Vancouver Island
Where wild natural beauty meets laid-back coastal charm
The North Pacific Temperate Rainforest | Russ Heinl / Shutterstock
On Vancouver Island, lush temperate rainforests, rugged Pacific coastlines and charming small towns all come together to create one of British Columbia’s most rewarding places to explore.
Your wild BC adventure starts in Victoria, the island’s historic capital. Stroll the Inner Harbour’s waterfront walkways and keep your eyes open for the neo-Baroque British Columbia Parliament, where tours run regularly. Stay in the 1800s with afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress, a classical hotel with lavish interiors.
However, the island’s real charm lies outside the capital. On the West Coast, the town of Tofino clings onto the wild coastline, drawing nature lovers and surfers who ride the Pacific’s gigantic rollers. Here, you can explore the Pacific Rim National Park’s rainforest trails, relax around Schooner Cove or head out to sea on a kayak around Clayoquot Sound.
While you’re in Tofino, you’ve got to give surfing a try. Depending on the time of year, you can easily pick up a board, wetsuit or a few reminder lessons to get you started without much effort. Chesterman Beach is the ideal spot for beginners with fewer wipeout waves, but seasoned boarders will want to check out Cox Bay, with much bigger rollers.
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Wildlife is probably Vancouver Island’s biggest draw. Miles of untouched wilderness mean wolves, elk, bears and cougars are thriving. However, it’s off the island’s coast where you can enjoy some of North America’s best marine life spotting. Telegraph Cove, on Vancouver Island’s northeast coast, is almost constantly visited by orcas, humpback whales, with numbers peaking between July and September.
There are plenty of tour options, with Prince of Whales getting high ratings and extra marks for sustainable operations. However, a firm favourite is to hop on a multi-day kayaking trip through the Broughton Archipelago to see marine life up close, and land-based animals along the coastline as you paddle.
If that all sounds like a lot of effort, then take a trip to the Cowichan Valley. The area is known for its farm-to-table ethos and boutique, independent wineries. Take time to visit Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Averill Creek Vineyard on your way to the town of Duncan, famous for its indigenous heritage, art and scultpure.
Along the same lines, the Comox Valley is perfect for culture vultures and is something of a hub for mountain biking and local art. Cumberland Brewing, a craft bewery, is a great central spot to grab a cold one and get your bearings.
With extremely variable weather year-round, pack layers and extra snacks and water just incase. A final tip is to ensure your ferry transfers from the mainland are booked well in advance, as places sell out fast during peak seasons.
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