There’s no doubt that Vancouver Island, British Columbia is one of the most stunning places to visit in Canada. Surrounded by the ocean and easily accessible by air or sea, Vancouver Island is filled with quaint towns and vibrant city centres surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
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With the oncoming fall, there is a lot to look forward to while visiting Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The incredibly mild climate here means that most fall days are filled with sunny skies and crisp evenings, you can go on a hike and check out the changing leaves, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding and farmers markets are overflowing with produce.
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There are lots of reasons to move to Vancouver Island, British Columbia – we have the mildest climate in Canada, breathtaking natural beauty, year-round outdoor activities, low crime rates, robust healthcare, quaint small towns, a thriving artistic community and incredible food and drink. But when you’re thinking about where to live on Vancouver Island, that can get tricky. No matter where you choose to live, each city and town has pros and cons so to help narrow it down, we’ve made a list of the very best places to live on Vancouver Island! And remember, you can always find a nearby EMR rental to stay in so you can experience what living in each area would be like–whether you want to try out the wild west coast of Sooke, immerse yourself in the city vibe of Victoria or Nanaimo, go full country in the Cowichan Valley, live in laid-back Sidney or be beachfront in Parksville, EMR has all this and so much more!
Greater Victoria on the southernmost coast of Vancouver Island is a large area that includes the neighbourhoods of Oak Bay, Sidney, Langford and Sooke on the far west coast. Greater Victoria as a whole is one of the best places on the Island to live but there are certain areas that really stand!
Victoria is the largest city on Vancouver Island and offers incredible shopping, dining and nightlife, art galleries and cultural centres and easy access to spectacular outdoor recreation–it’s no wonder that it is consistently at the top of the list! To live here, however, you’ll have to make sure you can afford it – the cost of living and rising real estate prices have created issues with current and potential residents so be sure to do your research and see if Victoria is a good fit!
Pros:
Stunning city with everything you’d want from an urban centre (culture, dining etc.)
Easy access to beaches, hiking trails and outdoor recreation
Cons:
Cost of living is very high
Langford (currently being rebranded as Westshore) is one of the fastest growing areas in Greater Victoria. With new neighbourhoods and commercial centres being built at a rapid pace, Langford offers residents more affordable housing options and a real sense of community making it by far, one of the best options for newcomers to Greater Victoria. The downside of living in Langford is the commute into Victoria. It can be slow-going and the transit system to link Langford to Victoria isn’t yet at pace with the growth of the southern Island.
Pros:
Lots of quiet neighbourhoods to choose from
Easy access to amenities (grocery stores, pharmacies etc.)
Easy access to outdoor recreation
Cons:
Commute to Victoria is very congested
Lacks some of the cultural conveniences (dining, art, heritage buildings etc.)
Sidney is one of the most charming places on Vancouver Island. This laid-back, west coast, walkable little town centre is a popular place for retirees to relocate because it has everything you could need from grocery stores to bookshops, boutiques, pharmacies, cafes all within a few blocks! Not only is it charming, but Sidney boasts some of the most stunning waterfront walkways and is a hub for artists and nautical enthusiasts.
Pros:
Charming and walkable town centre
Lively retirement community
Gorgeous ocean views and fresh breezes year-round
Easy access to ferries via the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal
Cons:
Can be challenging for younger families
A long commute to Victoria
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Victorian neighbourhood, look no further than Oak Bay. Located to the east of Victoria, Oak Bay is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Greater Victoria and is where you can find stunning heritage homes, carefully designed new buildings and a charming village centre. With easy access to sandy beaches, lovely cafes and one of the best authentic British pubs in the city, it’s no wonder people from all over the world fall in love with Oak Bay.
Pros:
Charming village
Easy access to sandy beaches and Victoria’s city centre
Numerous public transit options and easy cycling routes throughout
Cons:
Cost of living is highest in this neighbourhood
Real estate is expensive, and rentals are hard to find
If you’re looking for a true Canadian small town, you’ll want to explore the little town of Sooke on the far west coast of Greater Victoria. This stunning, remote town on the Pacific Ocean is a hub for outdoor activities like kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, whale watching and more! Sooke is also a relatively affordable place in comparison to Victoria proper. The downside to living in Sooke is that it is quite a small town and lacks some of the amenities that can be found in Victoria or Langford. Also, the commute to Victoria, approximately an hour each way, is a long one making Sooke a difficult place for people who have to commute every day.
