Moving to Vancouver Island

Everyone who visits Vancouver Island, is wowed by the beauty of the Island. With charming towns and gorgeous cities, stunning forests, wildlife, culture and adventure, Vancouver Island is a special place. It’s so special, that between 2014 and 2021, over 89,000 people decided to permanently call Vancouver Island home! There’s a lot to consider when thinking about moving but if a relocation to Vancouver Island has been on your mind, we’re here to give you a better idea if the move is right for you! Whether you’re thinking about just trying out the Vancouver Island lifestyle or you need a rental before moving to your permanent Vancouver Island address, EMR is the best place to start! Not only does EMR offer short term and long term rentals, but you can find an incredible selection of family homes, downtown condos, waterfront properties and more to choose from all over Vancouver Island. With EMR you’re sure to find exactly the kind of property you need to make your relocation easy and fun! 

About Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is a large Island at approximately 31,000 km² with a population of almost 800,000 people off the coast of British Columbia. There are around 500 communities all across the Island that vary greatly in size, amenities, and location so it’s important to decide what kind of Island lifestyle you’re looking for. No matter where you live on the Island one thing is for sure: with the mildest climate in all of Canada, Vancouver Islanders enjoy warm summers and mild winters – which means incredible outdoor activities year-round! Here, you really can ski, golf and surf all in the same day! For more in depth information about moving to and living on the wild West Coast, check out these resources! 

A Government of BC website that provides helpful information for anyone looking to relocate to B.C., including an excellent page exclusively for information about working on Vancouver Island.

A registered non-government, non-profit society that promotes regional economic development through collaborative partnerships with members. This website provides detailed maps and regional information about the various communities on Vancouver Island. 

Is Vancouver Island Affordable?

This is an important question when you’re considering a move. Generally speaking, the cost of living on Vancouver Island is high compared to cities in Alberta and Manitoba but people coming from the Lower Mainland BC or Ontario especially Metro Vancouver and Toronto will find that the cost of living on the Island is relatively similar. It also depends on where on the Island you choose to live – are you hoping to live in the heart of Victoria, in the countryside of the Cowichan Valley or are you looking for an oasis on one of the stunning Gulf Islands? This cost of living calculator is an incredibly helpful tool to make an informed decision about how much it’ll cost to live in various regions on the Island. 

Vancouver Island Housing Options and Resources

There are many types of housing options on Vancouver Island from large family homes to chic condos and everything in between but the housing available will vary largely by the area you’re in. In the cities you’re more likely to find a wide variety of housing and in the country and near small towns, you may have a harder time finding condos and townhouses. The first step is to figure out where you want to live on Vancouver Island and what type of housing you’ll need to create a search with your criteria. The one thing that is important to note is that housing on Vancouver Island can be very expensive, especially in Greater Victoria and Nanaimo. For more information about renting, check the Find a Place to Live page or download the Newcomer’s Guide on the Welcome BC website and check the links below! If you’re looking for real estate on Vancouver Island, there’s no getting around it: it can take time! You have to be willing to go to showings and open houses and be prepared to put in offers that don’t always pan out. It’s an adventure and can be stressful but there’s a silver lining! EMR has lovely short term and long term homes of every type all over Vancouver Island so you can settle in and start living the Island lifestyle right away while you look! Below, there are some incredible resources linked that will help you find your new home on Vancouver Island! 

Vancouver Island Real Estate Resources:

Vancouver Island Real Estate Listings – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

More Vancouver Island Real Estate Listings – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Rental Listings – Search for rental listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Real Estate Board – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Open Houses – Search for open houses across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Rental Resources:

Rent BC

Craigslist 

Used.ca

Kijiji Home Rentals

Sublet.com

Job Opportunities on Vancouver Island

Whether you’re moving to Vancouver Island for a current job or looking for a new position, you’re sure to find lots of opportunities on Vancouver Island. In fact, a 2021 Labour Market Outlook predicted that between 2021 and 2031 there would be over 160,000 job openings in the Vancouver Island/Coastal region alone! While this report indicates that the opportunities on Vancouver Island will be mainly in healthcare, social assistance, retail and construction, there are also two unique industries on Vancouver Island that attract job seekers from every professional stratum: Provincial Government and tourism. There are 30,000 employees in the Provincial Government who live and work in the capital region around Victoria. This industry attracts professionals with a variety of skills and is a great jumping off point for anyone looking to relocate to the Victoria area. Similarly, the tourism industry on Vancouver Island is massive, bringing in billions in revenue with close to 100,000 employees who serve the millions of international and domestic tourists who flock to Vancouver Island yearly. To kick off your job search on Vancouver Island check out these employment resources on the Work BC website and get one step closer to a life on the Island! 

Vancouver Island Lifestyle

So, what’s it really like living on Vancouver Island? That really depends on where you choose to live but generally, Vancouver Island, even in the cities, is a very laid-back place to call home. While you can find people dressed up for a night out or professionally for work, Vancouver Islanders are known for their casual, comfortable style and it’s not uncommon for some offices to have a very laid-back dress code. Vancouver Island is also known for its outdoor recreation. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing, snowboarding, boating or  more, you’ll find pristine, natural beauty to enjoy it in and if you’re looking for people to join you, you’ll have no problem finding Vancouver Islanders who are passionate about getting outside! There is an abundance of arts and culture on the Island as well – you can find galleries, workshops, theatres, museums and many Coast Salish ancestral sites. For kids, the public and private schools are safe and provide children with important academic and social education by highly trained dedicated teachers and administrators. You can also find excellent universities and colleges in Victoria, the Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Courtenay and Campbell River where older kids can start their post-secondary education and adults can grow their professional skills. There are hospitals, fire stations and police that service each community and no matter how remote your community of choice might be, there is an abundance of high-quality grocery stores, pharmacies, and other important amenities all over the Island. No matter where you choose to live on Vancouver Island, you can be sure that you’ll have all the comforts required to thrive! 

