Mount Pleasant neighbourhood alone, as well as others in the South Granville and Chinatown communities.

You can easily spend a day discovering vibrant and colourful works of art brightening up industrial buildings and around street corners.

In terms of fueling your wanders, there are loads of independent coffee shops, craft breweries, doughnuteries and restaurants along the mural route in the Mount Pleasant and Olympic Village communities.

Some of our favorites include; JJ Bean, Terra Bread, Tacofino Ocho, Purebread, BREWHALL, Brassneck Brewery, and Cartems Donuts.

Distance: In the city

Tour the Othello Tunnels east of Hope

*Note the tunnels are currently under repair and closed to the public.

The  Othello Tunnels are located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park in Hope, about two hours east of Vancouver. Cut into the solid granite mountain walls of the Coast Mountain Range, the Tunnels are a series of decommissioned train tunnels and bridges that used to house a railway linking the coast with the interior. 

The tunnels are now popular pathways with minimal grade which is ideal for an easy stroll. It’s a 3.5 km round trip walk through the tunnel system. Visitors are encouraged to bring flashlights to illuminate some of the longer tunnels. 

Between the tunnels, the path crosses several bridges to reveal steep, rugged cliffs above, and the rushing Coquihalla River below. The Othello Tunnels are part of the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail.

Food: In Hope, try Home Restaurant, Owl Street Café, Kibo Japanese Grill.

Distance: 170 km

Visit Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary in Ladner

One of our family’s favorite places to discover where the wild things are is Reifel Bird Sanctuary. It takes about 30 minutes to leave city life behind as you get back to the natural beauty of the sanctuary and view hundreds of bird species that flock (see what I did there?) to Reifel.

Be sure to bring binoculars for birdwatching as you wander the trails and pop into the bird blinds. Spring migration brings the spectacular and unforgettable show of snow geese on route back to northern feeding grounds. You can purchase a bag of seed at the entrance for the kids to feed the ducks and black-capped chickadees.

To make this a full and lovely day out, visit the Sanctuary on a summer Sunday to coincide with the popular Ladner Village Market.

Food: In Ladner, try Il Posto, Sharkey’s Seafood Bar & Grille, Pho Haven Restaurant.

Distance: 33 km

Get suburban in Surrey

If you think you know Surrey , guess what? The fastest-growing city in British Columbia has a lot more going on than many people think. And not just when it comes to delicious Indian cuisine, courtesy of the vibrant Indo-Canadian community that live here.

Check out the free and very kid-friendly Museum of Surrey. Enjoy tasty homemade lunch with a side of NYC at West Village Café. Or scones and honey at the Honeybee Centre. Adults will enjoy craft ales and gin at Central City Brewers and Distillers. 

Surrey is double the size of Vancouver. There is a huge amount of green space to explore, including walks in Green Timbers Urban Forest, or along the shoreline at Blackie Spit Park. 

Popular Bear Creek Park has a running track, nature trails, Arts Centre, outdoor pool, and gardens. Holland Park, the city’s “Central Park” of Surrey City Centre is 10 hectares (25 acres) of sports fields, basketball courts, a playground and lots of picnicking areas. The park is also home to the Holland Gardens, which include a large central amphitheater and water fountain.

Venture on a culinary journey along the Surrey Spice Trail . Enjoy a world of flavours from around Southern Asian, like sizzling hot kebabs at Tasty Indian Bistro, or vegan kachaloo or meaty lamb dishes at Afghan Kitchen.

Distance: 34 km

Take the train to Richmond

Discover the Lower Mainland with an inexpensive fun day trip on public transit. A 20-minute ride on the Canada Line from downtown Vancouver to Richmond delivers some of the best and most varied Asian cuisine in the region.

Stroll past Chinese BBQ food stalls at Parker Place Mall or enjoy refined dim sum at Chef Tony. Stop into one of dozens of restaurants along Alexandra, aka Food Street. You’ll find everything from laksa soup to ocean-fresh sushi to lobster sticky rice. 

Leave space to spend the evening enjoying hurricane potatoes, takoyaki, bubble tea and market trinkets at the Richmond Night Market. Conveniently located at the Bridgeport station of the Canada Line.

Distance: 15 km

Wander the campus of the University of British Columbia

This may come as a surprise, but the University of British Columbia (UBC) is technically not part of the city of Vancouver. It’s also much more than just a place of higher learning. In fact, there are so many things to do, you could make a weekend out of enjoying all the activities at UBC.

Discover world-class museums like the Museum of Anthropology (MOA) and Beatty Biodiveristy Museum . Wander through peaceful public gardens like the Nitobe and the UBC Botanical Garden. (Note: This is home to the UBC Apple Festival in October) 

Get up into the trees along the Greenheart Treewalk canopy adventure and check out the veggies growing at UBC Farm. Then enjoy a walk, bike ride or forest bathing in the lush emerald green forest of the Endowment Lands. 