Pros:
Lots of natural beauty to enjoy and explore
Hub for outdoor activities
Small, friendly community
Cons:
Lacking some modern infrastructure & amenities
Long commute to Victoria
The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s agricultural area with swaths of farms, beautiful country roads, pristine freshwater lakes, rivers, beaches, hiking trails and stunning vineyards. In fact, the Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s winemaking area and has its own, unique, marine Mediterranean microclimate. The Cowichan Valley encompasses the area from the Malahat north to Ladysmith and east to west from Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park to the east coast of Vancouver Island.
Known as The City of Totems, Duncan is an important cultural centre for Coast Salish art and is the smallest city by area in Canada. While it might be a small city, Duncan offers residents a beautiful little city centre with lovely boutiques, breweries, cafes and restaurants. It is also a hotspot for forward-thinking farm-to-table cuisine, abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, amenities and is known as a safe place to live. While sometimes you might need to go into Victoria for certain items or experiences, for the most part, Duncan offers everything you need for daily life.
Pros:
Cost of living is significantly lower than Victoria
Friendly small-town atmosphere
Many amenities & attractions
Not too far from Victoria
Plenty of outdoor recreation
Cons:
Travelling to Victoria is a must for some activities and events
Heavy reliance on personal transportation (car or bike)
Lack of public transportation
The little village of Cowichan Bay is a tiny gem on the water with a small houseboat community, general store, boutiques, cafes and seafood-centric restaurants. This area is perfect for peaceful country and oceanside living with lots of natural beauty and a slower pace of life to enjoy. However, as picturesque as this area is, there is almost no public transportation, and most amenities are in Duncan or Victoria so living in Cowichan Bay requires access to a car for daily life.
Pros:
Picturesque country living
Less populated beaches, trails etc.
Quaint village
Stunning natural beauty
Cons:
Relatively remote
Requires a car to do most things
Lack of nearby amenities
This little artisan village nestled on the edge of the west coast of Vancouver Island has a fascinating history. When the recession of the 1980’s hit, Chemainus began to quickly decline but a tenacious, young mayor revitalized the entire town with an ambitious mural project. What was a risky project was so successful that today, Chemainus has over 50 incredible murals! Additionally, the Chemainus Theater is a renowned playhouse where locals and visitors can go and see incredible live performances! Whether you love the theatre or not, Chemainus is a lovely little town that offers a low-key west coast lifestyle.
Pros:
Local ferry terminal to Salt Spring Island
Easy commute to Vancouver Island’s second largest city, Nanaimo
Great lifestyle for families, couples and retirees
Lower cost of living than major cities on the Island
Cons:
Heavy reliance on vehicles
Nanaimo is the closest large city and is 30 mins away
Fewer local career opportunities than major cities
Perched on the edge of the ocean, just north of Chemainus on the 49th parallel, there is the little town of Ladysmith BC. Here, you can find incredible Edwardian-era heritage buildings, stunning natural beauty, outdoor recreation, incredible dining, boutique shopping and friendly people! If you are craving small-town living, Ladysmith might be the perfect fit!
Pros:
Easy commute to Vancouver Island’s second largest city, Nanaimo
Great lifestyle for families, couples and retirees
Lower cost of living than major cities on the Island
Cons:
Heavy reliance on vehicles
Nanaimo is the closest large city and is 30 mins away
Fewer local career opportunities than major cities
Known as The Harbour City, Nanaimo has an extensive stretch of harbour walkway that is a popular place for locals and visitors to walk and enjoy the view. Nanaimo is surrounded by rich, diverse ecosystems and offers spectacular land and seascapes, endless outdoor activities, a growing shopping district, great dining and thriving arts community. There’s no doubt that Nanaimo is a perfect mix of city and wilderness! While it might be less expensive than Victoria, as the second largest city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is still a relatively expensive city to relocate to unless you’re comparing it to cities with very high cost of living metrics like Victoria, Metro Vancouver or Toronto.
Pros:
Second largest city with everything you’d want from an urban centre (culture, dining etc.)