Ultimately the decision to move is a big one with many factors to consider carefully before taking the leap but if you’re determined to relocate somewhere in Canada, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place than Vancouver Island! 

Book a rental on Vancouver Island!

How to Celebrate Canadian Thanksgiving on Vancouver Island

various pumpkins near bail of hay - thanksgiving - fall

When you think of Thanksgiving in North America, most people think of pilgrim outfits, pumpkin pie, the Mayflower and feast re-enactments between pilgrims and American Indians – typical images from many Hollywood movies and American TV shows.

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Bottoms Up! Classic Summertime Cocktails Made with Local Spirits

August is one of the hottest months of the year and it’s the perfect time to head out and to explore everything the Island has to offer. Whether you’re heading for an outdoor adventure, walking through charming towns, visiting breweries and dining out, booking tours or seeing attractions – there are many ways to make incredible memories here!

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The Only Vancouver Island Packing List You Need

Vancouver Island, located in British Columbia, just across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver itself, is a dream destination for many in Canada and the nearby Pacific Northwest region of the U.S.A.
With an endless amount of outdoor activities to be enjoyed and plenty of in-town amenities like restaurants, bars, and cafes in Victoria, you won’t lack for things to keep you and your fellow travelers entertained.

While there’s a real variety in activities, just like much of North America, there’s also a big variety in weather based on the season you decide to visit. Lucky for you, and a surprise to many, the winters on Vancouver Island aren’t nearly as snowy and cold as they are on mainland B.C. You’ll still want to bring a warm coat and plenty of cozy clothes but it won’t be quite the tundra you might be expecting. On the same note, you can expect warm summer weather but given the sea breeze, the temperatures aren’t as balmy as they are inland.

With that in mind, we’ll break up our packing list into 4 separate seasonal lists and 1 checklist for things you’ll need year-round, regardless of the season.

Photo Credit Shyntartanya/Shutterstock.com

Year-Round Packing List for Vancouver Island

Whether you plan your trip to Vancouver Island in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, there are a few things you won’t want to come here without. In winter and spring when rainy days are more likely, you’ll want to pack extra comfy clothes for lounging around your vacation rental home. It’s also a good idea to pack some games and extra things to do for nights in.

Depending on how you’re arriving in town might affect how much or how little you plan to pack. If you’re flying onto Vancouver Island, I suggest going light and packing in a carry on. This will not only save you time at the airport but it also makes it easier to get from point A to point B. If you’re driving to town and will cross over via ferry, your only limitations to packing really depends on the size of your car.

Regardless, using packing cubes will not only save you space but it’ll also help keep your belongings organized once you arrive and begin to unpack.

Luckily, if you’re staying at one of our well-stocked vacation rental homes, you won’t need to worry about packing beach towels, kitchen supplies, or bonus day to day items. Instead, you’ll only need to pack the items you’ll personally use on your Canadian vacation.

These items you’ll want to pack anytime of the year include:

  • Hiking Boots
  • Comfortable pair of everyday shoes
  • Jeans
  • Sweatshirt
  • Athletic clothing
  • Loungewear
  • Pajamas
  • Toiletries
  • Camera
  • Phone
  • Laptop (although we highly recommend you use this trip to unplug!)
  • Kindle or book
  • Chargers
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Daypack or tote bag

Winter Packing List for Vancouver Island

As said before, winter weather is a bit different than mainland Canada, so instead of piles and piles of snow, it’s our rainy season. While some of that will turn to snow, it doesn’t stick around for too long.

Given that it’s the rainy season, it’s also the low season. That means a more peaceful vacation, away from the crowds that storm the island in the summer. If you’re up for some wet weather, winter is a great time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and delights of Vancouver Island with hardly anyone else around.

While it’s not as cold as you might be expecting if you’re traveling to the island from mainland B.C., you’ll still want to wear ample layers. A water-resistant outer layer is definitely the most important as the rain can come and go quite unexpectedly but underneath that you’ll want some comfy layers.

To make your winter trip as comfortable as possible, here’s what you should pack:

  • A few extra pairs of pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Waterproof shoes or rain boots
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Hoodie
  • Leggings (or other athletic clothing for hikes)
  • Beanie
  • Scarf
  • Gloves
  • Wool socks

Spring Packing List for Vancouver Island

All of those rainy winter days really pay off in the spring when the island turns lush and green. Victoria is known as the “Garden City” and particularly in spring it’s easy to know why. Although you can still expect some rainy days in the spring, the weather starts to warm and the sun starts to last for longer periods of time during this season.

Because of this wide range of weather, you’ll want to come prepared for it all in spring. In general, if you’re visiting in March, expect more winter-like weather, whereas in May, you’ll enjoy weather more similar to summer. April is really a mixed bag where one day could be chilly and rainy and the other warm and sunny.

To fully take advantage of your spring trip to Vancouver Island, you should pack:

  • Extra pants
  • Dresses, skirts, and/or shorts (if visiting in late spring)
  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Rain jacket
  • Light Sweater
  • Scarf
  • Sunscreen

Summer Packing List for Vancouver Island

The summer season is by far the most popular time to visit Vancouver Island. It’s no surprise either, given the exceptional weather that the island enjoys during these months. These months are the sunniest that British Columbia sees all year round and given the nice sea breeze, the temperatures tend to stay lower than on the mainland.

