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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There’s no doubt that British Columbia is one of the most peaceful places in Canada – which is why it is consistently one of the top destinations in the world! With ocean views of the beautiful Salish Sea and Pacific Ocean, dense forests, majestic mountains and charming towns and cities, Vancouver Island is a tranquil destination.
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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.
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:
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:
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:
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:
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:
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.
Vancouver Island in the summer is a magical place. The skies are brilliant blue, warm ocean breezes drift through the towns and cities, farmers markets abound, campers come out of hibernation and no matter where you are on this spectacular Island, you’ll find it to be one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. But summers can also be incredibly hot, with recent summer temperatures reaching record-breaking highs, it’s important to get the inside scoop on all the best ways to beat the summer heat. Whether you want to walk through cool green forest paths, indulge in icy treats, sip colourful cocktails, or prefer to dive into clear cool water – you can find all this and more during your stay on Vancouver Island!
When the weather is warm, what better way to cool off than to go swimming? While there are no outdoor pools on Vancouver Island, there are a plethora of stunning natural swimming spots. The lakes, rivers and oceans on the Island are pristine, where locals love to spend many hot summer days and where visitors can have authentic West Coast experiences! When it comes to the best swimming spots on the Island, you can read all about our favourites here. But if you’re looking for a property to rent where you can have access to natural swimming just steps away, we have just the list for you! Whether you prefer booking an EMR property with a private pool or a stunning waterfront rental, with private or semi-private natural water access just steps from the property, you can take a swim any time of day or night!
Ice cream has come a long way in recent years with many shops selling handmade, small batch ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. At these little shops you can find imaginative flavours as well as classic standbys to ensure that everyone leaves happy!
Cold Comfort: 1115 N Park St Unit 4, Victoria
Each delicious batch is made with only locally sourced and fair trade, organic ingredients!
Sugar Shack: 4492 Happy Valley Rd, Victoria
Classic ice cream shop with milkshakes and desserts to order.
Quince Cafe: 2527 Beacon Ave #104, Sidney
Find ice cream cones, floats, affogatos and other treats in the heart of Sidney town centre.
Udder Guys: 1765 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay
One of the original small batch ice cream places, you can get a cone, grab a pint to take home or browse their huge retro candy selection.
Deep Fried Ice Cream: 122B S Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan
Local Mom & Pop ice cream shop selling deep fried ice cream, sweet treats, fish and chips, knick knacks and more!
Cold Front Gelato: 60 Commercial St #306, Nanaimo
With unique flavours and delicious plant-based options, these handmade, small batch ice creams are so good!
Shore: 2831 Island Hwy W, Qualicum Beach
Choose a classic dipped cone, a Hawaiian-style Dole whip or a Typhoon mixed with your favourite candy pieces
Summer heat can be glorious but sometimes, it can get overwhelming. When that happens and you want to find an air conditioned escape why not head to a mall? With some great shopping mall options on Vancouver Island, you’re sure to have fun, find some new summer duds and beat the heat!
The Bay Centre: 1150 Douglas St, Victoria
Downtown mall with lots of local stores, global brands and well known department stores to shop in.
Mayfair Mall: 3147 Douglas St, Victoria
Recently renovated shopping centre with an incredible array of well known stores, kiosks, department stores and food court.
Uptown: 3440 Saanich Rd, Victoria
Open air shopping plaza where you can find globally recognized chains, restaurants, coffee shops and a water park for kids.
Woodgrove Mall: 6631 Island Hwy, Nanaimo
The main mall in the Nanaimo area with lots of recognizable stores, great food court and ample parking
After a day at the beach or exploring the city in the sunshine, what better day to unwind than kicking back with a summery cocktail? These two cocktails are summer in a glass and a perfect way to end a sunny day. Plus, you can use a locally distilled spirit and make it a truly west coast cocktail!
Fill a glass with ice add
1 or 2oz of vodka
3 – 5 slices of jalapeño
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
1/2oz – 1oz of simple syrup
Garnish with fresh mint and enjoy!
Fill a tall glass with ice and add
1 – 2oz of gin
Fill with pineapple juice
A dash of allspice
½ – 1oz of simple syrup or honey
Squeeze of fresh lime juice
Pour into a blender and turn on high until completely blended, pour into a glass, top with soda and garnish with a wheel of lime and pineapple slice, yum!
Hiking in the summer can be arduous but on Vancouver Island, there are many cool forest trails where nearby rivers and rushing waterfalls cool you off, even on the hottest day!
If you’re looking for icy majestic waterfalls and lush, green forest trails near an EMR Victoria Property, Goldstream Provincial Park is where you’ll want to go. With easy to moderate trails and an incredible suspension bridge, this park is the perfect place to get some exercise without overheating!