Easy access to beaches, hiking trails and outdoor recreation
Ferries to Gulf Islands and Metro Vancouver within short driving distance
Cons:
Cost of living is high especially real estate
Just a short drive north of Nanaimo is the little town of Parksville that offers resort-style living right on the water. With spectacular beaches, year-round golfing, endless outdoor activities and some of the best spas on the Island, Parksville is a great place to settle down. Parksville is also a great home base to explore more of the mid-Island! From here you can visit the little town of Qualicum Beach with white sand beaches and a little town centre, head to Coombs and wander through the market, or explore one of the many Provincial and Regional parks in the area!
Pros:
Incredible beaches
Popular place for families and retirees
Close to a major city
Cons:
Town is very small and lacks some amenities
Fewer local career opportunities than major cities
Nestled at the end of the Alberni Inlet just west of Parksville and Qualicum beach is the little town of Port Alberni. With a small but friendly population and lots of interesting cultural and natural attractions, Port Alberni has quickly become a popular place for small families and retirees to settle down away from the hustle and bustle of major cities. Life in Port Alberni moves a little more slowly and because of that, it is an ideal place for anyone looking for a laid-back, small town to relocate to. Like most small towns on Vancouver Island, there are fewer local career opportunities making Port Alberni a great place if remote work is possible.
Pros:
Lots of interesting attractions
Close to Parksville and Qualicum beaches
Surrounded by natural beauty – especially lakes
Cons:
Heavy reliance on vehicles
Nanaimo is the closest large city and is over an hour away
Fewer local career opportunities than major cities
On the north east coast of Central Vancouver Island is the Comox Valley which includes the little village of Cumberland, the city of Courtenay and town of Comox. With dazzling views of the Comox Glacier to the west and Salish Sea to the east, the Comox Valley is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and offers world-class, year-round recreation. While the Comox Valley may provide an idyllic recreational lifestyle, it can be difficult to find local career employment unless it is in one of the area’s main industries: healthcare, education, Mount Washington (seasonal) or Canadian Forces.
With beautiful parks, lots of outdoor recreation, and a little downtown area filled with boutiques and restaurants just a short walk from the marina, Comox is a quaint seaside town perfect for anyone who wants to go out on the water whenever you want!
As the Comox Valley’s largest urban centre, in Courtenay you’ll find a charming, small town with both urban amenities and character. You can find one-of-a-kind boutiques, great dining, gorgeous green spaces, a vibrant arts and cultural scene with local festivals and special events taking place year-round and so much more!
Pros:
Idyllic outdoor recreation opportunities
Laid-back west coast lifestyle
Friendly communities
Thriving artistic community
Cons:
Limited career opportunities
Housing costs are rising & market is saturated
If you’re an avid angler or an outdoor enthusiast, Campbell River is made for you! Known as one of the best sport fishing locations in the world and the gateway to the gorgeous, remote Discovery Islands, Campbell River is an adventurer’s paradise! While Campbell River is beautiful, it is remote and can be difficult if you’re hoping to find a balance between urban amenities and natural beauty.
Pros:
Lots of pristine wilderness to explore
Gateway to Discovery Islands
Best sport fishing in Canada
Cons:
Lack of amenities
Long way to travel to get to major cities
Located on the far west coast of Vancouver Island on the Clayoquot Sound, Tofino and nearby Ucluelet offers visitors and residents the opportunity to live in and explore some of the most diverse ecosystems in the world. Tofino, where the forest meets the ocean, is where you can find world-class surfing at the famous Long Beach, embark on breathtaking adventures on land and sea, and immerse yourself in a friendly, vibrant artistic community. However, there has been a concerning housing shortage in both Tofino and Ucluelet and with rising housing prices the cost of living in these towns can be a barrier for relocating here.
Pros:
Pristine wilderness to explore and enjoy
Friendly, thriving community
Best surfing on Vancouver Island
Cons:
Very remote and lacks some amenities
Housing shortage & high cost of living
When you’re planning a trip to British Columbia, Canada, you should consider Vancouver Island! When it comes time to plan your trip here, it’s likely that you’ll end up staying in one of the two major cities on the Island: Victoria or Naniamo. These cities are filled with heritage sites and offer incredible dining, shopping, entertainment and endless outdoor adventures – but there is so much more to Vancouver Island! All over this incredible Island you can find gorgeous little towns to explore who have their own unique histories and identities. Just south of Nanaimo, perched on the edge of the ocean and on the 49th parallel, there is the little town of Ladysmith BC where you can find incredible Edwardian-era heritage buildings, stunning natural beauty, incredible dining, boutique shopping and friendly people! So if you want to explore more of the Island during your visit to Nanaimo or the Cowichan Valley, a day trip to Ladysmith is a great idea!
