unique places to visit on vancouver island

Vancouver Island's 14 best things to do will make you want to book a trip right now

Dec 26, 2021 • 9 min read

Vancouver Island is a paradise for outdoor lovers, whatever the weather © Pamela Joe McFarlane/Getty Images

Lightly populated and synced to a slower rhythm than mainland British Columbia , Vancouver Island is Canada’s province within a province.

For the first 17 years of its colonial history, it was an independent entity, and an element of this apartness still resounds in its community-focused towns where islanders are more likely to greet you with a conversation than a nod. A million metaphoric miles from the slick skyscrapers of nearby Vancouver , this is a place to lower your stress levels, commune with nature and get back to the land with home-brewed beverages, Indigenous legends and superb biking and hiking trails.

The island was also a top pick for Best in Travel 2022.  With these incredible experiences, it's easy to see why,

Go mountain biking in Cumberland

A once industrious coal-mining settlement, Cumberland was in danger of becoming a ghost town in the 1960s when the mines closed, and its population almost evaporated. Reclassifying itself as a village, it was rejuvenated in the early 21st century by a group of entrepreneurial mountain bikers.

Under the umbrella of a registered non-profit organization, they created a network of 170 trails in an adjacent community forest. Cumberland’s once downbeat main street of mining-era buildings has sprouted a cool array of independent shops and restaurants to support the influx of two-wheeled tourists. Procure bike rentals and trail information from Dodge City Cycles .

Take afternoon tea in Victoria

While provincial capital Victoria supports a trendy consortium of craft-brewers, wine sommeliers and third-wave coffee baristas, it also harbors a religious devotion to afternoon tea, a custom bequeathed by caffeine-fuelled British colonists. The tradition prevails in an array of refined tearooms where dainty cakes mounted on three-tier silver trays are washed down with orange pekoe sipped from delicate china cups.

The high temple of afternoon tea is the Fairmont Empress Hotel , where the "full spread" (finger sandwiches, homemade pastries, and fresh scones) is served in an elegant lobby-lounge to a tinkling piano accompaniment.

Discover the Malahat Skywalk

Vancouver Island’s newest and most novel attraction is a multi-tiered spiral tower with a lofty lookout and – we kid you not – a giant trampoline on top. Located 30km (18.6 miles) northwest of Victoria by road it offers 360-degree views over forest, sea, islands, and the glaciated hump of Mount Baker in the US.

A 600m (1969ft) elevated walkway leads through a rust-hued arbutus forest to the 32m-high (105ft) tower which is rendered entirely in wood and was made in collaboration with the Malahat Nation. The icing on the cake? There’s a winding slide that gets you back to the bottom in 15 seconds. A special shuttle links the Skywalk with Victoria, Wednesday to Sunday.

Cycle the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii

Earmarked to be fully operational by 2022, this newly built cycling path stretches for 25km (15.5 miles) along the Pacific coast linking the two diminutive surfing towns of Tofino and Ucluelet. Its name (pronounced: ups-cheek ta-shee) means "going in the right direction on the trail" in the local Indigenous language. The unchallenging paved path cuts through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve granting easy access to trailheads, waterfront accommodations and a sweep of broad beaches ideal for surfing, cycling, and watching the latest storm roll in. Bikes, including robust beach-worthy models with no gears, can be rented from Tofino Bike Co , near the trail’s northern terminus.

Surf in Tofino

Canada’s surfing capital meets the tempestuous waves of the Pacific Ocean with a jagged spectrum of stormy beaches. There are sheltered Mackenzie Beach (good for beginners); two-pronged Chesterman Beach, separated by a wave-breaking sandbar and islet; legendary Cox Bay, host of numerous surfing competitions; and the expansive sands of 16km (10-mile) Long Beach which lies within Pacific Rim National Park.

Despite its all-pervading surf culture, tiny Tofino (population 2000-ish) retains a rugged, elemental feel thanks to its isolated location on Vancouver Island’s west coast surrounded by temperate rainforest. If you’re hitting the waves, bring (or rent) a wetsuit. The water’s cold – even in summer.

Ski Mount Washington

In BC, all winter roads lead to Whistler , one of the largest and most comprehensive ski resorts in the world. But savvy islanders, wary of slow-moving lift lines and bulging apres-ski bars, often prefer to stick to the cheaper, less crowded runs of Mt Washington near Courtenay.

Inhabiting the mountain’s southwestern slopes adjacent to the craggy wilderness of Strathcona Provincial Park, Mt Washington is Vancouver Island’s only major ski area coupling 500 vertical meters (1640ft) of downhill action with an attractive Nordic park that makes use of the extensive summer trail system on the so-called Forbidden Plateau. Though less than one-third the size of Whistler, the resort logs a higher snowfall (up to 10m/33ft in a season) and significantly lower prices.

Hike the North Coast trail  

Conceived as a muddier, swampier alternative to the island’s perennially popular West Coast Trail, this five- to eight-day wilderness extravaganza tracks the extreme north coast for 58km (36ft) between Shushartie Bay and Cape Scott. Along its course it dips into sandy coves, empty beaches and thick, wind-contorted rainforest following a rough, unkempt path that utilizes boardwalks and cable cars to cross creeks and rivers.

In such a remote and unsullied region, the wildlife is legion and inclement weather is practically guaranteed, so pack accordingly. There are several strategically placed backcountry campsites en route and a boat shuttle to ferry hikers to the trail’s off-the-road-grid starting point.

Read more: Vancouver Island's 7 best hikes

Admire Indigenous culture in Alert Bay

Ancestral home to the Namgis First Nation, tiny Cormorant Island and its affiliated village, Alert Bay, is one of the best places in BC to absorb Indigenous culture. The island is awash with totem poles, including the world's tallest, a 173m (568ft) carving depicting whales, wolves and two-headed serpents held up by taut cables. There is also a clan house, an original Namgis burial ground and the peerless U’mista Cultural Centre .

This unique facility, whose design was inspired by a wooden longhouse, eloquently displays a vast array of repatriated Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts confiscated when potlatch ceremonies were prohibited in Canada between 1884 and 1951. The center, which has been slowly negotiating the return of pieces from museums around the world, is adorned with a growing collection of masks, carvings, totems, stories and historical anecdotes.

Hit the Nanaimo bar trail

Named after the island’s so-called "Harbour City," the Nanaimo bar is one of Canada’s most iconic food products. Comprising a three-layered slab of wafer topped with cream and icing, it combines coconut, vanilla custard, and chocolate in a rich explosion of densely packed calories.

Despite its relatively recent invention, the Nanaimo bar’s history is foggy. There are at least 100 different recipes while its exact origins are hotly debated – indeed, some heretics claim the bar isn’t from Nanaimo at all. To strengthen its credentials, the city has come up with a 39-stop Nanaimo bar trail allowing sugar-lovers to surf a raft of local restaurants and cafes and enjoy the confection in a myriad of weird manifestations from deep-fried to liquified in a cocktail. 

Set sail from Port Hardy

Port Hardy is a small Alaskan look-alike town on Vancouver Island’s northeast shore and a primary embarkation point for car ferries navigating the narrow channels of the Inside Passage on BC’s fjord-indented west coast. Book a cabin for overnight excursions (winter) or day trips (summer) and wave goodbye to civilization until you reach the isolated fishing settlement of Prince Rupert just shy of the BC-Alaska border. Sailing on comfortable, medium-sized ferries equipped with good eating facilities and adorned with striking First Nations motifs, passengers get the same scenery as the big cruise ships, but at a significantly more economical price.  

Cross the Kinsol Trestle

This magnificent wooden trestle built in 1914 once carried a railroad across a deep ravine cut by the Koksilah River. After falling into disrepair when the line ceased operation in 1979, it was rescued by a vociferous community fundraising campaign that helped renovate and reopen the trestle to foot and two-wheeled travelers in 2011. Today it’s part of the long-distance Trans-Canada trail, Vancouver Island trail and Cowichan Valley trail, although it can just as easily be incorporated in a short half-hour stroll from a car park one kilometre from the Trestle’s southern end. Interpretive boards along the route explain the structure’s engineering background and railway history.

View wildlife from Telegraph Cove

A former telegraph station and fishing village that was turned into a picturesque boardwalk community in the 1970s, Telegraph Cove’s small ensemble of brightly painted wooden buildings perches on stilts around a sheltered marina.

Cute clapboard houses aside, the village is famed island-wide for its whale-watching and grizzly bear viewing. Humpback and orca whales can be seen breaching on seasonal boat trips or more athletic guided sea-kayaking excursions. The grizzlies, which are not resident on Vancouver Island, are visible (if you’re lucky) on a brief boat trip to Knight Inlet on the mainland.

Sip cider in the Cowichan Valley

The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s gourmet garden where rolling hills and a balmy semi-Mediterranean climate has encouraged a blossoming of vineyards, tea plantations and an enthusiastic farm-to-table ethos. One of the region’s most all-encompassing micro-businesses is Merridale , a craft cider-maker in the farming community of Cobble Hill whose rustic-chic cidery is speckled with gnarled apple trees and gabled barn buildings. It hosts a tasting bar dispatching multi-sample flights of the fruity booze.

Beyond cider, Merridale also has a micro-distillery producing gin and vodka, a patio bistro serving crusty apple pie, and posh yurts offering visitors the opportunity to glamp overnight in the adjacent orchard.

Browse Sidney’s bookstores

Designated Canada’s only "booktown" in 1996, the small seaside community of Sidney, 6km (3.7 miles) south of the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, has an abundance of bookstores (five) for a town of its size (11,500). The literary quintet sits on or around the main drag of Beacon Avenue and ranges from the Dickensian Haunted Books to the cavernous Tanner’s Books. Once you’ve purchased your heavy tome, the town has an equally impressive range of cafes where you can devour it with a steaming cappuccino.    

Want more of Canada's bookish history? Here's a coast-to-coast itinerary to get you started.

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This article was first published Sep 30, 2021 and updated Dec 26, 2021.

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17 Top-Rated Things to Do on Vancouver Island

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Off Canada's West Coast, Vancouver Island is the largest island on the Pacific Coast of North America. Old-growth forests, beautiful rugged shorelines, and beaches offer an endless repertoire of things to do, from hiking and camping to surfing and whale watching. The capital of British Columbia, Victoria delivers cultural attractions , nightlife, dining, and shopping.

Small towns spread around Vancouver Island are some of the best places to visit, where you'll find a slower pace of life and discover remote lodges in the rainforest, where you can relax and soak up nature.

The mild coastal climate draws visitors here year-round. Vancouver Island is one of the warmest places in Canada in winter . Although summer is the busy season, in winter, it's not uncommon to find surfers riding the waves on the western shore, while skiers head to the slopes in the interior of the island. The landscape is one of mountains, lakes, rainforest, and dramatic coastline dotted with small towns and villages.

Most visitors begin their trip to Vancouver Island in Victoria , at the sound end of the island. Arrival is usually by air or by ferry from Vancouver or Seattle. Ferries also run regularly from Vancouver to Nanaimo.

On the west side of Vancouver Island are towns like Tofino and Port Renfrew, and the famous West Coast Trail. On the east side of the island, looking out over the Salish Sea, are the towns of Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Courtney, and Comox.

To help plan your trip, see our list of the top things to see and do on Vancouver Island.

See also: Where to Stay on Vancouver Island

1. Visit Victoria

2. see vancouver island's old-growth forests, 3. enjoy a getaway to tofino, 4. walk, surf, or relax at pacific rim national park & long beach, 5. tour butchart gardens, 6. see goats on the roof at the old country market, coombs, 7. hike the trails on vancouver island, 8. hike the west coast trail for an epic adventure, 9. take in the views from the wild pacific trail, ucluelet, 10. explore clayoquot sound, 11. go on a whale watching tour, 12. hit the slopes at mount washington alpine ski resort, 13. go camping on vancouver island, 14. experience nature and serenity in port renfrew, 15. chemainus wall murals, 16. royal british columbia museum, 17. british columbia legislature, where to stay on vancouver island, map of things to do on vancouver island.

As the main gateway to Vancouver Island, Victoria is where most visitors will begin their trip, and it is a great starting place. Looking out over the Juan de Fuca Strait to the mountains on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, British Columbia's capital is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada.

The scenic Inner Harbour is where much of the action is centered and where many of the tourist attractions are located. The historic Fairmont Empress , one of Victoria's landmark buildings, looks over the Inner Harbour. Built in 1908, this hotel has hosted visiting royalty throughout the decades. High Tea at the Empress has become a popular thing to do in Victoria, where visitors can sip tea and enjoy sandwiches, scones, and desserts in a lovely old room filled with antique furnishings.

Also unmissable on the Inner Harbour are the Parliament Buildings . Lit up at night, they are impressive no matter what time you visit. Another major attraction, located between the Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel, is the Royal BC Museum , offering insight into the natural and human history of British Columbia.

Victoria is a small city, and the compact downtown makes visiting the sites incredibly easy. It's also filled with stores and restaurants that range from casual to fine dining.

If you are spending a few days in Victoria and want to expand your sightseeing to include parks and outdoors activities, beautiful hiking trails are scattered around the city and nearby areas.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Victoria

Vancouver Island's old-growth forests are truly a national treasure and an absolute must-see for anyone with an appreciation for nature. Found in a few small pockets around the island are some remaining virgin forests, home to enormous trees up to 800 years old. Some of the best places to see these giants are around Tofino, Port Renfrew, and an area known as Cathedral Grove.

Cathedral Grove

Near Port Alberni, in MacMillan Provincial Park , is Cathedral Grove. This is one of the most popular places to see ancient trees. It's an easy stop on the way to Tofino. Cathedral Grove is a stand of towering Douglas firs , with some trees between 600 and 800 years old, reaching 75 meters tall and as much as nine meters in circumference.

You can park at a roadside pullout on the Alberni Highway (Hwy 4) and follow an easy and relatively level walking trail through the grove. Also in the park are old western red cedar .

Cathedral Grove was hit by a major wind storm in 1997, which took down many old trees. You can see the huge trunks that are now on the ground and still an impressive site.

Official site: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/parkpgs/macmillan/

Port Renfrew: Eden Grove, Big Lonely Doug & Avatar Grove

From Victoria, another fantastic day trip to see old-growth rainforest is to take a drive up to Port Renfrew, about two hours from the city, and just beyond to the big trees. This scenic trip takes you up Highway 14, past Sooke and Jordan River, along a curvy road.

The most famous sites in this area are Eden Grove, Big Lonely Doug, and Avatar Grove, all of which are free to the public. All of these are found just north of Port Renfrew, with Big Lonely Doug and Eden Grove at the farthest end, 18 kilometers from town.

Eden Grove is arguably the most impressive area to see old-growth forest on Vancouver Island that visitors can access on their own. It is a much less visited area than places like Cathedral Grove or Tofino, but much more worthwhile. There is a tranquility here you won't find at the more popular sites and a feeling of truly being in the forest.

Home to Douglas fir and western red cedars, the trees are enormous! One cedar is more than 12 feet wide. Volunteers have built a rough boardwalk through the stand of trees that allows you quick easy access to the forest.

Just a few hundred meters before you reach Eden Grove is a clearing that has been logged. One huge 1,000-year-old Douglas fir stands alone in the cutover. This is Big Lonely Doug . He was the one tree not logged here, and stands now as a stark reminder of what has been lost by logging and what future logging may destroy.

About 1.8 kilometers before you reach Big Lonely Doug and Eden Grove, the road becomes very rough in a couple of spots. If you don't have a 4WD vehicle, you can park here and walk in, and many people do. At this point, you will also likely see people who have come here in an effort to protect the forest from logging. They are an extremely helpful and friendly bunch who are happy to see you, point you in the right direction, and answer questions. Eden Grove is in a logging area and at extreme risk of being destroyed.

Also worth seeing is Avatar Grove , which you will pass on your way back to Port Renfrew. Here, trails run through the forest on both sides of the road, and also lead past several giants.

Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino

Pacific Rim National Park, just outside the resort town of Tofino, is another excellent area to see the giant trees of Vancouver Island's rainforest. One of the best hikes in Pacific Rim National Park is the Rainforest Trail . Two one-kilometer loops lead past hundreds-of-years-old trees. You can even settle in on a park-provided Adirondack Chair for a while and gaze up at one of these beauties while you listen to the sounds of nature.

The little town of Tofino is the jewel of Vancouver Island's western shore. Looking out over Claoquot Sound and surrounded by old-growth forest and seemingly endless beaches, this little fishing village is a popular tourist destination on Vancouver Island, but rarely feels busy. It's also known for being Canada's hottest surf destination , with people coming here to surf year-round.

If you aren't into surfing, storm watching from November to February, when huge waves roll in off the Pacific Ocean, is another reason people like to visit Tofino in the quiet of the off-season.

Just outside of town is Pacific Rim National Park , an incredible natural area with some of Tofino's best hikes and campgrounds . This area is home to ancient cedars, which are some of the oldest trees in Canada. It's also where you'll find Tofino's famous Long Beach , stretching along the coast for 16 kilometers.

Approximately 42 kilometers north of the small town of Ucluelet , Tofino is one of the oldest settlements on the West Coast, and it has a very remote feel. Despite its popularity, it has remained small. The town has surf shops, tourist stores, restaurants, and hotels. Nearby are a number of outstanding lodges and resorts with great views out over the ocean. The Wild Pacific Trail, one of the best on the island, is located just south of town.

• Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Tofino

Pacific Rim National Park covers a lush stretch of coast between Tofino and Ucluelet. The rainforest of ancient cedars and shoreline of beaches and rocky headlands reveals the wild and rugged natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

Long soft-sand beaches are found all along Pacific Rim National Park. The 16-kilometer-long Long Beach is a vast expanse of sand where people come to walk, beachcomb, surf in the big waves, or simply enjoy a sunset. Whales can sometimes be spotted offshore, especially in spring and autumn.

Storm watching has become a popular activity in fall and winter, when photographers and visitors come to the park to watch the huge waves crash against the shore. Massive piles of driftwood along some of the beaches testify to the violence of the ocean waves.

Official site: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/index.aspx

For those with a love of gardening, a visit to Butchart Gardens will be one of the highlights of Vancouver Island. Set in an old quarry outside Victoria, these fabulous gardens provide a year-round opportunity to step into a peaceful natural setting with flowers, trees, pathways, and places to relax.

Begun in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, the grounds have been over a century in the making. In the evening, the gardens are illuminated with creative lighting and on Saturday nights you can enjoy a firework display set to music. Every evening in July and August live music performances take place at Butchart Gardens.

Botanical displays change seasonally and are particularly lovely between spring and fall. At Christmas, the gardens are lit with a display of Christmas lights and decorations , and various festivities and activities are on offer, including ice skating in an outdoor rink.

Official site: http://www.butchartgardens.com/

One of the more unique and long-standing attractions on Vancouver Island is the Old Country Market, complete with resident goats on the roof. For over 30 years, goats have been happily posing for pictures as they munch contentedly away on the sod roof. The goats are only out in summer, but the area is a popular place to visit year-round.

Located a short drive from the cities of Parksville and Qualicum, the Old Country Market is a fully-fledged tourist attraction and perfect family outing. Not only will you find the goats, you'll also find an assortment of restaurants, an ice cream stand, gift shops, a vegetable and fruit market, a garden center, and a surf shop.

Official site: https://oldcountrymarket.com/

Vancouver Island is a dream destination for hikers. Remote, yet well-maintained, the trails here offer outstanding scenery, a chance to see wildlife, and a solitude rarely found in popular national parks and more well-known hiking areas. The most famous hike is the West Coast Trail , although this is often much more than a typical hiker is looking for.

Much more reasonable and open year-round is the Wild Pacific Trail . But you can find interesting hikes from one end of Vancouver Island to the other.

One popular hiking area on Vancouver Island is Port Renfrew. This is where you'll find the start of the 47-kilomter Juan de Fuca Marine Trail , but also shorter hikes, like a walk out to Botany Bay or Botanical Beach that can be completed in a day or even an hour or two. From China Beach, on the road to Port Renfrew from Victoria, not far beyond the town of Sooke, is the other end of the Juan de Fuca Trail. From here, you can walk a couple of kilometers along the trail to the waterfalls on Mystic Beach . This is an easy day hike that can be done on a day trip from Victoria.

There are several popular day hikes around Victoria . You won't exactly find solitude on these hikes but they will take you through beautiful scenery and to high lookouts, waterfalls, or old train trestles.

You can find dozens of great hiking trails around Tofino , many of which can be completed in a half-day or less. You can even combine a kayaking trip with a hike here. Hiking around Tofino involves a mix of forests and coastal trails, and time spent walking along the beaches.

Other areas for hiking on Vancouver Island include the remote regions to the north. Not far from Campbell River is Strathcona Provincial Park , and at the far northern end of Vancouver Island is Cape Scott Provincial Park . Both of these have interesting hikes to explore. For more details on these trails and other hiking areas, see our article on the best hikes on Vancouver Island .

The almost 75-kilometer-long West Coast Trail is one of Canada's most famous hiking trails. Known for fabulous coastal scenery and treacherous conditions, it's a bucket-list hike .

Until the beginning of this century, Canada's stormy Pacific coast with its deceptive shallows and rocky headlands was known to sailors as the "graveyard of the Pacific." A great many ships were lost in storms and fog. To give survivors a means of escape from this otherwise impassably rocky coastline backed by impenetrable rain forest, a primitive trail was opened in 1906, following the route of the telegraph lines laid in 1890 between the various lighthouses.

The trail eventually became obsolete but was discovered by backpackers in the 1960s. Now managed by Pacific Rim National Park , the West Coast Trail is an extremely popular, although arduous hike across challenging terrain.

The hike is open from May 1 to September 30 , and the numbers of hikers is limited from June 14 to September 15. Hikers must make a reservation and should book well in advance. The trail has very basic campsites, and hikers must carry all their supplies with them. The park offers detailed information for hikers who want to undertake this adventure.

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/SCO-WCT

A wonderful way to experience some of Vancouver Island's most beautiful scenery without the treacherous ordeal of hiking the West Coast Trail, is to spend some time on the Wild Pacific Trail at Ucluelet . This trail system offers easy access to beautiful coastal areas with views of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands .

The trail has different sections that can be done independently of each other and vary from roughly 2.5 to eight kilometers. Sections include Lighthouse Loop , Big Beach , and Brown's Beach to Ancient Cedars . Scenery ranges from waves crashing on rugged rocky shoreline to sheltered coves, and of course, giant trees.

Many consider the Lighthouse Loop to be the best route, particularly the section from the parking area to the lighthouse. The trail winds its way along an incredibly rugged coastline with huge views to the south, eventually leading to the scenic Amphitrite Point . It's here, you'll find a lighthouse and good views up and down the coast. While here, listen for the eerie sound of a foghorn just offshore.

It should be noted that visitors do not even need to complete these hikes to find beautiful views along the shoreline, and there are benches for resting and soaking up the scenery.

Official site: http://www.wildpacifictrail.com/

Clayoquot Sound is a remote area on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Much of it lies north-west of Tofino, with beautiful deep fiords, countless little islands, and one of the last surviving areas of temperate rainforest. It is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve .

A decision by the provincial government to allow clearance of half the remaining 3,500 square kilometers of virgin wilderness met with much resistance and protests, and led to the preservation of this special place.

You can arrange trips to remote sections of this area from Tofino, which may involve a float plane, boat, or kayak, depending on the type of experience you're looking for. Wildlife tours, often to see black bears, as well as other animals, are popular.

Whale watching tours are one of the top things to do on Vancouver Island. Two popular places for these tours are in Nanaimo and Tofino.

In Nanaimo , boats take visitors out on the Salish Sea, between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia. Commonly spotted here are orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, and other marine life. Tour operators avoid viewing endangered southern resident orcas. Tours are in zodiacs or larger semi-covered tour boats.

In Tofino , you can spot orcas and humpback whales, but the main species is gray whales, which can be seen regularly between March and November. Depending on the tour and the operator, boats range from a covered cabin cruiser to open Boston Whaler boats or Zodiacs.

Mount Washington is Vancouver Island's most popular family ski resort with year-round activities. In winter, the mountain offers a variety of ski runs and a terrain park. The resort has more than 500 meters of elevation from base to top.

There are also opportunities for cross country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and tobogganing. In summer, visitors can enjoy alpine hiking, with the help of the Scenic Chairlift Ride to the top of Mount Washington, or on the trails at the base.

Official site: http://www.mountwashington.ca/

Given the incredibly scenic nature of Vancouver Island, it's not surprising that camping is a popular pastime. You can set up a tent at a walk-in site tucked among the tall pines, with views out over the Pacific Ocean, or park your RV at a manicured campground. Either way, it's hard to beat waking up in the fresh air on a still morning, looking out over glass-calm water, or watching the smoke rise up from your campfire.

Along the west side of the island, just a short drive northwest of Victoria, you can find a number of very nice campgrounds at places like French Beach Provincial Park and China Beach . Kitesurfers camp at Jordan River Regional Park Campground .