This time of year is ideal for those looking to maximize their time outside. From a plethora of hiking trails and great beaches to patio dining and breweries with outdoor gardens, you’ll have no lack of ways to spend your time. Just know that plenty of others have the same idea as you to spend the long summer days on the island.

Your bag should be significantly lighter in the summer with this Vancouver Island packing list:

  • Shorts
  • Dresses and/or skirts
  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Short sleeve tops
  • Cardigan or light sweater
  • Swimsuit
  • Flip flops
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray

Fall Packing List for Vancouver Island

Last but certainly not least, here are our packing tips for a fall trip to Vancouver Island. Just like the other seasons of the year, fall is notably less extreme than its mainland counterparts. While you’ll still be rewarded with cool days and fall colors, the weather isn’t usually noticeably cold until the end of the season.

During the fall months (September thru November), you can expect to be able to spend much of your time outside enjoying a hike, hanging out in Victoria, or witnessing the salmon run. There’s a small chance you’ll get your fair share of rain on your trip but these storms are less likely in the fall than they are in the winter and spring.

Get ready for a full fall adventure when you pack:

  • Short sleeve t-shirts
  • Long sleeve t-shirts
  • Sweaters
  • Dresses and/or skirts
  • Raincoat
  • Extra pair of jeans
  • Scarf and/or beanie

With these travel tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation to Vancouver Island no matter the season you choose to visit. Better yet, aim to spend a few days on the island in each season so then you can really see the magic of the island and everything it has to offer.

Enjoy the Sunshine! Best Patios North of Victoria

beer in the sun with grass in the background

We all know that for a small city, there are an incredible amount of high-quality, award-winning restaurants in Victoria – but the great dining doesn’t end in Victoria! All over Vancouver Island, there are incredible restaurants that are focused on serving thoughtful food, made with fresh, local ingredients, in a beautiful atmosphere. North of Victoria, in the Cowichan Valley and beyond, there is an abundance of farms that offer the local restaurants access to incredible, fresh, high-quality foods all year. With summer just around the corner, there’s nothing quite like having a great meal on a beautiful patio where you can enjoy the West Coast views and relaxed vibe of Central Vancouver Island. Whether you’re staying in the stunning Cowichan Valley, near beautiful Nanaimo or in peaceful Parksville and Qualicum Beach, there are lots of gorgeous patios to enjoy alfresco dining! 

Cowichan Valley

Known as The Warm Land because of the microclimate that is created by the combination of ocean, valley and rolling hills, the Cowichan Valley is the hub of the vineyards on Vancouver Island and a gorgeous place to visit if you’re coming to the Island. Whether you’re staying in one of the properties in the Cowichan Valley or if you are staying at any other EMR properties and want to go on a road-trip, you must pop into one of these wonderful restaurants to enjoy some local food and scenery. 

The Masthead

1701 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC

If you’re looking for a great place for a special evening, The Masthead is the place to go in Cowichan Bay. With great food, beautiful cocktails, and gorgeous ocean views from the patio, you’re sure to be impressed. 

The Vine

1765 Cowichan Bay Rd, Duncan, BC 

This unique, Belgian inspired restaurant specializes in creating unique, flavourful crepes and so much more. With a large breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu as well, you’re sure to find something perfect to enjoy on their marvellous patio. 

Genoa Bay Cafe

5000 Genoa Bay Rd #9, Duncan, BC

With a mouth-watering menu, incredible service, and a lovely oceanside patio, the Genoa Bay Cafe is a great option if you’re looking for fresh seafood dishes and great ambience. 

Craig St. Brew Pub

25 Craig St, Duncan, BC

This brewpub is a favourite with the locals for good reason! With incredible in-house made beers, classic casual menu items and a patio where you can do some serious people watching in the heart of heritage Duncan, Craig St. is the perfect place for a bite while you’re visiting!  

Unsworth Vineyards

2915 Cameron Taggart Rd #1, Mill Bay, BC

If you’re looking for a spot to spend a special night, the fine dining restaurant at Unsworth Vineyards is an excellent option. Their seasonally inspired menu and impeccable service are worth a visit any time of year, but in the summer to be able to enjoy your meal on the patio overlooking the vineyard is truly magical. 

Shipyard Restaurant & Pub

6145 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan, BC

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to have dinner in a boat, now you can! This quirky restaurant in the Maple Bay Marina offers their visitors a delicious, easy-going menu in a totally unique atmosphere. In the summer, you can enjoy your meal on the patio overlooking the marina.

Bistro at Cherry Point

840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill, BC 

With incredible, seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, this is a great spot to pop in to have a bite whether you’re visiting the winery or not! With a lovely patio where you can enjoy your meal in the sun and excellent wine pairings from the vineyard itself, this is a must when you’re in the Cowichan Valley! 

Nanaimo

As the second largest city on Vancouver Island, The Harbour City – as Nanaimo is often called – is one of the best places to find incredible alfresco dining. In recent years, there has been an influx of restaurateurs and brewers who have opened some remarkable restaurants, cafes, breweries, and pubs in the Nanaimo area. If you’re looking for delicious dishes and great drinks to enjoy on stunning sunny patios while you’re staying at one of the EMR Nanaimo properties these places are the top spots to go!  

Simonholt Restaurant

6582 Applecross Rd, Nanaimo, BC

If you’re looking for a place with great menus that serves unpretentious but elegant classics, this is a great option. This is the place to spend a summer evening on their extensive patio, sipping your favourite potable and indulging in the incredible menu items!

Modern Cafe

221 Commercial St, Nanaimo, BC 

If you’re looking for a place in beautiful old Nanaimo to enjoy the sun and people watch, the patio at Modern Cafe is the place you’ll want to go! For some of the best burgers, brunches, and modern comfort foods in Nanaimo, nowhere beats Modern Cafe!  