With 50 kilometres of forest trails from easy walks to difficult climbs, this park at the edge of the Pacific Ocean is a great place to get outside in the height of the summer heat. You can hike and swim all in one place!
If you’re looking for a jaw dropping, spiritual experience and a way to cool off in the outdoors, Cathedral Grove is it. With towering Douglas firs that are almost 1000 years old, a canopy as high as a skyscraper and lush, bright green mossy undergrowth, Cathedral Grove is an incredible and rare place.
If you love spelunking, this is the park for you! With some of the best caves to explore in Canada, Horne Lake offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some natural caves no matter your age or ability! Plus, no matter how hot it is outside, the caves at Horne Lake are always nice and cool – it’s the perfect place to explore on a hot summer day.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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!
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!
May 8th to September 25th every Sunday 11am – 3pm
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
With the return of the sun and warm weather, here on the West Coast, we don’t waste a second before we head back to the beaches! Even if there is a little nip in the air, if the sun is shining, it’s likely that we’re beach bound. We may not be in our bathing suits diving into the waves yet but there are still lots of ways to enjoy the beach before the heat of summer sets in! One of the best ways to experience a West Coast beach in the spring is to make a day of it! Bring some delicious food and your favourite book and just enjoy the warmth of the sun and the fresh ocean breezes. To ensure a super successful beach day at this time of year, you’ve gotta prepare properly – that’s where we come in. We’re going to give you the lowdown on where to go, local eats and how to prepare for a cooler, sunny beach day on Vancouver Island!
No matter where you go on Vancouver Island for your spring beach day, it’s important to be prepared! Here’s our handy checklist of items that are our must haves for a successful day on the beach.
The capital city is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in the world. In fact, there are so many to choose from, it can be tough to know where to go to make the most of your beach day. If you’re staying at an EMR Victoria property, these are our top three beaches to enjoy on a sunny spring day in Victoria!
Holland Point Park: This waterfront park is the perfect place to find a little spot on the beach to sit, enjoy the sun, watch colourful kite surfers sail through the sky, sailboats skim over the sparkling ocean and enjoy some food and a good book while the Olympic range shimmers in the distance.
Ross Bay Beach: This popular pebbly beach is filled with driftwood and offers lots of great spots to lay a picnic blanket down to enjoy the ocean views. On the far east side of the beach, there is a small sandy bay with large rocks and tide pools that are great for kids of all ages to explore.
Gonzales Beach: With soft sand and gentle lapping waves, warmer shallows and surrounded by jaw-dropping homes, this little neighbourhood beach is a must visit while you’re in the area!
Eats in the Area
James Bay:
Fairfield:
Cook St.:
This beautiful seaside town is home to one of the prettiest marinas on the South Island, an incredible outdoor art walk, cafes, eateries and boutiques. If you’re staying in, these are the two beaches we like the most on the top of the Peninsula!
Lochside Waterfront Park: At this beautiful beach you can pull up a log or lay down a blanket and watch the boats skim along the water to and from the marina and if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll probably be able to spot the dorsal fin of an orca or see a friendly seal pop up to say hello!
Robert’s Bay: This tranquil migratory bird sanctuary is an excellent spot to have a beach picnic, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that is less populated! Make sure you have your binoculars so you can check out the marine birds as they fly and fish in the bay and keep a lookout for the sweet sea otters that are known to frequent Robert’s Bay.
Eats in the area
The verdant Cowichan Valley is known for being one of the top wine destinations in BC and has some truly incredible vineyards and if you’re looking for a great local beach to enjoy, we got you!
Cherry Point: This beautiful little beach on the edge of the valley is one of the best places for a great beach day. With a long strip of pebble and sand shore to explore, plenty of driftwood to lean against and picnic tables if you prefer, this super sunny spot is a great way to soak up the spring sunshine and listen to the wind rustling through the trees. If you bring binoculars, you can have a look for marine birds and mammals that are known to frequent the area.
Eats in the area
While you’re staying in the Nanaimo area if you’re looking for a great day on the beach, no worries!
Neck Point Park: This stunning park, just north of Naniamo provides visitors with a stunning park and beach to explore and enjoy. Take a walk over the rocky bluffs covered with grasses for an incredible view and when you’re ready for a picnic, head down to the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
Eats in the area
The quaint resort towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach have many attractions, both man made and natural. People from all over the Island, BC and beyond flock to these towns in the summer months to soak up the sun and enjoy all the outdoor amenities. If you’re staying in the area and are looking for a great beach picnic spot in the area, we’ve got just the place for you!
Qualicum Beach – East Beach: When it comes to picturesque West Coast beaches, Qualicum Beach might take the cake. With endless soft sandy shores to walk on and gorgeous views of the Coast Mountains on the mainland, Qualicum Beach is a truly spectacular place to spend a spring afternoon.