Families looking for something a little less wild can find some good campgrounds around Nanaimo, like Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Resort . You'll find numerous campgrounds around Tofino, catering to tenters or RVers. Several of the other provincial parks farther north also offer good campgrounds. For details on these and more, see our article on the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island .

Just two hours northwest of Victoria, Port Renfrew feels far more remote than you might expect. You won't find the cute tourist town atmosphere here like you do in Tofino. In fact, you may wonder if you've missed the town as you drive through. The real attraction is the feeling of isolation and relaxation that comes with being surrounded by mountains, forest, and ocean.

Rugged wilderness, beautiful views, and perhaps a relaxing stay at a lodge are what you can expect to find here. Spend a day exploring the area. Head out on a short hiking trail to see ancient trees in the old-growth forest at Eden Grove and Avatar Grove . Walk along the oceanfront to Botany Bay and Botanical Beach , where you can see small sealife in the tidal pools, or gaze out at the waves.

Port Renfrew offers some unique accommodation options, many of which truly offer a sense of place and a West Coast experience. At the Soule Creek Lodge , you can book a lodge room or a freestanding luxury yurt, and gaze out over the ocean from the hillside location. The lodge's restaurant serves set meals, and you can opt in or out after hearing about the meal being planned for that night, but one of the owners is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America.

About an hour north of Victoria, Chemainus is known for its larger-than-life size murals that decorate the sides of buildings throughout the town. The images illustrate the history of the town and are painted by well-known artists. A walking path leads visitors on a trail to see the murals.

This is a big tourist draw for the community, but the Chemainus Theatre and the Chemainus Theatre Festival are also of interest, showcasing talent from across the province and Canada.

The one thing about Vancouver Island you can be assured of, outside of the summer months, is that it will likely rain at some point. One of the best things to do on a rainy day is visit the Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria and soak up a bit of British Columbia's natural and manmade history.

In operation since 1886, this museum, one of Canada's best, showcases a wealth of interesting displays, exhibits, and artifacts spanning the history of British Columbia. One of the best and not-to-be-missed things to see in the museum is the Natural History Gallery, with its six different rooms including: Coastal Forest, Fraser River Delta, Climate Rules!, Seashore, Ocean Station, and Ice Age.

Official site: http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/

As you stroll around Victoria's immaculate and beautiful harbor, one of the most impressive buildings is the British Columbia Legislature. Built in 1893 and expanded over the years, the legislative buildings are open to the public. Daily tours, both self-guided and guided, are an excellent way to see some of the highlights, and if you are lucky, even see the politicians in action.

Two of the most impressive things to see are the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee stained-glass windows. As you stroll about, look up to the Memorial Rotunda, with its wonderfully painted walls and dome.

For a fine lunch, stop in at the Parliamentary Dining Room. This casual, yet refined, dining establishment offers fine cuisine miles above what you'll get at the tourist-oriented restaurants lining the harbor.

Official site: https://www.leg.bc.ca/learn-about-us/visiting-the-legislature

The main tourist destinations around Vancouver Island are Victoria, Tofino, and to a lesser extent, Nanaimo. Below are some quality hotels and resorts in these areas.

• Victoria: Set in a Tudor mansion from the 1930s, Abigail's Hotel is an adult-only property. It offers affordable luxury, old-world charm, sumptuous four-poster beds, clawfoot tubs, and complimentary breakfast and appetizers. For more of a mid-range option, try the Best Western Plus Inner Harbour . This hotel is within walking distance of Victoria attractions, features an outdoor pool, and provides complimentary hot breakfast.
• Tofino: The Wickaninnish Inn has been one of Tofino's top luxury resorts since the 1950s. Its beautiful beachfront location, adjacent to a dramatic rocky headland, provides a stunning setting for the resort, with beautiful views from the rooms and restaurants, which overlook the ocean. Set on a beautiful stretch of beach, the Pacific Sands Beach Resort offers a variety of rooms and cabins in a range of prices, from luxury oceanfront multi-room townhomes to new condo-style units featuring modern décor, fireplaces, kitchens, and balconies.
• Nanaimo: Overlooking Nanaimo's harbor, the Coast Bastion Hotel is one of Nanaimo's most posh hotels, offering luxury rooms and suites, and fantastic views. The Best Western Northgate Inn is a budget-friendly property, conveniently located near shops and restaurants. It features an on-site sauna and fitness center, and comes with a continental breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Visiting British Columbia: Vancouver Island is just one small area of British Columbia, a province that has much to explore. Many people add a trip to the island on to their overall BC or Canada itinerary . Other popular stops in BC include Vancouver and the resort town of Whistler . In the interior, many people head to Kelowna and the Okanagan to relax around Lake Okanagan in summer, or ski at the nearby ski resorts of Silver Star or Big White. These are two of Canada's top ski resorts .

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24 Things to Do on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

November 1, 2022 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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After many road trips across Canada , we can easily say that Vancouver Island is one of our favourite destinations in the country. Located on Canada’s west coast and home to some of the mildest weather in Canada, there are lots of incredible things to do on Vancouver Island, including whale watching, surfing, scuba diving, restaurants, breweries, and more.

With old-growth forests, massive trees, rugged shorelines, mountains, one of Canada’s prettiest cities, and many charming towns, Vancouver Island really is a must-visit British Columbia destination and easily accessible via a flight or a short ferry ride from Vancouver . So whether you’re into soft adventure, hard adventure, or just looking to soak up life in a lodge facing the pacific ocean, we’ll fill you in on the top things to do in Vancouver Island.

Table of Contents

Visit Victoria

Not only is Victoria the capital of British Columbia, but it’s also one of the prettiest cities in Canada and the main gateway to Vancouver Island. As the biggest city on Vancouver Island, it’s a great place to start your trip.

Looking out over the Juan de Fuca Strait to the mountains on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, the beautiful harbour is where much of the “action” can be found. Simply going for a walk is wonderful to enjoy a day in Victoria, but other highlights include a visit to the historic Fairmont Empress, the Royal BC Museum, the parliament buildings, Fisherman’s Wharf, and a walking tour of the city to learn about its history. There are actually so many things to do in Victoria , so don’t miss reading our detailed travel guide.

Smell the Roses at Butchart Gardens

When it comes to world-renowned gardens, Butchart Gardens is at the top of the list. This truly is one of the most beautiful gardens in the country, if not the world. Set within an old quarry not far from Victoria, these incredible gardens provide a year-round opportunity to step into a peaceful natural setting with flowers, trees, pathways, and many places to just sit back and relax.

Although these gardens began in 1904 by Jennie Butchart, they have since grown into the spectacle they are today. After the sun sets, the gardens are illuminated with creative lighting and on Saturday nights you can enjoy a firework display set to music. Make it extra special by enjoying live music performances, which take place every evening during the busy month of July and August.

The botanical displays change throughout the seasons and are especially stunning in the spring and in fall. For lovers of Christmas lights, the gardens are lit with many lights and displays during the festive seasons, including an outdoor rink, festivities, and many activities to partake in.

Go Whale Watching

When it comes to the best things to do on Vancouver Island, whale watching is high on the list. After all, we’ve done our fair share of whale watching across the country and Vancouver Island stands out as the best. While whale sightings can never really be guaranteed, we’ll never forget the experience we had back in 2017 when we saw pods of orcas and pods of Humpback whales, all at the same time. One humpback whale came so close to the boat that it got us wet. It was unbelievable.

Whale-watching tours take place all over Vancouver Island, including from Victoria, Port Renfrew, Nanaimo, Tofino, and more. Orcas are quite common to see here, as are humpback whales, sea lions, porpoises, and other marine life. In Tofino, Gray whales are also common. Tour operators avoid viewing endangered southern resident orcas and take place in zodiacs or larger semi-covered tour boats.

Royal British Columbia Museum

Operating since 1886, the Royal British Columbia Museum is one of the best museums in Canada, featuring a wealth of interesting displays, exhibits, and artifacts showcasing British Columbia’s natural and manmade history. While the entire museum is stunning, visitors always love the Natural History Gallery, which features six different rooms: Coastal Forest, Fraser River Delta, Climate Rules!, Seashore, Ocean Station, and Ice Age.

British Columbia Legislature

As British Columbia’s capital city, their no shortage of beautiful buildings, but one of the most impressive buildings is the British Columbia Legislature . Built in 1893, overlooking the scenic harbour, the legislative buildings are beautiful both inside and out, and are open to the public with daily self-guided and guided tours, offering insight into the workings of Canada. Make sure you see the Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee and Diamond Jubilee stained-glass windows, and the Memorial Rotunda, with its wonderfully painted walls and dome. For an added Victorian experience, enjoy lunch in the Parliamentary Dining Room, a restaurant that offers casual refined fine dining in a lovely atmosphere.

Explore the Old-Growth Forests of Vancouver Island

One of the most unique things to do on Vancouver Island is the old-growth forests, which are a national treasure and an absolute must-see for anyone who loves nature. As a rainforest, Vancouver Island gets a lot of growth, and while logging has taken its toll in recent years, there are still a few remaining virgin forests that are home to humungous trees that are up to 800 years old. Some of the best places to see these giants are Cathedral Grove, Tofino, and Port Renfrew.

Cathedral Grove is one of our favourite places to spot these beautiful trees. Located near Port Alberni, in MacMillan Provincial Park, Cathedral Grove is one of the most popular places to see ancient trees as it’s on the way to Tofino, making it a great stop on a BC road trip. Old Western Red Cedar and towering Douglas Firs that reach up to 75 metres tall and as much as nine metres in circumference can easily be found via an easy-to-walk pathway.

If Cathedral Grove is out of the way, another great spot to see big trees is near Port Renfrew, which is just a couple of hours’ drive from Victoria. This scenic road trip takes you up Highway 14, past Sooke and Jordan River, along a curvy road, making it a special place to get a feel for Vancouver Island. The most popular sites in this area are Eden Grove, Big Lonely Doug, and Avatar Grove, all of which are free to the public.

If you’re tight on time and only have time for one area, Eden Grove is arguably the best. It sees much fewer crowds than Cathedral Grove or Tofino but is just as beautiful. Volunteers have built a rough boardwalk through the stand of trees that allows you quick easy access to the forest, giving you the opportunity to see Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedars, one of which is more than 12 feet wide!

Also, don’t forget to pay a visit to Lonely Doug, a 1,000-year-old Douglas Fir that stands alone near a logged area. It’s only a few hundred metres prior to reaching Eden Grove, and also serves as a reminder of the destruction that logging can have.

Explore Nanaimo

Not far from Victoria is Nanaimo , a charming little city that happens to be the second-largest on Vancouver Island. Centrally located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a beautiful city next to the Salish Sea, facing the Coastal Mountains of mainland British Columbia. Anchored by its lovely harbour, which is home to seaplanes, boat tours, walking trails, and more, this seaside city is a great place to experience the charm of Vancouver Island. It’s also home to many little shops, restaurants, and museums, and makes a great base for exploring some of the best things to do on Vancouver Island.

Go Scuba Diving

While the waters off the coast of Vancouver Island are not even close to being as warm as those found in tropical destinations, this is one of the top scuba diving hot spots in North America. World-renown as one of the best cold-water dive locations, Vancouver Island offers clear water, a great climate, miles of coastline, and HUGE marine life, including wolf eels, sea lions and the legendary giant Pacific octopus. Even the creatures that are known for being small are extra large here, such as the Sunflower starfish that can reach one metre across and the orange peel nudibranchs that can grow to 45cm in length. There are also shipwrecks and plane wrecks to explore, making this a true scuba diving paradise. Just make sure you’re dry-suit certified. Many of the popular spots to dive can be found around Nanaimo and Victoria, with some venturing further up the coast.

Go Bungy Jumping

One of the most thrilling things to do on Vancouver Island is bungy jumping in Nanaimo. Located at WildPlay , this 150-foot jump over the Nanaimo River offers an up close and personal meeting with gravity, as you jump off the bridge while secured with an elastic rope. More than 265,000 people have taken the plunge and as added bonus, you can even touch the water! Jump alone, jump tandem, or even take on some cool jump styles, such as the Swan Dive, Hover Drop, Corkscrew, Front Flip, and Prop Plunge. There’s also a primal swing, zip lines, and so much more.

Watch Grizzly Bears in the Wild

After exploring so much of Canada for so many years, people are always asking us what some of our top experiences have been. One of the things to do on Vancouver Island that always make it to the top of our list is a grizzly bear tour. When we visited in 2017, we jumped on a boat and took a 1-2 hour ride up the Inlet to an Indigenous-owned resort on the mainland. From here, our indigenous guide took us on a short walk to a grizzly feeding ground where we literally saw more than a dozen bears. For those who don’t know, seeing more than one grizzly is quite rare due to their territorial behaviour. However, because the river that flows through here has so much salmon at certain points in the year, the grizzlies don’t care about all the company, including the humans that watch from nearby. In fact, we were so close, without any barriers, that I was able to snap close-up shots with a 200mm lens. Although we did our tour with Eagle Eye Adventures , there are a number of companies that offer the experience, typically in the latter part of the summer.

Snorkel with Salmon in Campbell River

Back when we visited Vancouver Island on our cross-Canada road trip, one of the top things on my list of things to do on Vancouver Island was snorkelling with salmon. Where else can you strap on fins and a mask, and cruise down a river with salmon?

This was such a blast. We literally cruised down the river with the current, watching hundreds of salmon, including pinks, cohos, chum, sockeye, and chinook, swim next to us. At the end of the journey, you wind up in the town of Campbell River. There are opportunities to rent the gear or to join a tour. If you do only rent the gear, remember that you need to back to point A from point B. Just like the bear tours above, the best time to do this activity is from August to October.

Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park

Everyone loves a good waterfall and it’s hard to beat the beauty of the waterfalls at Elk Falls Provincial Park, which is located only two minutes from Campbell River. Enjoy a simple hike through the forest, a nice suspension bridge, and one of the most beautiful waterfalls on Vancouver Island.

Visit Tofino

Tofino is easily one of our favourite towns in Canada. After all, it’s right on the west coast, overlooking the pacific ocean, and is home to the coolest surfing community in the country. Looking out over Clayoquot Sound and surrounded by old-growth forests and long sandy beaches, this little fishing and surfing village is a very popular BC destination.

The summer months can be very busy, but it’s also the warmest time to truly enjoy the beaches and outdoor excursions. However, if you’re into storm watching or professional surfing (amateur surfing is best during the summer), then the winter season from November to February is a great time to visit. Plus, there are fewer crowds and accommodation is cheaper.

In addition, just outside the town is Pacific Rim National Park, an incredible natural area with some of Tofino’s best hikes and campgrounds. This location is home to ancient cedars, which are some of the oldest trees in Canada. It’s also where you’ll find Tofino’s famous Long Beach, which stretches along the coast for 16 kilometres. We love walking up and down Long Beach!

As mentioned above, surfing is a very popular activity in Tofino and the surrounding area. Both amateurs and professionals can enjoy the surf here, with a variety of locations and seasons to choose from. If you’re new to surfing, we highly recommend signing up for a surf lesson. There are a number of highly-rated surfing companies in town, so pick the one that suits you best and team up with an instructor who can teach you how to surf. After all, it’s not an easy sport, but it’s very fun to take on the challenge. Once you get the feel for standing up on the board, it gets quite addicting!

Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino

Right next to Tofino is Pacific Rim National Park , an absolutely stunning slice of the west coast that’s home to giant rainforest trees, world-class hiking, stunning beaches, and more. One of the best easy hikes to do while you’re here is the Rainforest Trail, a series of short one-kilometre trails that take you to see the old-growth forests that this area is famous for.

Another famous area to visit is Long Beach, a 16-kilometre stretch of sand where people come to walk the beach, go surfing, or watch some of the best sunsets Canada has to offer. You may even spot a whale!

See Goats on the Roof at the Old Country Market, Coombs

If you’re looking to take a break from all the outdoor adventure on Vancouver Island, consider the Old Country Market , a long-standing attraction that’s known for the goats that chew away at the sod roof while occasionally posing happily for photos. If the goats are the primary reason for your visit, you’ll want to go in the summer. Otherwise, the attraction here is the market itself, which is home to restaurants, ice cream, gift shops, a garden centre, and fresh vegetables and fruits.

Hike the Trails on Vancouver Island

As you can imagine, rainforest and coastline make for excellent hiking opportunities. Although many of the trails are remote, they are well-maintained and offer the chance to see incredible scenery, wildlife, and a rugged coastline that’s hard to beat. The most famous hike here is the West Coast Trail, which is booked many months in advance. There’s also the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, which also takes a number of days to traverse 47 kilometres, but is somewhat less busy than the West Coast Trail. These trails are on the extreme side, but there are many trails that are significantly shorter, giving everyone the chance to hike in the rainforest, whether it’s for a couple of hours or a couple of days.

One of the hikes we enjoyed during our time on Vancouver Island was the walk out to Botany Bay or Botanical Beach from Port Renfrew as well as the short hike to Mystic Beach, where we did pitch a tent for a night. There’s a beautiful waterfall to see here and you don’t have to camp. This hike can easily be done as a day trip from Victoria as well. In places like Tofino, you can even combine your hike with kayaking, reaching places of extreme solitude. Either way, if you want to go hiking, Vancouver Island is a great spot to do so.

Hike the World-Famous West Coast Trail

Although we mentioned the West Coast Trail above, we wanted to give it its own feature as it really is one of the most famous hikes in Canada. After all, this gruelling 75-kilometre hike cuts through incredibly beautiful scenery.

While famous for hiking today, this area was once known as the “graveyard of the Pacific” due to the rocky, shallow headlands that caused many shipwrecks prior to this century. Survivors would have to escape the water and the rocky shoreline before making their way through an almost impenetrable rainforest to make it out to safety. To help, a primitive trail was opened in 1906, following the route of the telegraph lines laid in 1890. This trail was then abandoned but rediscovered by backpackers in the 1960s. Today, people register a long time in advance for a chance to hike it!

This hiking trail is open from May 1 to September 30, with the number of hikers limited between June 14 to September 15. Hikers must make a reservation and should book well in advance. The trail has very basic campsites, and hikers must carry all their supplies with them. The park offers detailed information for hikers who want to undertake this adventure. We recommend getting into shape before attempting this trail.

Hike the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet

If you’re looking for a specific hike that offers some incredible views without the multi-day gruelling adventure, check out the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet. This trail offers easy access to beautiful coastal areas with views of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands and can be broken up into sections that range from 3-8 kilometres. Some popular sights include Big Beach, Lighthouse Loop, and Brown’s Beach to Ancient Cedars.

We’ve been told that the most popular trail, if you only have time for one, is the Lighthouse Loop, which makes its way along the rugged coastline with stunning views to the south, ending at Amphitrite Point at the lighthouse it’s known for.

Explore Clayoquot Sound

If you’re looking for adventure near Tofino, Clayoquot Sound should be high on your list. Once set to be clear-cut by the provincial government, heavy resistance put a halt to those plans and instead, it became designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

The designation created world recognition of Clayoquot Sound’s biological diversity, and it is now a protected area that you can explore. The land around Clayoquot Sound includes vast coastal temperate rainforests, rivers, lakes, marine areas and beaches. It also includes part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and some of Strathcona Provincial Park, with a total size of approximately 860,000 acres.

Some of the wildlife that can be found here includes black bears, wolves, cougars, grey whales, orcas, porpoises, sea lions, seals, river otters, bald eagles, osprey, Pacific loons, Roosevelt elk, marbled murrelets, martens, and raccoons.

Visitors can arrange trips to remote sections of Clayoquot Sound, which can be accessed by float plane, boat, or kayak, depending on the type of adventure you’re looking for. There are also a number of wildlife tours.

Hit the Slopes at Mount Washington Alpine Ski Resort

Just when you think Vancouver Island couldn’t get any better, add skiing and snowboarding to the list. While it certainly can’t compete with places like Banff , there’s still some good skiing to be had on Mount Washington , Vancouver Island’s most popular family ski resort. The resort has more than 500 metres of elevation from base to top and there are also opportunities to go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, tubing, and tobogganing. Even in the summer, alpine hiking is a great activity thanks to the help of the Scenic Chairlift Ride to the top of Mount Washington or the many trails found at the base.

Go Camping on Vancouver Island

If you’re looking to go camping, Vancouver Island is one of the best places in Canada. After all, it’s home to rainforests, beaches, and a dramatic coastline. We camped on Mystic Beach many years ago and it was unforgettable to crack open a bottle of wine while admiring the sunset. We then woke up to a fine mist that truly did create a mystical vibe.

Of course, that’s just one of many camping options on Vancouver Island. From RV sites with all the amenities you can think of to rustic sites right on the beach, there are camping options for everyone. Some popular options include Mystic Beach as mentioned above, as well as China Beach, French Beach Provincial Park, and Kitesurfers camp at Jordan River Regional Park Campground. For something less on the wild side, there’s also Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Resort in Nanaimo, Brown’s Bay Resort in Campbell River, and many others.

Experience Nature and Serenity in Port Renfrew

One of the many highlights of the many things to do on Vancouver Island is a trip to Port Renfrew, a stunning location that’s home to rugged wilderness and incredible views. Located only two hours northwest of Victoria, Port Renfrew is worlds apart, offering relaxation and isolation that’s hard to beat.

Options for fun include hiking trails to see old-growth forests, hiking trails to see beautiful Botanical Beach and Botany Bay, and even whale-watching tours. In fact, the best whale-watching tour we’ve ever taken was from Port Renfrew.

We stayed at Wild Renfrew during our visit, a series of beautiful cabins overlooking the sea, but there are also lodges, yurts, and camping opportunities.

Chemainus Wall Murals

Located close to Nanaimo, Chemainus is another one of Vancouver Island’s charming towns. People love it for the shops and cafes, but also for its famous murals . Despite its small size, Chemainus is known for its larger-than-life-size murals that decorate the sides of buildings throughout the town, which illustrate the history of the town and are painted by well-known artists. While you’re admiring the wall murals, however, don’t forget to experience the Chemainus Theatre, which is also well-known for its shows.

Want More Things to Do?

As much as we love Vancouver Island, there’s much more to British Columbia! For more things to do in this stunning province, check out our travel guides below:

• Things to Do in Kamloops
• Things to Do in Golden BC
• Things to Do in Kelowna
• Things to Do in Vernon
• Things to Do in Fernie

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Whales and Morels

Pacific Northwest Travel & Adventure

British Columbia , Vancouver Island · April 4, 2023

30 Memorable Things to do on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest. From the elegant tea rooms of Victoria to the rugged old-growth forests of Cathedral Grove, Vancouver Island has something for everyone. Having spent most of our lives in the PNW, we’ve been privileged to explore Vancouver Island again and again. We can’t wait to  share our top recommendations for things to do on Vancouver Island .

Moments after running through a beachside waterfall at Mystic Beach along the Salish Sea

Exploring Long Beach in Tofino, British Columbia on a classic foggy PNW day

Note : This article may contain affiliate links. If you buy something, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support keeps this blog active. Thank you!

Table of Contents

How to get to Vancouver Island

Getting to Vancouver Island is half the fun. If you’re coming from mainland BC or Washington state, chances are, you’ll get to take a ferry. For Puget Sound locals (like me), waiting in ferry lines to commute to work or get home after a long day can get old. But when you’re on the way to explore somewhere as special as Vancouver Island, the ferry ride can be a highlight of the trip. Depending on your ferry route, you may navigate through islands or see whales along the way. If a ferry ride is not part of your visit to Vancouver Island, I highly recommend booking a whale watching tour during your visit (more on that below).

Vancouver Island Ferry Routes:

The following ferry routes provide services between Vancouver Island and Washington State or mainland BC. There are other ferries between small islands and towns in BC, but these are the main ferry routes for visitors.

• Downtown Victoria and Port Angeles, WA via the Coho Ferry (Black Ball Ferry Line); 1 hour and 30 minute ride; for foot passengers and cars.
• Downtown Victoria and downtown Seattle, WA, via Clipper Navigation ; 2 hour and 45 minute ride; passenger-only fast ferry service.
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) and Nanaimo (Duke Point) via BC Ferries ; two hour ride; for foot passengers and cars.
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) and Victoria (Swartz Bay) via BC Ferries ; 1 hour and 35 minute ride; for foot passengers and cars.
• Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) and Nanaimo (Departure Bay) via BC Ferries ; 1 hour and 40 minute ride; for foot passengers and cars.

Important ferry tip : Most ferries require advanced reservations, and many will require you to arrive an hour (or more) beforehand. Make sure you book ahead of time and show up on time!

Tofino, BC, one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island

Getting to Vancouver Island from Vancouver, BC

When traveling between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, you can choose from three ferries; all serviced through  BC Ferries . One ferry leaves from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Two ferries leave from Tsawwassen, which is south of Vancouver and right next to the border to Point Roberts, WA.

