Wild, rugged, and endlessly enchanting, Vancouver Island is a must-visit destination for travellers craving natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures! From European-inspired cities and coastal cafes to ancient rainforests and windswept beaches, this West Coast gem in British Columbia has something for everyone! Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family friendly road trip, or a solo journey through BC, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Looking for the perfect home base? EMR Vacation Rentals offers beautiful, vacation rentals across Vancouver Island.
Let’s dive into the top ten things to do on Vancouver Island!
Quick Look: Top 10 Things to Do on Vancouver Island
Top 10 Things to Do on Vancouver Island
1. Go Whale Watching
Whale watching tours are one of the most exciting outdoor activities you can do in British Columbia! Between May and October, the waters around Vancouver Island are alive with orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales. Add in sea lions, eagles, and playful sea otters and you’ve got yourself a day you’ll never forget!
Best spots to see whales: Telegraph Cove (North Island), Victoria Harbour, Campbell River
Tours to try: Eagle Wing Wildlife Tours (Victoria), Ocean Ecoventures Whale Watching (Cowichan Valley & Parksville), Vancouver Island Whale Watch (Nanaimo), Eagle Eye Adventures (Campbell River), Mackay Whale Watching (Telegraph Cove)
Tips: Book in advance during peak season, wear warm layers, and bring binoculars so you can see all the amazing animals that call our oceans home!
2. Visit Tofino & Ucluelet
These twin towns in Pacific Rim National Park are where surfers, foodies, and nature lovers collide! With dramatic beaches and lush forests, Tofino and Ucluelet are bursting with charm.
Don’t miss: Long Beach, Cox Bay, the Wild Pacific Trail, Chesterman Beach
Food & drink: Wolf in the Fog, Tacofino, Tofino Brewing Co., Ucluelet Brewing Co.
Things to do: Surfing, storm watching, kayaking, whale watching, spa days, art galleries, breweries.
Tips: This area books up fast in summer! Pack layers and prepare for awesome land and seascapes! 3. Go Kayaking
Love wildlife? Looking for a peaceful paddle? Kayaking is one of the best outdoor activities on
Vancouver Island! With tons of options for all levels, it’s perfect for couples, groups, or families!
Top spots: Broken Group Islands, Cowichan Bay, Nanoose Bay, Victoria Inner Harbour
Tours & rentals: Adventuress Sea Kayaking (Parksville & Qualicum Beach), Hello Nature Adventure Tours (North & West Island), Kelp Reef Adventures (Victoria)
Tips: Dress for getting a little wet, pack a waterproof camera, and always check tide charts! 4. Hike the Trails
With hiking trails that wind through lush forests, alongside waterfalls, and up to stunning viewpoints, the Island is a hiker’s dream destination! Whether you’re exploring the mellow trails of a Provincial Park or hiking over a rugged coastal reserve, there’s a trail for everyone!Top trails:
West Coast Trail (Pacific Rim): Legendary, challenging 75-km trek
Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Park (Central Island): Towering Douglas firs in a Canadian old-growth forest
Elk Falls Park (Campbell River): A must-see waterfall and suspension bridge combo
Wild Pacific Trail (Ucluelet): Family friendly and full of ocean views
Little Qualicum Falls Park (Qualicum Beach): Picturesque falls and lush forest trails
Horne Lake Caves (Parksville): Go underground for a thrilling cave adventure!
Tips: Many trails are shaded and damp—good boots and layers go a long way 5. Explore Downtown Victoria
Victoria’s charming downtown is packed with things to do, delicious cafes, and gorgeous waterfront views. You’ll find Canadian history, vibrant shops, and top-notch eats all within walking distance.
Highlights: Royal BC Museum, Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel
Cafes & shops: Murchie’s Tea, Habit Coffee, Munro’s Books, Fan Tan Alley
Activities: Afternoon tea at the Empress, carriage rides, harbour ferry tours
Tips: Bring your walking shoes and your camera—this area is full of postcard moments! 6. Visit the Butchart Gardens
The Butchart Gardens is a year-round showstopper and one of British Columbia’s most iconic attractions! Expect vibrant blooms, peaceful paths, and special surprises no matter what season you visit!
Gardens to explore: Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden
Seasonal highlights: Twelve Days of Christmas display, summer concerts, spring tulips
Tips: It’s a great day trip from Victoria. Don’t forget your camera and comfy shoes! 7. See the Goats on Roof in Coombs
Yes, there are real goats on the roof! This beloved roadside stop is quirky, fun, and full of great shopping and snacks—perfect for a family friendly stop on a Vancouver Island road trip.
Things to do: Browse the Old Country Market, visit Butterfly World, stop by Hamilton Hobby Farm
Eat here: Cuckoo Trattoria, Billy Gruff Creamery, and the market bakery
Tips: Get there early in the summer to beat the crowds—and don’t forget to snap a selfie with the goats! 
8. Explore First Nations Culture
Vancouver Island is rich in First Nations heritage. From ancient totem poles to world-renowned art, this is an unforgettable part of your travel guide you won’t want to miss.Top spots:
Duncan: Walk the Totem Trail and learn from interpretive signs Alert Bay: Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre and the Big House Victoria: See Totem Hall at the Royal BC Museum and explore Thunderbird Park Tips: Take your time, read the stories, and approach with respect and curiosity9. Relax on Vancouver Island Beaches
Pack a picnic or your surfboard—Vancouver Island beaches are stunning and diverse. Some are great for tidepooling, others for sunbathing or storm watching.
Top beaches:
Botanical Beach (Port Renfrew): Tidepools galore! Qualicum Beach: Family friendly and gentle for swimmers Long Beach (Tofino): Surfer’s paradise with dramatic views Tips: Always check tide times, wear water shoes for rocky areas, and leave no trace10. Explore the Gulf Islands
Each island is its own adventure! Perfect for a peaceful day trip or an overnight getaway, the Gulf Islands are filled with art, nature, and laid-back charm.
Catch the ferries from: Swartz Bay, Crofton, Nanaimo, Chemainus
Islands to visit:
Salt Spring: Great for browsing farmers markets and sipping local coffee Galiano: Gorgeous Provincial Park hiking and biking routes Gabriola: Beaches, galleries, and relaxed island vibes Pender: Ideal for kayaking, coastal strolls, and local breweries Tips: Walk-on passengers are welcome—rent bikes or scooters to explore with ease!Bonus Tips for Visiting Vancouver Island
Make your visit even better with these quick local tips: Book in advance: Popular tours and accommodations fill quickly, especially in summer. Bring layers and prepare for anything! Weather can change throughout the day, particularly near the coast. Be sure to bring layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, warm accessories and appropriate footwear. Ask locals for suggestions! It’s the best way to discover hidden gems, favourite cafes, and secret viewpoints.Where to Stay on Vancouver Island
Ready to Discover Vancouver Island?
From Indigenous art to ice cream at Butchart Gardens, storm watching in Ucluelet to biking the backroads of the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island is calling. Book your stay with EMR Vacation Rentals and explore it all at your own pace!