Pacific Spirit Park surrounds much of the UBC campus and includes some natural gems, including Camosun Bog, and the clothing-optional Wreck Beach.

Located just south of the UBC campus down a steep set of steps, Wreck Beach is open and accessible all year round. In summer, the beach features warm sand, sheltered spots near large logs, and the perfect place to watch a summer sunset. 

At nearly 8 km long, Wreck Beach is the largest naturist (nude) beach in North America. Visitors are encouraged to be clothing-optional, or to be respectful of those who choose to be naturist in their enjoyment of nature. 

Food: Jamjar Canteen, Virtuous Pie, Pacific Poke

Distance: 10 km  

Explore Whistler Village

The 2010 Winter Olympic Game host village of Whistler is a great day trip from Vancouver. The Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler is a phenomenal driving route : it’s a destination in itself.

Whistler offers something for everyone – active adventures like skiing, mountain biking, hiking and ziplining . And indoor pursuits like escape rooms, museums and First Nations centers.

During the summer months , climb aboard the Whistler Gondola for a ride up to Whistler Mountain. Enjoy an alpine hike, cross the Cloudraker Skybridge and a ride on the Peak to Peak gondola. Keep an eye out for black bears and cubs as you ascend or hike down the mountain. 

Summer mountain biking and ziplining are great family-friendly options in the great outdoors. Or walk or rent touring bikes and cruise around Lost Lake. 

For a higher-culture adventures indoors, visit the Audain Art Gallery or Lil-wat Cultural Centre. Or try Whistler’s Escape Room or Forged Axe Throwing for a serious adrenalin rush.

Our guide to the dining options in Whistler village will help you find something delicious for everyone in the family.

Distance: 120 km 

Visit Victoria via BC Ferries

BC’s provincial capital of Victoria on Vancouver Island can be a day trip from Vancouver. But it’s a long one, due to the 1.5 hour ferry ride at either end. But don’t let that stop you from considering a truly grand day out across the Salish Sea.

Catch an early ferry and fill your visit to Victoria with these must do activities. Start at Butchart Gardens , which is on the way from the ferry terminal. Enjoy a stroll through the 55 acres of beautiful floral displays, water features and quarries. You can even bring your pup. The Gardens are dog-friendly.

Take a scenic drive along Dallas Road. Stop for a walk in Beacon Hill Park to enjoy nature and the Children’s Farm with its goats and peacocks.

In the downtown, enjoy an al fresco lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish in the Harbour, followed by a visit to the Royal BC Museum and stroll past the BC Legislature.  

Visit stately Craigdarroch Castle mansion, wander through Chinatown, and don’t miss narrow Fan Tan Alley, or book a food tour with Taste of Victoria to discover the wide variety of cuisine options in the city. Enjoy a formal dinner at the Courtney Room at the Magnolia Hotel, or a more casual meal at Pizza Prima Strada or Ferris’ Grill & Oyster Bar before you head back home.

Tip: Be sure to reserve your ferry departures via BC Ferries.

Distance: 114 km (car and ferry)

PIN FOR LATER

Photo Credits: Claudia Laroye; Shutterstock

• Recent Posts

• How to spend an unforgettable two days in Venice, Italy - April 25, 2024
• The Best Carry-on Luggage 2024 - April 15, 2024
• 9 essential tips for surviving road trips with teenagers - April 6, 2024

2 thoughts on “17 fantastic day trips from Vancouver you need to take”

Fantastic post. I’ve been all over B.C., but only about half of the places you listed. Thanks for the inspiration. One of my favorites on your list is Squamish. Have you ever hiked the Chief?

Thanks so much, Mike! I have hiked the Chief, and have also hiked the longer and slightly more grueling Sea to Summit Trail up to the Sea to Sky Gondola. Both are fantastic hikes and highly recommended.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 fabulous day trips from Vancouver

Jan 22, 2024 • 7 min read

Just 20 minutes from downtown Vancouver, Richmond has one of North America’s most exciting Asian-dining scenes © Darryl Brooks / Shutterstock

There’s so much to see and do in  Vancouver that you might forget to check out what the surrounding area has to offer.

You shouldn’t. With easy access to the rest of  British Columbia , Vancouver is an ideal jumping-off point for day trips for gourmets, history buffs, outdoor adventurers and more.

Here are our top 10 favorite escapes from the city.

1. Raise a glass to the Port Moody beer train

Travel time: 1 hour

It’s no secret that BC’s craft-ale scene has surged in recent years. And while Vancouver is studded with lip-smacking tasting rooms, you can also take an unofficial “beer train” out to the suburbs for an afternoon of quaffing with the locals. Lining the street – sort of like...a row of beer taps – you’ll find several intriguing breweries, each with its own inviting tasting rooms and friendly bars.