Alternatively, you can fly from Vancouver International Airport to Victoria, Nanaimo, Comox, or Campbell River.

Getting to Vancouver Island from Seattle, WA

You can travel from Seattle to Vancouver Island via the Victoria Clipper foot ferry from downtown Seattle. This is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to Vancouver Island from Seattle.

The Clipper is very nice but certainly more expensive than the alternative, the Coho Ferry from Port Angeles. However, Port Angeles is at least two and a half hours from Seattle (often longer due to ferry wait times for crossing the Puget Sound and traffic). The Coho Ferry is still the best option if you’re on a budget or want to bring a car.

You can also fly from Seattle Tacoma International Airport to Vancouver Island.

Getting to Vancouver Island f rom Bellingham, WA

From Bellingham, you can drive across the border and take a ferry from one of Vancouver’s BC Ferries or to Seattle to take the Victoria Clipper. You can also make the journey to Port Angeles, but it wouldn’t make sense unless you’re already planning on visiting the Olympic Peninsula.

Getting to Vancouver Island f rom the Olympic Peninsula, WA

Getting to Victoria from the Olympic Peninsula is easy! Take the ferry from downtown Port Angeles, and you’ll be in Victoria only 90 minutes.

Juan de Fuca Trail on Vancouver Island

Where to Stay on Vancouver Island

Our favorite way to explore Vancouver Island is via road trip, so we often stay in a different place each night. Here are some of our recommendations on places to stay on Vancouver Island. All of these spots are great for a night or a week.

Hotels on Vancouver Island

• Fairmont Empress Hotel : Victoria’s most famous hotel that has been hosting afternoon tea for over a hundred years.
• Abigail’s Hotel : Adult-only Victoria hotel in a darling historic home.
• The Shoreline Tofino : Cozy, classy waterfront A-frames in Tofino.
• Seine Boat Inn : Scenic rooms in a stilt over-water hotel in the secluded Alert Bay, Northern Vancouver Island.
• West Coast Trail Lodge : Simple and clean hotel rooms in Port Renfrew.
• The Beach Club Resort : Stunning waterfront Parksville hotel with an indoor pool, spa, and restaurants.

Alternative Vancouver Island Accommodations

• Airbnbs : You can find tons of unique stays on Vancouver Island via Airbnb. Book in advance, as the best places sell out quickly!
• VRBO : VRBO is another incredible place to find stays on Vancouver Island. VRBOs don’t seem to book out as quickly as Airbnbs, but it is always good to book in advance!
• Hip Camp : Hip Camp is the Airbnb of camping. We love Hip Camping and have had some incredible Hip Camp experiences on Vancouver Island. We have found that it’s easy to book Hip Camps last minute, so we love using Hip Camp on unplanned road trips or last-minute vacations. Use our code JOSHB03F9B7 for $10 off for your first Hip Camp.

Sunset dinner at our campsite on the Juan de Fuca trail

Exploring Tofino, BC

30 Best Things to do on Vancouver Island

1. go whale watching.

Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. Depending on the time of year, you can see pods of orca whales, humpback whales, grey whales, and minke whales.

There are tons of Vancouver Island whale watching tours to choose from .

A pod of orca whales near Victoria, BC — Photo by Miles Loewen on Unsplash

We recommend the  Whale Watching Cruise  with Five Star Whale Watching, a World Cetacean Alliance (WCA) certified company, meaning that they are  committed to responsible ecotourism . Read about the  WCA certification  for more info.

2. Multi-day Kayaking Expedition

If you have the time, we highly recommend  this  multi-day kayaking expedition in the Barkley Sound with Hello Nature Adventure Tours Ucluelet, BC. During this three-day experience, you can kayak and hike through stunning yet rarely explored spots on Vancouver Island’s western coast.

Kayak and hike 4-6 hours daily and camp on the remote Broken Islands with a small group of fellow adventurers.

3. Run under a waterfall at Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach lives up to its name. Situated along the Juan de Fuca trail, this stunning beach can be reached via a 45-minute hike. One of the best things to do at Mystic Beach is run through the small freshwater waterfall that drips off the golden cliffs into the Salish sea below.

Running through the Mystic Beach waterfall at golden hour was one of the highlights of our recent Vancouver Island road trip. Afterward, we danced on the beach before returning to our beachside campsite.

Running under the oceanside waterfall at Mystic Beach, one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island travel tip : You can visit Mystic Beach on a day hike, but we highly recommend backpacking in and spending the night!

4. Kayak Through Uculet Harbor

Ucluelet could be considered a Vancouver Island hidden gem, but it’s growing in popularity with each year. Located on the island’s Pacific coast, Ucluelet is a stunning small town near the popular surf destination of Tofinio.

Experience the natural wonder of the Pacific Northwest on a kayak tour through Ucluelet Harbor. On  this  highly-rated Ucluelet kayak tour, you’ll learn about the area’s history while spotting eagles, bears, deer, and other wildlife along the way.

5. Backpack along the Juan de Fuca trail

The Juan de Fuca trail is one of the most enchanting (and accessible) backpacking trails on Vancouver Island. The trail weaves through evergreen forests and stunning beaches, following the straight of Juan de Fuca between Jordan River and Port Renfrew. Highlights along the Juan de Fuca trail include Mystic Beach, the Loss Creek Suspension Bridge and Sombrio Beach.

Backpacking in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park at Mystic Beach

While you can enjoy a day hike on the Juan de Fuca trail, an overnight backpack trip is the best way to experience this beautiful part of the island. The entire trail is 47 kilometers, but you can opt for a shorter route if desired. Check the  BC Parks Juan De Fuca Marine Trail  website before planning your visit to be notified of any trail closures or updates.

6. Learn about Vancouver Island’s History at a First Nations Musuem

Vancouver Island is the ancestral home of several  First Nation communities , including Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl people. Stop at a First Nation  museum or heritage site  while visiting Vancouver Island.

We recommend the U’mista Cultural Centre. Located on Alert Bay in Northern Vancouver Island, U’mista Cultural Centre is one of the oldest First Nations cultural centers in British Columbia. Visit the center to view potlach artifacts and learn about the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw people.

7. Watch Surfers in Tofino

Considered the surfing capital of Canada, Tofino is a popular spot for surfers and non-surfers alike. The drive to Tofino from Victoria is about 4.5 hours, but it’s worth it (even on a foggy day). Head straight to Long Beach to watch surfers catch waves in the cold Pacific ocean before grabbing lunch in Tofino.

Long Beach, Tofino on a foggy day

8. Go on a guided caving tour at Horne Lake Caves

Spelunking (also called caving) is the most underrated thing on Vancouver Island. Just 30 minutes from Parksville,  Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park  is home to over a thousand caves.

Traverse through tight passages and spot underground waterfalls with a professional guide on this Horne Lakes Caves spelunking tour.

9. See Grizzly Bears in the wild

Would you dare go looking for grizzly bears in the wild? If you answer yes, consider booking a grizzly bear tour with an indigenous-run company.

Although several companies offer grizzly bear viewing trips, we highly recommend booking this  highly-rated tour  with the local Homalco First Nation tribe.

Photo by Anna Tremewan on Unsplash

Led by a certified guide from the Homalco First Nation community, you’ll not only have the opportunity to spot grizzlies in the wild but also whales and other wildlife while learning about the history and cultural heritage of the area.

10. Ski Mt Washington

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is the best spot for skiing on Vancouver Island. Mt. Washington is the second busiest ski spot in British Columbia after Whistler. Mt. Washington is thirty minutes away from Courtenay and three hours from Victoria.

11. Eat a Nanaimo bar in Nanaimo

As a Canadian, Josh grew up eating Nanaimo bars, and Annie was introduced to them in college. Named after one of Vancouver Island’s most charming towns, Nanaimo, Nanaimo bars are rich, triple-layered delicacies you must try whether you make it to Nanaimo or not.

12. Enjoy High Tea at The Empress

One of the best things to do in Vancouver Island is have afternoon tea at the Fairmount Empress in Victoria. Dress up to sip English tea and indulge in decadent pastries while listening to live music in a Victorian-style tea room.

The Empress in downtown Victoria, BC — Photo by Armon Arani on Unsplash

The Empress—which has been serving tea since 1908—is located just steps from the BC Parliament building in Victoria. They can accommodate vegans, vegetarians, gluten-free meals, and other dietary restrictions when reservations are made 24 hours in advance.

14. See The hole in the Wall at Port Alberni

One of the most unique sights on the island is Hole in the Wall, a large man-made hole that was drilled through solid rock to make a pipeline. You can reach Hole in the Wall by a short 1-kilometer hike on the outskirts of Port Alberni.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Hendershot (@adamhendershot)

15. Take a Street Food Tour in Victoria

Eat your way through the charming city of Victoria on a street food tour. As you walk the streets of Victoria with a foodie guide, your tastebuds will transport you around the world. Visit a tea salon, grab Middle-Eastern street food, taste a variety of samples at a European-style deli, and sip herb-infused soda. Along the way, you’ll learn about Victoria’s history and meet local chefs and shop owners.

17. Swim at Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Find the perfect swimming hole at Sooke Potholes Park near Victoria. Arrive early in the morning or stay late in the afternoon for a tranquil swim. Given its natural beauty and vicinity to Victoria, the park fills up quickly on summer weekends.

Perfect swimming spot at Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

18. Wander through The Butchart Gardens 

Butchart Gardens is one of Vancouver Island’s most visited destinations for a good reason! Locals and visitors alike enjoy wandering through the 100+ year-old garden which is now a National Historical Site of Canada.

We’ve visited the Butchart Gardens in nearly every season and can attest that they’re worth visiting any time of the year. In the spring and summer, colorful tulips and bright dahlias bloom. In the winter, the garden comes alive at night with Christmas lights and festive decor.

A sunny day at the Butchart Gardens — Photo by Yuta Koike on Unsplash

19. wine tasting on the Saanich Peninsula

Escape into the beautiful Vancouver Island wine country on the Saanich Peninsula to tour local wineries and taste wine pairings. We recommend  this  highly-rated wine-tasting tour from Victoria that offers vegan and vegetarian charcuterie boards (yum!) If you want a vegetarian or vegan option, be sure to say so when you make your reservation.

20. Hike Pacific Rim National Park

There are so many incredible places to hike on Vancouver Island, but the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is one of the best. Hike through temperate rainforests and walk barefoot along sandy beaches. Some of the best Pacific Rim hikes include the Halfmoon Bay Trail, Rainforest Trail, and the West Coast Trail.

21. Try forest bathing

One of the most unique ways to experience nature on Vancouver Island is through forest bathing. The idea of forest bathing started in Japan but has spread across the world. It simply refers to connecting with nature intentionally. You can try forest bathing with a local guide in a temperate rainforest near Vancouver.

22. Explore Victoria’s Chinatown

Victoria’s Chinatown is a picturesque neighborhood with a whole lot of history. The three-block area is the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and it’s certainly worth a visit if you spend time in Victoria.

Victoria Chinatown — Photo by Jasper Garratt on Unsplash

We recommend dedicating time to wander through Chinatown’s bright red brick alleyways and exploring local shops. Review the neighborhood’s history before visiting to get a fuller picture of Victoria, and Canada as a whole.

23. Watch the Sunset in Parksville

We stumbled upon Parksville during our most recent Vancouver Island trip and were stunned by the area’s beauty. Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Nanaimo, Parksville is a delightful town with a gorgeous waterfront area. As you walk along the long Parksville boardwalk, you can spot the outlines of islands across the Straight of Georgia.

Stunning Parksville sunset

24. Wander through old growth forests at Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is another beautiful place to escape in nature. This lush old-growth forest is home to some of the country’s oldest trees. Giant Douglas Fir trees climb high into the sky like cathedrals as their mossy branches stretch out across the path.

Cathedral Grove is a great spot for a short hike and is easily accessible from nearby Port Alberni, Parksville, or Nanaimo.

Old growth trees at Cathedral Grove — Photo by Claude Laprise on Unsplash

25. Try a hot tub boat in Victoria

Have you ever soaked in a hot tub on the water? If not, you can try it in Victoria! Renting a hot tub boat with a group of friends is a great way to experience something new or celebrate a birthday. Although we haven’t had the opportunity to try this yet, its on our Vancouver Island bucket list now!

26. Swim in Lake Cowichan

Lake Cowichan is a beautiful bright blue lake surrounded by evergreen hills. It was one of our favorite stops on our most recent Vancouver Island road trip, and we highly recommend visiting! There are several spots around the lake where you can stop for a swim. We went to Lily Beach, a small darling beach perfect for an afternoon of relaxation.

27. Hip CAMP on Vancouver Island

If you like camping, check out Hip Camp! Comparable to Airbnb, but for camping, Hip Camp is a great way to explore BC on a budget and camp in uncrowded places. We love Hip Camp because it’s easy to reserve, and most Hip Camps are on large pieces of land, so you get way more space to yourself than you would at a traditional campsite.

We loved this Hip Camp on Vancouver Island. When we visited, they had baby goats and baby bunnies! Be sure to use our code JOSHB03F9B7 for $10 off for your first Hip Camp!

Hip Camp on Vancouver Island

28. Zipline through the Sooke Forest

One of the best things to do near Victoria is zipline through the enchanting Sooke Forest. Ride an ATV through a stunning Pacific Northwest Rainforest just outside Victoria before navigating suspension bridges and ziplining through the forest.

29. Explore the northern Vancouver ISland

Few visitors make it to the northern tip of Vancouver Island. If you have the time, a visit to Cape Scott Park in Port Handy is well worth it. Explore the park’s 30 kilometers of beaches and gaze up at breathtaking old-growth trees.

Photo by Shaylis Johnson on Unsplash

Since it’s so remote, Cape Scott Park is an excellent place to escape and experience the outdoors without interruption. If you have a limited time, you can go on a hike or two, but if you can stay in Northern Vancouver Island longer, consider camping at Cape Scott Park.

30. Picnic at Tofino

Tofino, the famous Pacific surf town we mentioned before, has some incredible picnic spots. After the long drive to Tofino, indulge in a well-deserved meal while enjoying the stunning surroundings. Bring your lunch, or grab something to-go from a Tofino restaurant. Bravocados is a great vegan restaurant, Spice Hut has tasty Indian cuisine, and Shed has flavorful bowls and burgers made with locally sourced ingredients.

A breathtaking picnic spot right near the entrance to downtown Tofino

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is full of hidden gems we have yet to discover, so we encourage you to get off the beaten track and explore on your next Vancouver Island trip.

Is there anything that we missed? Let us know about your favorite things to do on Vancouver Island in the comment section.

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10 Most Charming Small Towns on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada

• British Columbia
• Destinations
• Vancouver Island

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

Vancouver Island’s stunning scenery includes lush old-growth forests, snowcapped mountains, rolling agricultural land, rocky headlands, ocean vistas, curving beaches, and snug harbors.

North Vancouver Island is rugged with dense forests, fjords, and mountains like the Strathcona Provincial Park. Central Vancouver Island features a mix of forests, lakes, and rolling hills, with urban areas like Nanaimo. South Vancouver Island is more populated, with Victoria as the capital, offering a mild climate, beaches, and a mix of urban and natural landscapes.

Charming communities, quirky towns, and colorful fishing villages dot the scenic island on Canada’s western coast. Here are the most beautiful small towns on Vancouver Island to include on your itinerary.

10 Most Charming Small Towns on Vancouver Island

Enjoy sea air, small-town charm, and public art in Sidney. The seaside resort town is located at the northern end of the Saanich Peninsula minutes from the Victoria International Airport and from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal. 

Sidney’s pretty, walkable downtown is both relaxed and vibrant. You’ll find sculptures, murals, and statues as you stroll through town. Use this self-guided tour map to explore Sidney’s art and historical artifacts. Of particular note is the collection of artwork at the Seaside Sculpture Walk where views of Mount Baker and the Salish Sea provide a stunning backdrop. 

Boutique shops offer goods by local artisans and products imported from around the world. Sidney, known as “Booktown,” has a great selection of new and used books in six unique bookstores located within close proximity to each other downtown. Restaurants and cafés feature local seafood, produce, wines, and craft beer. The award-winning aquarium, the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea , is located on the waterfront. Enjoy beautiful ocean views while strolling along the flat barrier-free Waterfront Walkway.

Pro Tip: Stop at the fish market on the downtown pier to see what the local catch of the day is. The Sidney Pier Bistro , a restaurant on the pier, has great views across the Georgia Strait. Takeout is available if you wish to eat at one of the benches or picnic tables along the Waterfront Walkway.

2. Brentwood Bay

Enjoy beachfront ambiance and stunning views as you take a relaxing stroll along the shore or dine at a waterfront restaurant at Brentwood Bay, located on the Saanich Inlet. The calm, protected waters are popular with kayakers. Rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboat at the marina or opt for a tour with a guide. Enjoy the natural scenery while looking for wildlife. Bald eagles, osprey, seals, otters, and sea lions are common. 

A few Brentwood Bay area attractions outside of the main village area are worthy of mention. The world-famous Butchart Gardens is known for its dazzling floral displays. Thousands of butterflies fly through the lush gardens at Victoria Butterfly Gardens. The tasting room at Church & State Wines offers samples of the wines from both its Brentwood Bay and Okanagan Valley vineyards. 

A ferry runs from Brentwood Bay to Mill Bay on the other side of Saanich Inlet. The 25-minute scenic ride provides an alternative to driving back through the city of Victoria if you wish to continue on to the quaint towns in the Cowichan Valley. 

Pro Tip: The scenery is lovely at any time but sunsets over the bay are particularly spectacular. 

3. Cowichan Bay Village

The relaxed fishing village atmosphere of Cowichan Bay Village seems worlds away from the city although it is only an hour north of Victoria or an hour south from Nanaimo. It is a place to slow down, breathe in the sea air, and enjoy the scenery.

Colorful float homes built on pilings jut into the water. Many started as boathouses in the early 1900s, evolved into summer cottages, and later became full-time residences. Mountains form the backdrop as you look out over the water from the shore, a kayak rental, or a whale-watching tour boat. 

The handful of shops in the tiny village, which is essentially one street along the water, delight browsers. The community-based Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre museum, located on a pier, is worth visiting. Its displays tell the history of fishing and shipbuilding in the area.

Pro Tip: Linger over food at one of the cafés or eateries. Fresh seafood figures prominently on menus, but options also exist for the non-fish eater. I think you’ll be happy with whatever eatery you choose. Before visiting the village, people in Victoria told me I’d love the place and recommended their favorite places to eat. Everyone had a different favorite. 

Duncan, situated in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, is actually a city, but its downtown retains the feel of a small, quaint town. Historic buildings dating to the early 1900s house an eclectic mix of unique shops offering a variety of products, including works from many local artisans. There are also many restaurants and cafés. That would be reason enough to wander through the town, but the major draw is the city’s collection of totem poles. Duncan is known as the “City of Totems.”

Totem poles are monuments carved in wood by First Nations of the Pacific Northwest to commemorate ancestry, history, people, or events. The more than 40 totem poles located in Duncan are part of an ongoing project begun in 1985 to attract visitors. It has developed into one of the world’s largest outdoor collections of publicly displayed totem poles. Signs beside the poles tell the pole’s story from the carver’s perspective.

The greatest concentration of totem poles in Duncan is in its downtown area. You can see the historic buildings, browse in shops, and stop for refreshments as you tour the totems. Use this map to guide you or follow the yellow footsteps on the sidewalks.

5. Chemainus

Chemainus is a pretty artisan village nestled on Vancouver Island’s east shore. Chemainus is known for its many murals. What started as five murals in 1982 to bring tourists to town after the sawmill, the town’s major employer, shut down has grown to over 50 murals today. The giant murals depict the history and culture of the community.

Pick up a brochure at the Visitor Center, use the map on the Chemainus Festival of Murals Society website, follow the yellow footprints on the sidewalks, or simply wander through town. The murals are easy to spot and in close proximity to each other. You’ll also see several sculptures.

It is not just the murals and the sculptures that make this an artisan community. Shops, boutiques, and galleries contain art and handmade local goods. Award-winning eateries offer a range of food. Carvings in parks pay homage to the heritage of the community. 

Waterwheel Park, with an outdoor stage, playground, and picnic areas, is located in the center of town. To the north of it lies Old Town Chemainus, where you’ll find Victorian-era homes and, of course, more murals.

The core of Chemainus is compact and easily walked with places to stop and rest. The relaxed vibe invites you to linger and take your time. The mural walking tour is wheelchair friendly. Many stores not directly at ground level have ramps and switchbacks. 

Pro Tip: Look for the secret garden located behind Hansel & Gretel’s Candy on Willow Street. You’ll find a delightful courtyard with gardens, topiary plants, and a spot to buy ice cream or frozen yogurt.

6. Ladysmith

Surrounded by natural beauty, Ladysmith sits on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island in the heart of the Cowichan Valley. A genuine small-town atmosphere greets you. Original historic buildings house unique shops, eateries, and pubs. Many of the well-preserved Edwardian buildings were transported to the town from Nanaimo at the beginning of the 20th century. Follow the Heritage Walk Route along award-winning First Avenue.

Soak in the peaceful atmosphere and watch the boats at the Ladysmith marina. View sea life through a portal in the floor at the Sea Life Centre. At the Maritime Museum, located in a blue boat shed on the dock, see shipwright tools and displays of local maritime history.

7. Ucluelet

Ucluelet is a laid-back fishing village situated along a sheltered inlet on the edge of the Wild Pacific Ocean. It is a place of spectacular rugged beauty close to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the Wild Pacific Trail. The village is centered around its marina.

Although Ucluelet is smaller and quieter than nearby Tofino, you’ll still find cute shops selling local arts, handcrafted wares, and gift items. Enjoy the tastes of Ucluelet at independent tea and coffee shops, restaurants, delis, and bakeries. See the diversity of local marine life at the Ucluelet Collect & Release Aquarium . All display specimens are gathered in local waters. The Ucluelet Government Dock and adjoining seawall offer good viewing of sea lions, seals, and eagles. 

The natural beauty around the town of Tofino , located on Vancouver Island’s western coast just north of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, makes it a popular destination. Visitors come to fish, swim, surf, hike in the rainforest, kayak, whale watch, storm watch, or just enjoy the spectacular scenery. The village core is a cute and charming place with a relaxed seaside resort vibe. 

See the artistic nature of the community on display throughout the town in shops, galleries, restaurants, and coffee shops. Shops carry unique coastal goods made by local and regional artists. Restaurants serve locally sourced food. 

Situated at the heart of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region, this quaint pedestrian/bike-friendly village is surrounded by a rich natural landscape of old-growth rainforest, long sandy beaches, and rocky shores.

9. Hornby 

Hornby Island and Denman Island are technically not on Vancouver Island but are so close they shouldn’t be left out. A short ferry ride from Buckley Bay to Denman Island will take you to these beautiful islands. From there, you can take another ferry to Hornby Island.

Both are great places to visit, but there’s a high number of choices at Hornby Island. A popular getaway for Vancouverites, the island is known for its Whaling Station Beach, a fine white sand beach with warm-ocean swimming which is rare in these parts.

Make sure to visit the Community Hall in Hornby and check out the farm stands for delicious goodies and freshly baked treats. Hornby Island is best discovered as you drive down the tiny island roads. 

10. Sayward

Sayward is one of Vancouver Island’s older communities nestled in Sayward Valley at the mouth of the Salmon River. Once a logging town, You’ll see reminders of this history in the antique logging equipment displayed throughout the town.

If natural history piques your interest, the world’s tallest yellow cedar tree just north of Campbell River will leave you gazing upward in awestruck wonder. Sayward’s most notable attractions are Salmon River Estuary, Dalrymple Creek, and Mount Kain are also some of the more popular natural wonders to explore nearby.

What Is the Smallest City on Vancouver Island?

By area, Duncan is the smallest city not only on Vancouver Island but in the whole of Canada as well.  Covering only 1.3 square miles, it is located on the east side of Vancouver Island between Victoria City and Nanaimo.

Why Is Vancouver Island So Special?

Vancouver Island is renowned for its natural world, rugged coastline, and beautiful beaches ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate smaller towns. Vancouver Island offers scenic golf courses, lush vineyards, hiking trails, camping, and paddling adventures.

How Is Vancouver Island Divided?

Greater Victoria, Central Vancouver Island, North Island, South Island, the West Coast, and the Gulf & Discovery Islands comprise Vancouver Island. Most visitors tend to stick to the well-known spots on the southern tip, but North Island is gaining in popularity thanks to its unspoiled nature.

Where Is the Best Weather on Vancouver Island?

The mountains protect the east side from harsh winds and weather and thus it is much warmer. The West Coast has the most annual rainfall of anywhere in North America. Winters are also milder on the east side.

How to Get to Northern Vancouver Island?

To get to Northern Vancouver Island by road, head north via Island Highway 19 from Campbell River to Port Hardy and take a BC Ferry.  Whale and bear sightings are the top things to do on Northern Vancouver Island.