Eats in the area
With the return of the sun and warm weather, here on the West Coast, we don’t waste a second before we head back to the beaches! Even if there is a little nip in the air, if the sun is shining, it’s likely that we’re beach bound! We may not be in our bathing suits diving into the waves yet but there are still lots of ways to enjoy the beach before the heat of summer sets in! One of the best ways to have a great Vancouver Island picnic on the beach in the spring is to make a day of it! Bring some delicious food and your favourite book and just enjoy the warmth of the sun and the fresh ocean breezes. To ensure a super successful beach day at this time of year, you’ve gotta prepare properly – that’s where we come in. We’re going to give you the lowdown on where to go, local eats and how to prepare for a cooler, sunny beach day on Vancouver Island!
No matter where you go on Vancouver Island for your spring beach day, it’s important to be prepared! Here’s our handy checklist of items that are our must haves for a successful day on the beach.
The capital city is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in the world. In fact, there are so many to choose from, it can be tough to know where to go to make the most of your beach day. If you’re staying at an EMR Victoria property, these are our top three beaches to enjoy on a sunny spring day in Victoria!
Holland Point Park: This waterfront park is the perfect place to find a little spot on the beach to sit, enjoy the sun, watch colourful kite surfers sail through the sky, sailboats skim over the sparkling ocean and enjoy some food and a good book while the Olympic range shimmers in the distance.
Ross Bay Beach: This popular pebbly beach is filled with driftwood and offers lots of great spots to lay a picnic blanket down to enjoy the ocean views. On the far east side of the beach, there is a small sandy bay with large rocks and tide pools that are great for kids of all ages to explore.
Gonzales Beach: With soft sand and gentle lapping waves, warmer shallows and surrounded by jaw-dropping homes, this little neighbourhood beach is a must visit while you’re in the area!
Eats in the Area
James Bay:
Fairfield:
Cook St.:
This beautiful seaside town is home to one of the prettiest marinas on the South Island, an incredible outdoor art walk, cafes, eateries and boutiques. If you’re staying in, these are the two beaches we like the most on the top of the Peninsula!
Lochside Waterfront Park: At this beautiful beach you can pull up a log or lay down a blanket and watch the boats skim along the water to and from the marina and if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll probably be able to spot the dorsal fin of an orca or see a friendly seal pop up to say hello!
Robert’s Bay: This tranquil migratory bird sanctuary is an excellent spot to have a beach picnic, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that is less populated! Make sure you have your binoculars so you can check out the marine birds as they fly and fish in the bay and keep a lookout for the sweet sea otters that are known to frequent Robert’s Bay.
Eats in the area
The verdant Cowichan Valley is known for being one of the top wine destinations in BC and has some truly incredible vineyards and if you’re looking for a great local beach to enjoy, we got you!
Cherry Point: This beautiful little beach on the edge of the valley is one of the best places for a great beach day. With a long strip of pebble and sand shore to explore, plenty of driftwood to lean against and picnic tables if you prefer, this super sunny spot is a great way to soak up the spring sunshine and listen to the wind rustling through the trees. If you bring binoculars, you can have a look for marine birds and mammals that are known to frequent the area.
Eats in the area
While you’re staying in the Nanaimo area if you’re looking for a great day on the beach, no worries!
Neck Point Park: This stunning park, just north of Naniamo provides visitors with a stunning park and beach to explore and enjoy. Take a walk over the rocky bluffs covered with grasses for an incredible view and when you’re ready for a picnic, head down to the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
Eats in the area
The quaint resort towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach have many attractions, both man made and natural. People from all over the Island, BC and beyond flock to these towns in the summer months to soak up the sun and enjoy all the outdoor amenities. If you’re staying in the area and are looking for a great beach picnic spot in the area, we’ve got just the place for you!
Qualicum Beach – East Beach: When it comes to picturesque West Coast beaches, Qualicum Beach might take the cake. With endless soft sandy shores to walk on and gorgeous views of the Coast Mountains on the mainland, Qualicum Beach is a truly spectacular place to spend a spring afternoon.
Eats in the area
Vancouver Island might just be the best place on Earth when it comes to outdoor activities. With mild temperatures all year and some of the most stunning landscapes, this little island on the far west coast of Canada has a lot to offer for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you love hiking or cycling, kayaking, paddleboarding or camping, we have a little bit of everything here on the Island. The best part? It’s officially spring which means that the days are longer, the weather is warmer but the heat of summer hasn’t hit – and neither have the crowds. If you’re already on the Island and are looking for some outdoor activities to make the most of the sunshine we’ve got a great list of our favourite places to get you out there! If you’re not here yet, take this as your sign to book your next holiday on Vancouver Island!