Dinghy Dock Pub

8 Pirates Ln, Nanaimo, BC

If you’re looking for a quirky, family friendly place to dine in Nanaimo, this floating restaurant is it! Since 1989, the Dinghy Dock Pub has been the place to go for a relaxed friendly atmosphere, incredible patio dining and great food!  

Lighthouse Bistro & Pub

50 Anchor Way, Nanaimo, BC

Located right on the edge of the harbour in downtown Nanaimo, this beautiful restaurant offers guests a great menu filled with everyone’s favourites and incredible patio seating. With both a large gazebo that juts out over the water and perimeter patio seating for a more intimate dinner, there is plenty of space to enjoy your meal alfresco. 

Parksville & Qualicum Beach

Just north of Nanaimo there are the beautiful little towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. These towns, set on the edge of the water, are quaint and peaceful with stunning beaches, resort amenities, and of course, incredible restaurant patios. It’s easy to see why Vancouver Islanders go to Parksville and Qualicum Beach for their getaways! If you’re looking for a great patio to enjoy your meal while you’re staying in Parksville, we’ve got just the places for you! 

Shore

2831 Island Hwy W, Qualicum Beach, BC 

Right on the water on the east side of Qualicum Beach is Shore: the quintessential place to get incredible, casual food with an unbelievable view. If you’re in the mood for a beach walk and some fish and chips or ice cream, this gorgeous beach hut and patio is the place to go! 

Pacific Prime Restaurant at the Beach Club Resort

181 Beachside Dr, Parksville, BC

If you’re looking for a chic, unique way to spend a special evening, Pacific Prime Restaurant is perfect. With stunning haute cuisine, impeccable service, and gorgeous outdoor dining under individual domes, lit with fairy lights as the sun sets, this is the place to really wow your guests. 

The Black Goose Inn

1051 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC

If you’ve ever been to the UK, you’ll know that there is something wonderful about a British pub. If you’re looking for that feeling on this side of the world, you’ve found it. The Black Goose has all the classic elements of a classic pub: ivy covered entrance, warm wood interiors, great draughts, delicious food, and a sunny beer garden – this is definitely the place to take any homesick Brit! 

Book Your Vancouver Island Vacation Today!

Best Patios to Enjoy the Sunshine North of Victoria

We all know that for a small city, there are an incredible amount of high-quality, award-winning restaurants in Victoria – but the great dining doesn’t end in Victoria! All over Vancouver Island, there are incredible restaurants that are focused on serving thoughtful food, made with fresh, local ingredients, in a beautiful atmosphere. North of Victoria, in the Cowichan Valley and beyond, there is an abundance of farms that offer the local restaurants access to incredible, fresh, high-quality foods all year. With summer just around the corner, there’s nothing quite like having a great meal on a beautiful patio where you can enjoy the West Coast views and relaxed vibe of Central Vancouver Island. Whether you’re staying in the stunning Cowichan Valley, near beautiful Nanaimo or in peaceful Parksville and Qualicum Beach, there are lots of gorgeous patios to enjoy alfresco dining! 

Cowichan Valley

Known as The Warm Land because of the microclimate that is created by the combination of ocean, valley and rolling hills, the Cowichan Valley is the hub of the vineyards on Vancouver Island and a gorgeous place to visit if you’re coming to the Island. Whether you’re staying in one of the properties in the Cowichan Valley or if you are staying at any other EMR properties and want to go on a road-trip, you must pop into one of these wonderful restaurants to enjoy some local food and scenery. 

The Masthead

1701 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC

If you’re looking for a great place for a special evening, The Masthead is the place to go in Cowichan Bay. With great food, beautiful cocktails, and gorgeous ocean views from the patio, you’re sure to be impressed. 

The Vine

1765 Cowichan Bay Rd, Duncan, BC 

This unique, Belgian inspired restaurant specializes in creating unique, flavourful crepes and so much more. With a large breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu as well, you’re sure to find something perfect to enjoy on their marvellous patio. 

Genoa Bay Cafe

5000 Genoa Bay Rd #9, Duncan, BC

With a mouth-watering menu, incredible service, and a lovely oceanside patio, the Genoa Bay Cafe is a great option if you’re looking for fresh seafood dishes and great ambience. 

Craig St. Brew Pub

25 Craig St, Duncan, BC

This brewpub is a favourite with the locals for good reason! With incredible in-house made beers, classic casual menu items and a patio where you can do some serious people watching in the heart of heritage Duncan, Craig St. is the perfect place for a bite while you’re visiting!  

Unsworth Vineyards

2915 Cameron Taggart Rd #1, Mill Bay, BC

If you’re looking for a spot to spend a special night, the fine dining restaurant at Unsworth Vineyards is an excellent option. Their seasonally inspired menu and impeccable service are worth a visit any time of year, but in the summer to be able to enjoy your meal on the patio overlooking the vineyard is truly magical. 

Shipyard Restaurant & Pub

6145 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan, BC

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to have dinner in a boat, now you can! This quirky restaurant in the Maple Bay Marina offers their visitors a delicious, easy-going menu in a totally unique atmosphere. In the summer, you can enjoy your meal on the patio overlooking the marina.

Bistro at Cherry Point

840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill, BC 

With incredible, seasonal dishes made with local ingredients, this is a great spot to pop in to have a bite whether you’re visiting the winery or not! With a lovely patio where you can enjoy your meal in the sun and excellent wine pairings from the vineyard itself, this is a must when you’re in the Cowichan Valley! 