For over 5,000 years the Stz’uminus First Nations communities have lived and thrived on this land where the coastline offers abundant fishing and the dense forests, plentiful hunting to ensure the health and survival of the communities. The colonial history of Ladysmith, BC began in 1896 when James Dunsmuir of the Dunsmuir coal and mining family chose Oyster Harbour as the shipping port for his nearby mine. This decision required homes, shops, churches and hotels to be built in a short time to accommodate the miners, shipyard workers and their families who moved to the area. These buildings were brought to the area by rail from Naniamo and from there, Ladysmith expanded. In 1904, the town of Ladysmith, named after the siege of Ladysmith, South Africa during the Boer War, was officially founded. For the next 80 years, Ladysmith’s economy was driving almost solely on natural resources. Copper and coal mining as well as forestry were the chief sources of revenue for the area until the 1980s when the town began to diversify. Tourism, retail, service and other business sectors grew as more and more people began visiting Vancouver Island. Today, Ladysmith is a part of the Cowichan Valley Regional District and is focused on progressive projects and partnering with the Stz’uminus First Nation to create an inclusive and prosperous town.
While Ladysmith may not be well known as a Vancouver Island dining destination, this little town has been serving up some incredible food and drinks in the past few years! On First Avenue in downtown Ladysmith, you can find an incredible array of cuisines from Japanese, Chinese and Indian to delicious plant-based goodies, Canadian comfort food and baked treats! Here are some of our favourite places to eat in Ladysmith!
Floating on a dock in Oyster Harbour, this sweet little cafe serves up delicious, fresh, light lunches to keep up your energy while you explore Ladysmith!
This casual diner is a local favourite! Serving up huge portions of all the comfort-food classics, and global inspired dishes, this little diner is definitely worth a visit!
This eatery is the place in ladysmith to find mouthwatering handheld classics and incredible cocktails! Perfect for a mid-exploration appy or a cozy dinner in downtown Ladysmith!
For the most incredible fresh, gluten-free dishes you’ll want to head to Wild Poppy Market! You can choose to sit in the little café to enjoy your food or take one of their many grab-and-go options if you’re on the move!
While you’re visiting Ladysmith, you won’t want to miss out on popping in to some of the incredible shops! You can find antiques, women’s fashion, gourmet kitchenware and so much more! Here are some not-to-miss boutiques we love!
If you’re looking for a local store that carries a wide selection of handmade local items, Neck of the Woods is the place to go! You can spend hours here browsing through the jewellery, pottery, glassware, home decor and more!
Are you an avid antique hunter? Then you’ll want to make the trip to one of Vancouver Island’s largest antique malls! With three floors of treasures to hunt through, you can find everything from large furniture items, collectibles, clocks, art and so much more!
Vancouver Island is known for its vibrant art scene and Ladysmith is no exception! This art gallery has an incredible collection of art by local artists so you can take your time to peruse the work and purchase something that catches your eye!
With a great selection of unique, one-of-a-kind women’s fashions, jewellery and bath products, left coast fashions is where the locals find the best gifts and local, ethical fashion and accessories!
LIke most places on Vancouver Island, there are almost endless outdoor adventures to have from Ladysmith year-round!
If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy the ocean while you’re visiting Ladysmith, check out Sea Legs Kayaking at beautiful Transfer Beach! This company rents kayaks and paddleboards, ideal for anyone who wants a calm way to paddle around Ladysmith Harbour and the shores around Burleith Arm. If you’re travelling to Vancouver Island with a boat or if you’re looking to rent one, there are municipal boat launches to get your vessel in the water.
Distance: Approx. 400 m – Time: 10 min. – Rating: Easy
This short, refreshing walk near the waterfront offers gorgeous views of the water. At low tide, you can enjoy a stroll along the shore all the way to Transfer Beach Park and the Marine Walk. In the fall, you might even be able to spot some salmon entering Holland Creek.
