northern vancouver island road trip

An Epic Vancouver Island North Road Trip

North vancouver island things to do.

Are you looking for a great Vancouver Island road trip idea? Explore the less travelled roads of Vancouver Island North to experience scenic and culturally rich towns.

Known locally as the Island Highway, Highway 19 is the main thoroughfare that connects the communities of Vancouver Island North with Nanaimo, plus many towns in between.

The route from Nanaimo to Port Hardy (the furthest north you can drive on the Island) is approximately 390 km.

So, while you can definitely do the trip in one day, it's always recommended to take it slow to enjoy all the sights.

Nanaimo to Campbell River or Victoria to Campbell River

We already have several articles that showcase the various activities to see and do in and around Nanaimo, the Parksville area, and the Comox Valley.

To avoid repeating ourselves too much, this article showcases the must-see highlights of a Vancouver Island road trip starting in Campbell River .

If you need some guidance on the top things to see before reaching Campbell River, here are some suggestions:

• 5-Day Vancouver Island Itinerary (covers Victoria to the West Coast)
• Victoria to Nanaimo
• Oceanside Route Road Trip (Parkville to Campbell River)

This article contains some affiliate links, which means if you happen to make a purchase after clicking on a link, I may receive a small commission. Thank you for your support.

Is North Vancouver Island Worth Visiting?

We often get this question when tourists plan an upcoming trip to Vancouver Island. And our answer is always, “Yes!”.

But, there's a catch, for you can't visit this area without having access to a vehicle. So, a rental car is a must! Once you have secured one, your options are limitless, and a trip to the island's north end is definitely encouraged!

The island's north end is the least developed area, which is why there is an abundance of wildlife .

On any given trip, expect to see black bears, deer, elk, and an overabundance of eagles. When on or near the water, you'll most likely see seals, sea lions, otters, and whales.

The lush and rugged rainforest provides many wonderful opportunities to hike and camp. And the villages dotted throughout the area provide amazing cultural experiences.

So, let's dive right in!

Vancouver Island North Must See's

Campbell River Area

Elk falls suspension bridge.

The thundering waterfall and suspension bridge over Elk Falls Canyon make this area in Campbell River a sought-after location.

Crossing the bridge provides access to an incredible view of the falls. For those who would rather not make the crossing, a viewing platform is located just before the bridge.

Elk Falls Provincial Park is only 3 km from the Elk Falls Day use area and is considered one of Vancouver Island’s best campground accommodations.

The Park has an extensive 6 km trail system, home to the only significant stand of old-growth Douglas fir north of MacMillan Provincial Park ( Cathedral Grove ).

Strathcona Park

Strathcona Park is your destination if you are looking for a place to unwind and get away from it all.

The quietness, fresh air, breathtaking views of lakes and mountains, and an overabundance of waterfalls will recharge your soul like no other place. 

With no cell coverage, no WiFi, and the only amenity being pit toilets, you are quite literally leaving the rest of the world behind.

Strathcona Park is the oldest Provincial Park in BC, and with over 250,000 hectares to explore, it is also Vancouver Island’s largest.

The area provides you with an abundance of hiking and walking trails of varying difficulties and plenty of camping opportunities. Due to the size of this park, it is best enjoyed over a few days.

North Island Route

The stretch of Highway that extends past Campbell River is named the North Island Route.

This paved, double-lane highway section is particularly scenic, offering views of jagged mountain peaks, expansive forests and frequent wildlife sightings. The highway is well-maintained and motorhome-friendly.

Little Huson Caves

Located within the Regional District of Mount Waddington, Little Huson Caves offers us a small yet spectacular taste of the karst topography found on the island.

The park is centred around Atluck Creek Canyon, an area of breathtaking natural beauty. There are several amazing karst features to view and explore, as well as 15 known caves.

One of the best features of this park is that you don't have to go underground (unless you want to) to experience and view these natural phenomena.

Telegraph Cove

This postcard-ready boardwalk community is nestled at the northern end of Johnstone Strait.

From its preserved historic multicoloured buildings on stilts to the picture-perfect ocean views, Telegraph Cove remains an iconic eco-tourism destination on Vancouver Island.

During the summer, this snug little community bustles with travellers eager to view whales, catch fish, camp and kayak along the sheltered waters and secluded inlets. 

With its many eco-tours , it's a village that offers a great selection of truly magnificent adventures and activities you can partake in.

A must-see and do is a guided trip to the Broughton Archipelago .

Port McNeill

Port McNeill is a proud forestry community. So it makes sense that while there, you can view the world's largest burls (there are two!).

The world’s second-largest burl (formerly the largest) was cut from the base of a 351-year-old Sitka Spruce tree in 1976. This burl weighs an estimated 22 tons and measures 13.7 meters in circumference.

At the time of its discovery, it was the largest burl. It was later displaced from its position by a discovery in 2005.

It's located in a not-so-blatant area in the town centre and protected by trees, bushes and a structure (in an abandoned parking lot).

Please note the signpost near the burl hasn’t been updated and still says “the world’s largest burl.”

The largest of the two burls was carved off a tall Sitka Spruce tree near Holberg in 2005. It is 6 meters tall and 6 meters in diameter and weighs an estimated 30 tons. This one is just outside of town, off SW Main Road (off Hwy 19 N).

Port McNeill is also a gateway to two fascinating northern islands (keep reading below).

Malcolm Island

Malcolm Island is where Orcas rub against the smooth pebbled beach, and humans go to create lasting memories.

While relatively small in size (24 km long and 3 km wide at its narrowest point) and with a population of only 684 (2016), Malcolm Island offers much to its visitors.

You will find breathtaking scenery, great outdoor experiences, ample wildlife viewing opportunities, and a fascinating history.

A 25-minute ferry ride from the Port McNeill harbour links to Malcolm Island. The Ferry service runs between Port McNeill, Sointula, and Alert Bay seven days a week.

It’s a bit of a convoluted schedule, so check the  BC Ferries website  for updates before you go.

Alert Bay (Cormorant Island)

Explore this working coastal town proudly celebrating its First Nations and Pioneer heritage. It has a steep history worth learning about.

From the world-renowned U’mista Cultural Centre to the world's tallest totem pole, Alert Bay is known internationally as a centre for First Nations Culture.

The pristine waterways surrounding Cormorant Island are some of the best places to find resident Orcas. The area is also known for Humpback, Minke, and Transient killer whales.

And if you ask me, it's a must-see stop on any Vancouver Island North road trip!

Cormorant Island, home of Alert Bay, is linked by a 35-minute ferry ride from Port McNeill and is on the same schedule mentioned above.

What is the most northern point of Vancouver Island?

Port Hardy marks the end of Highway 19 and is the northernmost town on Vancouver Island. It is a gateway to many outdoor activities, including fishing, world-class scuba diving, caving, kayaking, boating, hiking, and nature viewing.

Things to See and Do in Port Hardy

Top things to do in Port Hardy

• Stroll the miles of sand or build sandcastles on Storey's Beach.
• Walk along the beautiful boardwalk trail .
• Explore the tidal pools in Hardy Bay at low tide.
• Walk the seawall of Hardy Bay and read the interpretive signage along the way.
• If you have a boat, head to God's Pocket .
• Visit Fort Rupert and view the totems and big house.
• Follow the old-growth nature trail along the Quatse River and Estuary Loop.
• Take a guided fish hatchery tour and view world-class exhibits and interactive displays.
• Dive at Bear Cove – a haven for marine life!
• Go on a guided fishing charter and try catching the ‘big one.'
• Indulge in candied smoked salmon made by famous locals, ‘Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish.'
• Head to the Port Hardy Museum for a history lesson.
• Hike to a plane crash .
• Storm watch at the Blow Hole at Thomas Point.
• Drive to Coal Harbour and/or Cape Scott

San Josef Bay and Cape Scott

Due to the many stunning images floating around social media, this incredible area of Vancouver Island North is becoming increasingly popular.

Cape Scott Provincial Park is a walk-in-only park. The one parking lot is only accessible via a very long drive down a rough logging road.

However, if you are up for the adventure, you will have access to pristine rainforests, majestic beaches and unspoiled nature.