This incredible park on the edge of the Pacific is a spectacular place to find gorgeous hikes for every kill level. With 50 kilometres of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness, you can ramble along the rocky, windswept coast, find little coves and beaches to take a break and watch the waves. Hike through dense forests, navigate up steep slopes or just take it easy on one of the flatter trails. This is a perfect hike for anyone staying in Victoria or just a short drive away in Sooke!
Goldstream is consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful places on the South Island and for good reason! If you’re looking for majestic waterfalls and lush, green forest trails near Victoria, Goldstream Provincial Park is where you’ll want to go.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
This beloved park is one of the most popular hiking, swimming and camping sites and is a must when you’re staying in Nanaimo or Parksville! Situated along the pristine Englishman River this trail system winds its way through old-growth forest and leads you to stunning waterfalls cascading along the descending riverbed into a deep canyon.
Need rentals? Want a guided tour? Check out our blog post on the best rentals, tours and detailed trail maps on the South Island!
Whether you’re a pro cyclist or if you just enjoy an easy ride, the Galloping Goose Trail or “The Goose” as it is locally referred to, is a great option for everyone! This 55 kilometre trail is mostly flat and incredibly maintained to ensure that it’s a smooth ride from beginning to end. The trail begins downtown Victoria and winds its way west through Metchosin, Sooke and then heads north to end at the top of Sea to Sea Regional Park. While you probably won’t be able to do the entire trail in one day, it’s easy to access from various points which means that whether you’re staying downtown Victoria, in Langford, Metchosin or Sooke a great cycling trail is close by!
This extensive cycling trail runs all the way from the top of the Peninsula at Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria, where it links to the Galloping Goose Trail. For guests staying in Sidney, the Lochside Trail provides a safe, picturesque trail where you can ride through and see the beaches, agriculture, wetlands and rural and urban neighbourhoods of the Peninsula.
The Cowichan Valley Trans Canada Trail
The Cowichan Valley Trail is a whopping 132 kilometre multi-use trail that is the perfect spot to go for a cycle while you’re staying in the Cowichan Valley. Made using old CN rail lines, this trail starts just south of Shawnigan Lake, and ends just north of Ladysmith! If you’re looking for the most sensational part of the Cowichan Valley Trail, start at West Shawnigan Lake Park and ride north through lush temperate rainforest until you reach the Kinsol Trestle, one of the oldest and largest, free-standing wooden trestles in the world!
Need some rentals? Check out our blog posts and get the lowdown on kayak and paddleboard rentals!
Exquisite homes perched on the dark craggy rocks surround the bay of soft white sand and (fairly) warm seawater. If you’re new to kayaking or want to try paddleboarding, this is the place to start! The waters here are often calm and once you get the hang of it, you can skirt around the side of the bay and head out into the water to explore more of the shoreline!
If you want to explore the shores of the Cowichan Valley, Bamberton is an exceptional beach to cast off from. This beach is a popular spot for locals and visitors, especially in the summer but in the spring, it’s a perfect, calm, unpopulated beach to set out on your ocean adventure.
Nestled in the foothills of Mt. Benson, Westwood Lake Park is the ideal place for anyone staying around Nanaimo looking for a great kayaking or paddleboarding experience. Sure, paddling in the ocean is always an incredible experience, but paddling through the warm, calm waters of Westwood Lake is incredibly peaceful.
If you’re looking for incredible camping in the Cowichan Valley, Gordon Bay on Lake Cowichan is it! With access to the pristine waters of Lake Cowichan that are known for incredible swimming and fishing and lots of hiking and walking trails around the campsite to explore the forest, there is endless nature to explore here. The campsite provides visitors with vehicle accessible sites that have picnic tables and fire rings in each site, clean drinking water, showers and a playground for campers with kids!
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
Right in the beautiful little town of Parksville is one of the most spectacular campgrounds on Vancouver Island. Nestled in the forest on the edge of the ocean, Rathtrevor Beach campground has walk-in, drive-in and motorhome areas that provide campers with all the amenities that are required from each type of camping experience. This incredible campground has a great playground for little campers, bathroom and shower facilities, running water and is a short walk away from one of the most unique, sandy beaches on Vancouver Island. Here you can spend the day splashing in the shallows, looking for little sea creatures and relaxing in the sun.
Spring Salmon Place Campground
If you like a more rugged experience and want to find somewhere to really commune with nature, Spring Salmon campground in Sooke is a great option. While you won’t find any showers here, there is clean drinking water on tap and it’s easy to pull up to this spot and find a great site in the trees that you can call home for your stay. While you’re there, make sure to explore the meandering forest paths and take a dive in the deep, smooth-sided, freshwater pools that you can find carved by the river.