Distance: Approx. 6.4 km – Time: 2 hrs – Rating: Challenging
Even though there are some steep climbs on this trail, with stunning views of the town, Gulf Islands and Mount Baker at the summit, this hike is worth it!
Distance: Approx. 5.8 km – Time: 3 hrs – Rating: Easy
If you’re looking for an easy hike with some spectacular sights along the way, this is it! This beautiful trail leads you around Holland Creek where you can see Crystal Falls and the Colliery dams, plus in the fall you’ll see the salmon spawning! This is an excellent trail for people with mobility issues as it’s mostly wheelchair accessible from the Methuen / 6th Avenue entrance west to the upper Collier dam.
Distance: Approx. 1 km – Time: 25 min. – Rating: Easy
As a part of the Trans Canada Trail, this regularly maintained trail starts at Transfer Beach and meanders through the trees to the waterfront.
Transfer Beach is the best beach in Ladysmith! Located in the heart of town, it’s a great place to enjoy sunny days, beachcomb and storm watch during the fall and winter months! Here, you can find some great seaside walking trails, public beach volleyball, a spray park and playground for the kids, and it’s the perfect beach to launch a kayak or paddleboard.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or a novice, Ladysmith has both on-road and off-road cycling trails that are perfect for you! There are on-road routes through town that connect to shopping and services with the least amount of hill climbing. If you’re an avid rider, you could take on the trip from south Cowichan Valley all the way to Ladysmith and back and Nanaimo to Ladysmith is a gorgeous ride as well! For mountain bikers, the hills and trails west of Ladysmith provide prime off-road trails that are challenging and fun! If you’re looking for something more easy-going without traffic, the Rotary Bicycle Route and the Trans Canada Trail offer cycling routes to the north and south of town.
Birdwatchers will love a trip to Ladysmith! While there are an abundance of gulls, sea ducks, and shorebirds the most exciting thing about Ladysmith (to an ornithologist) is that Ladysmith Harbour is one of the few nesting sites for the vulnerable purple martins species! These little guys happily nest in boxes on the dock pilings at the community marina so you’re sure to catch sight of a few!
Imagine being on the golf course, year-round! When it comes to Ladysmith, that’s the norm! While it may not be a Niklaus designed 18 hole course, Ladysmith’s 9-hole course is a fun way to spend a day where you can practice your game and enjoy the spectacular ocean and mountain views.
With the oncoming fall, there is a lot to look forward to while visiting Vancouver Island, British Columbia. The incredibly mild climate here means that most fall days are filled with sunny skies and crisp evenings, you can go on a hike and check out the changing leaves, the weather is still warm enough to enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding and farmers markets are overflowing with produce.
Continue readingThere’s no doubt that Vancouver Island, British Columbia is one of the most stunning places to visit in Canada. Surrounded by the ocean and easily accessible by air or sea, Vancouver Island is filled with quaint towns and vibrant city centres surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
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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 is a place of tranquillity and relaxation. From the beautiful forest paths and incredible ocean vistas to the quiet cities and small towns, there is no doubt that this Island is one of the top places in the world to visit if you’re looking for peace and quiet. However, while we all love the serenity of the Island’s boundless nature, there are lots of Vancouver Island adrenaline junkies who love mixing that tranquillity and beauty with heart pounding adventures. So if you’re looking for once-in-a-lifetime adrenaline rushes that are set against the pristine beauty of West Coast nature, have we got the list for you!
5128C Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC
Perfect for anyone staying nearby in Sooke and an easy trip from any Victoria or Sidney properties, your zipline experience begins with an eight minute off-road adventure to an incredible location in the wilderness. Spanning 100 acres of pristine coastal rainforest, there are eight different zipline routes where you can soar over and through the magnificent evergreens.
1767 Island Hwy #15, Victoria, BC
Wild Play Victoria is the quintessential adventure park for all ages and ideal for anyone staying in Victoria or Sidney! Whether you want to try axe throwing, climb new heights in the adventure course, zipline through the trees, there’s all that and more!