Please note: If you have a rental car, and depending on their policies, driving this road may not be permittable. Please check in with the rental company before you go!

Need a Place to Stay while touring Vancouver Island North?

As mentioned above, Port Hardy is the gateway to many great activities and adventures for the northernmost areas of Vancouver Island.

It's also the perfect location to lay your head. Here are some great Port Hardy hotel recommendations:

Port Hardy Hotels and Resorts

If you'd rather rent a place of your own:

Vacation rentals in Vancouver Island North

I'm sure by now, you are overwhelmed with possibilities. There are so many places to see and things to do in northern Vancouver Island.

It's truly a unique area to visit and a much worthwhile road trip.

What are your favourite sights or things to do while visiting Vancouver Island North?

Let us know in the comments below.

Save this article on Pinterest for future use:

Other Vancouver Island Road Trip Ideas

• 5-Day Vancouver Island Itinerary
• Road trip to Tofino

Meet Kim Parcher, the creative mind and driving force behind Vancouver Island View. Kim's passion for experience-based travel and her talent for sharing valuable information have made her a dedicated niche blogger and freelance writer since 2016. Her unwavering dedication to unlocking the secrets of Vancouver Island, her home since 2009, has made her an undisputed authority in the realm of immersive exploration of the island.

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Hi We’re coming to Port Alice at the end of September/beginning of October and would be really grateful if you have any useful nuggets of information that we could have. We’ve never been this far north on the island before and we’re really looking forward to seeing a different Vancouver Island. As I say any tips on what to do would be gratefully received. Many thanks :}

I am an Islander and still have much to explore. I also love !! the cover of Vancouver Is. North road trip . Can your tell me who the artist/photographer is. Thank you!

The North Island is a spectacular place to explore. As for the “cover”, I’m not sure which one you mean…but the large photo (at the bottom) was taken by me while at Little Huson Caves. The featured image you see when on the main page/category for the North Island, is a stock photo from Getty images – as I didn’t have the right photo for the job. c

Thank you for writing the articles that you do! I have been a subscriber from the beginning & look forward to every new destination & highlight you present. With this latest feature being the North Island, I could hardly contain my excitement! Sadly though as a resident of Port McNeill, I was truly disappointed in how our beautiful little town was represented. Yes we are a logging community, but we are also so much more! For starters from Port McNeill you can go whale watching, diving, kayaking, fishing, boating, hiking as well as helicopter tours. A sea to sky experience is a reality here. We are also the gateway to the Broughton Archipelago, a boaters mecca, where people come from all over to enjoy the solitude & wildlife viewing opportunities our area provides! I truly hope you return to our area at some point and give us the opportunity we deserve!

Hi Cindy, thank you so much for being such a devoted reader of Vancouver Island View. I am so sorry you feel I misrepresented Port McNeill. I have to admit I haven’t spent much time in your beautiful area. From my point of view, Port Hardy and Port McNeill offer very similar experiences and excursions (but please correct me if I am wrong). So with hopes of not being too repetitive in the article, I focussed on the uniqueness of Port McNeill (that which Port Hardy doesn’t offer). I take your feedback to heart and only hope I get another chance to tour your area!

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The Complete Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary (The Best Stops in 1 Week!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate 1-Week Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary 

Looking for your next big road trip in the Pacific Northwest?

Maybe you’ve driven the entire Pacific Coast Highway , seen all the sights along an Oregon Coast road trip , or even discovered all the hidden gems along an Olympic Peninsula trip itinerary .

If you’re looking for even more  things to do in the Pacific Northwest , you’ve got to plan a Vancouver Island road trip! Full of lush green forests, secret beaches, and lots of adventure, we’re here to share everything we know about this amazing location.

In this post, we’re putting together an epic 1-week Vancouver Island itinerary for you , including ways to extend your trip for even more adventure!

Are you ready?

Because this island is going to blow your mind!

No Time To Read?

That’s okay! Pin this to reference later!

Vancouver Island Road Trip: PRE-TRIP PLANNING

This post may contain affiliate links, vetted and chosen by yours truly!

Wait, Where is Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is located in British Columbia, Canada . British Columbia sits on the west coast of Canada, and Vancouver Island is the largest island in that province. With 12,079 square miles to explore, it would take you 7 hours in the car to drive from end to end.

Planning our Vancouver Island road trip, we naively thought we could see the entire thing in a mere two weeks. Oh, how wrong we were!

To give Vancouver Island the time and exploration it deserves, one would need to spend at least a month on BC or come back for repeat trips to see different parts of the island.

Now, we totally get that most people don’t have that kind of free time. Therefore, this post is going to be the ideal itinerary to see the highlights of visiting Vancouver Island in ONE WEEK , and hopefully, it will light that spark to make a return trip ASAP!

The Best Way To Travel Around Vancouver Island

The best way to travel around Vancouver Island is by car . However, in order to bring a car to the island, you’ll need to travel by ferry (more on that below).

Since this post is a road trip itinerary, we recommend bringing (or renting!) a vehicle that has everything you need. Here are a few of our favorite options for getting around Vancouver Island:

Renting a Camper Van

If you are traveling to Vancouver Island in the summer, we can’t emphasize how much we recommend camping! There are so many amazing campsites on Vancouver Island, some even right next to the ocean! Our favorite way to rent recreational vehicles is from Outdoorsy .

Renting a converted van would mean you have the freeing mobility to be cooking breakfast under a forested canopy in the morning, and watching the sunset through your open doors after a long surf session by evening!

Bringing a Regular Car

Another really great option for traveling around Vancouver Island would be with a regular-sized car . One large enough to carry your gear, of course, but this gives you options to easily fit in hotel parking lots, down small roads, and still have the option of car camping, too!

Read More: 20 Genius Car Camping Hacks To Try On Your Next Road Trip

How To Get To Vancouver Island

Since this IS an island, you’ll need to take a ferry to reach Vancouver Island.

If you haven’t been on a ferry before, it’s basically a really large boat that you can drive your car onto, like a water taxi that takes you across the water. Depending on the route you choose, you will sail through the Howe Sound, the Salish Sea, or the Strait of Juan de Fuca and pass spots like Bowen Island and Newcastle Island Park. There are multiple routes to take – here’s a breakdown below:

• Horseshoe Bay (North Vancouver) to Nanaimo : This is the best route to take if you are hoping to explore places like Campbell River or Tofino.
• Port Angeles, WA to Victoria: This is convenient for people who live in Washington and Oregon, and it drops you off right in the middle of Victoria!
• Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay:  This is the most direct ferry route for people who live in Vancouver and want to reach the metro areas of Vancouver Island.

Expect the ferry costs to be around $90 total for two people. Bringing a car onto the ferry costs around $50 for normal cars (less than 20 feet in length and 7 feet high) and a little bit more in price for RVs and larger vehicles, and each person will be around $15-$20.

If you are traveling to Vancouver Island during the busy season (May – September) we recommend reserving your ferry spots at the  BC ferries website . If you are traveling to Vancouver Island in the off-season, there is likely to be a spot on the ferry, and you can pay for your ticket upon arrival.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver Island?

Honestly, there isn’t a bad time to visit Vancouver Island . The changing seasons bring a variety of awesome activities, and it all depends on what you want to include in your one-week Vancouver Island itinerary.

Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and their highlights to help you make your decision:

• Winter in Vancouver Island: Fewest crowds, storm watching in Tofino, and opportunities to do snow sports in Strathcona Provincial Park.
• Spring in Vancouver Island: Gorgeous blooming cherry blossoms in Victoria, waterfalls at their fullest, many hiking opportunities.
• Summer in Vancouver Island: Sunny days, Butchart Gardens (Victoria) in full bloom, lots of camping opportunities.
• Autumn in Vancouver Island: Witness the salmon run, visit island wineries, enjoy the many harvest festivals on the island.

Vancouver Island Road Trip: DAY BY DAY BREAKDOWN

So how should you break down the days on your 1-week Vancouver road trip itinerary? Below, we’re giving you our recommendations, as well as extra places to consider exploring if you have a bit of extra time!