Nanaimo

As the second largest city on Vancouver Island, The Harbour City – as Nanaimo is often called – is one of the best places to find incredible alfresco dining. In recent years, there has been an influx of restaurateurs and brewers who have opened some remarkable restaurants, cafes, breweries, and pubs in the Nanaimo area. If you’re looking for delicious dishes and great drinks to enjoy on stunning sunny patios while you’re staying at one of the EMR Nanaimo properties these places are the top spots to go!  

Simonholt Restaurant

6582 Applecross Rd, Nanaimo, BC

If you’re looking for a place with great menus that serves unpretentious but elegant classics, this is a great option. This is the place to spend a summer evening on their extensive patio, sipping your favourite potable and indulging in the incredible menu items!

Modern Cafe

221 Commercial St, Nanaimo, BC 

If you’re looking for a place in beautiful old Nanaimo to enjoy the sun and people watch, the patio at Modern Cafe is the place you’ll want to go! For some of the best burgers, brunches, and modern comfort foods in Nanaimo, nowhere beats Modern Cafe!  

Dinghy Dock Pub

8 Pirates Ln, Nanaimo, BC

If you’re looking for a quirky, family friendly place to dine in Nanaimo, this floating restaurant is it! Since 1989, the Dinghy Dock Pub has been the place to go for a relaxed friendly atmosphere, incredible patio dining and great food!  

Lighthouse Bistro & Pub

50 Anchor Way, Nanaimo, BC

Located right on the edge of the harbour in downtown Nanaimo, this beautiful restaurant offers guests a great menu filled with everyone’s favourites and incredible patio seating. With both a large gazebo that juts out over the water and perimeter patio seating for a more intimate dinner, there is plenty of space to enjoy your meal alfresco. 

Parksville & Qualicum Beach

Just north of Nanaimo there are the beautiful little towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. These towns, set on the edge of the water, are quaint and peaceful with stunning beaches, resort amenities, and of course, incredible restaurant patios. It’s easy to see why Vancouver Islanders go to Parksville and Qualicum Beach for their getaways! If you’re looking for a great patio to enjoy your meal while you’re staying in Parksville, we’ve got just the places for you! 

Shore

2831 Island Hwy W, Qualicum Beach, BC 

Right on the water on the east side of Qualicum Beach is Shore: the quintessential place to get incredible, casual food with an unbelievable view. If you’re in the mood for a beach walk and some fish and chips or ice cream, this gorgeous beach hut and patio is the place to go! 

Pacific Prime Restaurant at the Beach Club Resort

181 Beachside Dr, Parksville, BC

If you’re looking for a chic, unique way to spend a special evening, Pacific Prime Restaurant is perfect. With stunning haute cuisine, impeccable service, and gorgeous outdoor dining under individual domes, lit with fairy lights as the sun sets, this is the place to really wow your guests. 

The Black Goose Inn

1051 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC

If you’ve ever been to the UK, you’ll know that there is something wonderful about a British pub. If you’re looking for that feeling on this side of the world, you’ve found it. The Black Goose has all the classic elements of a classic pub: ivy covered entrance, warm wood interiors, great draughts, delicious food, and a sunny beer garden – this is definitely the place to take any homesick Brit! 

Book Your Vancouver Island Vacation Today!

Our Favourite Vancouver Island Farmers Markets

wire basket filled with vegetables - farmers market produce

If there is one thing that most locals look forward to in the summer, it’s visiting their favourite Vancouver Island farmers market. Sure the beaches all over Vancouver Island are stunning and yes, there are endless cycling and hiking adventures to be had, but market season is special. It’s the time of year where all the local growers and makers come together to show and sell their wares. It’s where you can find incredible, fresh, high-quality foods and beautiful, unique gifts and support a local while doing it! And if that wasn’t enough, market days have a celebratory vibe to them and they’re a great way to spend a sunny afternoon getting to know the area and the locals a little better. So no matter if you’re just browsing, looking to try some locally grown foods or hoping to grab a special gift, markets are the place to go! 

Victoria

Moss Street Market

May to October 10am – 2pm, November – April 10am – 1pm every Saturday

Sir James Douglas school grounds, surrounding boulevards and Porter Park

For over three decades, the Moss Street Market has hosted vendors from all over the city and surrounding areas in the heart of Fairfield – and this year is no different. With over fifty vendor tents to peruse you can find an eclectic and delightful gathering of local artists, growers, and producers at this beloved market. With live music and great food, anyone staying in Victoria can wander down, enjoy the music, stock up on the most incredible food and produce, support a local artisan and soak up life in this lively community! For a complete list of the markets around Victoria, check out our blog post about them here!

Saanich Peninsula

The Sidney Street Market

May 8th to September 25th every Sunday 11am – 3pm

Mary Winspear Theater grounds

Sidney by the Sea is one of the best kept secrets on Vancouver Island. With its beautiful, walkable downtown core, picturesque seaside trail and marina, and incredible dining scene, it’s the perfect place to be if you’re looking for seaside tranquility and urban amenities. Every Sunday during the summer and early fall, the grounds of the Mary Winspear Theater is transformed into an outdoor pedestrian mall with vendors, music, and delicious smells floating on the fresh ocean breezes. Here, you’ll find row upon row of local farmers, food producers and artisans offering fresh produce, ethically raised meat, gorgeous art, and incredible crafts. Whether you’re a walk, drive or cycle away at one of the beautiful properties in North Saanich you’ll want to visit this incredible market – it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday!

Cowichan Valley

Duncan Farmers Market

April 2nd to TBA 9am – 2pm every Saturday and 10am – 2pm fall and winter season

In the square near Duncan City Hall 

When you’re staying in the stunning Cowichan Valley, a great way to spend a weekend is to explore the little town centers throughout the valley – especially when it’s market season! One of the best and most long-standing markets is the Duncan Farmers Market. Located in the historic downtown area, the Duncan Farmers Market is an incredible community market. Since its conception, it has grown each year and now, it has over 100 vendors selling an enormous array of produce, prepared foods, handmade goods. Plus, when you’re finished at the market, you still have the quaint downtown center to explore! 

