Best Places to Visit on Vancouver Island, Canada

soft, cool sunrise light over a pebbly beach with snowcapped mountains in the distance

A Quick Guide to Exploring the Best of Vancouver Island

Looking for the best places to visit on Vancouver Island? Whether you’re planning a road trip from Seattle, flying in via seaplane, or catching a BC Ferries ride across the water, Vancouver Island is one of Canada’s most stunning destinations and it’s brimming with unforgettable experiences! From storm watching on the wild west coast to hiking through old-growth forests, this island delivers year-round adventure.

We know this slice of British Columbia like locals, because we are locals! So if you’re wondering where to go, what to see, and what you truly can’t miss, you’re in the right place.The Beach House Suite Main Image

Let’s dive into the must-see towns, parks, and hidden gems that make Vancouver Island a world-class travel destination!

Book the perfect Vancouver Island vacation rental right here!

 

Why Vancouver Island Is Worth the Trip

Vancouver Island is one of North America’s most diverse and naturally beautiful regions. Located off the west coast of British Columbia, this island stretches from the artsy community of Victoria in the south to the rugged wilderness of Cape Scott in the north.

What makes it so special? You’ll find sandy beaches and surfing in Tofino, grizzly bear viewing tours in Campbell River, wineries and totem poles in the Cowichan Valley, and access to some of Canada’s best whale watching tours. Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking trails, or exploring cultural heritage, Vancouver Island has something for everyone! And it’s all wrapped in a distinctly Canadian blend of warmth and wilderness.

Top Places to Visit on Vancouver Island

1. Tofino & Uclueletaerial view of Chesterman Beach in Tofino at Sunset

These west coast surf towns are a must-see—which is why they’re at the top of the list! Tofino is famous for Cox Bay, storm watching, and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, while nearby Ucluelet offers access to the iconic Wild Pacific Trail. It’s a paradise for surfers, hikers, and anyone who loves windswept beaches.

2. Campbell River

Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Campbell River is also one of the best places for grizzly bear tours and orca sightings. Take a whale watching tour or explore Elk Falls Provincial Park with its epic suspension bridge.

3. Victoria

Front of the Legislature - Parliament Buildings in Victoria BC - Inner Harbour British Columbia’s capital is full of charm, history, and coastal elegance! Stroll the Inner Harbour, visit the Parliament Buildings, or take in the flowers at Beacon Hill Park! You’ll also find incredible museums, Fisherman’s Wharf and a great food scene right downtown! Head up the Saanich Peninsula to visit the little town of Sidney and the world famous Butchart Gardens.

4. Nanaimo

This central hub is more than just a ferry port — it’s a launching point for day trips, hikes, and outdoor adventures. Explore the Harbourfront Walkway, check out nearby Provincial Parks, or hop a boat to Newcastle Island. Nanaimo is also a foodie-friendly stop with laid-back Canadian charm!

  • Great for: families, road trippers, outdoor enthusiasts

  • Highlights: waterfront boardwalk, kayaking, sandy beaches, Newcastle Island, nearby hikes to Ammonite Falls

5. Comox Valley (Courtenay, Comox & Cumberland)Boat at the Comox Harbour in the Comox Valley - North Vancouver Island BC

Nestled between the mountains and the Salish Sea, the Comox Valley blends coastal beauty with rich agricultural land. It’s a great spot for wineries, local markets, and hiking trails — not to mention some of the island’s best food and views.

6. Port Alberni

A central inland city surrounded by mountains and lakes, Port Alberni is a hidden gem for hiking, boating, and exploring old-growth forests. It’s also the gateway to the island’s rugged west coast.

7. Telegraph Cove

This tiny, postcard-perfect village on Northern Vancouver Island is one of the best places in Canada for spotting orcas and humpback whales. It’s also a top destination for eco-tours and sea kayaking!