Day 1: Explore Victoria, BC

Your Vancouver Island Road Trip route is going to begin on a ferry. As explained above, there are several ways to get here, but Berty and I chose to take the Black Ball Ferry Line from Port Angeles, Washington, which docks you right in the heart of downtown Victoria.

The ferry ride was an adventure all its own! We got some major Wes Anderson vibes with the boat’s accidentally retro color palette and frozen-in-time furniture.

Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria is a perfect place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. Berty and I wanted to make this one of the first stops on our Vancouver Island road trip because we wanted to gain a deeper appreciation for the land before we discovered any further.

The museum is separated into three parts – The Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First People’s Gallery. Each one shares a unique story about British Columbia and what makes this area special. We especially loved learning about the First Nations’ languages, the temperate rainforest, and different natural conservative efforts going on in BC today!

We only had 24 hours in Victoria, so we weren’t able to explore it as much as we would have liked. Keep returning to this post, because when we make a return trip to Vancouver Island (and we want to very soon!) we’ll update this post with more things to do in Victoria, BC!

Day 2: Victoria To Port Renfrew

Driving Distance: 2-hours, 110 kilometers

To continue your Vancouver Island road trip, grab some coffee at a local roaster in Victoria and hit the road driving to the west coast of the island. Today will include places like Sooke (with amazing cliffside views and trails), Jordan River (lush rainforest hikes), and delicious small town treats!

Sooke is an adventurous town, just 30 minutes west of Victoria, BC. Many come here to enjoy the surrounding nature, which includes the popular Whiffin Spit Park (popular for bird watching) and the Sooke Potholes .

Looking to try a multi-day backpacking trip on the Juan de Fuca Trail or the West Coast Trail? Sooke is the perfect base to get prepped before your big backpacking trip . You can find tons of resources, as well as many delicious restaurants to prep you for the big trail ahead.

One of our favorite stops in Sooke was East Sooke Regional Park . Here, you can take their many coastal trails to discover secret coves (perfect for a picnic!) and incredible views of the Salish Sea. Our favorite trail was to Creyke Point (pictured above!) for its scenic cliffs and great sunset spots.

Jordan River

Known for its epic surfing locations, Jordan River is smack in the middle of Port Renfrew and Sooke, making it a great stop during your Vancouver Island Road Trip.

Here, you have quick access to famous beaches like China Beach and Mystic Beach , and the town also serves as the beginning of the Juan de Fuca Trail . This is also where we stayed at this gorgeous rainforest cabin , and listened to the rain as we drifted to sleep.

For even more surfing opportunities, rainforest trails, and even a secret waterfall, consider hiking to Sombrio Beach . This trail will bring you to a slot canyon covered in bright green moss, perfect for those Indiana Jones discovery moments on Vancouver Island!

Read More: 10 Epic Adventures To Take In Port Renfrew, British Columbia

Shirley, Vancouver Island

Shirley is a small community  nestled between Sooke and Jordan River, along Highway 14 (The Pacific Marine Circle Route).

Here you can stop in to grab a bite to eat at the exceptional Shirley Delicious restaurant and maybe even time your visit for the annual craft fairs around Christmas and springtime. Outdoor attractions nearby Shirley include the Sheringham Point Lighthouse Park , and French Beach , where we saw plenty of winter surfers catching waves!

A little bit more about Sheringham Point Lighthouse – established in 1912, it saved numerous lives on the dangerous waves offshore (this area is known a the Graveyard of the Pacific) and was designated a historic site for visitors to enjoy year-round!

Read More: Incredible Pacific Northwest Cabins To Rent

Day 3: Exploring Port Renfrew

Driving Distance: Around Port Renfrew (<50 miles)

Port Renfrew is the farthest west location on the Pacific Marine Circle Route, and also at the end of Highway 14.

This town is wildly popular for hiking , whether it be along the sea’s edge, or deep in the rainforests of Vancouver Island. From the glassy tide pools of Botanical Beach to the gnarly giants of the Avatar Grove , Port Renfrew is the perfect location to stay if you’re seeking outdoor adventure.

Here are some attractions to consider along this part of your Vancouver Island Road Trip:

Big Lonely Doug

Standing in the middle of a clear cut forest towers Big Lonely Doug, a 70 meter tall Douglas fir tree . No one knows why this tree was spared and the others not, but it is a beautiful sight to come and see with your own eyes. We were surprised at how truly huge this tree was, we definitely felt like tiny ants at its base!

Driving Note: To reach Big Lonely Doug, you’ll need to take a gravel/dirt logging road for about a 45-minute drive. We recommend having a 4-wheel drive vehicle and/or a skilled driver to navigate those giant potholes and steep stretches!

Avatar Grove

Looking to explore deep in the rainforest on Vancouver Island? Avatar Grove is located just a short drive north of Port Renfrew, and it boasts some of the largest trees in the county ! Carefully cared for by the Ancient Forest Alliance , there are two sections to Avatar Grove – the Upper Grove and Lower Grove.

Each has a series of boardwalks to weave you through the forest to explore the numerous attractions along the way. One of the highlights of the trail is seeing Canada’s Gnarliest Tree (located at the end of the Upper Grove), which is a giant tree with huge burl growths attached to it.

Avatar Grove is easy to reach from Port Renfrew, and along the same route as Big Lonely Doug . Plan to see them together to save time!

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is one of the most popular beaches to visit in this part of Vancouver Island. Serving as one terminus of the Juan de Fuca Trail, you will see backpackers enter here for their long 47-kilometer journey as well as day hikers coming to watch the sunset.

The journey is just as fun as the destination! Along the way, you will find yourself walking across a suspension bridge , crossing streams, and climbing over tree roots to reach the beach. Once you arrive, turn to your left to discover the waterfall cascading over the sandstone cliffs into the ocean!

Botanical Beach

If you love the sea, Botanical Beach is an essential stop on your Vancouver Island Road Trip! This beach in British Columbia has some of the richest and most diverse tide pools in the area. Most of them are so clear and so deep that it looks like you are peeking into a mini aquarium at your feet!

We highly recommend visiting during low tide so you can experience the tide pools in their entirety.

Tide pool etiquette rules are required to keep this place alive and thriving, so do your part by stepping only on bare rocks and putting things back where you found them. Finally, never turn your back to the ocean (even at low tide!) and stay safe out there!

Day 4: Driving From Port Renfrew To Tofino

Driving Distance: 5 hours, 340 kilometers

To continue your Vancouver Island Road Trip, you’ll have to begin the journey from Port Renfrew to Tofino . There are many stops along the way  so we’ll briefly touch on those below, but we also wanted to mention some of our favorite road trip posts to keep you busy on the drive!

Our Favorite Road Trip Podcasts + Audiobooks

We’ve compiled a list of our all-time favorite podcasts for a road trip , including some Bachelor gossip pods, some about viral internet memes, and so much more. Click to read the full list here!

15+ Incredible Road Trip Planner Apps

These road trip planner apps help us find everything from the fastest routes to the cheapest gas stations. We use these road trip apps all the time to make our lives a little bit easier during long road trips, and we hope you find your new favorites, too!

101 Road Trip Questions

Want to get to know your group better? We’ve compiled the perfect mix of serious and funny road trip questions , perfect for long drives and great conversations . You can even download the list for offline use here!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Stops From Port Renfrew to Tofino

• Bonsai Fir Tree – A little fir tree is determined to grow in the middle of Fairy Lake atop a log sticking out of the water. It’s a cool sight!
• Lizard Lake – Take a late breakfast or lunch break on Lizard Lake’s huge dock.
• Cathedral Grove – Similar to Avatar Grove, this protected area of Macmillan Provincial Park has short boardwalk trails on either side of Highway 4 to walk among the giants and stretch your legs.

Day 5-6: Explore Around Tofino

Driving Distance: Around Tofino

Tofino is a west coast town on Vancouver Island, known for its surf culture and relaxing ocean vibe . Many people come here for long weekend getaways, so you’ll find plenty of gorgeous Tofino resorts and cabins dotting the ocean’s shore.