How to get to Port Moody from Vancouver: Hop on the SkyTrain transit service from downtown Vancouver to Moody Centre Station (about 45 minutes), then walk across the bridge to Murray St in the heart of historic Port Moody.

2. Cruise in Vancouver Harbour

Travel time: variable

If the water is calling your name, there are dozens of ways to leave the shore and hit the waves that surround Vancouver on three sides.  Harbour Cruises ’ one-hour tour meanders alongside the city’s waterfront. And its half-day Indian Arm option is a much deeper excursion: as the city shrinks away, you’ll be slowly enveloped in a forested, sheer-cliffed natural wonderland that feels like a Norwegian fjord.

Look out for the community of Deep Cove on your cruise – and consider returning for a kayak or stand-up paddleboarding adventure.  Deep Cove Kayak Centre offers tranquility-boosting guided tours from here that make you feel like cities were never invented.

How to get to Vancouver Harbour from Vancouver: There are many ways to hit the water in this port town. Harbour Cruises can be found near Devonian Harbour Park, with more options as you head into Stanley Park .

3. Enjoy food, art and beer in North Vancouver

Travel time: 15 minutes

This ocean-facing city is home to the food stands and artisan boutiques of  Lonsdale Quay Public Market , plus a once-gritty shipyard that’s been transformed in recent years with boardwalks, restaurants and boutiques (many of them in restored factory sheds). The highlight is the  Polygon Gallery , a dramatic contemporary art space that lures culture fans from around the region. The beer in North Van also entices, with a clutch of microbreweries a 10-minute walk away on East Esplanade. Further inland is one of North Vancouver’s top attractions, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , easily reached by  shuttle or bus  from downtown. 

How to get to North Vancouver from downtown Vancouver: Hop on the 12-minute SeaBus transit ferry from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay, and you’ll step off in North Van.

4. Explore Bowen Island

Travel time: 1½ hours

Board a ferry and cruise past towering mountains and tree-covered islands to stunning Bowen Island. Step off in Snug Cove to explore wooden boardwalks, bright-painted storefronts and forest-lined trails where sightings of bald eagles and Bowen’s resident deer are common. Need more? Follow the trail to Opa, a gigantic ancient Douglas fir that’s a highlight for many visitors.

How to get to Bowen Island from Vancouver: Perhaps the best boat trip you can take in this region is the BC Ferries ’ service from West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island. The 250 express bus from downtown Vancouver takes you directly to the ferry dock; from there, it’s a 20-minute hop to Bowen.

5. Taste the world in Richmond

Travel time: 20 minutes

Richmond’s pan-Asian flavor reflects a community where many locals have roots in China, Korea, Vietnam and beyond. It’s also revered as the home of what is perhaps North America’s best Asian dining scene.

Start with lunch at  Parker Place , a Hong Kong–style mall with a food court like a hawker market and dishes ranging from juicy pork buns to crispy Vietnamese subs. Then explore the nearby  Aberdeen Centre ’s culturally immersive stores, which stock everything from Chinese teas to quirky Japanese dollar-store trinkets. (Save time for a Taiwanese shaved-ice treat in the upper-floor food court.)

Take the foodie theme further at the clamorous  Richmond Night Market . Running Fridays to Sundays between May and October, it’s lined with over 100 steam-shrouded food stands. Arrive hungry and with a sense of culinary curiosity – and get ready for stinky tofu, dragon’s-beard candy, nori-topped Japanese fries and much, much more.

How to get to Richmond from Vancouver:  Richmond is easy to reach from Vancouver on the Canada Line to Bridgeport Station.

6. Ascend a mountain in 10 minutes in Squamish

The popular Sea to Sky Gondola is a super-scenic cable-car ride that whisks riders up a forested mountainside. The Squamish area ’s other attractions include the family-friendly  Britannia Mine Museum – don’t miss the underground train ride – and the Railway Museum of British Columbia , with a delightful vintage-train collection. Also save time for  Shannon Falls Provincial Park , home to one of BC’s highest waterfalls.

How to get to Squamish from Vancouver: Rent a car for the one-hour drive north of the city. This dramatic cliffside road is one of BC’s most spectacular routes and also home to several great attractions – mostly near the town of Squamish, less than an hour away. If driving is not an option, shuttles will take you from Vancouver to Squamish, including the BC Connector , Skylynx  and the Squamish Connector .