Nanaimo

Nanaimo Downtown Farmers Market

May 7th to September 10th every Saturday 10am – 2pm

Pioneer Waterfront Plaza on Front Street Downtown Nanaimo beside the Bastion

If you’re in Nanaimo and looking for a great market, the Nanaimo Farmers Market is a must! From early May to September, right next to the historic Bastion on Front Street you can find a collection of incredible growers and craftspeople offering some of the most incredible fruit, veggies, flowers, handmade homewares, beauty and wellness products, preserves, meat, seafood and so much more. Plus, for the entire season, there are so many events and activities for the entire family! This market really is the make bake or grow center of Nanaimo! 

Parksville & Qualicum Beach

While you’re in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, exploring the beaches, enjoying the incredible nature and relaxing, you must visit these two incredible markets!

Errington Farmers Market

May to September 10am – 1pm every Saturday

1550 Veterans Rd, Errington, BC V0R 1V0

This is the place for anything made, baked, grown, raised or foraged in the Parksville area! Since the early 1970s, this community market has been serving the Errington, Parksville, Coombs, Hilliers and Whiskey Creek connecting local farmers and producers with local customers. At this incredible little market you can meet friendly locals, ask the vendors questions and get help finding your perfect ingredients for a wonderful dinner, get unique gifts, fresh seafood and meat, eggs and so much more! 

Qualicum Beach Farmers Market

Year round 8:30am – 12pm every Saturday

172 Veterans Way #160, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1L8

Central Vancouver Island has a wealth of farms, both large and small and attracts artisans from all over the world who seek out the tranquility of Vancouver Island. Every weekend, all year ‘round, the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market gives you access to a small portion of the incredible wealth of the island. From beautiful, handcrafted goods, top quality produce, flowers, and other food items, there is so much to see – and buy – at this lovely local market!

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Best Coffee on Vancouver Island

If there’s one thing we can all agree on it’s how important coffee has become in our everyday lives. It wakes us up, keeps us going, it’s a casual meet-up with friends and co-workers, you can take it to go or sit and watch the world go by. This incredibly versatile beverage is pervasive the world over and when you’re on holiday, one of the best things to do is find a great coffee shop. It’s where you’ll find locals, hear about what’s going on around town and if you’re new to the language, you can try out a few new phrases while you’re ordering. Here on Vancouver Island, we’re serious about coffee and have the chops – or shots – to prove it! With incredible roasters and cafes all over this beautiful Island, you won’t have to look far for your next incredible cup.

Victoria

Habit Coffee

With incredible coffee made with ethical beans and a carbon neutral business model, it’s no wonder that Habit coffee has been the most popular in Victoria for almost a decade. Visit the location right in the heart of Old Town or head over to the Atrium location for some of the very best coffee you’ll ever have. 

Union Pacific 

If you’re looking for a warm, friendly coffee shop that serves up so much more than your favourite caffeinated brew, this incredible coffee shop, is a must try! With a large breakfast and lunch menu, freshly baked goodies and incredible coffee all in a gorgeously refurbished heritage warehouse, this coffee shop is a winner!

Discovery Coffee

This long-standing Victoria favourite is not only an incredible coffee shop but one of the local roasatries in town! Sourcing ethically grown and harvested beans from all over the world, Discovery coffee has perfected the art of roasting, grinding and brewing to make an exceptional beverage, cup after cup!

Sooke & Metchosin

Stick in the Mud Coffee

This roastery, coffee shop and bakery is the perfect place to get a feel for the area and try some local fare! With breakfast and lunch options and delicious baked goods, at this coffee shop you can find more than just incredible espresso.

The Broken Paddle  

Using locally sourced ingredients whenever possible in all their food items and using locally roasted Level Ground coffee for gorgeously rich espresso and brewed coffee, it’s no wonder that this coffee shop is the local’s favourite spot in Metchosin.

Sidney

Alexander’s Coffee Bar

This tiny little café doesn’t have a big menu or lots of seats – but what it lacks in variety and size, it more than makes up for in quality. It’s a perfect spot to pop in for a delicious, fresh pastry and coffee while you’re staying in Saanich!

Cowichan Valley

Rusticana Coffee

With incredible coffee and tea drinks, light breakfast and lunch options and delicious fresh pastries for a quick treat to-go, this little coffee shop is a must! 

Ed’s Coffeehouse

Ed’s Coffeehouse has chill vibes, funky music and incredible beverages and is the place to go for anyone in the Lake Cowichan area! Ed’s, and Ed himself, are staples in the area so you can experience a true, small town, local favourite! 

Drumroaster Coffee 

This family owned and operated roastery and café is the perfect place for anyone staying at a Cowichan Valley property to grab a great cup of coffee or tea, light breakfast or lunch or a bag of their incredible beans to brew at home!  

Nanaimo

Drip Coffee House

With everything from coffee, tea and kombucha, light lunches and fresh baked goods, cocktails and great ambience this popular spot is the hub of this community!

Buzz Coffee House

This cool, industrial style coffee shop has a funky vibe, great, locally sourced coffee beans brewed to perfection and incredible food! It is certainly the best place to stop in for a quick bite, lunch or caffeine pit stop while you’re in Nanaimo! 

Parksville and Qualicum Beach

Coyotes Coffee and Tea

At this cool micro-roastery in Parksville, you’ll find great coffee and an incredible selection of freshly roasted, organic, fair trade beans. Tea lover? This is the place for you! With a wide selection of high-quality, loose leaf teas, you’re sure to find a blend that really tickles the taste buds! 