Coast Salish Totem pole - wood colour no paint - BC Fist nations8. Duncan & the Cowichan Valley

Rich in First Nations heritage and renowned for its totem poles, Duncan is the cultural heart of the Cowichan Valley. Surrounded by lush hills and vineyards, this region is home to award-winning wineries, warm lakes, and charming coastal towns!

  • Great for: cultural travellers, wine enthusiasts, weekend escapes

  • Highlights: totem poles walking tour, Kinsol Trestle, Cowichan Bay, wine touring by bike, farmers’ markets

9. Port Renfrew

This remote village on the west coast is where the West Coast Trail begins (or ends). It’s also a fantastic base for rainforest hikes, rugged coastline walks, and hidden beaches.

  • Great for: hikers, adventurers, peace-seekers

  • Highlights: Botanical Beach tide pools, Juan de Fuca Trail, surf spots, Cape Scott connections for backcountry trekking

10. Coombs & Cathedral Grove

Coombs is quirky and unforgettable — especially the Old Country Market, where you’ll often find goats happily grazing on the roof! Nearby, Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is one of the most awe-inspiring old-growth forests on the island.

  • Great for: families, road trips, anyone with a camera

Highlights: goats on the roof, local artisan shops, Cathedral Grove’s ancient forest, proximity to Parksville

Best Time to Visit Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is a year-round destination — the best time really depends on what you want to experience.

 

Spring

This is the time when wildflowers bloom, the trails dry out, and it’s shoulder season for travel! Storm watching gives way to whale watching where you can see resident orcas and early migrating humpbacks.

 

Summer

Summer is peak season on Vancouver Island! You’ll find great weather, perfect for kayaking, beach days and boardwalk strolls in charming towns. It’s also the busiest time for the entire island so be prepared to book ahead no matter what you’re planning to do!

 

Fall

Harvest season brings food festivals, wine tastings, and stunning foliage, especially around the Cowichan Valley! You’ll find many sunny days before the rains set in and with fewer crowds, cities and coastlines are peaceful.

 

Winter

Vancouver Island is a rainforest so in the winter, expect rainy days, stormy seas and cozy getaways! Some of the best things to do during this season is storm watching in Tofino, wildlife viewing around Campbell River, and indoor visits to places like the Parliament Buildings in Victoria or Shaw Center for the Salish Sea in Sidney. There are tons of options to make winter a magical off-season option!

Bonus Travel Tips for Vancouver Island

Take the scenic route! A road trip lets you explore hidden gems between the bigger towns — perfect for spontaneous stops.

Seaplane coming in for a landing on the coast of BC - Vancouver Island Harbour Air Ride BC Ferries or a seaplane! Both offer iconic views of the Gulf Islands and Strait of Georgia.

Dress for the weather. Even in summer, layers are key on the west coast.

Book wildlife tours early! Whale watching and grizzly bear tours often sell out fast, especially in high season.

Respect Indigenous lands. Every town and city on Vancouver Island are located on traditional territory, ancestral homes of First Nations people like the W̱SÁNEĆ and Nuu-chah-nulth. Always travel with care and respect.

Ready to Explore the Best of Vancouver Island?

From black bears in the north to surfing in the west, Vancouver Island is one of Canada’s most dynamic travel destinations! Whether you’re planning a family getaway to Parksville, a romantic trip to Tofino, or a backcountry trek through a Provincial Park, there’s something here for everyone.

Book your perfect home base with EMR Vacation Rentals — from oceanside cottages to forested retreats, we have the perfect stay for your island adventure!

The Best Hiking in Victoria, BC

Are you an avid hiker looking for a vacation rental in Victoria, BC Canada? You’re in luck! Not only can you find a collection of incredible vacation rentals around the capital city but some of the best hiking trails and regional parks on Vancouver Island are right nearby! Whether you’re staying in the stunning seaside town of Sooke, right in the heart of downtown Victoria, or in picturesque Saanich, we’ve rounded up all the very best hikes in Victoria from easy family friendly strolls to epic elevation gains that you can get to easily no matter where you are staying! 