Donna Janke is a writer based in Canada out of Winnipeg, Manitoba. She shares her travel discoveries on her blog, Destinations Detours and Dreams , using a combination of narrative, photography, and personal reflection, all with an eye for detail. Her interest in travel started as a child when books transported her around the world, and grew as she explored the world in person. Her life as a travel writer began after she retired from a professional career in IT. Donna loves discovering the unique character of places, near and far, and writing to inspire others in their travels. Her travel stories have been published in several outlets, and tend to focus on culture, history, nature, art, architecture, and food.

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20 Best Things to do in Vancouver Island: Comprehensive Guide

A premier destination for unparalleled outdoor adventures , Vancouver Island is a playground of abundant nature offering some incredible experiences. From sprawling beaches to snow-capped mountains surrounded by lush rainforests, the island has a unique landscape unlike anywhere else. It’s a popular destination for hiking, paddling, wildlife viewing, and even surfing. 

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Over the last few years, we’ve grown very fond of Vancouver Island after spending some time uncovering the mystic beauty the area is known for. The Island is filled with vibrant communities and an impressive roster of restaurants and shops thriving on a hyper-local spirit.  

With a rich First Nations heritage, Vancouver Island is a destination with a strong respect for the land and a unique opportunity to learn about indigenous culture from a number of Indigenous communities that call the island home. 

If you are planning a visit to this beautiful region, here are some of the best things to do on Vancouver Island.  

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

About Vancouver Island, BC

Vancouver Island is located on the west coast of Canada just off the coast of Vancouver in British Columbia. It actually dips below the Canada-US border and shares many similarities with America’s Pacific Northwest. The island is the largest on North America’s west coast and is surrounded by over 200 smaller Gulf Islands. 

Characterized by temperate rainforest and rugged beaches , Vancouver Island is a haven for nature and wildlife. It’s home to a wealth of marine creatures like orcas, sea otters, humpbacks, sea lions, and gray whales . Back on land, black bears, bald eagles, deer, elk, cougars , and hoards of other wildlife can be found across the island. The rugged coastline makes Vancouver Island a popular tourist destination for hiking, kayaking, surfing , and even skiing in the wintertime. 

Best Time to Visit Vancouver Island

Like many Canadian destinations, Vancouver Island’s high season is during the summer from June to August. With the warm weather and lack of rain, the Island sees thousands of tourists during this short time. To avoid the crowds, we recommend visiting in the shoulder season, either in May or September.  

Unlike the rest of Canada, winters on Vancouver Island are mild with temperatures hovering around 5-10°C. What it lacks in snow, it makes up for in rain with many days of grey, rainy drizzle. 

Even during winter, many outdoor activities are still accessible and the campgrounds that remain open usually have a reduced rate. Some parks, like Pacific Rim National Park, close their campgrounds for the winter while others, like Strathcona Provincial Park, offer great winter activities.  

How to Get to Vancouver Island, Canada

Vancouver Island is easily accessible by air or ferry . The only international airport is in the capital city of Victoria, while Nanaimo and other smaller cities in Vancouver Island offer domestic flights from across Canada . You’ll usually have a brief layover in Vancouver before enjoying a short scenic flight across the Strait. 

Vancouver Island has several ferry ports with the main hubs in Nanaimo and Victoria . Hop on the stunning 1 hour 40 min boat ride from Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay to reach the island from Vancouver. The BC Ferries terminals are serviced by public transit, taxis, and private shuttle buses for easy transfers.       

How to Get Around Vancouver Island

Highway 19 is the main highway connecting Victoria in the South to Port Hardy in the north. It starts as the Trans-Canada Highway and spans some 500kms. It takes about 5.5 hours to get from one end of the island to the other. Thanks to this, Vancouver Island is easily drivable by car with almost all major attractions reachable by paved road.  

If you don’t have your own wheels, there is public transport connecting much of the eastern coast through BC Transit. But, schedules can be sparse and transfers are limited outside of Victoria. So if you’re planning a day trip, we recommend a bus service like the Vancouver Island Connector . You can travel to most major centres for CAD $40-90 and connect with the Tofino Bus for CAD $70-105.    

Best Things to do on Vancouver Island, BC

Though a Vancouver Island map may look small, the Island is bustling with incredible attractions and outdoor adventures. Here are some of our top Vancouver Island attractions and suggestions for things to do in Vancouver Island.   

Visit Victoria

Flanked by historic buildings and charming winding streets, Victoria is a beautiful city on Vancouver Island’s south coast. The capital city of British Columbia , Victoria truly offers something for everyone—nature, shopping, dining, and adventure. It’s known for its picturesque inner harbour and historic Chinatown. 

Did you know that Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada?

Check out the Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria for a glimpse of the natural and human history that make Vancouver Island so special. Later, stop by the Fisherman’s Wharf at the tip of James Bay to enjoy fresh seafood right off the boat. You’ll want to browse the many outdoor markets before choosing from the ever-growing selection of amazing restaurants for dinner. 

Be sure to explore Fan Tan Alley , the narrowest street in Canada, and enjoy the endless beauty of Dallas Road . If you are looking to get out on the water, hop into a zodiac boat for an exhilarating Whale Watching tour.  

Butchart Gardens 

One of the top things to do on Vancouver Island, The Butchart Gardens are a destination not to miss. Deemed a National Historic Site of Canada , the gardens are set on 55 acres just 20km outside of Victoria and are home to over 900 plant varieties . 

There is much to discover at Butchart Gardens: from the Sunken Garden to the serene Japanese Garden, the grounds are absolutely stunning and perfectly tranquil. Spend an afternoon after arriving on the Swartz Bay ferry and enjoy high tea at The Dining Room .

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Located less than an hour from Victoria, Sooke offers an easy getaway into nature. Sooke Potholes Provincial Park features water-carved potholes filled with flowing water from the Sooke River. It’s a popular swimming spot thanks to the refreshing waters that fill the glacier-created rock formations.    

The park is a great day trip from Victoria and is worthy of a stop for anyone spending time on Vancouver Island in the summer. 

Sheringham Point Lighthouse

Journey along the Lighthouse View Trail for a stunning loop around the historic Sheringham Point Lighthouse. Since 1912, the lighthouse has been guiding vessels into Victoria and Vancouver and is one of the only Vancouver Island lighthouses accessible by land.

Waterfalls at Sandcut Beach

Cascading onto the pebbled beach, the waterfalls at Sandcut Beach are a local favourite . The beach spans 3.5 km and boasts lovely views of the Olympic Mountains. It’s reached after a short stroll beneath towering spruce and cedar trees and is a great place for a picnic.  

Port Renfrew 

On the southern portion of Vancouver Island’s west coast, the beaches are teeming with marine life and flora. Port Renfrew is a great launch point for exploring some of the most beautiful places on Vancouver Island. Start at Botanical Beach and make your way around Port San Juan. Port Renfrew also marks the start (or end) of the Juan de Fuca Trail , a multi-day hike along the coast. After a day watching the waves, settle into the Renfrew Pub for a seaside dinner on their cozy patio. 

Cowichan Bay 

The charming boat-lined marina of Cowichan Bay is like a real-life postcard. Filled with artisan creations and local fare, the streets are an idyllic place to roam on a sunny afternoon. Grab a bite of fish and chips while admiring the many houseboats floating in the harbour. Cowichan Bay also offers fantastic birdwatching with opportunities for whale watching tours and fishing charters.

Totems in Duncan

Located just south of Nanaimo, Duncan is the gateway to the Cowichan Valley. Coined the “City of Totems ,” Duncan’s downtown streets are lined with 38 First Nations’ totems . Explore the colourful works of art on a self-guided Totem Tour Walk before a delicious meal at Brunch on 3rd.

One of the bigger cities on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo offers a range of activities with a blossoming local community. Nanaimo attractions range from hiking to waterfalls to soaring through the forest on a ziplining thrill ride . And in town, the winding streets of Nanaimo are filled with bustling boutiques, cafés, and art galleries.  

Make your way along the peaceful east coast while beach hopping at Pipers Lagoon and Departure Bay . After, walk the charming streets of the Old City Quarter before taking a stroll along the harbourfront with gelato in hand. Sit back and watch the float planes land as boats sail in the distance. Then, look out for sea lions frolicking at Dodd Narrows before hopping on the ferry to Protection Island for a drink at a floating pub . 

But Nanaimo sightseeing doesn’t stop at the coast—head inland for an exhilarating climb up Mount Benson . You’ll be rewarded with amazing views of the coast and layers of nearby islands. Or, venture down to Ammonite Falls where ancient fossils envelop a cascading waterfall perfect for a cool dip on a hot day.     

READ NEXT: Things to do in Nanaimo

Goats on the Roof in Coombs

If you’ve ever looked up what to do on Vancouver Island, you’ve probably heard the name “ goats on the roof in Coombs .” To put it simply, it’s exactly what it sounds like—there are goats living on a roof in Coombs. It is definitely one of the most popular attractions on Vancouver Island worth adding to your itinerary. 

The building in question is the Old Country Market in Coombs. The roof is covered in grass and during the summer months, you’ll find goats hanging out on its rooftop. Snap a pic with the goats and then pop into the market for a wide selection of local and international foods and fresh produce. 

Don’t miss a stop at Billy G’s Dougnuts for the most delicious sugar hit on the island. Their donuts are funky and delicious and we bet you’ll be hard-pressed to pick just one. 

Port Alberni 

Located in the middle of the island, Port Alberni is a worthy stop along Highway 4 en route to Tofino. This former logging town sits on the Alberni Inlet , and is a popular fishing destination, particularly during the salmon run. 

Port Alberni is surrounded by thriving nature parks with massive trees and flowing waterfalls. 

Start the day at Little Qualicum Falls where you can trek along the powerful waterfall on the loop trail. Then, do one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island: explore the old-growth forests. 

Head to MacMillan Provincial Park to walk around towering cedar and fir trees at Cathedral Grove . After Cathedral Grove, treat yourself to a sweeping view of the Alberni Valley on the Alberni Valley Lookout Trail . Recharge with a beer at Dog Mountain Brewing before going for a dip in the sparkling waters at Sproat Lake Provincial Park.   

Tofino is by far one of the most beloved places to visit in Vancouver Island. This rugged west coast town is a haven for outdoor activities from whale watching to surfing, hiking and kayaking. 

The village itself has a buzzing scene of shops and restaurants with a strong emphasis on local fare. Have lunch at Tacofino or settling in for a seaside dinner at 1909 Kitchen at the Tofino Resort & Marina 

There is no shortage of surfing beaches in Tofino suitable for surfers with any skill level. So make some time to visit some of the best beaches on Vancouver Island dotted along the coastline in Tofino. Our favourite, the sandy expanse of Long Beach is a great place to ride the waves or relax with a beach picnic.

Tofino also neighbours beautiful Pacific Rim National Park , home to great hikes like the Rainforest Trail or the South Beach Trail . 

The area is also a hotspot for wildlife tours like whale watching, bear watching , and even a remote adventure to Hot Springs Cove . Operators like Remote Passages  and Tofino Resort & Marina offer a number of wildlife tours throughout the season. 

Away from the tourist-lined streets of Tofino, Ucluelet is a laid back nature-driven community. While many know Ucluelet as a quiet alternative to the busy Tofino, it’s also a destination in and of itself. The area is internationally renowned for its kayaking trips to the Broken Group Islands . 

Majestic Ocean Kayaking is the top outfitter in the area offering a variety of trips to the islands ranging from a 4.5-hour introductory day trip to a 5-day off-grid kayaking and camping adventure. 

Ukee’s outdoor expeditions aren’t limited to a kayaking tour or two. The town is home to the Wild Pacific Trail , a 9 km journey with stunning panoramic views from every turn. Meanwhile, the town hosts artisan markets, surf shops , and an expansive aquarium perfect for rainy afternoons.

Fanny Bay Oysters

Serving the freshest seafood around, Fanny Bay Oysters is an environmentally-conscious oyster farm on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Visit the Seafood Shop for a variety of clams, mussels, crab, and you guessed it, oysters! 

Grab a dozen or 3, take it back to your campground and pop them on the grill for an easy way to enjoy Pacific Oysters without the hassle of shucking! 

Campbell River

A true launch point to nature, Campbell River celebrates what tourism Vancouver Island is all about. Campbell River attractions focus on gorgeous scenery , cultural experiences and the wild animals that call the Island home. It’s a fantastic place to join whale and bear watching tours , along with immersive cultural tours with Homalco Tours . And if you are visiting during the salmon run, this is by far THE BEST place to go salmon fishing on Vancouver Island. 

End the day walking the town and visiting the shops and restaurants. Pop into the Carving Shack before settling in for a beach fire at Dick Murphy Park.

Or, stroll along the sea walk and look out for amazing driftwood art from local artist Alex Whitcombe of Drifted Creations . Whatever you do, be sure to catch the sunset at the Discovery Fishing Pier as the sun blankets the Discovery Islands. 

Strathcona Provincial Park

Filled with hiking trails, Strathcona Park was the first Provincial Park in British Columbia . It’s home to some of the biggest mountains on Vancouver Island and is a world of natural wonders. Drive 1 hour from Campbell River for the 1km hike to spectacular Lady Falls and extend your stay by visiting Lupin Falls and Lower Myra Falls.

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Venture across the suspension bridge for stunning views of the roaring Elk Falls. The park is just a 5-minute drive from Campbell River and has great wildlife viewing and hiking trails.   

Marine Life in Telegraph Cove

Northern Vancouver Island is the ultimate destination for rugged unspoiled nature . Telegraph Cove is a sleepy fishing village with cute and colourful historic houses dotting the coast. It’s a fantastic place to visit if you want to see the resident orcas (killer whales) that live in the North Coast waters. 

Go on an eco-certified whale watching tour with Prince of Whales or hop in a kayak with their sister company, North Island Kayak , to paddle through the Johnstone Strait. After all, it’s one of the best places on the entire island to see whales! 

End the day at the Telegraph Cove Resort where you can dine on local seafood and wines or spend the night at the Forest Campground, tucked away just 1 km away from the resort.   

Located on the nearby Cormorant Island, Alert Bay is a harbourside community just 45 minutes from Port McNeill. It’s home to the world’s tallest totem pole where the ‘Namgis people welcome visitors at the U’mista Cultural Centre . It’s surrounded by pristine wilderness and is an excellent place to dive into Vancouver Island’s cultural history. 

Port Hardy 

The highway ends in Port Hardy, a small town that acts as a launch point to North Island nature. It’s known as a gateway to BC Ferries that venture up the coast to Bella Coola and Prince Rupert. 

There are a number of things to do in Port Hardy ranging from wildlife tours to diving . The town is also home to art boutiques and shops. And of course, you can’t visit Port Hardy without grabbing a bite of candied smoked salmon —a famed local favourite.

Cape Scott Provincial Park

Cape Scott is one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island for rugged, untouched nature. The windy northern coast boasts soft, sandy beaches lined with jagged cliffs and dense forest. The park is famous for the challenging North Coast Trail and backcountry camping at spectacular San Josef Bay.  

Popular Activities on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Whale watching on vancouver island.

Going on a whale watching tour is a Vancouver Island must-see! The towns below are the best destinations for an unforgettable whale-watching trip.   

Known for its Southern resident Orcas , Victoria offers year-round whale watching . During March-November, you will also see gray whales and humpback whales as they migrate up the coast. It’s one of the busier whale watching destinations in Vancouver Island, but we are happy to report that operators in Victoria still adhere to responsible wildlife viewing practices.

Join a 3-hour whale watching trip on a zodiac with Orca Spirit for CAD $129 per person or hop on one of the tours offered by Prince of Whales Whale Watching . 

The most common whales to see on Vancouver Island’s West Coast are humpbacks and gray whales. You’ll find humpbacks in this region all throughout the summer season and gray whales from March-November where they come to feed during this time of the year. It is possible to see transient Orcas in Tofino, but they are much more common on the east coast.  

We recommend a zodiac tour with Remote Passages . Their 3-hour whale watching tour costs CAD $129 per person. Boat tours are also available. 

Campbell River is a premier whale-watching destination offering full-day tours into remote passages. The area sees year-round transient orcas , along with humpbacks from May-November. Full-day tours seek out the Northern Resident Orcas that live on the north coast.

We recommend a tour with Homalco Tours , an Indigenous-run company that offers wildlife as well as cultural tours. We particularly enjoyed their Whales, Wildlife and Culture tour.

Telegraph Bay 

Home to the Northern resident Orcas , Telegraph Cove is one of the best places on Vancouver Island to see whales. Here, you’ll see orcas year-round while humpbacks visit from May-September.   

Join a 3-hour whale watching tour with Prince of Whales on a zodiac for CAD $152 per person.

READ NEXT: Ethical Wildlife Experiences To Have On Your Next Vacation

Surfing on Vancouver Island

Easily one of the most unique things to do on Vancouver Island is surfing. There aren’t many other places in Canada where surf shops and wetsuits fill the streets. 

For beginners , the Tofino area has you covered for sandy beaches and beginner breaks. Visit Chesterman Beach or join in on surf lessons at Long Beach .

For advanced surfers , Cox Bay is one of the best Vancouver Island surfing spots. It has consistent swells and always sees good waves. Another spot closer to Ucluelet is Wickaninnish Beach or Sombrio Beach near Port Renfrew.

For experts , check out Jordan River with its distinct three breaks. This spot isn’t for beginners, as it’s surrounded by jagged rocks and doesn’t always have consistent swells.     

Hiking on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Vancouver Island tourism is largely centred on the outdoors. There are world-class hikes worthy of any traveller’s bucket list. 

Best Multi-Day Treks

• The iconic West Coast Trail is the main reason many people explore Vancouver Island. It’s a gruelling 75 km from Bamfield to Port Renfrew filled with ladders, river crossings, and waterfalls. 
• The Juan de Fuca Trail ventures from Botanical Beach to China Beach and spans 41 km. It’s similar to the West Coast Trail and winds through beaches, forests, and grottos.  

Best Day Hikes 

• An Alberni Valley favourite, 5040 Peak is an uphill climb along 9 km of mountain dotted with alpine lakes. It follows challenging terrain but promises stellar views from every angle.
• North of Campbell River, the 8 km Ripple Rock Trail is a great option for a moderate day hike. It opens up to gorgeous views of Seymour Narrows and the Discovery Islands.

Best Short Hikes 

• The Wild Pacific Trail Lighthouse Loop is a beautiful 2.5 km loop easily done in 45 minutes. It’s based in Ucluelet and has stunning views of the forest and nearby islands. 
• Near Duncan, the Stoney Hill Trail Loop is an easy 3.7 km loop with many great lookouts. It boasts sweeping views over Sansum Narrows and the Gulf Islands.

Cycling/Mountain Biking on Vancouver Island

There are plenty of opportunities for cycling through the cities and mountain biking on trails in Vancouver Island. 

The Galloping Goose Trail spans 60 km but has many entry points for shorter journeys. Similarly, the Crafty Butcher in Cumberland serves as a moderate challenge through the winding forest. Lastly, the Doumont Trails in Nanaimo offer a network of trails ranging in difficulty at the foot of Mount Benson. 

Fishing on Vancouver Island

A popular pastime for tourists and locals alike, Vancouver Island has some of the best fishing in all of BC. With over 10,000 lakes and expansive ocean access, the possibilities are endless. Fish for freshwater gems like rainbow trout and steelhead in the lakes all year round or fish for salmon and halibut in the ocean. 

In late Summer/early Fall, salmon run brings millions of salmon into the fisheries and rivers all around Vancouver Island, making it a particularly productive time to fish for salmon in non-tidal waters. 

If you’re wondering where to go on Vancouver Island to fish, the best spots are near Campbell River, Port Alberni, and Ucluelet. The salmon season runs from August – November when coho, chinook, and pink salmon are spawning in rivers. There is year-round fishing on Vancouver Island but late summer into fall is generally the best time to fish.

Where to Stay on Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Campgrounds on vancouver island.

There are hundreds of private and provincial campgrounds across the Island. These are a few of our favourite sites.

Qualicum Bay Campground

Our favourite RV park on Vancouver Island, Qualicum Bay Campground is a lovely oceanside retreat. There are 120 sites with electricity, water, and bathrooms starting at CAD $42 per night.

Pacific Rim National Park – Green Point Campground

Arguably the best place to stay near Tofino , Green Point Campground offers affordable camping among the trees. There are 94 campsites for tents and campers with access to Long Beach that start at CAD $33/night. Note that it is only open from May-October. 

Strathcona Provincial Park – Lake Campground

Amid the park’s snow-capped mountains, Buttle Lake Campground has 85 vehicle-accessible sites with picnic tables and pit toilets. Reservations are CAD $20 per night and the campground has access to lakes, hiking trails, and fishing .  

French Beach Provincial Park

Just a short drive from Victoria, French Beach Campground is a gem on the west coast of Vancouver Island. It’s open year-round with pit toilets, water, and picnic tables suitable for tents and RVs. Reservations are CAD $26/night and $13/night in the winter.

Unique Accommodation on Vancouver Island

From north to south and east to west, Vancouver Island is spoiled with unique places to stay. 

Telegraph Cove Resort

Watch whales right from your bedroom at the colourful Telegraph Cove Resort. Set in a peaceful marina, these cabins start at CAD $145 per night. 

Wickaninnish Inn

Set atop Tofino’s beautiful Chesterman Beach, this luxe lodge boasts postcard-worthy views of the rainforest and ocean . It’s a splurge at CAD $360 per night but the experience is sure to be unforgettable. 

Tofino Resort & Marina

A fixture of Tofino, the Tofino Resort & Marina offers laid-back rooms overlooking the ocean . It’s walking distance to Tofino’s great shops and restaurants and rooms start at CAD $209/night. 

Brown’s Bay Resort

Wake up in nature at Brown’s Bay Resort near Campbell River. The resort is oceanside, with a marina and floating restaurant with rooms starting at CAD $175 per night.

Haig-Brown Heritage House Bed & Breakfast

Stay in a peaceful farmhouse near Campbell River with a beautiful garden and river view. This charming historic bed & breakfast starts at CAD $110 per night, which includes a tour.

Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages

Perched on the moody shores of Port Renfrew, these cozy cabins have stunning ocean views with rugged, coastal luxury. Rent a cabin on the wharf with a seaside fire pit for CAD $249 per night. 

READ NEXT: Vancouver To Whistler Drive: 11 Stops Along The Sea To Sky Highway

How Long to Spend on Vancouver Island?

With so many incredible things to do in Vancouver Island, you should spend at least 3-4 days there. You can easily spend many months exploring the remote coastlines and forests but a 7-10 day trip is ideal.  

Have you ever explored Vancouver Island? What were your favourite things to see on Vancouver Island?

About the author.

Oksana St. John

3 thoughts on “20 best things to do in vancouver island: comprehensive guide”.

I like all your photos! They are so beautiful. Thanks for sharing this collection 🙂

Its an awesome content for the place where i always wanted know more about. Heard about Vanc while doing trekking in Nepal Everest basecamp.

what a nice article with good quality image and very informative

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51 Best Things To Do On Vancouver Island (2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2024

Categories Canada

Vancouver Island is the perfect destination for outdoor and nature lovers. There are so many things to do on Vancouver Island…

You can go hiking in the beautiful forests and mountains, there are rugged beaches, lovely little villages, and amazing wildlife, both on land as well as in the water.

Vancouver Island is located just off Canada’s Pacific Coast and can easily be reached from Vancouver . The island is about 500 km long and 100 km wide and is a perfect ‘miniature version' of Canada.

You'll be spoiled for choice as there are so many places to go on Vancouver Island!

The best things to do on Vancouver Island: a complete guide

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:-).

2 weeks on Vancouver island

We spent two weeks on Vancouver island but still only managed to see the lower half of the island. There are lots of must-do activities on Vancouver Island and you could easily spend much more time there!

In this Vancouver Island guide, you'll find Vancouver Island must-sees and highlights, practical advice, and a map with all the places mentioned in the post.

If you've got 3 weeks on Vancouver Island, be sure to read all the way to the end of the post. I've added a couple of activities that fit perfectly in a Vancouver Island 3-week itinerary.

? Only got a few days to explore Vancouver Island? Check out this 4-day tour , including the most popular highlights in Victoria, Nanaimo, and Tofino. 

What to do on Vancouver Island: map

Click here for the interactive map .

Where to stay on Vancouver Island

There are lots of accommodation options on Vancouver Island. You can go camping , glamping, or stay at one of the many cute boutique hotels.

If you are traveling on a budget, campsites are your best bet. Expect to pay between 30-50 CAD for a campsite , depending on the season and the onsite facilities.

Boutique hotels are more expensive, especially in peak season. However, there are great options available, such as the cute By the Sea BnB in Sidney or the lovely Middle Beach Lodge on the rugged coast in Tofino

Luxury travelers can stay at the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria (pictured below), definitely a special place to spend your time on Vancouver Island.