7. Go birding on Iona Beach

Travel time: 45 minutes

If you’ve been meaning to try birding – a pastime that’s surged in popularity in recent years – BC’s Lower Mainland is also a hotbed of easy-access opportunities. Ladner’s  Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary , Delta’s Boundary Bay Regional Park and North Vancouver’s  Maplewood Flats Conservation Area are all justifiably popular. But Richmond’s  Iona Beach Regional Park may be the best of the bunch.

Stretching along the Fraser River shoreline, this relatively compact green space is typically home to a huge diversity of local and visiting birds. Bring binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for eagles, hawks, red-winged blackbirds, Anna’s hummingbirds and many more. It’s the kind of back-to-nature haven that couldn’t feel further from the bustling streets of downtown Vancouver.

How to get to Iona Beach from Vancouver: Travelers can drive to the park, which is located near Vancouver International Airport, or take the Canada Line Skytrain to the airport and a taxi from there.

8. Dine on fish, chips and history in Steveston

Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes

This charming fishing village fringes the wide Fraser River. Yet its bobbing-boat-filled harbor isn’t just about wood-sided stores and great fish and chip joints (we recommend  Pajo’s ): there’s tons of history here, too. Shipbuilding and fish processing made this one of BC’s busiest communities in the late 1800s, and its two National Historic Sites evoke the story perfectly. The  Gulf of Georgia Cannery tells you what working as a “slimer” in a fish plant was like, while exhibits at the  Britannia Heritage Shipyard illuminate everything from prohibition-era rum-running to the internment of Japanese Canadians during WWII.

How to get to Steveston from Vancouver: Take the Canada Line SkyTrain to Richmond-Brighouse Station, then the 407 bus.

9. Visit the “Royal City” in New Westminster

Travel time: 25 minutes

New Westminster – aka the “Royal City” – was the region’s main settlement before  Victoria took...the crown in 1866. Start your visit here by window-shopping on historic Columbia St. The landmark  Anvil Centre  is home to two free-entry attractions: the popular  New Westminster Museum and the  New Media Gallery , which mounts avant-garde contemporary exhibitions.

A few steps away, cross the train lines to the other side of the tracks and explore a restored linear park that runs alongside the Fraser River like a grass-fringed boardwalk. Look for public art and grand shoreline views here – herons and cormorant sightings included. Hungry? Check out the food stands at the indoor  River Market nearby.

How to get to New Westminster from Vancouver : It’s a 25-minute SkyTrain ride from downtown to New West.

10. Tackle the slopes in Whistler

Travel time: 2 hours

An hour past Squamish, the Sea to Sky Highway reaches  Whistler . Locals and visiting ski and snowboard fans from around the world flock to this famous winter playground. Yet there are almost as many summer visitors to the area (whose icicle-draped alpine village is beautiful year-round). In town, don’t miss the striking  Audain Art Museum  – but also save time to plunge into the great outdoors.

Hiking and biking routes (rentals are available) appeal to folks of all abilities and energy levels; activities from zip-lining to river rafting are also on offer. Don’t miss a ride on the eye-poppingly scenic  Peak 2 Peak Gondola (glass-bottomed car recommended), then inch across the lofty  Cloudraker Skybridge , a steel suspension span with a see-through deck.

How to get to Whistler from Vancouver:  As with Squamish, a number of shuttle buses including  Epic Rides and Skylynx will get you there. Yet those who rent a car for the nearly two-hour drive will have maximum freedom.

This article was first published Mar 3, 2015 and updated Jan 22, 2024.

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 29, 2024 • 5 min read

From outdoor summer excursions to spring festivals to winter fun, Canada merits a visit in any season. Here’s your full guide.

Apr 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Apr 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 15, 2024 • 12 min read

Apr 13, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 12, 2024 • 7 min read

Apr 11, 2024 • 6 min read

14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Vancouver

Written by Lana Law Updated Oct 14, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Within easy reach of Vancouver are some of British Columbia's most interesting and beautiful destinations .

Quaint island towns and the provincial capital of Victoria are just a ferry ride away.

A drive up the famous Sea-to-Sky-Highway leads past Squamish and up to the renowned ski resort of Whistler , one of the venues of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

Inland, towards the Fraser Valley , are Bridal Veil Falls; Fort Langley National Historic Site; and Harrison Hot Springs, known for its hot pools, beach, and small-town atmosphere.

For those who want to venture over the border to the USA, Mount Baker is a short drive away, with hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

For ideas on how to plan your day of adventure, see our list of the best day trips from Vancouver.

1. Whistler

2. victoria, 3. squamish, 4. harrison hot springs, 5. salt spring island, 6. mount baker, washington, 7. fort langley national historic site, 8. bridal falls and bridal veil falls provincial park, 9. britannia mining museum, 10. hell's gate airtram, 11. capilano suspension bridge park, 12. shannon falls provincial park, 13. cultus lake, 14. steveston village, map of day trips from vancouver.

The scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is enough to make a day trip to Whistler worthwhile. The views out over Howe Sound and the mountain scenery all along this stretch of highway are outstanding. Be sure to stop in at the stunning 355-meter-high Shannon Falls along the way.

At the end of the drive is the famous ski resort town of Whistler; a year-round destination with golf, skiing, hiking, shopping, and dining. In the summer, this is a wonderful place to wander the streets, go for a hike, mountain bike, or play a round of golf. Take a trip up to the top of the mountains and ride across the Peak-2-Peak gondola for incredible views. If you are lucky, you'll be able to ride in the glass-bottomed car.

In winter, the town has a completely different feel, snow-covered streets are full of skiers looking to hit the slopes of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains . This is one of Canada's top ski resorts .

Without traffic, the drive time to Whistler is about an hour and a half, but heavy traffic, particularly around the bridges in Vancouver, can add time to the trip. For an easy and relaxing day, take the Whistler Small-Group Day Trip from Vancouver tour. You'll see all the highlights along the way and have the afternoon (four hours) to entertain yourself in Whistler.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Whistler

The ferry ride to Victoria passes by some of British Columbia's most spectacular coastal scenery. This quaint seaside city, with its compact city center, is the perfect place to explore on foot.

The waterfront, graced by the historic Empress Hotel , famous for its afternoon tea service. You can stroll along the Inner Harbour to see street performers, relax on a park bench, or admire the city's parliament buildings.

One of the top things to do just outside the city, is the stunning Butchart Gardens . Set in what was once an old quarry, this is a year-round attraction, with particularly fabulous displays from early spring until late fall. Victoria is also home to the Royal British Columbia Museum , one of Canada's finest museums of natural and cultural history.

You can walk on or take your car on the ferry to Victoria. During peak times, and particularly around holidays, the ferries fill up. Plan ahead and book your sailing online.

Cascading waterfalls, spectacular views, and historical sites greet you on the hiking trails around Victoria . Most are within 30 minutes of downtown Victoria.

A tour from Vancouver takes all the guesswork out of a trip to Victoria, you'll get all the highlights without the hassle. A lower cost bus option is the Small-Group Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver . This full day tour travels both ways by ferry.

For a more spectacular trip, consider Vancouver to Victoria by Seaplane and Ferry tour. You'll get both a bird's-eye view of the incredible Gulf Islands and also the sea level experience on the ferry on the way back.

• From Vancouver to Victoria: Best Ways to Get There
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia

On the drive from Vancouver to Whistler, along the Sea-to-Sky Highway , Squamish is an easy and fun day trip from Vancouver that is often overlooked by travelers.

About a one-hour drive from Vancouver, this town is picturesquely set at the far end of Howe Sound. While it was once a forestry and mining town, it has gradually developed into a popular tourist destination.

One of the area's most popular new additions is the scenic Sea-to-Sky Gondola . The views from the beautiful Summit Lodge down Howe Sound and up towards Mount Habrich, Sky Pilot, and Goat Ridge are jaw dropping. At the top of the ride, don't miss the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge .

Outdoor recreation rules the day in this town, and rock climbers flock here to climb the sheer cliff walls. The giant granite monolith known as Stawamus Chief mountain is an incredible site and one of the main climbing areas in this region. Great hiking trails , mountain biking trails, and campgrounds, provide endless opportunities to get out into nature. Squamish has eight provincial parks within easy driving distance.

Shannon Falls , just two kilometers south of Squamish, is also worth a stop. This is the third highest waterfall in BC, dropping 335 meters, and the easy access makes it very popular. Short hiking trails in the area run through the forest right to the base of the falls. Bring a rain jacket; this is a wet spot due to the spray. You'll also be able to see the falls from the Sea-to-Sky Gondola.

• Read More: Things to Do in Squamish

Just over 90 minutes from Vancouver, the small town of Harrison Hot Springs is a great escape from the city. Nestled between forest-covered mountains on the shores of beautiful Harrison Lake, this resort town, known for its hot springs, has much to offer day trippers. Activities available including golf, hiking, mountain biking, boat tours, fishing, and more.

Plan your visit for the summer months. The beautiful beach that runs all along the town's waterfront has a spectacular view out to the islands and mountains across Harrison Lake.

For a soak in the soothing spring-fed water, you'll have to check into the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa ; the public pools are currently closed.

A trip to Salt Spring Island on a sunny day is a perfect getaway from Vancouver. Ferries leave Vancouver from Tsawwassen and land at Long Harbour on Salt Spring Island about 1.5 hours later.