Thetis Lake Regional Park

Map

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone

Located right on the border of Langford and Westshore, Thetis Lake is one of the most popular spots for hiking in Greater Victoria and offers an easy way to hike in the Capital Region! With the trailhead right at the parking lot, you’ll find that navigating the trails in this regional park is really easy and the forested trails are gorgeous! In the warm weather, pack a towel and wear your swimsuit as you’ll be able to find many areas where you can take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters before you carry on your hike! Be sure to check whether the water is safe to swim in before you go though, as there are algae blooms that can happen in warmer weather!  

Goldstream Provincial Park

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Another popular hiking spot near Langford is the beautiful Goldstream Provincial Park! With tons of well-maintained trails throughout the park you’ll find trails for all skill levels. Its convenient location makes it ideal for anyone staying in Greater Victoria to enjoy a day on the trails exploring peaks and finding waterfalls! 

Goldstream Falls 

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone 

Considered an easy route, this 3 kilometre trail is a great way to explore some of the best features of Goldstream! Starting right at the campground area, you can follow the clearly marked trail that will take you straight to Goldstream Falls and then loop around back to the campground parking lot. This is a great trail for kids and pets although dogs must be leashed the entire time.  

Mount Finlayson

Rating: Moderate to difficult 

Good for: casual hikers and older children 

If you’re looking for a major elevation gain, you’ll want to tackle Mount Finlayson! This heart pumping hike will take you up to the top of the mountain where you’ll find vibrant wildflowers and is one of the best viewpoints in the area! From the summit, you can see Downtown Victoria, the Juan de Fuca Strait and the distant Olympic Mountains

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

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If you’re looking for a great hiking spot where you can enjoy some incredible natural beauty in Saanich, you’ll want to explore Gowlland Tod! Located in the Highlands area of Saanich right on the edge of the Saanich Inlet, you’ll find this park is filled with well maintained trails for every skill level with stunning views, secret beaches and pristine forest to explore!  Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature walk or a more challenging trek, Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is the perfect place to explore the beautiful nature of British Columbia.

Jocelyn Hill 

Rating: Moderate – difficult 

Good for: fit runners, casual hikers, older children

One of the most popular hiking spots in Gowlland Tod is undoubtedly Jocelyn Hill. With an easy-to-find trailhead right at the parking lot at the end of Caleb Pike Rd., hikers can find numerous trails, all rated moderately challenging that offer incredible views of the Saanich Inlet at the summit. 

Holmes Peak 

Rating: Moderate 

Good for: Casual hikers, older children – young children may be able to tackle this with lots of breaks and help 

This short out and back trail in Gowlland Tod Park is a great way to spend an hour in nature! Considered a moderate trail, you can enjoy the quick hike through the forests, enjoy the views and be back in time for tea! Popular with hikers, runners and birders, you’re more than likely to meet other people on this beautiful trail as well!

Mount Work Regional Park

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Gowlland Tod’s neighbour, Mount Work is a popular location for hikers in Victoria! Located on the shores of the Saanich Peninsula, Mount Work’s trails are generally rated moderate to difficult and are ideal for hikers who have the stamina to tackle elevation gains safely. That said though, if you prepare with enough water and fuel, there are many locations on all the trails to take breaks and enjoy the scenery before carrying on. No matter how you decide to tackle this mountain, once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360º views of the Inlet, the Cowichan Valley, the Saanich Peninsula, local Gulf Islands and even the distant Olympic Mountains in the US!

McKenzie Bight 

Rating: Moderate

Good for: Casual hikers and families with older children – young children may be able to tackle this with lots of breaks and help 

If you’re looking for a short but moderately challenging trail with a beautiful beach to explore at the end, you’ll want to take on the McKenzie Bight trail. Ideal in the cooler months when it is less populated, this trail leads to a pebbly beach and is a great place to enjoy the tranquillity of nature on the west coast. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash! 

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park 

Map 

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone!