Bailey’s in the Village

While you’re enjoying your stay in Parksville, you can find great coffee and so so much more at Bailey’s! From incredible breakfasts and lunches, ice cream, cookies, fresh baked goods, gluten free options this busy cafe is sure to fill you up and make you feel like a local!

Comox Valley

The Mill Coffee

This beautiful little cafe is the perfect spot for a quiet cup of coffee or tea and a treat. The long tables and comfy chairs, makes this the perfect place to sip a coffee and watch the world go by.

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Here’s a Novel Idea: Our Favourite Bookstores on Vancouver Island

There are few better things than curling up with a good book. Whether you’re into mysteries, biographies, fantasy or history, a new book can make even the chilliest fall days something to look forward to. Here on Vancouver Island, there are lots of amazing bookstores with friendly, knowledgeable staff that carry a wide range of subjects and specialties. So whether you’re looking for something specific or just browsing, stocking up on your favourite genre or selecting gifts for family and friends, the bookstores on the Island are ready to help you find your next adventure among the pages!

Victoria

Russell Books

747 Fort St #100, Victoria, BC V8W 3E9

Right downtown Victoria is the beloved Russell Books. Founded in a 300 square foot shop in 1961 in Montreal, Russell Books grew quickly into one of Montreal’s best places for second-hand, new and antiquarian in the city. With such amazing success, in 1991 founder Reg Russell opened a Victoria branch right downtown. As an independent, family-owned bookstore, family, community and the importance of books and literacy has always been at the heart of Russell Books. 

Munro’s Books

1108 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1Y2

​​In a stunning heritage building in the heart of downtown Victoria, Monro’s Books might be one of the most beautiful bookstores on the Island. While this landmark bookstore might be breathtaking today, Munro’s is a truly local labour of love. In 1963 Jim and Alice Munro (the Alice Munro of Canadian literary fame) set up a small, narrow shop on Yates Street and filled the shelves with new, contemporary forms of writing and art. From there, the Munro’s added more and more books of all kinds, moving locations to accommodate their growing business until eventually they landed in the beautiful location you can still find them today.

Bolen Books

1644 Hillside Ave #111, Victoria, BC V8T 2C5

At a whopping 20,000 square feet, Bolen Books is currently the largest single-location independent bookstore in Western Canada located in the Hillside Mall. Since 1975 Bolen has been a faithful general interest bookstore who now has impressively large sections dedicated to kids books, science fiction, cooking, travel, fiction, mystery and more!

Bastion Books

14 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC V8W 1H9

Tucked away in the historic Bastion Square is Victoria’s go-to for vintage and contemporary books. With a great selection across genres, comfy chairs to relax in and warm, knowledgeable staff, Bastion Books is a must stop for every book-lover! 

James Bay Coffee and Books

143 Menzies St, Victoria, BC V8V 2G4

With an eclectic selection of books crammed on the shelves and piled high, this funky independent coffee/bookstore is a rare find. Stay for lunch, peruse the shelves and stop for tea leaf reading. There’s always something fun happening at this great neighbourhood hub!

Sidney

Located right in the heart of Sidney town centre, all of these bookstores are perfect for anyone staying at the top of the Peninsula in any of these stunning rentals! 

Beacon Books

2372 Beacon Ave W, Sidney, BC V8L 1X3

As you walk down Beacon Ave. in Sidney, you won’t be able to miss the striking, bright-red, Dutch door of Beacon Books. Specializing in a wide selection of rare, collectable, out-of-print, second-hand, signed, and first-edition books,  Beacon is a 4,000 square foot paradise for every bibliophile! 

Tanner’s Books

2436 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1X6

For 24 years, Tanner’s has been faithfully serving the little town of Sidney. Since it’s opening, Tanner’s has grown to be one of the best full-service bookstores on the Peninsula with everything from new releases and bestsellers to magazines and newspapers to cards, puzzles and even atlases! Plus, with over 50 categories of both fiction and non-fiction books, Tanner’s is a one-stop shop for you and anyone on your gift list. 

The Haunted Bookshop

9807 Third St, Sidney, BC V8L 3A6

Established in 1947, The Haunted Bookshop is Vancouver Island’s oldest bookshop. Packed with carefully curated rarities, out-of-print material, crowd pleasing paperbacks, and eye-catching ephemera, this is a bookstore that should be on every bibliophile’s list.

Galleon Books & Antiques

2506 Beacon Ave #106, Sidney, BC V8L 1Y2

If you love antiques and books, this is the shop for you. Specializing in non-fiction books with a focus on the history of BC, you’ll find incredible selections on First Nations history, military, exploration and art history plus antiquarian and collectible books. Here, you can also find beautifully displayed antiques and collectibles from serving ware to nautical ephemera and more.

Cowichan Valley

Bucknucks Books

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd #47, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L0

As the largest, family-owned bookstore in the Cowichan Valley, Bucknucks is the place to go for incredible second-hand books. With a passion for their community, literacy, access to books and the environment the owners created an environmentally sustainable business that allows people to get great quality books at affordable prices.

Parksville

Sea & Summit Bookshop 

280 Island Hwy E #102, Parksville, BC V9P 2H6

When Kristie and Kevin Lauer discovered that Mulberry Bush Bookstore in Parksville was for sale, Kristie leapt at the chance to fulfill her lifelong dream to become a bookstore owner. Since then, Sea & Summit has become one of the best independent bookstores in the area to find an incredible selection of new releases and bestsellers. If you’re needing a new book for your stay in Nanaimo or that new release that you’ve been dying to read, Sea & Summit is worth the short drive to Parksville!