There are a lot of seriously amazing things to do in Tofino , but we’re sharing the highlights of our Vancouver Island Road Trip below, perfect for 2-3 days in Tofino . We think that if you spend a few days here, you can achieve everything on this list below!

Don’t forget to check out our Tofino packing list! It has a lot of specific items you should consider, especially if you’re new to the Pacific Northwest climate!

Read More: The Best Resorts In The Pacific Northwest

Walk The Beaches In Tofino

Some of our favorite times of the day were spent wandering the shores of beautiful beaches in Tofino . Depending on the time of year you take your road trip on Vancouver Island, the beaches can look very different, each season with its own unique vibe!

Come to Cox Bay to watch experienced surfers catch the waves. If it’s raining, hideaway in Long Beach Resort ‘s window-filled lounge and watch them from the sofa!

Chesterman Beach is perfect for beginning surfers and Mackenzie Beach is great for people who want to try Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Don’t forget to check out Tonquin Beach for some quick and easy beach trails in town, too!

There are so many beaches in Tofino to explore – we recommend stopping by the Tofino Visitor Centre to ask for suggestions. They can let you know which beach is best for you and your desired activities.

Visit Hot Springs Cove

Hot Springs Cove is a once in a lifetime adventure to a geothermal pool tucked away on the rocky shores of Vancouver Island! To reach these PNW hot springs , you’ll need to book a boat tour or floatplane departing from Tofino.

Plan for a full-day trip to these hot springs in BC. Regular tours leave around 9:00 am and return around 4:00 pm. For more information (and tricks to potentially get it all to yourself!) click here for all our best tips on visiting Hot Springs Cove .

Read More: Book This Epic Trip to Hot Springs Cove, Tofino

Hike To Cox Bay Lookout

Cox Bay Lookout is arguably home to some of the best views in Tofino !

This short but steep hike is located at the southernmost point of Cox Bay . Find the inconspicuous trailhead along a creek’s end, and climb up the root-entangled trail for about 20 minutes.

It’s a steep climb, so leave your pups at home and prepare to get your hands dirty! There are hot pink trail markers wrapped around tree trunks to help guide your way if you get lost.

Once at the top, enjoy expansive views of the Clayoquot Sound and the town of Tofino in the distance. On a clear day, this is an incredible spot to watch the sunset!

Read More: 13 Epic Hikes in Tofino Plucked Right From The Rainforest

Eat At Delicious Restaurants in Tofino

Tofino is one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island and to top it all off, they have some of the best restaurants,  too!

Some of our personal favorites included Tacofino (an iconic taco food truck with outdoor seating) and Rhino Coffee and Donuts. However, there are so many more restaurants in Tofino that we loved, here are just some of them below…

• Tacofino – Outdoor seating with huge burritos and local ingredients.
• Tofitian – Convenient coffeehouse next to several beaches.
• Rhino Coffee and Donuts – Great coffee, but even better donuts and breakfast sandwiches.
• Kuma – Amazing Japanese comfort food like hearty ramen with vegan options as well.
• Shelter Restaurant – Excellent date night option with amazing moody ambiance and fresh local eats.

Want to Stay Longer In The Tofino Area? Discover the best places to stay in Tofino, BC! (camping, budget + luxury!)

Day 6: Tofino To Campbell River

Driving Distance: 3.5 hours, 270 kilometers

Campbell River is located on the north-eastern side of Vancouver Island ,  along the edge of the Discovery Passage waterway. Known for its iconic Tyee fishing spots and  abundant outdoor activities this is a great spot for nature lovers of all ages.

Stay awhile in Campbell River for their unique local eateries like Beach Fire Brewing (with crazy Tuesday experimental brews!) and carefully sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients at the famous Anglers Restaurant .

They are also known for being close to nature, which means you can grab brunch in town and be out on the trails just a half-hour later!

No matter how many days you choose to stay, Campbell River is a must-stop destination on your Vancouver Island trip! Here’s what we suggest doing while you’re here…

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Visiting Elk Falls is one of the most popular activities in Campbell River, BC. Located just a quick drive from town (we’re talking only 10 minutes!) Elk Falls provides a fun opportunity for the whole family to get outside.

With just a 2-kilometer trail you can experience epic views of Elk Falls from the platforms, as well as walk across the suspension bridge to view the powerful 25-meter drop .

Come for the short trail to the falls, or stick around longer to take an extended hike (6 kilometers) farther down the river for more magical river views.

Read More: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary in Campbell River, British Columbia

Take The Trail To Myra Falls (+ Other Waterfalls Near Campbell River)

Another amazing activity to do along your Vancouver Island Road Trip is to discover the many nearby waterfalls in Strathcona Provincial Park . One of the easiest waterfalls to reach is Myra Falls, a 1-kilometer out-and-back trail with a killer view of this multi-tiered falls.

Come to the two viewpoints (upper and lower) and explore around the rocks to discover even more places to view the falls from up close! Don’t forget to pack a picnic to share along the shores of Buttle Lake , the endpoint of Myra Falls .

Love chasing waterfalls? Here are some other waterfalls on Vancouver Island to explore!

• Lupin Falls: A tall 30-meter drop viewable from a short forest trail.
• Lady Falls:  Old-growth trail leads to a viewing platform to feel the mist from this powerful Vancouver Island waterfall.
• Niagara Falls: Near Victoria, BC, this waterfall requires just a quick walk from the parking lot. Continue farther up the trail to visit Niagara Trestle, too (scroll down for more info on that!).

Relax At Dolphins Resort

After a long day of driving and exploring along your Vancouver Island Road Trip, it’s time for the ultimate evening of relaxation at Dolphins Resort ! This unique resort in Campbell River offers the luxury of oceanside views combined with the feeling of being tucked away in the woods.

Berty and I stayed at their room called the Beach House , which is a converted studio with unobstructed views of the water, specifically over Discovery Passage. It was an incredible place to watch the sunrise , as well as feel rejuvenated and restored for a new day of adventure ahead!

Day 7: End Your Vancouver Island Road Trip From Campbell River To Victoria

Driving Distance: 3 hours, 265 kilometers

Your Vancouver Island Road Trip has come to an end, but that doesn’t mean the adventure stops on your way back! Driving from Campbell River back to Victoria, BC, here are some stops you should check out on your drive…

Sunrise at the Discovery Pier

Before leaving Campbell River, make sure to watch the sunrise from Discovery Pier. This historic pier is 180-meters long, with plenty of unobstructed views of Discovery Passage and Quadra Island across the water.

Grab some coffee at the Java Shack beforehand, and take a walking tour of the pier before you start your trip south to Victoria.

Niagara Trestle

The Niagara Trestle (also referred to as the Goldstream Trestle) is located in Goldstream Provincial Park , just 30 minutes north of Victoria. The hike to the trestle is short but extremely steep , so be prepared to take plenty of breaks on the way up.

The actual trestle itself is on private property , so respect the area and please do not walk along/across the top that’s suspended above the river. Feel free to take photos from the sides, though! On the way back to the car, make sure to stop by Niagara Falls – it’s the most powerful in the springtime!

Here are some other similar attractions to check out along the way:

The Kinsol Trestle: The Kinsol Trestle, located in Cowichan Valley, has been converted into a walking bridge towering 44 meters above the Koksilah River below. Come to stretch your legs during your Vancouver Island Road Trip!

Todd Creek Trestle: Located in the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, this wooden trestle in Vancouver Island is a fun stop along your route.

Want To Extend Your Vancouver Island Road Trip?

Not ready to leave Vancouver Island? There are so many places to explore on the island that you won’t be able to see everything in just one trip (which is fine because we’re already itching to come back!)!

If you want to even further customize your trip or take some side trips along the way, here are more suggestions for making your Vancouver Island Road Trip unique to you!

Port Hardy and San Josef

Ready to explore the northern Vancouver Island ? Cape Scott Provincial Park  and Port Hardy are some of the most remote communities and parks you can visit on the Island, which brings a lot more opportunity to see wildlife and more space to yourself.

Don’t forget to check out Telegraph Cove near Port McNeill , a picturesque village on the edge of the water.