The ride across the Straight of Georgia and through Active Pass is truly spectacular. The best option for day trips is to catch a non-stop ferry if possible, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Salt Spring is a quirky island, with small farms and artists' studios spread around the island. You can stop in at some of these family-run farms to sample and buy cheese and other specialty items, or pop into a studio to see an artist at work.

A popular way to get around the island is to rent a bicycle. Splurge on an e-bike – Salt Spring Island is hilly!

The main town is Ganges , a pleasant waterfront community, with restaurants, shops, and galleries. On Saturdays, during the summer months, Ganges hosts a popular market, where locals sell their crafts and other goods.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Salt Spring Island

On clear days in Vancouver, you can see the glimmering snowcapped peak of Washington State's Mount Baker off in the distance. Despite its obvious presence, few people think to make the day trip to explore the mountain up close. Those who do will find quaint towns on the approach, nearby hiking trails in the summer, and great skiing in the winter.

Numerous hikes in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest surrounding Mt. Baker offer access to gorgeous mountain scenery. Well-maintained hiking trails generally follow the ridge lines below the slumbering volcano. The views up towards the peak and the glaciers are stunning.

In winter, Mt. Baker receives incredible amounts of snow, typically ranging from 50 to 65 feet. In 1998/99 the mountain set the record for the most snowfall in a single season in the USA with a total of 1,140 inches, almost 95 feet. It's one of the best ski resorts in Washington .

The drive from Vancouver takes under 2.5 hours. However, drive times can vary depending on wait times at the Canada-US border, check the border wait times online before setting out.

About an hour's drive east of Vancouver is the old Hudson's Bay Company fur trading post of Fort Langley, established in 1827. The fort was the site of much activity in the 1800s, from the fur traders to the Fraser River gold rush in 1857, and the establishment of the colony of British Columbia.

Today at the site, you'll be able to explore the history of the fort, see the 1800's come to life with interpreters and demonstrations, and try their luck panning for gold. The fort is open year-round and is a popular family attraction.

After visiting the fort, pop into Langley for a bite to eat, to do some shopping, or to check out a few local museums.

The town of Bridal Falls lies east of Chilliwack, about an-hour-and-a-half drive from Vancouver. The most famous site in the area is the 60-meter-high Bridal Veil Falls, in the provincial park of the same name.

This is a day-use area, where you can enjoy a picnic and walk to the base of the falls. In winter, if the temperature plunges, the falls turn to ice and take on a completely different appearance.

Also worth checking out, depending on the time of year, are the 32-acre Minter Gardens , the Bridal Falls Waterpark . More trails and bird watching opportunities found in the Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park .

Just off the Sea-to-Sky-Highway, about 45 minutes from Vancouver, is the Britannia Mining Museum, a National Historic Site of Canada .

This tiered, 20-story building has been an impossible-to-miss landmark along the highway for decades, but between 2005 and 2010, the building underwent massive restoration work and changed its name from the BC Museum of Mining to the Britannia Mining Museum.

The museum is the site of the former Britannia Mine. You can see some of the original equipment from the early 20th century, pan for gold, or take an underground tour. The museum has recently added what they describe as an "immersive live-action experience." The movie along with the sound track played over 30 speakers is full of fun special effects.

From spring until fall, the Hell's Gate Airtram takes you out over the raging waters of the Fraser River in a tram connecting both sides of the canyon.

Hell's Gate is uniquely located at a narrowing in the Fraser River, where the fast-flowing water is forced through a section only 33 meters wide, creating a churning spectacle of white water. The aerial tram covers a distance of 152 meters, dropping you on the opposite side of the river. On this side there is a restaurant, gift shop, an area for gold panning, and an information center.

If you are brave enough, walk across the swaying suspension bridge that crosses the roaring river below. The drive to Hell's Gate from Vancouver is very scenic and part of the attraction of this day trip, which takes between 2.5 and three hours each way.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge was first built in 1889 and over the years has evolved into the exhilarating tourist attraction it is today. You can walk 137 meters on a swaying platform, 70 meters above the river below.

Millions have made the somewhat scary crossing to the other side, with a steady pace and a tight grip on the rope. The park also has a tree top walk among 1,300-year-old trees, a cliff walk with a glass floor, and an extensive collection of totem poles.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is an easy trip from downtown Vancouver if you have your own car. If not, or if you don't want to deal with traffic, a tour is a good option. Tours take in other sights along Vancouver's North Shore, including a ride up the gondola at Grouse Mountain. Consider the 6.5-hour North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mtn .

Almost halfway between Vancouver and Whistler lies Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Be sure to pull off the highway and stretch your legs with a short stroll to the base of these 335-meter falls.

Plunging off a near vertical cliff, these scenic falls are a result of meltwater from Mount Habrich and Mount Sky Pilot. An easy 350-meter long, fairly level walking trail winds its way through towering old-growth pine trees and emerges at the base of the falls. You'll hear the roar of the falls before you see them.