Fireside Books

114 Middleton Ave, Parksville, BC V9P 2G8

Since 1993, Fireside Books in the heart of the little town of Parksville has been providing the community with an eclectic array of new, second-hand, vintage and signed books. With over 100,000 books to browse and an enormous selection of high-quality puzzles, this long-standing store in the heart of the community is sure to carry more than a few gems for you to find!. 

Courtenay

Laughing Oyster Bookshop

286 5th St, Courtenay, BC V9N 1J6

This charming, locally owned and operated bookstore has an extensive collection of books and a wide range of genres. Whether you’re looking for something specific to curl up with while you’re staying in the Comox Valley or if you need a recommendation, the incredible staff at Laughing Oyster are always happy to help. 

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The Best Spring Hiking on Vancouver Island

peering through evergreen trees over a cliff to a hidden beach on a hiking trail on Vancouver Island

On Vancouver Island, there may not be a more beautiful season than spring – especially if you’re a hiker! Whether you prefer easy hikes through the woods or challenging yourself with a climb, the spring provides the perfect mix of warm weather, wildflowers, budding trees and spring breezes. To celebrate the spring, we’ve rounded up our favourite hikes from Sooke to Courtney! So pack your camera, water and favourite field guide and come see why Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places on Earth! We want to acknowledge that these magnificent hikes are located on the unceded territory of the Scia’new, T’Sou-ke, Tsartlip, Tseycum,Tsawout, Lake Cowichan, Malahat, Cowichan Tribes, Snaw-naw-as and K’omoks (respectively) and we are honoured that we get to live and play on this land.  

Sooke

East Sooke Regional Park

Sooke is a magical little town on the edge of the Pacific and home to East Sooke Regional Park. Here, you can experience 50 kilometres of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness as you ramble along the rocky, windswept coast, through dense forest, up hilltops and find private sheltered coves along the shoreline. 

Galloping Goose

One of the most popular multi-use trails in the lower Island is the Galloping Goose that runs from Sooke all the way to downtown Victoria. This 60 kilometre stretch of trail has many access points and is a perfect way to enjoy semi-wilderness hiking through rural and urban settings. 

Victoria

Dallas Road

While you may have hiked a few miles through downtown Victoria seeing the sights, Dallas Road offers one of the most stunning urban nature trails on the West Coast. This easy 5.9 kilometre walk will take you all the way from Fisherman’s Wharf in James Bay to the end of Ross Bay Beach in Fairfield. 

Mount Douglas Park

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, Mount Douglas Park is the most popular moderate hike in the Victoria area. While there are lots of trails all throughout the park, the climb from the beach to the peak is one of the most satisfying with 360 degree views of the inlet, peninsula and Victoria below. 

Saanich Peninsula

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

There are few better places to find exceptional hiking on the Peninsula than Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and if you’re lucky enough to stay nearby, this park is just a short drive away. Gowlland Tod is known for the carpet of spring wildflowers and moss covered rocky outcrops. With over 25 kilometres of hiking trails at varying degrees of difficulty, this is the perfect park for every skill level.

Lochside Trail

The Lochside Trail is the perfect place to head for a sunny walk while staying in Sidney. It runs from Swartz Bay ferry terminal all the way to Victoria where it intersects with the Galloping Goose. This immense, multi-use trail is flat, well maintained and the perfect way to explore the Saanich Peninsula.   

Cowichan Valley

Cowichan Valley Trail

If you’re looking for a great hike the Cowichan Valley Trail is an easy and extensive stretch of The Great Trail that meanders through the scenic Cowichan Valley. It’s here that you can see and walk over the historic Kinsol Trestle, one of the only free- standing timber trestles in the world. At an impressive 44 metres high and 187 metres long, this is something you won’t want to miss!  

Cobble Hill Mountain

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, Cobble Hill Mountain is a local favourite. There are easier hikes around the perimeter but the scale to the top of the mountain is as exhilarating as it is exhausting with varying ecosystems throughout and panoramic views at the summit.  

Nanaimo

Linley Valley Park

The gorgeous Linley Valley Park is a calm, densely forested 145 acre park just north of Nanaimo. It’s a great park to spot wildlife as you hike either easy or moderate trails that take you through valleys, open fields and over wooden bridges.

Parksville

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

The stunning waterfalls set amid an old growth forest are worth a visit whether you are staying nearby or farther away. Walk across the bridge and watch as the water cascades down into the canyon, marvel at the awe-inspiring old growth Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock and maple. 

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park 

This park offers visitors with an easy 3 kilometer loop around the provincial park and at low tide, Rathtrevor Beach becomes an enormous, spectacular swath of soft sand to walk along for hours exploring the sandy tide pools, dip toes in the water and enjoy the peace of the beach in spring. This is also the perfect place for amateur ornithologists to watch seabirds congregate for the annual herring spawn and migrating Brant geese. 

Courtney

Nymph Falls

This easy 3 kilometre loop on the north side of the Puntledge River is one of the most beautiful places for a hike in the area! The falls cascade over fish ladders that were blasted out to help spawning salmon swim upstream and are now a popular hiking and picnicking spot. People with mobility issues can access the falls via the well maintained trail and enjoy one of the most popular spots in the valley.

Seal Bay Nature Park

On the east side of Seal Bay Nature Park, visitors can walk through a beautiful second growth forest and explore deep ravines, see a seasonal waterfall and hike down a steep path to a rocky beach where seals bob out of the water and sunbathe on the rocky off-shore. The west side of Seal Bay offers fairly flat, meandering multi-use trails. The Forest Loop is a fantastic and easy 7 kilometre loop through the forest. 

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