West Coast Trail

The backpacking trip of all backpacking trips is hands down on The West Coast Trail .  This 5-7 day backpacking trip is 75-kilometers along the coast in the Pacific Rim National Park . Permits are required, children are not allowed, and you are strongly encouraged to be an experienced backpacker.

From hand-carts across raging rivers, root-crossed trails, several ladders, and more, this is one of the most exciting and daunting backpacking trips out there.

Thirty minutes south of Tofino is the opposite side of the peninsula – a small town called Ucluelet . It’s worth an extended visit all its own! You’ll get the same climate and vibe as in Tofino, however, it’s home to the Wild Pacific Trail , awesome camping opportunities, and dramatic swells along the rocky ocean shores.

Ucluelet is more affordable than Tofino, but you’ll have that extra 30-minute drive into town . Expect amazing views of craggy shores and views of the Broken Group Islands to the south, and one of the longest beaches in the area, aptly named Long Beach for lots of different activity choices.

Sooke is a town on the southern coast of Vancouver Island, just 40 minutes from Victoria, BC. Here, you can experience unspoiled beaches , several hiking trails , East Sooke Provincial Park, The Sooke Potholes , and Roche Cove Park (to name a few favorites!).

This is a great stop along the Pacific Marine Circle Route if you’re looking to make Victoria a home base with smaller day trips around the area.

Pacific Marine Circle Route (Condensed Vancouver Island Road Trip)

Don’t have an entire week for your Vancouver Island road trip? Or maybe you don’t want to spend long hours in the car? Try taking the Pacific Marine Circle Route, which connects Victoria, Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan and then back to Victoria.

This condensed version of a Vancouver Island Road Trip can be accomplished in 2-3 days, or you can spend an entire week just on this route, spending a lot of time in each area!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary Examples (5 Days, 1 Week, 2 Weeks)

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in just a one week Vancouver Island Road Trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re  sharing some more example itineraries  for a shorter 5 days in Vancouver Island and longer 2 weeks in Vancouver. Read below to find your perfect itinerary!

Note:  For the sake of convenience, we’re starting these Vancouver Island itineraries in Victoria, BC. If you’d like to start in Nanaimo or another place, just accommodate for your starting location!

Five Day Vancouver Island Itinerary (Pacific Marine Circle Route)

Highlights:  Quick access beaches, short hikes, easy-to-reach locations just off the highway.

Five days in Vancouver Island is a  perfect way to see all the highlights  on a quick Vancouver Island road trip. With a five day Vancouver Island itinerary, you will have lots of time to explore the island’s most easily accessible beaches and attractions.

Prepare either for  lots of time spent in the car , OR prioritizing a few places and saving some Vancouver Island destinations for another trip. Five days is a perfect amount of time to explore a smaller section of the island like the Pacific Marine Circle Route. This means saving the rest of the island for another trip, which isn’t a bad idea!

No matter what you choose, there are tons of beautiful places to visit on Vancouver Island and you won’t be disappointed!

• Day 1:  Victoria, BC to Port Renfrew, BC
• Day 2:  Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan, BC
• Day 3:  Lake Cowichan to Duncan, BC
• Day 4:  Duncan, BC to Victoria, BC
• Day 5:  Overnight in Victoria and spend the day exploring downtown!

Two-Week Vancouver Island Itinerary

Highlights:  More time in each destination, longer hikes, less-visited destinations.

We think two weeks is the ideal amount of time to spend on a Vancouver Island Road Trip.  During this time, you can do everything a 5-day trip would experience and MORE. You will have more time to take longer hikes and reach farther places, exploring more parts of the island!

This will give you a  deeper look into the hidden gems of Vancouver Island,  and allow you to see places not many others get to experience!

Here’s how we suggest you break down your days on a two-week Vancouver Island Road Trip:

• Day 1:  Victoria, BC to Port Renfrew (see Sooke along the way)
• Day 2:  Explore Port Renfrew (Big Lonely Doug, Avatar Grove, Botanical Beach, etc)
• Day 3:  Drive from Port Renfrew to Tofino
• Day 4:  Explore Tofino Beaches
• Day 5:  Visit Hot Springs Cove, Tofino
• Day 6:  Explore Tofino and Ucluelet (Pacific Rim National Park)
• Day 7:  Drive from Tofino to Campbell River
• Day 8: Explore Campbell River Area
• Day 9: Explore Campbell River
• Day 10: Drive to Port Hardy
• Day 11: Camp in Cape Scott Provincial Park Day 12: Drive back down to Campbell River (stop at Telegraph Cove)
• Day 13: Campbell River to Victoria, BC
• Day 14: Explore Downtown Victoria, BC and return home!

Want a printable Vancouver Island itinerary? Sign up below and get your free downloadable copy!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Map (Downloadable!)

Below, you can find a map of Vancouver Island, the best spots to visit, and our favorite stops on a road trip itinerary! Save this map by clicking the top left corner to refer back to it later!

What stop are you most looking forward to on a Vancouver Island Road Trip? Any stops you would add to our Vancouver Island itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver, Canada

20+ Amazing Things To Do In Banff National Park

How To Spend One Day In Vancouver, British Columbia

How To Plan A Trip To The Pacific Northwest

Plan the ultimate North Vancouver Island road trip

Vancouver Island is arguably one of the most beautiful places in the world. A lot of the well-known spots such as Victoria and Cowichan Valley are located on the southern part of the island. However, drive north and you’ll find a remote and rugged wilderness. With an abundance of wildlife and unspoiled landscapes, a North Vancouver Island road trip is a must if you’re visiting British Columbia!

There are so many great things to do on North Vancouver Island. From secluded beaches and lush rainforests, to unparalleled wildlife experiences like kayaking with orcas and watching grizzly bears hunt salmon, North Vancouver Island has so much to offer.

To help you explore it for yourself, I’ve put together a comprehensive 5-day North Vancouver Island road trip itinerary . Read on to find out all the must-see places, where to stay, where to eat and more. I’ve also included additional things to do on North Vancouver Island in case you want to extend your trip.

Disclaimer : This blog post features some affiliate links, which means I get a small commission if you make a purchase. There’s no extra cost to you but it just helps me to keep writing these free guides and itineraries for my readers. Thank you for your support!

PLANNING A SCENIC 5-DAY NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND ROAD TRIP

There are so many wonderful things to see and do on North Vancouver Island. This 5-day itinerary is based on my own experiences but you can easily tailor this to your own travel style and add or cut any stops you see fit.

NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAN d itinerary

• Day 1: Travel to Campbell River: Explore downtown
• Day 2: Campbell River: Elk Falls and Strathcona Provincial Park
• Day 3: Travel to Telegraph Cove: Explore the resort and go kayaking
• Day 4: Telegraph Cove: Whale watching
• Day 5: Travel home (optional stops along the way)

Before we jump in to the itinerary, here are some important things to know to help you plan your own trip:

How do you get to North Vancouver Island?

Depending on where you’re coming from, you can either drive and take a ferry to the island, or fly and pick up a rental car once you arrive. In most cases, you’ll start your road trip from Nanaimo or Victoria and drive to Campbell River where you’ll start this itinerary. Here are the approximate driving distances:

• Victoria to Campbell River: 3.5 hours (via Nanaimo)
• Nanaimo to Campbell River: 1.5 hours

The drive to North Vancouver Island is relatively straightforward. If you start from Victoria, you’ll end up passing through Nanaimo and will join Highway 19, known as the Island Highway. This highway runs all the way to the northern part of the island, passing through Campbell River, Telegraph Cove and Port McNeil, before ending in Port Hardy.

FERRY ROUTES

There are a few different ferry routes to the island depending on where you’re travelling from:

• Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay): From Vancouver, the easiest way to get to North Vancouver Island is via Nanaimo. BC Ferries run regular sailings from West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay) on Vancouver Island. From Nanaimo, take the Inland Island Highway 19 north until you reach Campbell River.
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point): This is the most direct route for anyone living in Vancouver’s southern suburbs or the Fraser Valley. The crossing takes about 2 hours.
• Port Angeles (Washington) to Victoria (Inner Harbour): If you’re coming from Washington or Oregon, you can hop over to Vancouver Island from Port Angeles via the  Black Ball Ferry . You’ll arrive into Victoria’s Inner Harbour and from there it’s a 3.5 hour drive to Campbell River. You can take Highway 1 all the way to Nanaimo and then switch onto Highway 19 to Campbell River.