1877 Herd Rd. Duncan, BC. Canada
For 20 years, The Raptors has been the place for bird nerds to get a closer look at some of the most graceful and dangerous predators of the sky. Come visit to see flying demonstrations and have hands-on experiences with these beautiful animals, learn about how many raptors are on the brink of being endangered. There’s no better place to get up-close-and-personal with these beautiful, intelligent creatures. For anyone staying nearby in the Cowichan Valley, it’s a must and an easy trip for visitors staying in Victoria as well!
1515 Island Hwy E, Nanoose Bay, BC
There are few things in this life that are more nerve wracking than jumping out of an airplane but if you’re looking for an exhilarating way to get that adrenaline rush, this is it! At Skydive Vancouver Island, you have an incredible opportunity to skydive over some of the most stunning landscapes with the verdant Island and sparkling ocean all around you.
35 Nanaimo River Rd, Nanaimo, BC
Whether you’ve taken the leap before or not, this is the place on Vancouver Island to bungy jump. No matter whether you’re a hardcore head-first kind of person or if you prefer a more mellow, tandem sit and swing experience, there are lots of options! Plus, you can scale the adventure park, try axe throwing and more – perfect if you’re looking for a fun afternoon activity while staying in Nanaimo or Parksville!
7400 Airport Rd, Port Alberni, BC
Many of us have had experiences in airplanes, whether we’re taking an international flight on a large carrier or taking a short trip on a smaller jet, the miracle of flight is such a ubiquitous part of our modern world. At the Vancouver Island Soaring Centre, visitors get to have a completely different flying experience. Buckle up in one of their state-of-the-art two seat gliders and get incredible 360º views of this stunning Island. Choose one of their three pre-arranged flights or build your own custom flight and take the lead on choosing where you go!
Mount Washington Alpine Resort, Courtenay, BC
If you’re looking for the ultimate ziplining adventure, the Eagles Flight Zip Tour at Mount Washington is where you’ll find it! With multiple lines all over 1000ft long, at Eagles Flight, you’ll be zooming over the treetops down the mountain face, reaching speeds of up to 100km/hr! This is an awesome way to spend a beautiful summer day while staying in the Comox Valley!
1003 Island Hwy Slip B3, Campbell River, BC
If your idea of heart pounding fun is reeling in an enormous fish, this is the adventure for you! Campbell River is one of the best areas in the world for fishing and is known as a bucket list destination for most fishermen! Whether you want to do some river fishing or if you’re eager to get out on the ocean to catch the big one, Coastal Wilderness Adventures can make sure that you have a great time! No matter where you’re staying, for avid anglers, this is worth the trip!
2200 Airport Dr, Campbell River, BC
Getting off the beaten track is the name of the game when it comes to finding a unique adventure. Whether you love hiking, fishing or paddling – up your game with 49 North Helicopters and choose one of their adventure packages where you can get a helicopter ride to hike, fish or paddle in some of the most unique, remote locations on Vancouver Island. Just looking for a sightseeing tour from a chopper? No problem! Even if you’re staying a three hour drive away in Victoria, this is worth the drive!
1514 Broughton Blvd, Port McNeill, BC
Vancouver Island is known for its expansive wilderness and bio-diverse oceans where everything from friendly seals and playful octopi to enormous grizzlies and majestic eagles live and thrive. If seeing some of these incredible creatures is on your list while you’re visiting, Sea Wolf Adventures is a great place to start. Located in Port McNeil, this indigenous owned and operated company not only gives guests unrivalled access to the habitats of the beautiful Grizzly Bears but are members of the Kwikwasut’inuxw Haxwa’mis people and are deeply and spiritually connected to the land and the animals that live here.
150 Fourth St, Tofino, BC
Some of the best surfing in the world can be found in the stunning Clayoquot Sound near the little towns of Tofino and Ucluelet on the far West Coast of Vancouver Island. If you’ve always wanted to give it a try, this is the spot to go for incredible beaches and top notch instructors. If you’re an avid surfer, you’ll find some of the best, most challenging waves along this coastline that will test your skills and make you work for that ride.
140 Bay St, Ucluelet, BC & 51861 Highway # 4 – On your way to Pacific Rim National Park Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park, BC
If you want to do a little of everything, West Coast Wild Adventures is the perfect place to start. They have incredible canyon ziplining, river paddling on the calm, clear waters of Kennedy River and float plane tours where you can book incredible tours of remote locations and see them from a completely unique vantage point!
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