Here are my best accommodation tips for Victoria, Nanaimo, and Tofino.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned in the tables below are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

Where to stay in Victoria

Where to stay in nanaimo, where to stay in tofino, how to get to vancouver island.

There are several ferries going to Vancouver Island.

If you are traveling to Vancouver Island from Vancouver, you can take the ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (close to Victoria) or to Duke Point (close to Nanaimo).

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay (just north of Vancouver) to Departure Bay (also close to Nanaimo).

Check the ferry schedule and price info here .

There are ferries from the U.S.A. to Vancouver Island as well, departing from Port Angeles and Seattle .

This boat trip in itself is already worthwhile, especially the Tsawassen – Swartz Bay route.

You'll sail along the spectacular Gulf Islands and if you're very lucky, you may even spot a (killer) whale.

You can also fly to Victoria, there is an international airport in North Saanich (about 20km from Victoria).

Click here for the best ticket deals.

How to get around Vancouver Island?

Vancouver is the largest island on the Pacific coast of North America and driving from Victoria in the southeast to Port Hardy in the northwest takes approximately 5.5 hours.

While there is public transport on Vancouver Island, it's not an extensive network. Services are limited to cities and larger towns.

Getting to trails is very hard if not impossible when relying only on public transport. You can find more information  here .

In my opinion, the best way to explore Vancouver Island is by car. You can easily rent a car or a campervan for your Vancouver Island trip.

Or, if you are planning to stay in Canada for a longer period of time, you can consider buying a car instead of renting one.

In any case, having your own wheels gives you the freedom to stop wherever you want and explore the best places on Vancouver Island!

Click here for the best car rental deals or check out great RV rentals here

What is the best time to visit Vancouver Island?

While you can visit Vancouver Island the entire year due to its mild climate, the weather is the nicest between April and October.

These are also the best months for whale watching on Vancouver Island.

Visit Vancouver Island in Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Vancouver Island as the entire island turns green and there are lots of pretty blossoms and flowers.

Furthermore, there are fewer tourists, and accommodation prices are generally lower.

Visit Vancouver Island in Summer

Vancouver Island is a very popular tourist destination during the summer months, both for international visitors as well as for Canadians.

Temperatures are highest in summer, the average temperature on Vancouver Island in July and August is around 22 degrees Celsius, though (much) hotter days are getting more and more common due to climate change…

There are lots of festivals and activities on Vancouver Island during the summer months, so it's definitely a fun time to visit.

However, it is also the busiest time on Vancouver Island as this is peak season, and accommodation prices are at their highest.

Visit Vancouver Island in Autumn

Fall is a nice time to visit Vancouver Island as the leaves on the trees turn to fiery autumn colors.

When visiting Vancouver Island in autumn, you can watch the fall foliage in The Butchart Gardens or visit one of the Harvest Festivals.

Visit Vancouver Island in Winter

While the winter months on Vancouver Island aren't necessarily cold, they are generally quite wet. November, December, and January in particular (22 rainy days per month on average).

If you bring a raincoat (a smart thing to do no matter the time of year) you can still visit Vancouver Island in winter. That being said, for outdoor activities, this isn't the best time to visit.

Also read Easy hikes in Banff , Calgary winter guide and Things to do in Drumheller .

51 great places to visit on Vancouver island

1. take a free tour of the british columbia parliament buildings.

With beautiful buildings, lots of cafes and restaurants, and a friendly vibe, Victoria is a great place to start exploring Vancouver Island.

Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia and it's therefore not surprising to find the imposing British Columbia Parliament here.

While the BC Parliament is home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, this beautiful building is accessible to the public!

You can visit the British Columbia Parliament independently or join one of the free guided tours. There are several tours a day which last between 30-45 minutes.

Read more about the free tours  here .

2. Admire the Fairmont Empress (or have a high tea)

The luxurious Fairmont Empress hotel opened its doors at the start of the 20th century and is a true city icon.

If you like a high-tea (and even if you don't;-), be sure to have a ‘ Tea at the Empress ‘ which has been a tremendously popular Victoria activity since 1908!

Looking for a place to stay in Victoria? Check my Victoria hotel guide with great options for any budget.

3. Explore Victoria Old Town

Victoria has a lovely historic center that can easily be navigated on foot. Pick up a map at the Visitor Centre and spend the day wandering from one beautiful old building to the next.

In my Victoria itinerary , you can read about more top things to do in this beautiful capital.

4. Whale-watching tour

The waters around Vancouver Island are rich in marine life, therefore it comes as no surprise that going on a whale-watching tour is one of the most popular things to do in Victoria.

Victoria is one of the top spots to see killer whales (orca) but you’re also likely to encounter gray whales and humpback whales.

Click here to book a whale-watching tour in Victoria

5. Butchart Gardens (20 km from Victoria)

One of the best things to see on Vancouver Island is the famous Butchart Gardens. These beautiful gardens are a National Historic Site of Canada and the result of the vision, passion, and dedication of Jenny Butchart.

Walk the winding paths through the Sunken Garden, smell the fragrant roses at the Rose Garden, and find your inner zen at the Japanese Garden.

The easiest way to visit Butchart Gardens (if you don’t have your own transport) is via this popular bus tour .

Included in the tour: transportation in a comfortable touring car, a professional guide, and entrance to the gardens.

Click here to book a tour of the Butchart Gardens !

6. Kayaking

If your schedule allows it and you have time for another great outdoor activity, consider taking a  kayaking trip .

Here are some of the most popular kayaking tours in and around Victoria:

• Victoria Harbour Kayak Tour   (3 hours)
• Discovery Island Kayak Tour  (6-7 hours)
• Broken Islands Kayaking Expedition  (5 days)

7. Stroll around Fisherman's Wharf

A popular hotspot in Victoria is quirky Fisherman's Wharf, a floating village with colorful houses and cute little shops.

Don't be surprised to see some other inhabitants of the wharf floating in the bay (yup, that's a seal!).

8. Go for a walk in Beacon Hill Park

Victoria is a green city surrounded by the ocean. From Beacon Hill Park you have a great view over the Strait of Juan de Fuca. On a clear day, you can easily see the U.S.A. on the other side of the strait.

As an alternative option (families with kids will love this in particular), I recommend this Beacon Hill Park tour in a horse-drawn carriage . You'll feel like you've been transported back in time!

9. Refill your energy at Crust Bakery

All that walking around Victoria makes you hungry and a great spot to replenish your energy is Crust Bakery .

There are so many mouthwatering options to choose from, ranging from pretty pastries and buttery croissants to healthy whole-meal loaves and their soft and fragrant garlic-rosemary focaccia (my personal favorite)!

If you're a foodie like me, you can also try this food tour and treat your taste buds in full.

10. Eat the best tacos on Vancouver Island at Tacofino

I love Mexican food and was very happy to stumble upon Tacofino . The staff kindly recommended their favorites to help us decide.

But no worries, it doesn't matter which taco or burrito you choose, they are all delicious…

11. Go for a walk (or a swim) at Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

One of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island is Sooke Potholes Provincial Park . The name says it all, you can see potholes in this park.

But not those annoying potholes on ill-maintained roads…

No, these huge potholes were created by massive boulders being carried downstream by the thundering river when the glaciers melted a long time ago.

Nowadays the river is much calmer and you can even go for a swim in designated areas!

12. Admire Sheringham Point Lighthouse

I love old lighthouses, don't you? The Sheringham Point Lighthouse is quite possibly the most picturesque one I've ever seen.

Though Nugget Point Lighthouse in New Zealand is a serious contender for the number 1 spot too…

In any case, Sheringham Point Lighthouse was built in 1912 and has since then guided countless ships along the treacherous south coast of Vancouver Island.

You can’t enter the Lighthouse itself, however, the grounds are open to the public.

Park at the head of the Sheringham Lighthouse Trail ( Sheringham Point Rd ) and hike the lovely 3.4-kilometer loop trail.

13. Hike the Botanical Beach Loop Trail

The Botanical Beach Loop Trail is just a short trail (less than 3 kilometers) but very worthwhile. The trail leads through the forest and over the rugged beach with rocky pools.

The reason this was an epic trail for us is that we saw our first bear! A young and therefore relatively small black bear walking around on the beach…

It's so cool to see wild animals in their natural habitat though obviously, we kept an appropriate distance.

Apologies for the poor quality of the picture, not being able to take proper wildlife pictures is what convinced me to finally buy a great DSLR camera .

14. Hike the West Coast Trail

Avid hikers may want to tackle the famous West Coast Trail, an iconic backcountry, multi-day backpacking trail. 

This 75-kilometer trail leads from Bamfield to Port Renfrew and is not something to take lightly. This epic track requires some serious preparation, you can read all the nitty details on the Parks Canada website .

That being said, this trail is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and something I'd love to do during a future trip to Vancouver Island.

15. Check out Canada's Gnarliest Tree in Avatar Grove

If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path place to visit, this is it! The road leading to Avatar Grove is rather bumpy, we drove very slowly and walked the last kilometer to the trailhead.

But it's pretty fun to see the Gnarliest Tree in Canada, it looks like a giant tied a knot in it!

16. Have a pick-nick at Fairy Lake

A lovely little lake surrounded by trees and mountains, the perfect place for a pick-nick. Keep an eye out for otters and other wildlife!

17. Drive the beautiful Pacific Marine Road

The road between Port Renfrew and Honeymoon Bay is very quiet and very beautiful.

My advice: wake up early, pack enough water, food, and fuel for the road (there are no services along this road) and enjoy the ride!

18. Admire the massive and ancient Harris Creek Sitka Spruce

That's what you call a big tree, the trunk has a diameter of 4 meters! Nobody knows exactly how old the Harris Creek Sitka Spruce is, but these types of trees can live up to 800 years…

19. Have lunch, dinner, or a drink at Jakes at the Lake

Jakes at the Lake (Cowichan Lake) is the perfect pub in the perfect location… We had a tasty dinner on the patio while watching the sunset over the lake.

20. Take a short hike to the Stocking Creek Waterfall

I'll be honest: this isn't the most impressive waterfall you'll find in Canada.

Nevertheless, it's a lovely short walk through the forest and a good place to stretch your legs when driving from the Cowichan Valley to Nanaimo (or vice versa).

21. Walk around Westwood Lake (or go for a swim)

This easy 5,5km trail goes around Westwood Lake and makes for a perfect afternoon stroll.

When we visited the weather couldn't have been more perfect and the park was filled with families celebrating summer.

22. Hike to the top of Mount Benson

Make sure you have a proper breakfast or lunch before scaling this mountain. The loop is 8 kilometers and took us 3,5 hours (return).

I recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots , it was pretty muddy when we went up. It's a steep climb but the view from the top more than makes up for that…

23. Check out the Abyss, but don't fall in…

Even if the weather isn't that great, this 1-kilometer trail (return) to the Abyss is a nice short stroll.

Once you are atop the rocks you'll see the jagged crack in the ground, aka the Abyss. It's deep, so be careful!

24. Explore the Old City Quarter of Nanaimo

Nanaimo is a great place to spend a couple of days and one of the places that can't miss on your Nanaimo itinerary is the Old City Quarter.

Here you can find cute colorful houses, lovely cafes, and beautiful boutique shops. Read more about the Old District on their official website .

Extremely important note: don't forget to sample some delicious Nanaimo bars during your Nanaimo trip!

25. Stroll around Nanaimo's Harborfront Walkway

Nanaimo has a very nice harborfront with good views over Newcastle Island and Protection Island.

At Nanaimo Harbor, you can also catch a small ferry (only for pedestrians) to the Dinghy Dock Pub , the only floating pub in Canada!

26. Hike to the Ammonite Falls

This is an easy 5km (return) hike, walking to the Ammonite Falls and back took us a little over an hour.

The falls are beautiful, but most of the snow had already melted when we visited in June and the waterfalls were not as spectacular as in early Spring.

Nevertheless, do add the Ammonite Falls to your list of Vancouver Island points of interest, they are beautiful in any season!

27. Chill out at the French Creek Marine Pub

Sometimes it rains in Canada and on those days the best place to be is a cozy pub, like the French Creek Marine Pub.

We received a warm welcome from the staff and spend the rainy afternoon sampling beer and cider.

28. Spend the morning (or the entire day) at the Qualicum Foods Cafe

When the rain continues, don't despair! The Qualicum Foods Cafe serves hot coffee and delicious sandwiches.

There is WiFi and sockets to charge your devices. What more could you wish for? Blue skies aside;-).

29. Visit Qualicum Beach

On a sunny day, head to Qualicum Beach instead. This beach is one of the best beaches for families, with wide expanses of white sand and shallow water.

There are plenty of benches along the boulevard where you can sit down to admire the beautiful views.

Qualicum Beach is famous for the Ocean Mile Swim , be sure to check if your travel dates coincide with this fun local event.

30. Admire the thundering Englishman River Falls

The upside of rainy days is all that rain makes for thundering waterfalls and the Englishman River Falls definitely falls (no pun intended;-) into that category.

It's only a short and easy walk to these pretty falls, don't miss them on your Vancouver Island trip!

Or try this tour of Vancouver Island's most magnificent waterfalls and landscapes , where you'll stop by the country market (see below) and enjoy marvelous views of the rainforest.

31. Visit the Old Country Market

The Old Country Market in Coombs (which is included in the last mentioned Vancouver Island waterfall tour ) is famous for the grazing goats on the roof of the market, but there is much more to see!

There are cute shops and the market has a great selection of fresh products (such as delicious smelling rosemary bread) and imported international products (real Italian espresso for coffee addicts like myself!).

32. Have a delicious homemade ice cream at Coombs

I usually restrain myself and get one scoop of ice cream, but there were just too many delicious options to choose from at the Billy Gruff Creamery!

Ultimately I went for the sea-salted caramel (their best-seller) and strawberry cheesecake, finger-licking good…

33. Visit Little Qualicum River Regional Park

I visited several waterfalls on Vancouver Island, but the ‘Little' Qualicum Falls was the most impressive one. Cascading down several tiers these roaring falls took my breath away, nature is so powerful!

An added bonus is the photogenic abandoned railroad you'll cross when entering the park.

Too bad it's no longer in use though, what a ride that would have been…

34. Walk among giants in Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove is one of the many Vancouver Island attractions and I loved this old-growth forest with its massive trees, all covered in moss and lichen.

There are two short and easy boardwalks, one on each side of the road. It's easy to lose yourself in this mysterious green world…

35. Admire the view from the Port Alberni Fire lookout

It's a bit of a climb (300 meters elevation, 9 km return), but the view over the Port Alberni valley is splendid!

I completely understand why they built a fire lookout in this particular spot, you can see for miles and miles in all directions!

36. Stroll around the Harbour Quay in Port Alberni

Port Alberni isn't very big or known as one of the main attractions on Vancouver Island. However, there are lots of things to do in Port Alberni and the surrounding area.

The harborfront is a lovely area and the view over the Alberni Inlet (with its 40km the longest inlet on Vancouver Island) is beautiful.

At the harbor front, you can climb a small lookout tower, there are several nice shops and the All Mex'D Up Taco Shop .

37. See the salmon migration at the Stamp River fish ladder

I had never seen salmon (alive;-) before, let alone seen them migrate up a river! At the Stamp River Falls a fish ladder has been installed, helping the salmon in their journey upstream.

The fun part: here is a big TV showing a lifestream from the fish ladder. So you can actually see the salmon swimming through!

38. Check out the Petroglyphs at Sproat Lake Provincial Park

A short trail leads along the lake to K’ak’awin, one of the best-preserved petroglyphs in British Columbia. What do you think it looks like? The Monster of Sprout Lake?

39. Drive the Pacific Rim Highway

One of the places to see on Vancouver Island is the beautiful Pacific Rim Highway.

This scenic drive to Ucluelet and Tofino leads along lakes and through green forests to the wild South coast of Vancouver Island and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Take your time and stop often to take pictures!

40. Hike the Wild Pacific Trail (part I & II)

We hiked these trails in the rain, but even so, the views were hauntingly beautiful…

This was one of my favorite Vancouver island activities, what an amazing and rugged coastline!

You can find detailed information about the hike (including a map) on this website . Be aware that bears and wolfs are often seen on the trail, so read up on what to do when you encounter one.

41. Feel the pounding of the waves at the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse

The Amphitrite Point Lighthouse may not be the prettiest of lighthouses, but it is very strong! 

Interesting fact: being the Lighthouse keeper wasn't an easy job back in the day… The first keeper lived a mile from the lighthouse, he hiked down every night at sunset to light the lamp.

The keeper would return at midnight to rewind the mechanism and again at sunrise to extinguish the lamp. So much for a good night's sleep!

But it's a good thing he did, before the lighthouse was built many ships sank in this treacherous part of the Pacific Ocean.

42. Get hot cocoa at the Gray Whale

Another great option for a rainy day on Vancouver Island is the cozy coffee bar we found in Ucluelet.

It's called the Gray Whale and they serve steaming cups of hot chocolate and several freshly baked pies…

43. Hike the Schooner Cove Trail

The Schooner Cove Trail is a short and easy hike (4km return), but a beautiful one nonetheless. The trail leads to Schooner Cove Beach via a boardwalk through the ancient forest.

The beach is a great spot to spend some time and, depending on the weather, you can even go for a swim.

44. Take a stroll on Long Beach

This beach stretches over 16 kilometers and is the longest beach on Vancouver Island. Watch the surfers conquer the waves and search for driftwood.

Or simply sit down, build a sand castle with your kids, and enjoy the breathtaking views.

45. Explore cute and artsy Tofino

I am not exaggerating when I say that every Canadian we spoke to asked if we would be visiting Tofino. Apparently, Tofino is pretty famous in Canada!

And while I'll admit it's hipster galore, Tofino is a nice place to visit.

It's one of the cutest small towns in Canada , with bakeries, cafes, shops, and galleries, perfect to be explored on foot on a sunny afternoon.

46. Hike the Tonquin Trail (and watch the sunset)

Yet another nice little hike on Vancouver Island… The Tonquin trail is an easy 3km loop through the temperate rainforest and leads to Tonquin Beach.

We visited during the day, but Tonquin Beach is also a very popular place to watch the sunset.

More highlights on Vancouver Island

If you've got more time to spend on Vancouver Island, consider adding these popular spots to your Vancouver Island itinerary as well.

47. Visit Campbell River

Campbell River is about a 90-minute drive from Nanaimo and a 40 minutes drive from Comox (you're point of arrival if you were to take a ferry from Power River on the Sunshine Coast, BC).

Campbell River is the third largest city on Vancouver Island and has a wonderfully friendly vibe. There are lots of things to do in Campbell River , so if you've got some time left in your itinerary, this city (and the surrounding area) is a great place to spend it!

Visit the Maritime Heritage Centre, go for a stroll along the 10-km-long Rotary Sea Walk, or have a fancy meal at the Harbour Grill.

48. Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park

One of the best things to do in Campbell River is to visit Elk Falls Provincial Park. Admire the waterfalls and walk the swinging suspension bridge.

Follow the easy Millenium Trail through the forest and feel dwarfed by the sky-high trees. 

49. Go hiking in Strathcona Park

Strathcona Provincial Park is one of Vancouver Island's hidden gems. The mountainous landscapes are perfect for hiking and some of the best day hikes on Vancouver Island can be found in this expansive Provincial Park.

The Elk River Trail (21km), Crest Mountain trail (11km), and Bedwell Lake trail (15km) are great options.

Prepare well for each of these trails, you're hiking in the wilderness and it's crucial you know what you're doing.

50. Conquer the north and visit Port Hardy

For those looking who want to go as far off the beaten path on Vancouver Island as possible, drive all the way up to Port Hardy.

From Campbell River, the drive takes around 2.5 hours. Nanaimo to Port Hardy is 4 hours of driving and Victoria to Port Hardy takes almost 5.5 hours.

Stop at Telegraph Cove (pictured above) along the way, this tiny and picturesque village is an excellent place to grab some lunch (the Killer whale café is highly recommended).

From Telegraph Cove it's only a short drive (40 minutes) to Port Hardy, the northernmost town on Vancouver Island.

51. Spend a day on Pender Island

Pender Island is one of the Southern Gulf Islands. This cluster of beautiful islands is situated between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia in the Strait of Georgia.

Pender Island actually consists of two small islands, North Pender Island and South Pender Island, and is surrounded by the Salish Sea.

The island offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, such as kayaking, whale watching, camping, and fishing.

All in all, Pender Island is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway , with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors!

Frequently asked questions about Vancouver Island

Are there any grizzly bears on vancouver island.

Although grizzly bears are very rare on Vancouver Island, there have been several sightings in recent years, mostly in northern Vancouver Island.

Black bears are much more common on Vancouver Island, which is why it's important to read up on bear safety and always carry a can of bear spray .

Are there bald eagles on Vancouver Island?

Yes, there are many bald eagles living on Vancouver Island. Bring your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for one of the most spectacular birds in the world.

Are there cougars on Vancouver Island?

It has long been said that the world’s highest concentration of cougars lives on Vancouver Island. Something to be mindful of when heading out into those beautiful forests.

Read more about cougar safety here .

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Vancouver Island things to do: in conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this post! Feel free to ask any questions you have by leaving a comment or sending me a message . Also read my other  Canada  post for more Canada travel inspiration!

This post was updated in March 2023.

Sunday 4th of June 2023

Thank you for writing this interesting article! There are a few places I am now interested in seeing. There are a couple points that are incorrect though. The average temperature is not 17C during the day. That is more of a night time average.The days average closer to 30C. Rain? Only 6 days over 3 months? Maybe closer to 6 days a week for 3 months. It is, after all, a rainforest.

Monday 5th of June 2023

Thank you for reading and I'm glad you've added a couple of places to your Vancouver Island itinerary because of my post:-) Also, thank you for the weather feedback, we visited in Summer but it was a relatively cold year and temperatures rarely made it above 20 degrees Celcius. However, I've checked the current climate information for Vancouver Island and adjusted the averages (temperature and number of rainy days) accordingly. Thank you for letting me know!

Wednesday 10th of August 2022

Thanks for the detailed description. About wildlife on Vancouver Island, it has long been said that the world’s highest concentration of cougars is on the Island. Just something to be mindful of !

Thanks for reading and I'll add that to the post! That's definitely something to be mindful of as they're beautiful but dangerous creatures.

Saturday 18th of June 2022

Way too much scrolling to get to the list. It's Butchart Gardens, not Butchard.

Sunday 19th of June 2022

Dear Becky,

You can use the table of contents to quickly get to the section you're looking for, in your case the list of things to do on Vancouver Island. Thanks for catching my spelling error, I've adjusted it! Have a lovely trip to Vancouver Island!

Friday 8th of October 2021

Awesome article! I am definitely planning a trip to Vancouver Island after reading this post.

Tuesday 12th of October 2021

Hi Alex, thank you for your kind words! Glad I have inspired you to visit Vancouver Island:-) Lotte

Jade McDiarmid

Sunday 31st of January 2021

What a great list! I live here and plan on following the list this yr! Did you come back and make a list for the North Island?

Thank you, happy to hear that:-) Unfortunately, I haven't been back to Vancouver Island yet as Canada is currently closed to international tourists. Perhaps later this year or 2022...

Best regards, Lotte

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo on Vancouver Island: Unique Things to See & Do

February 8, 2024 by Tracey Nesbitt

I'm pleased to introduce you to Judy, a long-time resident of Vancouver Island, an avid traveler, and a woman of many talents, from administration to jewelry design to writing to painting and more. Who better to provide us with suggestions for traveling solo on Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is an ideal destination for the solo traveler who loves the outdoors and all it has to offer. Rugged beaches, huge mountains, lush rainforests, and a haven for wildlife coexist in a unique setting that also includes a rich indigenous culture and a fitness friendly, cosmopolitan city. 

There are some amazing trails and out-of-the-way spots to explore. Not far from even the most remote areas is a lively mix of nightlife, music, and art, with incredible culinary offerings drawn from the island's rich bounty. 

I’ve made my home on and around Vancouver Island for many years and I still have so much to discover! There are far more than 10 things to see and do. Even if you do a couple of these, I guarantee that you will still have stories to tell and a desire to come back for more!

10 Great Options When You're Solo on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island has so much that is geared to solo travelers, from hiking, camping, and fishing to scenic tours, whale watching, wine tours, art studio tours, glamping, and more. I've lived in the area for almost 30 years. Here are ten activities I recommend you consider adding to your itinerary.

1. Board the Ferry

Getting to Vancouver Island can be a highlight of your journey. Ferries from Vancouver and Seattle take you through the glorious waterways of the Salish Sea. From Vancouver, board with your vehicle or on foot. You can see whales, porpoises, and sea lions right from the passenger deck. 

BC Ferries also connects to many of the unique Gulf Islands along the coast. Schedules are readily available online. It is definitely worth checking out these magical islands, with their small communities and laid-back feel. Check ahead as accommodation becomes scarce in the peak summer season.