If you’re planning to take the ferry to Nanaimo or Victoria, I recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you’re travelling on a long weekend. You don’t have to pay the full amount right away. You can opt to pay the small reservation fee which secures your spot and pay the rest on the day. Make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure otherwise your reservation will be released.

FLYING TO VANCOUVER ISLAND

For those coming from further away, I’d recommend  flying into Victoria or Nanaimo  and  renting a car . I always use  Skyscanner  to find reasonable rates on flights.

You can hire a car from Nanaimo or Victoria airports once you arrive.   I personally use  Auto Europe  for car rentals as they have great rates. You can compare all the major companies in a grid format that shows the prices for different car sizes by provider. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good.

When is the best time to do a North Vancouver Island road trip?

As far as timing goes, I would recommend doing this road trip in summer or early fall. A lot of businesses on North Vancouver Island are seasonal and are closed from November to May. For example, Telegraph Cove Resort only operates from May to October. As a result, the majority of businesses such as the restaurants, coffee shops, and General Store are only open during these months.

Summer and fall also offer more opportunities to see local wildlife such as bears and whales. While you may see whales anytime between May to October, August and September are said to be prime whale watching season. The salmon also arrive in August which draws the grizzly bears to the shallow water where you can see them on tours.

Spring is also a lovely time to visit and can be cheaper and quieter too. We went in May and were fortunate to see a couple of black bears emerging from hibernation. You’ll often see them grazing on the nutrient-rich grass near the edge of the estuary or on the side of the highway. We also saw grey whales and humpback whales on a whale watching tour. There is a chance you will see orcas earlier in the season as Transient killer whales also pass through the area as early as May.

How long do you need for a road trip around North Vancouver Island?

In my opinion, 5 days is the perfect amount of time for most people to spend on a North Vancouver Island road trip. There are so many amazing things to do on North Vancouver Island but 5 days will give you enough time to see the main sights and attractions without feeling rushed.

If you’re lucky enough to have a few extra days, I’ve included some other places you could explore on North Vancouver Island at the end of the itinerary. 

Where should we stay on North Vancouver Island?

Campbell River and Telegraph Cove are both great bases for exploring North Vancouver Island. In this itinerary, you’ll spend two nights in Campbell River and two nights in Telegraph Cove.

CAMPBELL RIVER

There are a variety of accommodation options to choose from in Campbell River to suit every budget. Here are a few ones that I’d recommend:

• Comfort Inn & Suites  is one of Campbell River’s newer hotels and is located close to the downtown area.
• Above Tide Motel  is such a nice motel. The rooms have recently been renovated and have gorgeous views of the ocean.
• Brown’s Bay Resort  is a 22-minute drive from downtown Campbell River so it’s a bit further away than the other places but is still a great option with cozy cabins and glamping tents

TELEGRAPH COVE

The majority of accommodation in Telegraph Cove is part of Telegraph Cove Resort . The resort is spread out over Telegraph Cove and has a variety of accommodation options, including historic cabins, waterfront suites, and, my personal favourite, the lovely lodge rooms which overlook the cove.

Hidden Cove Lodge  is another great option and is just a 15-minute drive from Telegraph Cove. The lodge has 9 rooms and two oceanfront cottages.

Is North Vancouver Island really remote?

Northern Vancouver Island covers approximately one third of the island yet only 3 percent of the island’s population lives in this area. It definitely feels quite remote in places and requires more planning than other trips. Here are a few things to bear in mind:

• Cell service: While you’ll have service in the small communities, there are long stretches along the way where you won’t have any signal. I recommend downloading offline maps before you set off so that you always know where you are.
• Gas stations: There are gas stations in most of the towns; however, some places only have one or two and they may close earlier than advertised. I suggest filling up in the larger towns even if you still have plenty of gas so that you aren’t relying on filling up in the smaller towns.
• Wildlife: As you’re driving through one of the most remote parts of the island, it’s very likely that you’ll spot wildlife along the way. Drive carefully as you may see wildlife grazing on the side of the road or even trying to cross. If you do spot wildlife while driving, give them plenty of space and admire from a distance. Be respectful and don’t put these animals at risk.
• Weather: Northern Vancouver Island has a wet climate and gets a lot of rain between October and March. Temperate wise, it doesn’t get too hot or cold at any point throughout the year. Expect temperatures to be anywhere between 12 – 20°C from June to October and -1 – 8°C from November to March.

Responsible travel

Before we dive into this road trip itinerary, I do want to call out that this is a sensitive wilderness area. Make sure you take time to educate yourself on Leave No Trace Principles before heading off on your road trip. These 7 principles are guidelines to help you plan, prepare and explore the outdoors more responsibly.

This road trip will take you through the heart of the traditional First Nations’ territory of the Kwakwaka’wakw, the We Wai Kai, Wei Wai Kum and Kwiakah to name just a few. If you can, please consider supporting local indigenous-owned businesses during your trip.

NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY  

Below you’ll find an itinerary map for your North Vancouver Island road trip which features pins for each day’s locations. You can save the map by clicking on the star next to the title and use it to help gauge daily driving distances.

North Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 1: Nanaimo to Campbell River

I recommend starting your road trip from Nanaimo as early as possible to make the most of this 5-day itinerary. If you’re travelling later in the day, you can adapt this itinerary and pick a few spots to see on day 1 and fit the rest into day 2 and 3.

FIRST STOP: DISCOVERY FISHING PIER

For those of you starting your road trip in the morning, you’ll probably arrive at Campbell River around 10.30/11am. Walk down to the water to see Discovery Fishing Pier, Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier and one of Campbell River’s best attractions . The pier is over 180m long and offers amazing views of Discovery Passage and Quadra Island. Unsurprisingly, the pier is a popular fishing spot for both locals and visitors. It even has built-in rod holders, bait stands and fish cleaning tables!

There is a seasonal concession stand which is open from May to October. If it’s open during your visit, don’t miss a chance to try their delicious ice cream. They have lots of flavours to choose from so pick one or two and then wander along the pier and enjoy the views.

While you’re down at the pier, you can also check out the Discovery Passage Aquarium (open from May to August) and the Maritime Heritage Centre (open year-round.) The centre has some fascinating maritime-themed exhibits, including a historic BCP45 fishing boat which was featured on the Canadian $5 bill in the 1970s.

SECOND STOP: DOWNTOWN

Spend the afternoon exploring the town. If you’re looking for gifts or souvenirs, Campbell River is home to many incredible local businesses. Most of the shops are located along Shoppers Row, Tyee Plaza and Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre. Here are a few of my favourites:   

• Westcoast Wildflowers:  This Indigenous owned lifestyle boutique supports small business owners, Indigenous artists, and female entrepreneurs.
• Wei Wai Kum House of Treasures:  This shop showcases West Coast First Nation art, clothing and handmade products.
• Mussels and More:  They specialize in nautical pottery so you’ll find beautiful ocean-inspired mugs, plates, and bowls, as well as art made from glass, metal and wood.
• French Creek Collective:  This vintage lifestyle boutique carries locally sourced home décor, artisanal foods, clothing and jewellery.

As you’re walking around, keep an eye out for the beautiful art murals and driftwood sculptures which are dotted throughout the downtown area. If you’re interested in learning more about Campbell River’s growing art scene, I highly recommend stopping by Campbell River Art Gallery . They have some great exhibitions which showcase the work of local Canadian artists.

THIRD STOP: TYEE SPIT

Once you’ve explored the shops downtown, it’s time to head to the next stop on this itinerary – Tyee Spit. This lovely little peninsula juts out into Discovery Passage and is one of my favourite things to do in Campbell River. It’s an easy walk (4.7km out-and-back) and that takes you all the way along the spit to Dick Murphy Park. If you’re visiting in the summer months, you’ll see lots of wooden rowboats flock to the water trying to catch the traditional Tyee fish – a 30lb+ salmon. This local tradition is so much fun to watch!