Picnic tables are available along with restrooms; a small concessionaire sells drinks and snacks.

Cultus Lake, one of the best lakes in British Columbia , is the perfect place to take the family for a day on the water. The lake is only 1.5 hours from Vancouver, making it an easy place to visit before the familiar refrain from the backseat of "Are we there yet?" kicks into full gear.

Wide beaches with shallow water and designated swimming areas make cooling off an easy task. If you'd like to get out on the water, be sure to bring your stand up paddleboard, canoe, or kayak. Or, if you prefer something a bit more action packed, trailer the boat or Jet Ski, and launch at one of the public boat ramps. You'll find lots of room to race around on this large lake.

An alternative to the beach is the Cultus Lake Adventure Park , an action-packed place full of waterslides and thrill rides.

After your day at the lake, swing by the delightful city of Chilliwack for a bite to eat on the way home.

This small village is an ideal place to see the mighty Fraser River and the Pacific Ocean. Steveston is a top destination in Richmond and an easy day trip from Vancouver if you don't have a car. The prime waterfront location is perfect for strolling, shopping, and catching up with friends.

Foodies come here to feast on the fresh seafood served up at the local restaurants, many of which have lovely patios, ensuring you'll get your fair share of people watching.

Planning a dinner party? Steveston has a lively commercial dock area where you can purchase fresh seafood right off the boats that will be sure to impress.

The area is very picturesque, with old buildings painted in lively colors, and makes for wonderful photos, especially when the sun shines.

More on Canada

Love Exploring

Epic Canadian Road Trips You Can Take Over a Weekend

Posted: June 4, 2023 | Last updated: August 4, 2023

Hit the road

British Columbia: Nanaimo to Tofino

British Columbia: Vancouver to the Fraser Valley

The river valley makes for some of the most fertile farmland in Canada and many local food producers welcome visitors for either formal or self-guided tours. History lovers can also stop at the Fort Langley National Historic Site , an interpretive center that served as a working Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post 150 years ago.

British Columbia: Vancouver to Whistler

Just the name of the road from Vancouver to Whistler – the Sea to Sky Highway – is enticing. The route, which actually terminates just north of Whistler in Pemberton is only 101 miles (163km) long, but it’s worth slowing down and taking the time to drink in the coastal views and stop to learn about British Columbia’s rich Indigenous history from the Cultural Journey interpretive kiosks posted along the way. 

British Columbia: Kelowna to Osoyoos

While the lakes and surrounding desert-like landscapes are beautiful, the geography of the area is also prime for grape growing. The highway is dotted with wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings to the public. The famed Golden Mile Bench, BC’s first official wine sub-region sits on the southern part of the journey between Oliver and Osoyoos, featuring wineries like Culmina Family Estate, Tinhorn Creek and Road 13. 

Discover what else to see in the Okanagan

Alberta: Banff to Jasper

The Icefields Parkway gets its name from the Columbia Icefield, the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains. One of the Icefield’s “toes,” the Athabasca Glacier, can be accessed at about the halfway point of the journey, with its edge within walking distance of the main road. The glacier can be further explored via an on-site discovery center, snow coach tours, and the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored platform that juts out 918 feet (280m) over the Sunwapta Valley. 

Discover more of Canada's beautiful national parks

Alberta: Calgary to Bar U Ranch

Alberta’s Bar U Ranch National Historic Site offers a rare hands-on picture of Canada’s Wild West. The ranch dates back to the late 1800s and now offers interactive learning experiences to help visitors understand what life would have been like for Western Canada’s pioneering cowboys and cattle ranchers. The ranch is near the village of Longview, in the heart of Alberta’s still very active cattle ranching country.

Alberta: Edmonton to Drumheller

Those seemingly extraterrestrial hills also conceal a treasure trove of prehistoric fossils, making Drumheller the dinosaur capital of Canada. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world-class paleontology center, full of awe-inspiring dinosaur exhibits. For something a little less serious, the World’s Largest Dinosaur sits at the visitor center in downtown Drumheller. Guests can climb a stairway inside of the dinosaur and stand in its open mouth to get a better view of the town.

Brilliant destinations for dinosaur fans

Northwest Territories: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk

Saskatchewan: Regina to Moose Jaw

Moose Jaw is one of Canada’s more well-known cities, not because it’s particularly big and bustling, but because of its uniquely Canadian name. The municipality leans into its reputation – it actually has dubbed itself “Canada’s Most Notorious City.” The drive from Saskatchewan’s capital city Regina is a fairly quick one at just 44 miles (71km), but it does lead drivers through some spectacular Saskatchewan farmland. 