2. Walk or Cycle Around Victoria

There is so much to see and do in Victoria , BC’s capital. On the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers an eclectic mix of historical buildings, abundant shopping, great restaurants, and pubs, crisscrossed with nature trails and beaches in a stunning ocean backdrop. Explore on your own or choose from an incredible variety of guided tours tailored to your interests, from gardens to museums to cultural sites . Even Cannabis tours are available! There is so much to choose from.

Two excellent routes for hiking and biking – the Galloping Goose and Lochside trails – are within the municipal region. Rent an ebike to see the sights. Or, pick up a latte or gourmet snack and stroll down to one of the clean, peaceful local beaches to enjoy a spectacular view. It often feels like you are far away from an urban center.

You could be completely satisfied if all you do is stay here. Of course, if the capital city is all you see, you will miss out on some really unique breathtaking sights and unforgettable adventures! 

3. Drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route

This is a 289 km loop that starts in Victoria and runs through the seaside village of Sooke, the gateway to breathtaking scenery and wilderness activities that include surfing and whale watching. Highly recommended is the Zipline tour from Adrena Line . It’s a unique and green way to see the natural beauty from atop the treeline! Stay a couple of days in the area and enjoy the local distillery , cafes, and scenic cottage resorts . 

The route turns into a former logging road after Port Renfrew, which is the head of the famous West Coast Hiking Trail . This is what we call “the real West Coast,” home to open ocean, old growth forest, and the magical Juan de Fuca Provincial Park . Be prepared to lose cell service, and make sure to fill your tank since there is only one gas station on this route.

Driving solo on Vancouver Island is easy if you are prepared. Check out our great tips on how to enjoy a solo road trip . 

4. Climb the Malahat Skywalk

Heading north from Victoria, the spectacular Malahat highway takes you up a mountain along the Eastern coastline. Stop and climb the Skywalk , a spiral tower built in 2021, that leads to a 32-meter viewing deck. From this lookout you are able to view the unforgettable panorama of sea inlets & mountains of the Saanich Inlet and far beyond. The Skywalk also has the benefit of being wheelchair and stroller friendly!

5. Surf Tofino

Surfers come here in all weather to try out the grand waves of the open ocean and experience the true West Coast surf culture . Even if you don’t surf, visiting Tofino is a must. With 35 km of magnificent beaches, unique rock formations, and ancient forests, it is a jewel on Vancouver Island’s West Coast. Definitely not to be missed.

Always check road conditions before you go. The way here is a beautiful but often unpredictable route. On the way, stop by Cathedral Grove Park, one of the last enclaves of old growth forest.

6. Take a Culinary Tour

A delectable Vancouver Island feature is the abundance of healthy, fresh, local fare. You’re quite likely to find fresh caught seafood on your plate with crisp, organic veggies and seasonal wild mushrooms. We also have wineries, distilleries, and craft beer producers who all benefit from the mild winters and ideal growing conditions to produce high quality products.

Point your fork in any direction and you’ll likely find a rich bounty of locally grown and harvested treats. The Comox Valley, a little more than halfway up the Island, is home to a fertile and lush landscape. Book a tour with Island Gourmet Trails , run by locals who will guide you to the Valley’s delectable offerings. 

Nearby Mount Washington hosts the annual BC Seafood Festival in June, where chefs, producers, and guests converge to celebrate the best of the province’s sustainable offerings.

No solo trip on Vancouver Island is complete without exploring the culinary options. Our post about food and wine travel planning tells you how to do it.

7. Go Fishing

You may like to get out there and catch your food! People come here to fish for salmon, rockfish, and lingcod. At the right time of the year, local guides will take you out to the open ocean for tuna and halibut. Freshly caught prawns and Dungeness crab are here in abundance and often on the menu.

Consider staying at a local fishing resort and get out on the water with experienced guides who know where the fish are! Quatsino Lodge , near the Island’s northern tip, is only accessible by boat. From the moment you are picked up at the dock, you enter a world of fishing enthusiasts. Private rooms are available to the solo traveler at no extra cost. Guests gather together to dine and see orcas, otters, and eagles through the large picture windows.

8. Do a Glamping Stay

From rustic cabins and seaside yurts to tents on platforms and geodesic domes, you can find a wide range of glamping sites up and down the Island. Prices and amenities vary wildly and it’s a good idea to do your research. It’s a unique way to stay in nature while experiencing some creature comforts. Pricier than camping by a longshot, but who would not want to experience staying in a treehouse sphere ?

9. Explore Indigenous Culture

Learn about the rich history and culture of the First Nations people here through art, storytelling, cuisine, and wildlife viewing guided by the people whose ancestors have lived here for centuries. Vancouver Island has a thriving population of carvers, weavers, knitters, painters, filmmakers, and jewelers. You can find a stunning collection of ancient and contemporary artwork in virtually every community. The Indigenous owned Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy celebrates this, in its premier offerings of west coast inspired cuisine and craft cocktails, and prominent displays throughout the hotel and in its gallery.

10. Get to Cape Scott Park

At the northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, 563 km from Victoria, is the remote wilderness of Cape Scott. The Park is a destination for hikers and has over 100 km of backcountry trails through pristine rainforests, majestic beaches, and some of the most spectacular terrain found on this coast. It’s not for the faint of heart. Be prepared with proper survival gear, and make sure to leave no litter or food scraps behind. In this place, we know that we are the visitors to the natural home of bears, cougars, eagles, whales, and sea lions. It is an abundant symphony of nature.

New to camping? Read First Time Camping Solo? Don’t Worry – Here’s What You Need for useful ideas to make your experience safe and enjoyable. Considering hiking solo on Vancouver Island? Check out Solo Hiking: What You Need to Know to Hike Alone .

Vancouver Island is on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Coast Salish peoples.

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50 Best Things to Do on Vancouver Island in 2024: Ultimate List 

It’s funny how they call Vancouver Island the “Raincouver” because of unpredictable rains that happen all year round, including in the summers. 

But, rain is not a hindrance to exploring this ruggedly beautiful paradise—from the world-class West Coast Trail, enormous old-growth mossy trees at Cathedral Grove, to surfing spots at Tufino, everything is still magical even in dreary weather.

If you’re planning a trip to one of the most beautiful islands in North America, here are the 50 best things to do on Vancouver Island in 2024!

Key Takeaways

• The must-do things on Vancouver Island include visiting the Butchart Gardens, experiencing Port Renfrew, viewing wildlife from Telegraph Cove, and hiking the Juan de Fuca Trail.
• Some free things to do on Vancouver Island are walking the Wild Pacific Trail, exploring Victoria’s Old Town, and wandering around Cathedral Grove.
• Visiting the Victoria Butterfly Gardens, hiking the West Coast Trail, and whale watching are the most unique things on Vancouver Island.
• For Vancouver Island things to do in summer, try surfing, whale watching, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, and more.

Must-Do Things on Vancouver Island

1. visit butchart gardens.

One of the classic and must-do things on Vancouver Island is visiting the Butchart Gardens, a 22-hectare horticultural garden on Brentwood Bay, recently regarded as a National Historic Site of Canada. 

Butchart Gardens is the most highly rated garden not just in Vancouver but in Canada, featuring several intricately designed small gardens, including the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, Italian Garden, Mediterranean, the Spring Bulb Show of blooming tulips, and the centrepiece, the Sunken Garden. Spend at least three hours in Butchart Gardens and experience having lunch or dinner with a view of the gardens. 

With its immense size and exceptional beauty, it’s not just your typical household garden but an award-winning one with several recognitions like Garden of the Year and Canadian Garden of Excellence by the Canadian Garden Council, Canadian, North America’s Best Gardens, and Tripadvisor Hall of Fame and Certificate of Excellence—no wonder over one million people are visiting the gardens annually.

2. Walk Around Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter

If you’re searching for a spot to indulge in a one-of-a-kind shopping and dining experience, look no further than Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter, located at the heart of Nanaimo! 

Besides its pedestrian streets, this area is brimming with boutiques, vintage shops, delightful eateries, and cozy cafes. You’ll find them nestled within preserved buildings dating back to the 1800s and 1900s that add a vibrant splash of colour.

While exploring on foot, take advantage of strolling along the Harbourfront Promenade and Maffeo Sutton Park, which provide views of the harbour. Take some time to admire the steam-powered clock, marvel at the Gothic-themed architecture of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, and venture to Bastion Street Steps, fondly known as the “Staircase to the Moon.”

3. Visit the Royal BC Museum

You can’t miss out on one of the top museums in Canada, the Royal BC Museum, for not just a look at the historical artifacts, displays, and exhibits but an engagement with hands-on activities as well, perfect for kids. Explore the First Peoples Gallery, National History 

4. Try Top-Rated Tacos at Tacofino

If you’re excited to devour the best tacos in the world, try the top-rated tacos at Tacofino ! Their tacos are one of the best-selling food items on their menu because it’s not just your ordinary, traditional tacos but a unique one that comes in different flavours.

Whatever flavour you try, fish, chicken, eggplant, cauliflower, yam, bean, tuna, steak, vegan chorizo, and more, they all have different intense flavours and fresh ingredients, averaging at $8. You can even try their other food like meat, nachos, burritos, quesadillas, and desserts like their favourite Diablo Cookies.  

5. Visit Craigdarroch Castle

Visiting the $500,000-worth Craigdarroch Castle is one of the most unique things to do on Vancouver Island because of its Instagrammable-worthy Gothic-revival architecture. 

From its woodwork furnishings, stone arts, and beautiful glass windows to its painted ceilings, exhibits, and gardens, wandering the castle is very worthwhile.

You can take the guided tour or roam the place at your own pace. If you would like to spend more time in the castle, stop and relax for a bite at the castle cafe or participate in some workshops or classes offered. 

6. Experience Nature at Port Renfrew

If you like to experience the island’s utopia, exploring Port Renfrew is the most suggested by travellers and the most nurturing thing to do on Vancouver Island. 

You can walk along the Botanical Beach, kayaking or paddleboarding at Lake Cowichan, salmon fishing and birdwatching, and hike the famous 47-km Juan de Fuca Trail with drop-dead gorgeous scenery. 

The Port is also dubbed “the Tall Tree Capital of Canada,” where you can find the most ancient and enormous 73-m high Douglas Fir tree at Red Creek Fir, together with other old-growth trees at Avatar Grove. 

7. Visit the Cape Scott Lighthouse

One of the most famous lighthouses on Vancouver Island is the Cape Scott Lighthouse because of its long, rich history. It has one of the best panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, amazing tidal pools, and a glimpse of whales and other sea creatures. It also dashes with a unique style, just 9 meters tall and having a skeletal body. 

Visiting the Cape Scott Lighthouse is one of the best free things to do on Vancouver Island. Still, it requires a little effort and endurance, as it’s only accessible through long hikes averaging 13 hours and 15 minutes one-way and camping one to two times if reasonably needed.

8. View Wildlife from Telegraph Cove

A former fishing village, now an eco-tourism spot, Telegraph Cove is where you can explore abundant wildlife, including coastal black bears, wolves, salmon, seals, sea lions, birds, otters, and most especially the Orcas or killer whales, and humpback whales. 

Viewing the wildlife from Telegraph Cove is one of the must-do things on Vancouver Island. I suggest you join some designated whale-watching tours and see them all in action on a 360-degree view!

9. Visit the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

One of the highlights of your Vancouver Island trip would be visiting the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia to learn more about the province’s political history and political system and see the Assembly debate in action!

You can try two options for exploring the building – the guided tour or the non-guided. But once you’re inside, see the stunning Inner Garden Courtyard, the legislative chambers, the Parliament Rotunda, and the Hall of Honour. Don’t forget to stop by the Parliamentary Dining Room Cafe for some food and coffee or the Parliamentary gift shop for souvenirs. 

10. Hike Juan de Fuca Trail

Hiking the Juan de Fuca Trail is one of the best things to do in Vancouver Island because you can immerse yourself in nature, not just one day but for several days. 

The trail runs 47 kilometres, going through China Beach, Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek, and then ending at the Botanical Garden. 

11. Ski at Mount Washington Alpine Ski Resort

The Vancouver Islands is a great tropical island destination but transforms into a giant winter wonderland during the cold months. 

During this season, one of the must-do things on Vancouver Island is skiing at Mount Washington Alpine Ski Resort, which has the highest drop in North America at 877 meters.

The skiable areas have 82 runs and ten lifts suitable for all learner levels. Aside from skiing, you may try other snow activities like snowboarding, snowshoeing, tubing, and winter hiking.

12. Visit the Damali Lavender Farm

Are you mesmerized by how beautiful lavenders are and get so addicted to their velvety smell? If yes, visiting the famous 10-acre Damali Lavender Farm in Cowichan Valley is one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island this weekend. 

You may walk through the purple fields and take pictures. Please note that visiting the lavender farm between mid-June and July is best.

13. Admire the Chemainus Wall Murals

Vancouver Island isn’t all about nature, parks, forests, shorelines, and wildlife, but is also a hub for arts! It’s incredible to think that Chemainus becomes an outdoor art gallery of murals directly painted into the buildings showcasing the history and culture of the town. 

Take a self-guided walking tour and visit each of the 40+ murals and 13+ sculptures. 

14. Hike Tsolum Spirit Regional Park

If you want a serene setting for a hiking adventure, Tsolum Spirit Regional Park is a suitable park to explore! The park is 560 hectares of lush green forest with mountains and falls surrounding the Tsolum River, so expect to see diverse wildlife.

Several trailing options exist depending on the difficulty you can sustain, from the accessible River Trail Loop Flume Trail to the challenging Mount Geoffrey Escarpment Trail. 

15. Take a Foodie Stop at Cowichan Bay

One of the must-do things on Vancouver Island is taking a foodie stop at Cowichan Bay, a small fishing village north of Victoria. Their must-try is their seafood, which is immaculate, especially in the iconic Cowichan Bay Fish & Chips, Rock Cod Cafe, and Cowichan Bay Seafood.

Aside from seafood, you can also try other cafes and restaurants: bread from True Grain Bread, Hilary’s Cheese Shop for artisanal cheese, wines from Masthead Restaurant, and beer from Cobblestone Pub.

Free Things to Do on Vancouver Island  

16. walk the wild pacific trail.

A perfect combination of adventure and heart-pumping activities perfectly describes the Pacific trail in Ucluelet. You can enjoy various activities like hiking or even joining a walking tour of Victoria or Chemainus. Take note that you can enjoy all these activities for free. 

17. Tour the Parliament Buildings

Who says that you have to spend money to enjoy? You can take advantage of guided tours in the Parliament Buildings seven days a week. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of intricate architectural design. 

The 40-minute tour will allow us to learn the rich history beyond the pillars of Parliament Buildings. The tour schedule for the upcoming weeks is posted every Friday afternoon.

18. Explore Victoria’s Old Town

Visiting Victoria’s Old Town assures you a trip to remember, from walking tours to seeing its historic landmarks like the Parliament buildings and the Royal BC museum. Take your time to appreciate the Colorful facade of the buildings and vibrantly painted streets. 

Lastly, you can shop at their specialty stores, Like Munro’s Books, which has been in business since 1963. The store is famous for its collection of books about arts and architecture. Visiting Oldtown is a bucket list filler and a must-do on Vancouver Island. 

19. Walk Around Fisherman’s Wharf

Walking around Fisherman’s Wharf is considered a must-do on Vancouver Island, not just because of the cardio exercise but also because there are plenty of activities that you can do, like exploring the docks. You can marvel down the docks and watch the boat passing by. 

Another free thing to do on Vancouver Island is take a walk and enjoy the pristine landscape views of the lake. It would help if you also tried their sightseeing bus that stops precisely at Fisherman’s Wharf, a great way to explore the island’s top spots. 

20. Walk Around Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is one of the most beautiful parks on Vancouver Island. From exploring the area’s vicinity, like the famous Japanese garden, to visiting the petting zoo, you can even feed some of their animals, like ducks and peacocks. 

Finally, you can also picnic in the park for a relaxing day. It has lots of benches and tables that you can use for a picnic and even grassy areas where you can set up your picnic blanket. 

21. Drive Pacific Marine Road

Driving through Pacific Marine Road is the perfect activity if you are looking for a weekend getaway. 

One of the unique things to do on Vancouver Island is going through approximately 260 kilometres of Marine Road. You can complete your journey within one day, but it is best to take at least two to four days to maximize your trip and enjoy all the activities ahead. 

After a long journey, you can have quick breaks to enjoy a beach walk or even hike through the island’s wilderness. Lastly, take advantage of a quick stop at their famous locations, such as Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, Port Renfrew, Park, Sooke Potholes, and Duncan.

22. Visit the Old Country Market

Take a tour of one of the most unique markets in the world, the Old Country Market. The Old Country Market offers a shopping experience at Alberni Highway because its structural designs feature a grass roof with resident goats. The market grounds are open every day. The festive market begins in early March to the end of December. 

23. Walk Along the Chesterman Beach

There are plenty of free things to do in the Vancouver Islands; one is walking through their Beautiful Chesterman Beach in Tofino, British Columbia. 

You can also use the area to swim, surf, or get your skin tanned by sun baiting. You can also try riding a bike for a less tiring area tour. 

24. Wander Around the Big Trees of Cathedral Grove

Other unique things to do on Vancouver Island are visiting the giant trees of Cathedral Grove. It is a perfect place to unwind because of its unique vicinity. The Cathedral Grove is also home to some of Canada’s oldest and tallest trees, Including Douglas First, over 800 years old and with a staggering height of 250 feet. You can also see the Big Tree Trail, the most popular route in Cathedral Grove. 

25. Hike Tsolum Spirit Regional Park

It is hailed as the most popular trail park, according to AllTrails.com; with a 6.2-kilometer (3.9-mile) loop trail, it is rated as a moderate loop. You can enjoy the peaceful and tranquil surroundings of the area. It usually takes 2-3 hours to complete your hike. 

It is perfect for both seasoned and skilled hikers because it has various trials that are perfect for all levels of hikers. 

Unique Things to Do on Vancouver Island 

26. have high tea at the fairmont empress.

Vancouver offers a lot of beautiful places and fun-filled activities, and your visit here is complete with having tea at Fairmont Empress. It has been a staple at Fairmont, Empress, since 1908, and It is considered one of the best culinary places. 

You can enjoy the tea in their lobby, which still features its Victorian past. Lastly, you can enjoy premium quality teas over their homemade strawberry jams and honey from their homegrown hives. 

27. Visit the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Visiting Victoria Butterfly Gardens is one of the unique things to do on Vancouver Island. It features over 75 species of butterflies and moths and caters to different species of animals like birds and fishes. 

The Butterfly Gardens is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. except on Christmas. The admission fee continuously depends on your group size. Children under two years old are free, while students and seniors have discounts. 

28. Check Out the Many Castles

Do you want to experience being a royal for a day? You must visit the castles around British Colombia—Marvel around Craigdarroch Castle, a historic national site with Victorian architecture. 

You may also go to Hatley Castle, built in the 1900s, open for the public guided tour. You can explore its different rooms and beautiful gardens. Hatley Castle is located on the Royal Roads University. 

29. Visit the Sheringham Point Lighthouse

Find solace when you visit the Sheringham Point Lighthouse—built in 1912 after the fatal Wreck of the SS Valencia. 

It is open to the public. You can roam the area and enjoy the breathtaking views, but be careful or stay away as much as possible from the cliff edges. The Lighthouse still works today for navigation Purposes. 

30. Hike Avatar Grove

Hiking at Avatar Grove is one of the must-do’s on Vancouver Island. It assures you a fun and unforgettable experience. The Grove Nature Trail is famous because of its 1.6 km loop trail that is well-maintained. It is also renowned for its ancient trees, including the Gnarliest Tree”. But take note to check for any updates regarding the opening or closure of the trail. 

31. Hike the Famous West Coast Trail

With over 75 km of hiking trail, the West Coast Trail is the most challenging yet most beautiful hike you can experience in British Columbia. A thrilling adventure awaits with its rough tracks in the forest, to coastal walking on sand gravel and boulders. 

Note that cable cars and bridges are alongside the significant waterways. Finally, the hiking season is limited to five months due to winter’s stormy weather, and you also need to make a reservation if you plan to trail. 

32. Go Black Bear Watching

Known for its healthy black bears, it is a must-see wildlife attraction that you can enjoy in Vancouver Island, British Columbia. 

There are several known areas that you can visit to watch these adorable animals, namely the Lacs à Jimmy outfitter and Tadoussac. Take advantage of watching the bears in the daytime because it is also the time when they are active. 

33. Take the Malahat Skywalk

The Mahalat Skywalk features a 600-meter tree walk through the picturesque arbutus forest that will lead you to the breathtaking viewing platforms that oversee the beautiful surrounding mountains and seas. 

It is also open seven days a week from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Finally, the admission fee continuously varies from your age bracket, and groups of children under five years old are free. At the same time, students and seniors have discounted fairs. 

34. Explore Clayoquot Sound

One of the most beautiful and diverse wildlife is just west of Vancouver Island, the Clayoquot Sound. It is a Biosphere Reserve famous for its natural beauty, including lush green forests, clustered islands, emerald valleys, and old-growth trees. You can also try many outdoor activities, including whale watching, kayaking, hiking, camping, and fishing. 

35. Cross the Kinsol Trestle

Crossing the Kinsol Trestle is one of the most unique things to do on Vancouver Island because you can cross a wooden railway trestle, which was last used as a rail line in 1979. The bridge is approximately 44 meters high and can take 30 minutes to an hour to cross at the right pace.

Vancouver Island: Things to Do in Summer 

36. go whale watching.

It’s time to bring your binoculars and cameras to Vancouver Islands! Whale watching must be one of the best things to do in summer on Vancouver Island, as you can do this activity along almost all island coasts. There’s Campbell River and Telegraph Cove in the east and Tofino and Ucluelet in the west.

If whale watching is your primary reason to visit the Vancouver Islands, it’s best to see between May and October for an assured sight of Orcas and Humpback whales. Once you get to the middle of the ocean, watch out for splashes, tails, and dorsal fins, and you’ll know they’re near when you hear their calls and vocalizations.

37. Go kayaking

Alongside whale watching, you can also try kayaking on some of the best spots in the Vancouver Islands, including Pacific Rim National Park, Johnstone Strait, and Telegraph Cove.

If you can handle yourself, paddle on your own, or if not, you can take guided tours. If you’ve never experienced crystal kayaking, Broken Islands near Ucluelet is the best spot. 

38. Swim in Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

About 30 minutes from Victoria is a hot summer destination to experience swimming in “potholes,” as they call it, in Sooke Potholes Provincial Park! These geological formations form unique deep holes for fantastic freshwater swimming. 

To get the best experience, hike a short trail, go to the Main Area day-use park, and swim in aqua-green-colored pools. Around the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is an overabundance of things to do, including eating at picnic areas, hiking trails, and swimming at Crescent Beach. 

39. Hike the Botanical Beach Loop Trail

The Botanical Beach Loop Trail, a 2.8-mile track, is one of the shortest but one of the most famous trails in Vancouver Island, known for its presentation of fantastic shoreline and coastal forest scenery. 

Along the trail, you’ll see tidepools, sea creatures, birds, and the ever-glowing strait of Juan de Fuca, undoubtedly showcasing the island’s natural diversity. You can complete the trail in one to two hours from Botanical Beach, ending in Botanic Bay.

40. Swim in Westwood Lake

Near downtown Nanaimo is a clean freshwater lake, perfect for family bonding and cooling off during the hot summer, the Westwood Lake! Swimming in Westwood Lake is one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island, as you can bring your whole family.

There are shallow waters for the kids, a floating dock for jumping, and many country-side activities you can engage in, including picnicking, boating, fishing, mountain biking, and running. 

41. Hike Mount Benson

Located in West Nanaimo, Mount Benson is a popular hiking destination! Taking the Mount Benson trail is one of the best things to do in summer on Vancouver Island. It lets you breathe through the beautiful forests, see the wildlife, and be amazed by the stunning panoramic Nanaimo and Salish Sea views.

This 5.2-km out-and-back hike is challenging because of the rugged terrain and high elevation change at the top of the mountain. With this difficulty, expect to take the whole trekking between three to four hours back and forth.

42. Go Surfing in Tofino

If you want to test your surfing abilities, Tofino is the sweet spot for that! With its 35 kilometres of beaches and consistent waves, surfing in the area is one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island.

If you’re a beginner or just starting out, take on the gentler waves of Cox Bay, Chesterman Beach, or Long Beach. If you have intermediate or advanced experience, challenge yourself with the big waves at The Point or The Breakwater.

43. Visit Long Beach

Just next to Tofino is a stretch of 10-km underdeveloped beach perfect for relaxation and surfing, the Long Beach. It’s nicknamed the “Surfing Capital of Canada,” where you can catch beautiful waves from the Pacific Ocean.

Since it is also a part of the Pacific Rim National Park, expect to see quite a few wildlife in Long Beach. Aside from water activities, you can wander around the coastal forest for birdwatching.