FOURTH STOP: RIPTIDE MARINE PUB

With all the walking you’ve probably built up quite an appetite! For dinner I suggest checking out Riptide Marine Pub which is on the way back to the core downtown area. The restaurant has beautiful views of the ocean and has a great selection of dishes including vegan and vegetarian options. It’s a lovely place to dine if you’re celebrating a special occasion.

Read More: A complete guide to Campbell River >

North Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 2: Elk Falls and Strathcona Provincial Park

Head into town and grab some breakfast at Island Grind. Once you’ve fuelled up for the day, it’s time to get back into the car and get ready for a fun day of sight-seeing. Today you’ll explore two of my favourite places on North Vancouver Island – Elk Falls and Strathcona Provincial Park. I recommend packing a picnic in a cooler for the day as there won’t be many places along the way to stop for lunch.   

FIRST STOP: ELK FALLS

Take Highway 19 for 2km and merge onto Gold River Highway (Hwy 28) west for about 4.5km. Turn right onto Brewster Lake Road and then right again onto Elk Falls Park Road which will take you to the main parking lot.

Elk Falls Provincial Park is a really unique park, with a thundering waterfall, a gorgeous suspension bridge, and beautiful scenic viewpoints. The suspension bridge is the main attraction but there are over 6 km of hiking trails that take you through old-growth forests. It’s incredible to see the giant Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir trees, some of which are over 60 metres tall and hundreds of years old!

As you’ll also be exploring Strathcona Provincial Park on today’s itinerary, I recommend just doing the short trail from the car park to the suspension bridge. The trail is about 2km long and is relatively easy and flat but there are a few sections with steps. Once you get to the suspension bridge, you’ll be rewarded with an amazing view of Elk Falls. There are also some steps down to a lower viewing deck.

SECOND STOP: ELK PORTAL IN STRATHCONA PROVINCIAL PARK

After spending a couple of hours at Elk Falls, jump back into the car and head back onto Gold River Highway (Hwy 28) to Strathcona Provincial Park. The park is home to some of Vancouver Island’s biggest mountains and most beautiful lakes and spans over 2,458 square km. In this itinerary, I’ve included a few of the best spots that you can easily see on a day trip. However, if you want to see more of the park, you can always add on an extra day or two and do some camping and hiking.

Drive west along the highway for about 40 minutes. Along the way you’ll be treated to beautiful views of Upper Campbell Lake on your right and the lush forest on your left. After 40 minutes of driving, you’ll be in Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park in British Columbia.

Elk Portal is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. The large pull in area looks out over Upper Campbell Lake and has some picnic tables, public washrooms and the official ‘Strathcona Park’ sign. This is a great place to enjoy your lunch before continuing on to the next stop.   

THIRD STOP: LUPIN FALLS

After lunch continue along the highway for 10 minutes. You’ll reach a junction where the highway will go right over a little bridge but you’ll continue straight. Keep driving on Westmin Road for a couple of minutes until you see a small pull in area on the right hand side. This is the official trail head for Lupin Falls. If you can’t get parked, I would suggest continuing to the next stop and trying again on the way back.

From here, it’s a short but scenic hike (1km loop) to the picturesque Lupin Falls. There is a junction at the beginning of the trail. You can go in either direction but most people go straight on. You’ll cross a wooden bridge across Lupin Creek onto a well-maintained path which is surrounded by large Cedar and Fir trees. There are a few switchbacks which will take you uphill to the waterfall. Lupin Falls has two tiers so you can walk down to the base of the waterfall for a closer view.

FOURTH STOP: LOWER MYRA FALLS

Head back to the car and continue along Westmin Road for about 30 minutes. The road will take you around Buttle Lake, passing some scenic viewpoints along the way. You’ll probably want to pull over and take some photos on your way to Lower Myra Falls!

Once you pass the southern tip of Buttle Lake, keep an eye out for a sign to the parking lot which will be down a little road on your right. At the parking lot, you’ll find an outhouse and an information board with a trail map. The short 1.5km trail to Lower Myra Falls is relatively easy. It’s a downhill walk but bear in mind you’ll have to walk back uphill to the car park! After about three minutes on the trail, you’ll see a junction for the upper and lower viewpoints. Go left to the upper viewpoint and walk for a few minutes until you reach the small viewing platform. While it’s not as impressive as the lower viewpoint, it’s still a great vantage point.

After you’ve taken some photos, walk back to the main trail and continue downhill to the lower viewpoint. After about 5 minutes, you’ll reach the lower falls. For the best view, carefully walk out onto the rocks. They can be quite slippery so watch your footing and stay away from the edges. Behind you, you can see Buttle Lake through the clearing of trees as well as Syd Watts Peak and part of Mt. Albert Edwards.

FIFTH STOP: LADY FALLS (OPTIONAL)

Once you’ve finished up at Lower Myra Falls, it’s time to drive back to Campbell River. Follow Westmin Road back the way you came until you reach the junction where you split from Gold River Highway.

Depending on how much time you have, you can go left across the bridge onto Gold River Highway and drive out to Lady Falls. It’s about a 15-minute drive to the trail head which starts at Lady Falls Picnic Area.

The short 900m trail will take you along a well-marked path through the mossy, old growth forest. You’ll reach the waterfall within about 10 minutes so it’s definitely worth including this stop if you are doing okay for time. Lady Falls plummets nearly 30m to the canyon floor below and is one of the prettiest waterfalls in the park.

SIXTH STOP: SESSION TAPROOM & KITCHEN

Drive back into town and finish the day with dinner and drinks at Session Taproom & Kitchen. It’s a favourite with locals and visitors alike and has a great lively atmosphere. The menu changes regularly but I highly recommend their pizzas and cocktails. They also have 12 rotating taps for craft beer and cider if you want to try a few different local options. If the weather is nice, wander down to the water and catch the sunset.

North Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 3: Campbell River to Telegraph Cove

Wake up and grab a delicious breakfast from Daves’ Bakery. This is one of my favourite spots in Campbell River as everything is freshly made with locally sourced ingredients. There is plenty to choose from including stuffed croissants and deli sandwiches to pot pies and Paninis. Pick up a few extra things for lunch as it’s a long drive to Telegraph Cove and there aren’t a lot of food options along the way.

FIRST STOP: WOSS

Follow Highway 19 north for about 1 hour and 20 minutes until you reach Woss. The drive will take you through the island’s most rugged and isolated scenery and is my favourite part of this North Vancouver Island road trip. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way as you may spot black bears along the side of the road. If you do see bears, please be respectful. Slow down, stay in your car and give the plenty of space.

Once you reach Woss it’s up to you how much time you want to spend here. It’s a small logging town just off the highway and was home to the last operating logging railway in North America. In 2017, the railway finally closed after 100 years of operation. You can drive into the town to visit the historic Steam Locomotive 113. There are also some interpretive panels where you can learn more about the town’s railway logging history. 

If you need to pick anything up, there is a General Store which sells drinks and snacks. There is also a gas station if you need to fill up on gas.

SECOND STOP: LITTLE HUSON CAVES (OPTIONAL)

Little Huson Caves will be your next stop on this North Vancouver Island road trip itinerary. The caves are one of the island’s hidden gems and not that many people know about them as they’re off the beaten path.

Little Huson Caves can only be accessed via gravel logging roads. The roads are quite bumpy so if you don’t have a 4WD with high clearance and/or haven’t driven on logging roads before, I’d probably skip this stop.

From Woss, follow Highway 19 for about 21km until you reach the Zeballos Road turn-off. After 2.5km you’ll cross a bridge over the Nimpish River which will take you to a fork in the road. Here you’ll need to go right to stay on Zeballos Road. At the next fork, take the downhill road to the right (Atluck Forest Service Road). In 2.5km you’ll reach a 4-way intersection. Go left to stay on Atluck FSR for another 1.8km. There will be another fork which you need to go left at to stay on Atluch FSR. After 300m, turn right onto HU1000 Branch Road.