Saskatchewan: Saskatoon to Great Sand Hills

Yukon: Whitehorse to Dawson City

Manitoba: Winnipeg to Gimli

Ontario: Toronto to Niagara

Ontario: Toronto to Muskoka

One of Ontario’s many lakeside cottage getaways, Muskoka is just a little more than a two-hour drive north of Toronto. It sits between Georgian Bay, which is part of the Canadian side of Lake Huron, and Lake Couchiching with approximately 1,600 smaller lakes scattered in between. All of that lakeside property gives visitors plenty of opportunities to relax or play by the water. 

Discover Canada's lesser-known lakes

Ontario: Windsor to Stratford

Stratford, located on the Avon River (it’s all named after the Stratford in the UK), is best known for its Shakespearean theater festival. The city was first settled in 1828 and its rich history is apparent at every turn. While theater is Stratford’s calling card, visitors can also take in various parks and gardens or hit the self-guided Stratford Chocolate Trail to try some treats. Stratford is also the former home of Justin Bieber and fans can download a map of the singer’s childhood haunts.

Ontario: Ottawa to Perth

Quebec: Montreal to Centre-du-Québec

Quebec: Quebec City to La Mauricie National Park

The natural beauty of La Mauricie is enough of an experience on its own, but the park is also near the city of Shawinigan, which sits right on the Saint-Maurice River. It’s also not far from the luxurious Baluchon eco-tourism resort, a secluded property that features a fine dining restaurant, outdoor activities and a Nordic spa.

New Brunswick: St. John to the Bay of Fundy

Prince Edward Island: Central Coastal Drive

The Green Gables Shore features PEI’s most famed sites, particularly those connected to L.M. Montgomery’s beloved Anne of Green Gables novels. The route goes through the Cavendish area, which is home to the Green Gables house as well as some key museums. The Red Sands Shore is a bit quieter and more relaxed, full of small coastal villages and cozy coves. 

Explore PEI with our full guide to the region

Nova Scotia: Cabot Trail

Nova Scotia: Halifax to Lunenburg

The east coast of Nova Scotia is home to some of the most postcard-perfect towns in all of Canada, including the famously charming fishing village of Lunenburg. Founded in 1753, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to its planned layout and traditional wooden architecture. Today Lunenburg is popular with tourists because of its history and delicious seaside seafood restaurants. 

The drive from Nova Scotia’s capital city of Halifax is about 62 miles (99km) and can be completed in about an hour and 15 minutes, but it’s worth making a detour to Peggy’s Cove in St. Margarets Bay. Peggy’s Point Lighthouse is probably the most photographed lighthouse in all of Canada, while the rest of the site offers a glimpse of life in a traditional Maritime fishing village.

What to see and do in Nova Scotia

Newfoundland and Labrador: Viking Trail

If Gros Morne isn’t enough, the Viking Trail continues northwards to L’anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, located at the tip of Great Northern Peninsula. The archeological site is the only confirmed Norse encampment in all of North America, and its artifacts are estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Today the site features a recreated base camp and costumed interpreters as well as original artifacts.

Newfoundland: Irish Loop

As they travel towards the bottom of the peninsula, visitors will find Ferryland, one of the oldest European settlements in North America, where archeologists have found remnants of homes built in the 17th century. Fans of more recent history will also want to stop at the Cape Race lighthouse, which received the distress call from the doomed Titanic in 1912 . 

Now discover Canada's most beautiful small towns and villages

More for You

19 Things People Treat As Safe That Actually Are Pretty Dangerous

Doocy Grills White House Over Biden's 'Silence' On College Protests

Do I have to pay off my spouse's debts when they die? Here's what you're responsible for and what you aren't after a loved one's death

28 celebrities you probably did not know are nonbinary

How Much Beer You'd Have To Drink To Equal A Single Shot Of Liquor

Luke Grimes Supports Kevin Costner's Decision On ‘Yellowstone'

18 Smartest Dog Breeds, Ranked for Intelligence

The Salary That Singles Need To Live Comfortably in 100 Major US Cities

The Coolest Car From the Year You Were Born (1945-1995)

This type of supplement may increase heart disease risk, new study finds

I became a millionaire at age 27—here are 4 'unpopular' rules rich people follow that most don't

3 reasons you keep waking up in the middle of the night

20 Loyal Dog Breeds That Will Never Leave Your Side

5 Types of Homes That Will Plummet in Value in 2024

Steve Bannon to Face the Music

Could This Halal Burger Mini-Chain Become the Next Five Guys?

The most expensive state to live in isn't California or New York, based on data. Here are the top 10.

5 Most Powerful Dodge Crate Engines Ever Built (And What They Cost)

Dog and toddler in Colorado howl together

I’m a Bank Teller: 3 Times You Should Never Ask For $100 Bills at the Bank