44. Go Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is also one of the best things to do in summer on Vancouver Island because there are so many worthy and unique options! 

If you want high current dives, go to the Gulf Islands, especially Dodd Narrows. To experience the most transparent waters with a sight of diverse marine life, the perfect spots are Campbell River and Comox. And if you want to witness excellent artificial reefs, head to Sunshine Coast.  

45. Fishing at Alberni Harbor Quay

One must-do on Vancouver Island is to buy your license for tidal water sports fishing and proceed to Alberni Harbor Quay. You can try shore fishing at the docks and pier or the famous salmon fishing. Aside from salmon, you can catch rockfish, lingcods, and cabezons in the harbour. 

46. Check out Sproat Lake Provincial Park

If you’re up for an exciting adventure in the Vancouver Islands, Sproat Lake Provincial Park is an all-in-one location covering around 345 hectares in area. It’s not just a summer destination, but you can enjoy the surroundings of Sproat Lake all year round.

You can camp, try out easy hiking trails to the challenging ones, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, or mountain biking. 

Other than these land recreational activities, there are water activities like swimming, boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Unique to the park are the petroglyphs named “K’ak’awin,” dated many years ago.

47. Fish at Campbell River

Is fishing your favourite hobby? Whatever the time you’re trying out this activity, fishing at Campbell River will always be memorable. Trust me, this is one of the best things to do in summer on Vancouver Island.

You can use several fishing charters and guides to know the best spots. Try salmon fishing, especially Chinook and pinks, and fly fishing, such as trout and steelheads, for the best experience. 

48. Explore Elk Falls Provincial Park

Once in the Campbell area, explore the Elk Falls Provincial Park, with Elk Falls as its main highlight! You can reach the falls through the main Elk Falls trail, which might take about one and a half hours. 

Take sight of the stunning 25-m drop Elk Falls while being amazed by how salmon climb up the falls to the river. For the best photo spots, go to the suspension bridge crossing the canyons and view the falls up close.

49. Wander Englishman River Falls Park

The Vancouver Islands is a hotspot for impressive waterfalls, and you should take advantage of the Englishman WaterFalls at Englishman River Falls Park. What’s unique about this waterfall is its two chutes —the high upper and wide lower falls.

Aside from the falls, there are picnic areas, hiking trails, 500-year-old Douglas firs and Western red cedars for you to explore, and swimming holes perfect for summer.

50. Explore Goldstream Provincial Park

Not all provincial parks in Vancouver Island allow site camping, but Goldstream is one of the few! Exploring Goldstream Provincial Park is one of the best things to do on Vancouver Island because of many things to range over.

You can camp on-site and choose from almost 200 available, view packs of bald eagles, explore the old-growth trees, watch salmon runs, and join hiking trails. 

What is the Best Area to Stay on Vancouver Island? 

The best area to stay on Vancouver Island depends on your interests and the activities that you want to engage with. Here are some of the top regions recommended for your travel plans.

• Tofino : Tofino is just the right place if you’re after quick access to beaches and outdoor water activities, including surfing. If not Tofino, you can go to Ucluelet, also on the west coast, perfect for swimming and whale watching. 
• Victoria : For city attractions like the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and the like, staying inside the capital city is thoroughly recommended. 
• Parksville & Qualicum Beach : For golf enthusiasts who also want to experience the sandy beaches of Vancouver Island, Parksville or the Qualicum Village is the right option. 
• Cowichan Valley . Cowichan Valley is just the right place if you want somewhere near the farms, vineyards, and provincial parks. 
• Gastown : Gastown is the right place for vibrant nightlife with restaurants, bars, shops, and some historical architecture. 

Travelers recommend exploring Vancouver Island for at minimum 5-7 days to see just the island’s highlights. If you want to see more, including those off-the-beaten, you may spend two weeks up to a month.

Deciding the best Vancouver Island all depends on what activities you’re after. Victoria for museums and restaurants, Tofino and Long Beach for some water activities, Pacific Rim National Park for rainforests and beaches, and Campbell River for whale watching and fishing.

For decent weather and fewer people, Vancouver Island is best visited during the shoulder seasons—between mid-May and early October.

Using a car to get around Vancouver Island is convenient but unnecessary. The transport system of Vancouver Island is systematically available in the city and even in the suburbs. You can take public buses, inter-city buses, trains, taxis, ferries, or even bikes. 

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Enoch Omololu is a traveller, culinary tourist, and money expert. He is the co-founder of Only Earthlings and established the popular Savvy New Canadians platform. Enoch has been featured in Business Insider, Forbes, Best Life Online, GOBankingRates, Penny Hoarder, Globe and Mail, Yahoo, and CBC News.

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Road Trips , British Columbia , Canada

13 epic stops on a vancouver island road trip (+ 2 itineraries).

If you’ve been to the Pacific Northwest before, you know what a beautiful region it is. Many Americans tend to explore their home state, but there are so many amazing areas in British Columbia waiting to be explored. One of those is Vancouver Island, and the best way to explore it is through a Vancouver Island road trip.

I love visiting Vancouver Island, which is why I’ve been there multiple times over the year. The first time took me on a gorgeous drive around Vancouver Island for a week in the summer in Vancouver , where I explored waterfalls, kayaked on the ocean, and went hiking. I’ve since been back in in both spring and fall time in Vancouver , and even gone skiing on Mount Washington, which is the perfect addition to a winter in Vancouver trip!

This reason is why it’s taken me multiple Pacific Northwest trips to see new places on the island, and I still haven’t been to everywhere I want to go. However, I have my favorite areas to visit after going so many times, so I’ve compiled the perfect itinerary for you to follow for your own trip.

You can see plenty of the island if you only have a few days for your Vancouver Island itinerary. Whether you have 3 days on Vancouver Island or 7 days on Vancouver Island, this Vancouver Island road trip itinerary will help you plan a fantastic vacation!

This post was first written in 2020 and last updated on March 2023.

Table of Contents

Tips for a Road Trip to Vancouver Island

Here are some helpful tips to help you plan out your Vancouver Island trip.

How to Get to Vancouver Island

There are several ways to get to Vancouver Island. This is an island with no bridges, so you can either take a seaplane or a ferry. However, for your road trip on Vancouver Island, you’ll need to take the ferry, so you can bring your car with you (especially if you’re doing a long Seattle road trip or coming from a drive from Seattle to Vancouver ).

Several ferries will take you to Vancouver Island, so you’ll have to consider where you’re starting your trip from. Some people opt to spend 2 days in Vancouver first before heading to the island.

Here are some of the most popular options for Vancouver Island itineraries.

• Port Angeles (Washington) to Victoria (British Columbia ) – If you’re coming from driving on the Olympic Peninsula , the Port Angeles option is the most convenient, with a 90-minute crossing time.
• Tsawwassen (mainland Vancouver) to Duke Point (Vancouver Island near Nanaimo ) – I take this way the most because Tsawwassen is just over the US-Canada border and puts you near Nanaimo when you get off. I also recommend reserving your spot in advance for this 2-hour ferry ride.
• Anacortes (Washington) to Sidney (southeast Vancouver Island) – This route is the longest, with a 3-hour crossing time, but convenient if you live near Anacortes.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Vancouver Island?

The island is 283 miles long, 62 miles wide, and 12,407 square miles in area . It would take you about seven or eight hours to drive from one end to the other end, and that’s without stopping to explore or for food.

That’s why I recommend spending multiple days on a road trip to Vancouver Island, and I’ve provided a 3-day Vancouver Island itinerary as well as a 7-day Vancouver Island itinerary at the end of this article. I have multiple Vancouver Island road trip ideas for you to choose from.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Map

As you can see from this Vancouver Island road trip map, driving around Vancouver Island fully would take quite a while, which is why I picked out some of the best places to stop on this PNW road trip .

You should also note that you can’t drive through all parts of the island. For example, the drive from Victoria to Tofino will take you over four hours with no traffic or stops because you can’t drive on the southeast part of the island.

What is the Best Time to Visit Vancouver Island?

You can visit Vancouver Island any time throughout the year. However, you’ll want to think about what activities you’ll be doing first before deciding the best time to visit Vancouver Island.

For example, if you plan on doing plenty of hiking or exploring the beach, you’ll want to go during spring in Vancouver or the fall so you can take advantage of fewer crowds and moderate weather. I personally love coming here in the fall, as you’ll see some beautiful foilage along your road trip on Vancouver Island. It’s also perfect to add onto a 3 day trip to Vancouver to extend your vacation.

Summer has the best weather, with minimal rain and temperatures in the high 70s, but it’s also the most crowded time to visit. Many tourists and locals alike are booking weekend getaways from Vancouver at this time. You’ll want to book your accommodations and any tours well in advance so you can have the Vancouver Island itinerary that you want.

If you’re more interested in indoor activities and want to enjoy the island without crowds, you may like visiting in the winter . Temperatures are in the low 30s, and it can be a cozy time of year to get a hotel by the water and watch the rain fall while having your morning cup of coffee. There are plenty of winter hikes you can go on during this time and winter activities on Vancouver Island to participate in.

How Many Days Do You Need on Vancouver Island?

Due to how big the island is, you’ll want to spend multiple days there. It’s hard to pick how many days to spend on Vancouver Island, but the most common choices are 3 days and 7 days on Vancouver Island. That way, you can either do a short but packed weekend on Vancouver Island, or you can take your time and explore more of it at your leisure.

Do I Need a Car on Vancouver Island?

Yes, you’ll want to have a car to explore Vancouver Island fully. There isn’t easy public transportation to rely on, and you won’t be able to see many of these stops. Similar to Vancouver to Whistler road trip , it’s easiest to have your own car, but you can also rent one if you don’t have access to it.

If you take a ferry to Victoria or fly in, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can look on Expedia or Kayak to find a vehicle that works for you. Most of the roads are wide, so you’ll be fine with a medium-sized car and won’t need a larger one unless you have a big group with you.

What to Bring on a Vancouver Island Road Trip

Anytime I go on a road trip, I always refer to my road trip essentials packing list that makes sure I don’t forget anything. However, here are a few items I recommend specifically for your 3 days on Vancouver Island:

• Car phone charger – make sure your phone always stays charged for when you need to take pictures and videos
• Emergency roadside kit – hopefully, you’ll have no issues on your road trip on Vancouver Island, but putting this in your trunk will give you peace of mind
• Water bottle – staying hydrated is always important when driving around Vancouver Island
• Cooler – store your drinks and snacks in here, so you don’t have to stop as much
• Polarized sunglasses – cities on the coast get plenty of sun and the water reflects off the glasses, so have a solid pair of sunglasses
• Rain jacket – it can always randomly rain in the Pacific Northwest, so keep this in the back of your car

Need help planning out your road trip? I’ve been using Roadtrippers for years to see exactly how long it’ll take from one point to the next and find new places to add to my itinerary!

13 Amazing Stops for Your Vancouver Island Road Trip

Part of the appeal is that the island’s landscapes vary greatly. You’ll find sandy beaches, a mountain range, glaciers, waterfalls, and dense forests populated with giant cedars. Much of the island is also protected, making it a great place to see black bears and whales. While the Sea to Sky Highway is one of my favorite drives in Canada, this island rivals it.

Packed to the brim with unique places to stop, this island is a blast to explore. Doing a little planning beforehand will also help you see the best of it, so this list will help you create your Vancouver Island trip itinerary. Pick a few of the stops below for an amazing Vancouver weekend getaway. The best part is creating your own Vancouver Island itinerary with how many options you have.

Nanaimo, the Harbour City, is a great starting point for your road trip around Vancouver Island. In addition, you can reach it by plane or ferry. Located on the east of the island, it’s a vibrant urban center that offers plenty of fun sea- and sky-based activities. 

Lakes and harbors dot Nanaimo with mysterious coves that you can explore by canoe or paddleboard. This city also has a great craft beer and culinary scene to add to your Vancouver Island itinerary for 3 days. Foodies will also love getting to grips with the area’s specialty dessert, the Nanaimo bar.

The Minnoz Restaurant & Lounge at the Coast Bastion Hotel is the place to go for delicious, fresh fish. Enjoy sustainable seafood meals like pan-seared scallops with mushroom risotto or grilled wild sockeye salmon.

Visit Gabriel’s Gourmet Café for a more relaxed dining experience. The four-cheese mac and cheese with crispy bacon pieces that this cafe is known for is created from scratch and is a customer favorite.

If you stop here during your road trip on Vancouver Island, make sure you check out the Nanaimo Museum with its cannon-firing ceremony at noon, accompanied by lusty bagpipes. 

If you’re searching for some fun Vancouver Island tours, here’s something special. You can take to the sky to see the majesty of Canada’s Sunshine Coast on a  40-minute seaplane flight , and the panoramic views will also leave you speechless. 

If Vancouver Island isn’t enough for you, you can take a ferry to  another  island! 

Newcastle Island  is connected by a ferry across from Nanaimo that leaves every half hour (you can find the ferry schedule online). For 5 CAD, you can walk the trails of this beautiful area. 

Where to Stay: Coast Bastion Hotel is a few minutes away from the beach and is also close to shops and restaurants. (rates start at $122 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

2. Protection Island

Protection Island was also one of the most unique experiences I had on my first road trip around Vancouver Island. You can take a short ferry ride to the island from a marina in downtown Nanaimo. It was the cutest little boat, and everyone was excited to see what the island was like.

The boat docks right at the Dinghy Dock Pub , which may be one of the coolest pubs I’ve ever been to. It’s Canada’s only floating pub and gives you a fantastic view of Nanaimo. The fish and chips were somehow made better because I was right on the water.

When you’re done, take a leisurely stroll along one of the island’s beautiful walking trails if you’re seeking something relaxing to do. It’s a great way to end your night on your Vancouver Island road trip.

Where to Stay: Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo has free parking, and you can walk to Protection Island from here. (rates start at $98 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

3. Courtenay

Courtenay is the only city and the largest community in the Comox Valley area. It’s located north of Nanaimo, along the island’s east coast. This area is also home to over 40 parks, making it an excellent stop for nature lovers.

There’s a different flavor for every undercover conservationist from Seal Bay Park to Miracle Beach Provincial Park. For those who have a love affair with ancient history, the District Museum and Paleontology Center will satisfy your curiosity.

To top it all off, there are many wineries in the area. Pull out a seat, kick back, and enjoy some samples of the local vintage. A great option is 40 Knots Vineyard , which uses only organic and sustainable farming methods. You can try their wines, which range from light whites to full-bodied reds, in the chic tasting area or on the patio overlooking the vineyards.

Where to Stay: Comox Valley Inn & Suites is an affordable option when you’re looking for a quick place to stay overnight. (rates start at $78 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

4. Comox Valley

This gorgeous valley is filled with wildlife and activities based on the great outdoors. There are all kinds of things to see here on your Vancouver Island road trip. In summer, you can take a trip to Strathcona Provincial Park , where you can spy the tallest peak on the island, the Golden Hinde. 

You’ll also get some great shots of the Della Falls – the highest waterfall in Canada. This magnificent waterfall is also in the top 10 highest waterfalls in the world! The Comox Glacier is also a beautiful landmark to visit as it’s easy to access and visible. 

Comox Valley is also home to Comox Town, which has roughly 15,000 people. This town is the Royal Canadian Air Force base seat, the CFB Comox, and the HMCS Quadra, a Sea Cadet training facility.

If you’re heading to Vancouver Island during the winter months, head to Comox Valley’s Mount Washington Alpine Resort . It’s known for its snowfalls and is a popular tourist destination for skiing and snowboarding that’s on par with skiing in Banff. I’ve never been to a place where I could ski while staring at the ocean, and it was amazing.

Where to Stay: Old House Hotel & Spa is a great place to treat yourself to a facial, manicure, and outdoor pool. (rates start at $153 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

5. Campbell River

Follow the island’s east coast upwards from Courtenay, and you’ll reach Campbell River. This area is also known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” and anglers and fisherfolk gather here in shoals. With attractions like Quinsam River Salmon Hatchery and Discovery Pier , Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier, you can understand why. 

Between July and September, you can witness a stunning natural phenomenon. You’ll be able to see and snorkel with thousands of salmon returning to the river of their birth.

You can also take a short walk down to the swinging Elk Falls Suspension Bridge . Here, you’ll see the thundering waterfall followed by a hike into the forest of sky-high trees. 

Where to Stay: Anchor Inn and Suites has fun themed rooms and an indoor heated pool and hot tub. (rates start at $85 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

6. Victoria

The capital city of the Canadian province of British Columbia, Victoria, is positioned on the southern tip of the island. It’s another excellent starting point for your Vancouver Island road trip because it’s a quick ferry ride from Seattle and Vancouver, making it a great  long weekend trip from Seattle .

The “City of Gardens” is relatively small, so many of the main attractions are within walking distance of the city center. You’ll definitely want to visit Butchart Gardens , considered one of the world’s top gardens, even if you’re just taking a Victoria, BC day trip .

Do yourself a favor and take a few hours to  tour this enchanting wonder . You’ll see the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, the Sunken Garden, and other natural treasures. You’ll be amazed by the incredible diversity you find there on your road trip on Vancouver Island.

Victoria, British Columbia, has a thriving restaurant scene, and there are so many places I’ve visited over the year that it’s hard to recommend only a few. Red Fish Blue Fish is a popular fish restaurant on the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf that was formerly a shipping container. While taking in the lively waterfront views, indulge in some fish and chips, seafood chowder, or grilled fish tacos made from sustainable seafood.

Irish Times Pub is a great option if you’re craving a classic pub atmosphere. This traditional Irish bar is right in the middle of downtown Victoria, and it has a great selection of traditional pub food, in addition to a warm and welcoming ambiance and live music. Have a pint of Guinness or a flight of whiskey with your meal of shepherd’s pie or fish & chips. Weekend nights are my favorite time to come, as it’s always lively.

Where to Stay: Marketa’s Bed and Breakfast is in a quiet neighborhood, so you’ll sleep great but can quickly walk to central Victoria for the action. (rates start at $81 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

7. Ladysmith

Driving to Ladysmith from Victoria, you’ll pass through farm-filled Cowichan, affectionately known as “The Warm Land.” After this scenic stretch, you’ll also end up in the quaint seaside town of Ladysmith. 

A peaceful town with a lively twist, Ladysmith boasts a bustling main street, First Avenue . This avenue also offers great boutique stores and creative local businesses. You’ll love exploring all these unique gems on your Vancouver Island trip.

The town is located right by the ocean, so there are plenty of seaside activities on offer. In addition, you can take a leisurely walk to the marina or visit the Sea Life Center to brush up on your oceanic knowledge. It’s also ideal to relax and watch the boats ebb and flow while enjoying the waterfront feel.

If you find yourself in search of a fantastic coffee shop, look no further than Old Town Bakery . This family-run bakery in the historic neighborhood of Old Town has been a neighborhood staple for over three decades. You can get your caffeine fix with a latte, cappuccino, or Americano, all of which are crafted with locally roasted beans.

Where to Stay: Inn of the Sea is a private apartment you can rent, making it great for families looking for multiple rooms and a kitchen area. (rates start at $240 per night)

8. Parksville

Where Ladysmith is known for its harbor, Parksville is famous for its beaches and libations. This city makes it the perfect spot for kicking back on the beach and cutting loose. While you’re here, make sure you visit Parksville Bay and Craig Bay for some coastal explorations.

Check out the boardwalk and visit Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Co for a refreshing beer. You can’t go wrong with their award-winning Arrowsmith Blonde – fruity with a dry finish that won’t go over your head.  

Parksville is a great place to stop over for a beachfront stay, and why I always stay here when I’m in the area.  Book a night at Tigh-Na-Mara  to get a good night’s sleep with the sounds of the ocean as your lullaby. I love staying here because you can get a beachfront room or a cozy cabin in the woods.

Vancouver Island wins the award for some of the most scenic beaches in the world. Rathtrevor Beach is one of the most beautiful places on Vancouver Island to walk around, as the tide goes out really far during the day. Bring a picnic so you can take your time exploring the beach and take a break from driving around Vancouver Island.

Where to Stay: Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort is my favorite place on the island (I’ve stayed here multiple times!) due to being right on the coast and having a spa to enjoy. (rates start at $154 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

Looking for another coastal road trip? You’ll want to look at this 3-day Oregon Coast itinerary .

9. Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach is a 10-minute drive northwest of Parksville. Located at the foot of Mount Arrowsmith along the Strait of Georgia, this area has picture-perfect views combined with small-town charm that you’ll want to see during your road trip on Vancouver Island.

It may be small, with a population of around 9,000 people, but there are still plenty of good reasons for you to visit. The beaches transform as golden sand makes way for beds of wave-stroked rock and pebbles north of this town. 

Take a stroll along a pebble beach and enjoy the sights of sea lions, ships, and even some killer whales. If you’re looking for something a little more action-packed, try out some caving. Discover the mysteries of the marble passages and crystal caverns on a  guided multi-cave tour during this unique Vancouver Island tour.

When you come to Qualicum Beach, you have to stop at Milner Gardens . After a short walk, you’ll be in the gardens, where they have some of the most beautiful flowers.

It was rated one of the ten best public gardens in all of Canada, and it’s easy to see why.

There are 70 acres of a beautiful forest filled with Douglas firs, unique artwork, and colorful flowers like rhododendrons. It’s such a tranquil place that even Princess Diana, Prince Charles, and Queen Elizabeth have been here to visit. You can even have afternoon tea like the Royals in the Milner House.

With several different sections to explore, it’s the perfect place to find peace and quiet and reflect on your thoughts. You’ll feel a sense of calmness when you leave the garden.

What’s a road trip without a waterfall or two? Little Qualicum Falls Park has both the upper and lower falls, so make sure to walk around the whole park. Don’t forget to bring your camera, either!

Where to Stay: Qualicum Beach Inn has a beautiful outdoor dining patio and a gym to enjoy. (rates start at $161 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

10. Port Hardy

Port Hardy sits in the Great Bear Rainforest on the island’s northeastern side. This area is breathtakingly beautiful as it is surrounded by lush, ancient rainforest set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. 

Take a break from driving Vancouver Island and stretch your legs with some hiking and bear-watching in the forest. You can also grab a kayak and paddle to God’s Pocket Marine Provincial Park . You can hop on the water taxi from Port Hardy to Bell Island for a leisurely trip if you’re not an experienced kayaker.

If you want to stay the night here,  The Quarterdeck Inn & Marina Resort  offers a hot breakfast and a convenient location. The Seven Hills Golf & Country Club is also an easy drive away, and there is a ferry terminal nearby. 

Where to Stay: The Quarterdeck Inn & Marina Resort has private kitchens if you want to cook or a restaurant if you prefer someone to cook for you after a long day. (rates start at $153 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

11. Port Alberni

Port Alberni is renowned for its pleasant climate and breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by mountains, streams, and freshwater lakes, you’ll get an authentic Canadian experience. You might want to extend your time in this area to get the most from your trip. 

The area is a hotspot for boating, sport-fishing, windsurfing, hiking, and ATVing. You can even rent a kayak and explore the Broken Group Island s. You can hop on a water taxi to Sechart Lodge at the Pacific Whaling Company historic site if you have the whole day.

Near Port Alberni is Nahmint Valley , an old-growth forest home to centuries-old trees. There’s no better way to explore the mountain terrain than taking a 4WD guided tour from Alberni Valley. Witness Vancouver Island at its most dramatic while enjoying the thrill of 4WD. 

Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Barclay Hotel has a beer and wine store and snacks available if you forget something late at night. (rates start at $137 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

12. Ucluelet

If you take the westerly road from Port Alberni to Ucluelet, be prepared for one of the longest stretches on your road trip on Vancouver Island. It’s a good idea to fill your tank and take some rest stops on the way, as well as one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island.

When you reach Ucluelet, you’ll be met by a lovely seaside town that’s heavy on adventure tourism and wildlife. This town has Canada’s first collect-and-release aquarium. 

It also offers several access points to the Wild Pacific Trail. The trail is excellent for birding, walking, and taking memorable photos. 

Ucluelet Harbour is the ideal spot to take a  sea kayak tour  of Vancouver Island’s west coast. Keep your eyes peeled for eagles scouting the skies and black bears strolling along the shores during this Vancouver Island tour.

Where to Stay: Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is minutes from the beach and pet-friendly. (rates start at $212 per night; book your room on Booking.com or Hotels.com )

Tofino is located on the island’s west side and is the ideal point to wrap up your road trip with an authentic West Coast activity, such as surfing . If you’re a first-timer, book yourself a lesson and get ready to hit the waves. This area is one of the most beautiful places on Vancouver Island, in my opinion, and there are many Airbnbs in Tofino to choose from.

If surfing isn’t your thing, maybe storm-watching will catch your attention. Tourists visit this location to witness the impressive storm skies and ocean swells in the winter months.