Local hikers absolutely love Sooke Potholes – for good reason! This gorgeous park near the charming coastal town of Sooke is an ideal hiking trail all year-round and is the location of one of the most unique natural attractions in British Columbia! The potholes that this park is named for are naturally formed pools made from thousands of years of water rushing over the rock. The result are smooth rock pools of various sizes and depths that glitter turquoise in the summer sun. If you’re exploring this area during warm weather, be sure to pack a towel and take a dip in one of the most beautiful natural swimming spots on Vancouver Island! 

Mount Douglas

Map 

Rating: Easy – moderate

Good for: Everyone! 

Located on the border between Victoria and Saanich, this mountain is a popular location for locals to get outdoors to stay fit! Known as one of the best hikes in Greater Victoria, you can find trails throughout the mountain park for everyone! With easier trails that circumnavigate the base of the mountain to heart pounding elevation gains that take you to the upper levels of the peak and views of Victoria, no matter what kind of hike you’re looking for, Mount Douglas is a great option!

Lone Tree Hill Regional Park 

Map 

Rating: Moderate

Good for: Everyone! It’s short enough for kids to tackle as well 

One of the shortest hikes on the list is this one – but don’t let that fool you! This steep 1.5 km trail is on a consistent incline but the payoff is incredible with stunning views at the top. If you’re short on time and want to get that heart rate up and some steps in, this is a great trail to choose! 

Mount Tolmie

Map 

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone!

In second place for the most popular hike in the Capitol Region is undoubtedly Mount Tolmie. This beloved hike is a nice easy 1.5 km hike at the top of the mountain and is a popular spot for families to go on a sunny day to enjoy the 360 degree views of Victoria, the Juan de Fuca Strait and beyond! At the summit, there are lots of spots that are perfect to lay out a blanket and enjoy a picnic so if you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy a great view, this is where you’ll want to go! 

East Sooke Regional Park

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Located on the westernmost shores of Southern Vancouver Island on the edge of the ocean, East Sooke Regional Park is a magical place to explore! With over 50 km of trails that wind throughout this expansive park, you can find easy, sun-dappled paths to steep climbs and everything in between! Here, you can stumble across hidden coves and beaches, find epic cliffs with the churning ocean below, see majestic eagles soaring overhead, and if you’re lucky you may even spot a pod of whales off the shores! This is also a great place to launch a kayak and explore the wild, windswept shores! 

Aylard Farm

Rating: Moderate

Good for: casual hikers and older children

This gorgeous hike on the south end of East Sooke Regional Park is a real choose your own adventure! While the most popular 10 km trail takes you along the coast and loops around through the park leading back to the parking lot, you can extend your hike through the park, stop at one of the beaches or turn around and head back to enjoy more of the coast! Just be sure to keep track of your location on a map and make sure dogs are leached! 

Trails Outside of Victoria, BC

Kinsol Trestle

Map 

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone including strollers, kids and mobility assisted visitors

If you’re ready to explore a little further afield, then you’ll want to head up the Malahat to the Cowichan Valley and explore the Kinsol Trestle section of the Cowichan Valley Trail! This trail is just a 20 minute drive north of Victoria and offers visitors the chance to walk across one of the tallest free-standing wooden trestles in the world! Whether you’re looking for an easy place to enjoy a stroll with kids or people with mobility issues or if you’re looking for a moderate trail where you can get in a good hike and explore the area, here, you can do both! 

Mystic Beach

Map 

Rating: Easy

Good for: Everyone! 

A 30-40 minute drive north of Sooke will take you to one of the most stunning places on Vancouver Island. Mystic Beach with its pebbled shores, waterfalls and wide caves is a magical place to explore and the hike to get to the beach is almost as stunning! The short out and back trail takes you through old growth forest and is a mix between well-maintained chip trails and boardwalks through the trees. A popular place for locals to visit, you’re likely to find other people enjoying the trail and beach, especially in the warmer months!