The highlight of Tofino is the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , home to the stunning Long Beach. This idyllic beach offers 10 miles of sandy stretches – perfect for intimate walks. The park has some epic hiking trails, so you’ll get a great mixture of tranquility and exertion, and it’s the perfect thing to do in Vancouver in the fall .

If you’re looking for a particular restaurant, look no farther than Wolf in the Fog . The crispy pork belly and the seafood chowder are two of the restaurant’s most popular items. If you have room, have the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

Rhino Coffee House is a great option for a relaxed meal or cup of coffee. In the middle of downtown Tofino, in a beautiful old structure, is where you’ll find this wonderful café. They offer a variety of coffee and tea beverages in addition to their baked products, sandwiches, and salads.

Where to Stay: Pacific Sands Beach Resort is right by the beach and has rooms with balconies for a stunning morning view. (rates start at $155 per night; book your room on Booking.com or read reviews on TripAdvisor )

Want to extend your Canadian adventure? Head up to Whistler to explore all the things to do in Whistler in the summer or enjoy a relaxing weekend in Whistler .

2 Vancouver Island Itineraries to Copy (3 Days & 5 Days)

If you pick one, some, or all of the stops mentioned earlier, you’ll have an incredible getaway. Bear in mind that the more days you have for the trip, the less rushed it will be and you’ll be able to see so much more. This is just my Vancouver Island suggested itinerary that you can choose to follow or edit to make your own.

Like a  United States West Coast trip , there are many things you can put on the list for your road trip on Vancouver Island. To make things easier, I’ve included two sample Vancouver Island itineraries to help you plan the ultimate Vancouver Island road trip. 

Vancouver Island Road Trip: 3 Days

You can see much of the island when driving around Vancouver Island in 3 days. You might be a bit rushed, but this 3-day itinerary will give you a great snapshot of the island. 

If you’re leaving from Seattle, grab the  ferry service  to the capital of British Columbia. From there, take a 2-hour drive up from Victoria to Nanaimo to start your road trip.

Day 1 – Nanaimo to Courtenay

On the first day of your Vancouver Island road trip itinerary, I encourage you to catch the early ferry to start your weekend on Vancouver Island right away. You can grab your coffee and breakfast at either the ferry terminal or on the ferry.

Once you dock in Nanaimo , take some time to explore the town. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, and parks to check out.

You can hike, bike, and boat your way around Vancouver Island, but flying on a seaplane is a unique way to explore it. I did this with Sunshine Coast to fly from Nanaimo to Sechelt Inlet (on the mainland part of Canada) and loved it.

When you’re done, start making your way to Courtenay (a little over an hour drive without stopping). Stop in Parksville on your way there to eat lunch or check out some of the many beaches they have there.

You can get to Courtenay with enough time to have dinner at a local restaurant and watch the sunset on a nearby beach. This is a relaxing end to your Vancouver Island tour.

Day 2 – Courtenay to Campbell River

While the sunsets are beautiful, the sunrises are even more stunning. I recommend getting coffee and going to the beach to start the second day of your 3 days on Vancouver Island itinerary in a relaxing way.

Check out of your hotel and take a hike in Comox Valley . This gorgeous region has plenty of outdoor activities to do and some beautiful Vancouver Island hiking trails, and you can easily spend the whole day exploring.

Campbell River is only about a 40-minute drive from Courtenay, so you may decide you don’t want to go too far for your next stop. Campbell River has plenty of waterfalls and bridges to explore.

Alternatively, you may want to drive further on your second day, in which case you can drive up to Port Hardy (3 hours from Courtenay). Many people want to go as far north as they can, but keep in mind you’ll be headed all the way south on the island for your last day.

Day 3 – Campbell River to Victoria

If you choose to stay in Port Hardy for the night, it’d be about a 5.5-hour drive to Victoria without stopping, which means you’ll want to get on the road early.

From Campbell River, Victoria is only 3 hours away, so you’ll have a more leisurely day exploring stops in Vancouver Island along the way.

Qualicum Beach has beaches, waterfalls, and many local, organic restaurants.

There are also several stops near this area, such as Cameron Lake. On my Vancouver Island driving tour, I drove by Cameron Lake and had to pull over because it was so beautiful spontaneously. Only a few people were swimming on the opposite side, so it was a relaxing place to stop. I loved how clear the water was and all the rocks you could see at the bottom.

At the north end of Cameron Lake is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. Walking through this 800-year-old forest will have you in awe as you look at the giant Douglas Firs. The road splits the forest in two, but I recommend checking out both parts. It’s a peaceful place to take a walk and relax in nature.

Stop by Ladysmith to check out the shops and get a snack on your way to Victoria. This is a good place to get souvenirs as well.

When you get to Victoria , you may decide to spend an extra night there. From taking a water taxi to stopping at one of the world’s most beautiful gardens, there’s plenty to do there. Alternatively, you can also catch the last ferry back to Washington State for a long but satisfying day.

Vancouver Island Road Trip: 7 Days

A week will give you far more time to explore the island and experience everything it offers. You can fit in some great tours and Vancouver Island hikes and set a more relaxed driving speed. 

Your starting point will be Victoria, so you’ll want to take a ferry to Victoria International. Once you reach the city, you’ll be ready to start your Vancouver Island road trip adventure. You can pick and choose from this list of the best places to stop on Vancouver Island to make your own trip or follow my suggested itinerary below.

• Day 1 – Victoria
• Day 2 – Victoria to Ladysmith
• Day 3 – Ladysmith to Parksville
• Day 4 – Parksville to Qualicum Beach to Port Alberni
• Day 5 – Port Alberni to Ucluelet
• Day 6 – Ucluelet to Tofino
• Day 7 – Tofino to Home

These sample Vancouver Island itineraries do not include all of the stops on the list. If you’re committed to visiting all the stops mentioned in this post, you can always plan several road trips to Vancouver Island to make sure you see them all! 

No matter how many days you spend on a Vancouver Island road trip, you’ll love exploring this beautiful area! SaveSave SaveSave

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

16 thoughts on “ 13 Epic Stops on a Vancouver Island Road Trip (+ 2 Itineraries) ”

I am going to Canada for the first time next summer for a wedding and we are doing a big road trip. These pictures are beautiful! We will definitely have to make some of these stops.

WOW! These places are beautiful! This is on my bucket list, but I just haven’t made it there site yet.

You will love driving around Vancouver Island then!

I hope you make it there soon!

What gorgeous pictures. I love taking scenic drives. Something about them is equal parts exciting and relaxing. Little Qualicum Falls Park looks beautiful!!!

I’ve never been to Canada, but I’ve been keeping tabs on places to go to when I get the chance! Scenic drives are my favorite!

Vancouver Island is a great place to take a road trip!

Oh you’ll love it!

Vancouver is totally on my list of travel destinations. A good friend of mine was there this summer and he says it was fantastic. Your photos only make me want to go more!

I hope you get there soon!

I’ve never even heard of Newcastle Island! How is it possible that you know way more about where I live than I do! You always inspire me to get out and adventure more! Kyla

Wow!!! I haven’t been to the Island since I was a kid. Cameron lake looks gorgeous, I’ll have to put it on my to do list.

It’s easy to forget to explore your own area!

There’s so much to do on the island!

My partner lived in Canada for a year when he was younger and he still raves about it! I am dying to do a little road trip around and can’t wait to stop at some of these places!!

You’ll love it!

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The Top Things to See and Do on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is more than the home of British Columbia’s (BC) capital, Victoria . The large island is home to beautiful beaches, breathtaking parks and unique architecture. Keep reading to discover the best things to see and do on Vancouver Island. Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Admire the floral displays of butchart gardens.

Located near Victoria , Butchart Gardens is a designated National Historic Site and one of the world’s best gardens. Almost one million people visit annually, as each season at the garden is different. There are the colors of spring’s new blooms, the entertainment and fireworks in summer, fall’s golden hues and the Christmas decorations in winter. Some of the Butchart Gardens highlights are the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, concrete lawn walk and the Japanese, Italian and Mediterranean Gardens. Try to see them all if you can.

Soak up some history at the Royal BC Museum

Explore the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

There are three sections to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve : the Broken Group Islands, the Long Beach Unit, and the West Coast Trail . The combination of the land and sea area encompasses 511sq km (197sq mi). The reserve is known for its rugged coast and temperate rainforests, which visitors can experience along the 75km (47mi) West Coast Trail. The Broken Group Islands consist of over 100 small islands and inlets in the Barkley Sound, while the Long Beach section is the most visited and includes the picturesque coast between Tofino and Ucluelet (including Long Beach itself).

Wander around Victoria Harbour

Tourism Victoria describes Victoria Harbour as “one of the most beautiful harbours in the world” – and though they’re probably biased, we have to agree. Historically it was used by First Nations people, but now it’s a base for ferries, seaplanes and water taxis. In summer, Victoria Harbour is home to festivals, markets and concerts, but its most beautiful feature may be the historic architecture in the background, including the Fairmont Empress and BC Legislature Building . A visit isn’t complete without seeing the Inner Harbour as well.

Marvel at ancient trees in Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove is a rare and endangered remnant of an ancient Douglas fir ecosystem in MacMillan Provincial Park on central Vancouver Island. The grove’s biggest trees are 800 years old, 75m (250ft) in height and 9m (29ft) in circumference. People from around the world visit Cathedral Grove every year, which was shortlisted for Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s (CBC) Seven Wonders of Canada contest in 2007.

Go camping in Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Yes, Vancouver’s Island parks are definitely some of the best places to see on the island. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park’s point of difference is that at low tide, the water can recede up to 1km (0.6mi) from the coastline. It’s a great place for camping for both friends and families, thanks to its sandy beach, ocean sunsets and access to 5.5km (3.4mi) of easy hiking trails. Rathtrevor Beach is also not far from Parksville and its amenities.

Hit the open ocean for a whale watching experience

Vancouver Island’s location means it’s a prime spot for whale watching . People can usually spot orcas (killer whales) in both the island’s north and south seas between May and October. Pacific gray whales are visible along the west coast during March and April, when they migrate north. Humpback whales usually swim in the open waters on the island’s north side in summer, after spending the winter near Hawaii and Mexico. Other marine animals include minke whales, dolphins, porpoises and seals. There are many whale-watching adventures to experience all around Vancouver Island.

Wine and dine in Cowichan Valley

For food and wine enthusiasts, Cowichan Valley is known for its Gourmet Trail. It sits between Victoria and Nanaimo and has three main towns: Chemainus, Duncan and Ladysmith. The valley’s warm climate means it’s an ideal place to grow produce, which is why it’s home to many award-winning wineries, British Columbia’s first cidery and the impressive Duncan Farmers Market. Other activities in the valley include hiking, paddling and tubing along the Cowichan River.

Admire the stunning Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle is a beautifully restored Victorian mansion built between 1887 and 1890 for Robert Dunsmuir, who was a Scottish immigrant that made a lot of money from coal on Vancouver Island. Now a National Historic Site, it’s said to be a prime example of a bonanza castle (massive houses built for entrepreneurs who became wealthy during the industrial age). On a hill overlooking Victoria, Craigdarroch Castle has 39 rooms over four floors, which feature stained-glass windows, intricate woodwork and Victorian-era furnishings.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Places to Stay

The best hotels in nanaimo, canada.

The Best Spa Hotels to Book in Vancouver Island, Canada

The Best Hotels on Vancouver Island

The Best Hotels and Places to Stay in Ucluelet, Canada

The Best Hotels in Tofino, Canada

The Best Places to Book Your Stay on Vancouver Island

See & Do

Must-visit attractions on vancouver island.

How to Spend 72 Hours in Tofino, British Columbia

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Unique Stays

Make your trip to Vancouver Island even more special by staying in a unique accommodation. These properties offer a chance to stay somewhere unconventional and unforgettable.

Moutcha Bay Resort

Discovery islands lodge, the lodge at gold river, outer shores expeditions & outer shores lodge, knight inlet lodge & grizzly tours, great bear lodge & nature tours, farout wilderness, villa eyrie resort, wya point resort, two beaches boutique suites, riding fool hostel, stay port renfrew, grey wolf expeditions, clayoquot wilderness resort, maple leaf adventures, so damn lucky glamping, mount washington alpine resort, merridale cidery & distillery, farewell harbour lodge, free spirit spheres.

Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting? 15 Reasons to visit!

Are you wondering if Vancouver Island is worth visiting? I asked Chanelle from Chasing Chanelle to answer this question for me.

Chanelle is a Canadian-based blogger who loves the West Coast and has put together her top reasons to visit Vancouver Island. 

Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?

To answer this question, YES, Vancouver Island is definitely worth visiting!

This beautiful island is located southwest of mainland British Columbia, in the midst of the Pacific Ocean. With a mix of picturesque cities, remote beaches, lush rainforests, and snow-capped mountains, there is something for everyone here. 

The diverse natural beauty of the island makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking, camping, and water sports. Plus, it’s a really family-friendly destination.

And don’t worry if you’re more of an urban traveler, with a rich history and culture, and as the home of BC’s capital city, there is also plenty for you to do here. 

15 Best Reasons to Visit Vancouver Island

To help you decide if Vancouver Island is worth visiting, here are the top 15 reasons to visit. Hopefully, some of these will inspire you to add it to your list of future travel destinations!

1. Pacific Rim National Park 

At the top of the list, there is Pacific Rim National Park. This is Canada’s oldest National Park Reserve and is protected by UNESCO. 

Spanning nearly 200 square miles on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Rim National Park is one of the best places in the world to explore kilometers of unspoiled sandy beaches, temperate rainforest, and dramatic coastal landscapes.

2. Easy access from Mainland Canada and the USA

Although many islands can be difficult to reach, Vancouver Island is actually really close to both mainland Canada and the USA, making it easy to get to.

The best way to travel to Vancouver Island is by ferry to Nanaimo or Victoria, from Vancouver or Seattle.

The ferry ride can be as short as 1.5 hours (depending on the route you’re taking). This is a great option as you can bring your car with you, making it easy to explore as much of the island as possible

It’s also possible to fly to Vancouver Island from mainland Canada, or Seattle. The island’s biggest airport is Victoria International Airport (YYJ). There are also several smaller airports located in communities around the island, which are served by major airlines.

Because Vancouver Island is so easy to get to from the mainland, if you’re short of time it’s a great place to visit for a weekend getaway, or even just for the day!

Check Ferry Availability Here

3. Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the best things to do when at Vancouver Island, with some tour operators even guaranteeing sightings! 

You are most likely to see orcas (also known as killer whales), humpback whales, and Pacific grey whales making their way through the island’s waters.

There are also over 500 resident whales in the area, so they can be sighted at any time of year.

If you haven’t been whale watching before, this should definitely be added to your list of things to try, as it’s a truly special experience.

Click to Book a Whale Watching Experience!

4. The Beautiful Coastline 

If Vancouver Island is known for one thing, it has to be its stunning coastline. As Canada’s premier beach destination, not only will you find beautiful sandy beaches here, but also rugged shores, interesting marine life, and unique landscapes to explore.

As the island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the water is cold! But this doesn’t deter beachgoers every summer from swimming, surfing, and exploring the beach. 

Fishing and beachcombing are also popular activities on Vancouver Island. There is an abundance of marine life, shells, and crustaceans that line the shores, and anemones and starfish can be spotted in the many tidal pools.

Read more about PNW Beaches at Olympic National Park

Located at the northern tip of Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino is a must-visit destination on Vancouver Island.

This small town has something for everyone – from family-friendly campsites to luxury resorts, and everything in between. 

Tofino is famous for being the surf capital of Canada, with miles of sandy beaches and world-class waves year-round.

But this isn’t the only thing to do here. Tofino is also known for whale-watching, hot springs, camping, hiking, storm-watching, and excellent local food. 

Plus, the area is a great place to base yourself for day trips into Pacific Rim National Park.

Click here for the best vacation rentals in Tofino

6. Amazing Hiking

When you think of hiking in Canada, summiting peaks in Banff or Jasper probably comes to mind. However, some of the PNW’s best hiking can actually be found on Vancouver Island.

What makes hiking here so spectacular is the dramatic landscapes and varied terrain. From technical coastal hikes to mountain summits, there is something here for every type of hiker.  

In particular, the island is home to one of the world’s most famous multi-day hikes – the iconic West Coast Trail .

Nestled in the beautiful Pacific Rim National Park, this 47-mile hike is unlike any other on the planet. With a mix of beach and forest walking, boulder fields, mud, ladders, and cable cars, the diversity of the terrain and unspoiled views make this a once-in-a-lifetime hike. 

7. Beach Camping

Vancouver Island is one of the most popular destinations in Canada for camping. And what makes it so popular is the abundance of beach camping opportunities! 

There are two ways to try beach camping on Vancouver Island: either by completing one of the island’s several multi-day coastal hikes; or by booking a site at one of the many beachside campgrounds. 

Staying at a beachside campground is a great option for your next family vacation. There is nothing quite like sleeping by the ocean, having bonfires on the beach, and watching the sunset over the waves. Plus, you will get to maximize your time enjoying and exploring the beach each day.

Some of the best places for beach camping on Vancouver Island include Pachena Bay (located inside Pacific Rim National Park), Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, and Cox Bay Beach near Tofino.

Search for Camp Sites on Vancouver Island

8. Wildlife Viewing

Vancouver Island has some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in all of Canada.

The island is home to an array of land animals and birds including grizzly and black bears, cougars, grey wolves, black-tailed deer, and bald eagles, as well as tons of marine life such as whales, sea lions, otters, dolphins, fish and small marine animals. 

When exploring the natural surroundings on Vancouver Island, if you exercise patience and caution, it’s possible to spot some of these animals in the wild, or at least see traces of them. 

To increase your chances of seeing wildlife, you can hire a guide or go on a wildlife viewing tour. In the summer months, you can even take a grizzly bear tour to see them catching salmon and feeding along the shore!

9. It’s a Family Friendly Destination

As you’ve probably gathered by now, Vancouver Island is a very family-friendly destination.

Between camping, beachcombing, exploring tidal pools, wildlife spotting, swimming, and much more, this is not a place where kids will get bored! And that is exactly what keeps families coming back year after year.

10. Port Hardy

Most visitors to Vancouver Island will spend their time in the middle and southern parts of the island. However, if you’re looking for a more remote and adventurous vacation, then Port Hardy is for you.

Located near the northern tip of Vancouver Island, Port Hardy is a small community, surrounded by secluded beaches, a rugged coastline, and some of the island’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Port Hardy is an adventure seeker’s dream.  Here you can partake in world-class fishing, scuba diving, boating, and hiking, all within a pristine and untouched environment.

11. BC’s Capital City – Victoria

If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, Vancouver Island is still worth a visit. In particular, for the beautiful and historic city of Victoria.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and the largest city on the island. It’s easy to get here by air or ferry, and is a great destination for a weekend break, or even a day trip!

With a rich British history, Victoria is filled with British culture and some of Canada’s most beautiful architecture.

It’s also a center for art, food, and culture. In the city, you will find horse-drawn carriages, double-decker buses, tearooms, colorful gardens, and a stunning harbor. 

In addition to site seeing, you can visit the Royal BC Museum, see colorful houseboats and eat fresh seafood at the fisherman’s wharf, and even take a seaplane tour!

Click Here to See the Best Tours in Victoria

12. Cowichan Valley Wine Country

When we say that Vancouver Island has it all, it really does!

On top of the stunning coastline, old-growth forests, and many mountains, Vancouver Island also has a beautiful wine region, complete with Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean climate.

There are several winemaking areas on the island, but Cowichan Valley, in particular, is worth a visit.

It is home to some of Canada’s best wineries, as well as an abundance of distilleries, cideries, and local farms producing artisanal food. 

The area is also known for hosting several of the country’s best multi-day festivals, where you can enjoy live performances from international acts, sample local produce, camp, dance, and attend workshops.

13. It’s a year-round destination

Although you might only think of Vancouver Island for summer vacations, it’s actually a year-round destination with some amazing winter activities. There are two ski resorts on the island.

And, as the island has Canada’s mildest winter weather, a lot of outdoor activities, such as hiking and surfing, can continue in the colder months. 

One of Vancouver Island’s most popular winter activities is storm-watching. From November to February, a lot of hotels even offer winter storm-watching packages.

If you prefer to stay inside in the warmth, there are also plenty of indoor activities on the island. There is no shortage of museums, boutique shops, top restaurants, and spas (to name a few).

14. Mt Washington Alpine Resort

If you love skiing or snowboarding but want a more cost-effective and family-friendly option than many other resorts, Mt Washington Alpine Resort is for you.

Mt Washington is the island’s premier ski resort and actually has some of the most consistent snow in Canada.

Although it’s not as big as some of the better-known Canadian resorts, what Mount Washington lacks in terrain, it makes up for with tons of snow. 

The ski area has a lot of beginner runs, perfect for those learning to ski, in addition to more advanced terrain.

And lift passes at Mount Washington are priced around 15% cheaper than more high-profile resorts like Whistler Blackcomb. 

15. Unique Experiences for Everyone

Vancouver Island is a true adventure seeker’s playground. However, you don’t have to be a seasoned explorer to try an array of unique and fun experiences available on the island. 

Not only are there plenty of activities suitable for all ages and skill levels; but there are also tons of bucket-list-worthy things to do on the island.

From whale-watching or seeing grizzly bears in the wild to landing on water in a seaplane, there is something exciting for everyone to try here!

Visiting Vancouver Island FAQs

Now that you know why Vancouver Island is worth visiting, here are a few more FAQs to help you plan your trip to this beautiful island.

What is so special about Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island has it all! The island’s stunning natural landscapes, including sandy beaches, temperate rainforests, and tall mountains, make it one of the most unique and special places in Canada.

And its mild climate means the natural beauty of the island can be enjoyed all year round. 

What is the best Month to Visit Vancouver Island? 

This really depends on what you’re looking to do. For a summer vacation, August is considered the best time to visit, since it is the warmest month, but anytime from June to September is beautiful.

For winter activities, January and February are the best time.

Do You Need a Car to Travel the Island? 

No, but traveling by car is the easiest way to get around the island. If you don’t have a car, luckily there are various bus services that connect most cities and towns on the island. 

Can you drive from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?

Technically, yes! If driving, you can get the ferry with your car from Vancouver to Victoria or Nanaimo on Vancouver Island.

How Long is The Ferry Ride to Vancouver Island? 

The ferry from mainland Canada to Vancouver Island takes between 1:35 to 2 hours, and from Seattle in Washington State, takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.  

How Many Days Do You Need on Vancouver Island? 

If you want to explore different parts of Vancouver Island, you will need at least 7 days, but the more time the better.

If you’re short on time, you can also visit Vancouver Island for just a weekend or day trip. However, you will be limited to what you can see during your visit.

How Can You Spend One Day on Vancouver Island? 

The best way to spend one day on Vancouver Island is to get the ferry to Victoria or Nanaimo early in the morning.

You can then spend the day exploring the city, before returning by ferry in the evening.

There are also a number of tours you can fit into a day trip to the island, such as whale-watching. 

Can You Walk Around Vancouver Island? 

You can’t walk around Vancouver Island, but you can walk the Vancouver Island Trail (VIT), a 500-mile hike that covers the length of the island. This will be quite a hike and it generally takes around 2 months to complete.

How Long Does It Take to Drive Around the Island? 

The island has a limited road system, so you can’t actually drive around the island. An exception to this is a 160-mile loop around the southern part of the island.

Called the Pacific Marine Circle Route, this loop takes around 5 hours to drive.

Although it’s better to do the drive over a couple of days so you can take your time to enjoy the beautiful stops along the way. 

You can also drive from Victoria at the bottom of Vancouver Island, to Port Hardy at the top. This takes around 6 hours, covering 285 miles. 

What is The Most Beautiful Part of Vancouver Island? 

The west coast of Vancouver Island is generally considered the most beautiful part, with breathtaking coastal scenery and old-growth forests.

This is where you will find Pacific Rim National Park and pristine beach destinations like Nanaimo. 

Conclusion: Is Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?

We hope we’ve answered your questions about whether you should visit Vancouver Island. 

With some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada and unique activities, you’ll never get bored on Vancouver Island.

As a great all-year-round destination for adventurers, families, and city travelers, there is something on the island for everyone.

Therefore, we definitely think Vancouver Island is worth visiting!

Trip Planning Resources

These are companies I use and trust when planning all of our trips. I only recommend companies I personally use and trust.

Flight Deals: Expedia or WayAway

Airport Parking: Airport Parking Reservations

Rental Cars: Discover Cars

Ferry Services: Direct Ferries

Hotel Booking: Hotels.com , Trivago

Things to do: Viator , or Get your Guide ,

Travel Insurance: Travel Insurance Master

Theme Park Tickets: Getaway Today (use code FlipFlops10 for a discount)

Free Travel Planning Services: Flannels or FlipFlops Travel

If you find my content helpful, booking through the links above helps support my blog at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Chanelle Rosenbaum

Chanelle is a Canadian-based blogger who loves the West Coast. She has a passion for sharing her love of the area with others.