After 2.3km you’ll reach the parking area. The short 0.5km trail will take you down to the caves. It’s a beautiful spot with the creek funnelling through the canyon into the cave and out the other side. If you have the right vehicle, I highly recommend making time for this stop as the caves are one of the best things to do on North Vancouver Island.

THIRD STOP: TELEGRAPH COVE

Now it’s time to head to Telegraph Cove – your final destination of the day! Continue on Highway 19 for approximately 55km until you reach Beaver Cove Road. Here you’ll turn right and drive for about 16 km until you get to Telegraph Cove. 

Telegraph Cove is one of the last boardwalk settlements left on Vancouver Island and is considered to be one of Canada’s most picturesque villages. Get settled into your accommodation and then wander out to explore Telegraph Cove Resort. The resort is actually quite compact so you’ll be able to see a lot in a short space of time.

Pop into the General Store and browse their selection of gifts, clothing and snacks. If you’re feeling a bit hungry, stop at Sally’s Food Bar. The owner, Lesley, is so friendly and welcoming and makes all of the delicious pastries, cookies and cinnamon buns from scratch every day. There’s also an assortment of wraps, sandwiches and specialty coffees.

After you’ve had something to eat, head down to the boardwalk and check out the colourful houses and buildings. There are several plaques along the boardwalk that explain the history of the village and its residents.

FOURTH STOP: SUNSET KAYAKING TOUR

Finish the day by getting out on the water! The scenery surrounding Telegraph Cove is nothing short of spectacular and the best way to see it is on a kayaking tour. North Island Kayak  offers a range of guided sea kayaking tours, from 2-hour short trips to multi-day adventures. The 2-hour evening tour is a must when visiting Telegraph Cove. Your guide will take you into the world-renowned Johnstone Strait where you’ll kayak along the shoreline and out to Wastell Islets. The waters in this area are home to sea lions, porpoises, dolphins, sea birds and bald eagles so keep your eyes peeled!

FIFTH STOP: THE KILLER WHALE CAFÉ

After your tour, head to the Killer Whale Café for some well-earned hearty food. This is the only restaurant in Telegraph Cove so I recommend reserving a table in advance. The restaurant serves a variety of fresh home-made food, including traditional West Coast cuisine, Greek specials, steaks, and pasta and rice dishes.

Read More: The best things to see and do in Telegraph Cove >

North Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 4: Whale watching in Telegraph Cove

Today is going to be quite the adventure! Get up early and wander down to Cove Coffee Company for breakfast. They serve fresh coffee and delicious baked goods. Consider grabbing a take-out hot drink to sip on as you wait for your first activity of the day – whale watching!

FIRST STOP: WHALE WATCHING TOUR

Whale watching is a must on your North Vancouver Island road trip and Telegraph Cove is one of the best places to do so. The picturesque village sits on the edge of Johnstone Strait, across from the Broughton Archipelago, the largest marine park in British Columbia. This area is home to one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems. Each year, orcas, humpback whales, and other marine mammals come to feed in the nutrient-rich waters surrounding Telegraph Cove.

Prince of Whales  offers half-day fully guided whale watching tours on both their semi-covered, custom-built express cruiser and their smaller Zodiacs. Their office is located just opposite Cove Coffee Company and is where you’ll meet for your tour. They run a couple of tours each day but I recommend booking the morning one (normally 9am) to maximise your day. The tour usually lasts for about 3 to 4 hours depending on where the whales are. Make sure you pack your binoculars and camera as you’ll likely to see a lot of wildlife on your tour. I have a full guide all about our experience whale watching which covers everything you need to know.

SECOND STOP: WHALE INTERPRETIVE CENTRE

After your whale watching tour, I highly recommend stopping by the Whale Interpretive Centre on the boardwalk. The centre is home to the largest collection of marine mammal skeletons in British Columbia. You can see the articulated skeletons of many local species, including juvenile fin and humpback whales, killer whales, porpoises and bald eagles.

They also have a genealogy chart which shows the entire population of Northern Resident Killer Whales. It’s incredible to see all of the different pods and learn about the local ones that frequent the Johnstone Strait – some of which you may have seen on your tour!

THIRD STOP: TELEGRAPH COVE ART GALLERY

If you haven’t had any lunch yet, stop by Sally’s Food Bar and try one of their spinach and feta pastries or freshly bakes almond croissants. After fuelling up, wander up the hill to the Telegraph Cove Art Gallery. The gallery features the beautiful work of Don Bastian, a renowned carver and wood artist. You’ll also find work by other local artists so if you’re looking for some gifts or souvenirs from your trip this is a great place to visit.

FOURTH STOP: THE KILLER WHALE CAFÉ

Finish the day with dinner at the Killer Whale Café. If the weather is nice, walk down to the boardwalk after dinner and catch the sun setting over the islands in Broughton Archipelago.

North Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 5: Telegraph Cove to Nanaimo

It’s the last day of your North Vancouver Island road trip! Wake up early and enjoy breakfast at Sally’s Food Bar or Cove Coffee Company before you get back on the road.

FIRST STOP: PORT MCNEIL (OPTIONAL)

Depending on what time your ferry or flight home is, you could explore a little bit more of North Vancouver Island and visit Port McNeil. It’s only a 30-minute drive west from Telegraph Cove along Highway 19.

Port McNeil is the second-largest community on North Vancouver Island and serves as a launch point for many ecotourism tours and experiences. You’ll only have a couple of hours to explore the town but fortunately it is quite compact. Check out some of the local shops, wander along the seawall and stop by the harbour. Don’t leave without seeing the ‘world’s largest burl’ – a 30-ton anomaly discovered in 2005 on a Sitka Spruce tree!   

SECOND STOP: CAMPBELL RIVER

I suggest stopping in Campbell River on your way home to break up the drive and maybe get some lunch. Java Shack is located on Shoppers Row and serves a nice range of salads, sandwiches and soups. If you just want to grab a hot drink and keep driving, I recommend stopping at Foggdukkers which is on the highway. It’s easy to miss this little coffee shack but it’s a great place to grab a drink and a quick snack.

FINAL STOP: NANAIMO

And it’s back to Nanaimo! Depending on your travel plans, you might want to grab dinner somewhere before catching the ferry or plane home. We often stop at Longwood Brew Pub & Restaurant or Felice Café.

EXTENDING YOUR NORTH VANCOUVER ISLAND ROAD TRIP

This 5-day North Vancouver Island road trip will give you a taste of area’s epic scenery. If you have more time and want to see more of North Vancouver Island, you could continue on to some of the below destinations:

PORT MCNEIL

I included Port McNeil as an optional stop on day 5 but if you have an extra day, I’d recommend spending a bit more time here. There are some fantastic wildlife tours that leave from Port McNeil such as Sea Wolf Adventures’ grizzly bear tours . This local indigenous-run company will take you up to Knight Inlet where you can see grizzly bears and their cubs searching for food along the coastline.

The journey there is an experience in itself. The inlet cuts through a vast area of pristine wilderness, known as the Great Bear Rainforest. It’s the only place in the world where you can find white Kermode bears, also known as the ‘Spirit bears’. They’re a subspecies of black bear that carry a recessive white gene which gives them their unique appearance. Only 10% of black bears in this area are born with this gene so they are incredibly rare and elusive. 

Port Hardy is the largest town on North Vancouver Island. It’s a popular spot for scuba diving, fishing and other water sports. Walk along the riverside Quatse Loop Trail and you’ll probably spot resident bald eagles foraging on the beach, feasting on salmon, and flying back to their nests in nearby treetops.

Like Campbell River, Port Hardy has some beautiful colourful murals painted on the downtown buildings. There are also some lovely shops on Market Street where you’ll find local art, books and crafts.

One of the most popular things to do in Port Hardy is to visit the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre . The centre offers a number of hands-on activities for kids and adults alike to learn about the local ecosystem and salmon conservation.

CAPE SCOTT PROVINCIAL PARK

Cape Scott Provincial Park sits on the northern tip of Vancouver Island and is a truly wild and beautiful place. I haven’t had the chance to explore this part of North Vancouver Island but it would be remiss not to mention it in this guide!

The park offers some of the best hikes on Vancouver Island, from short day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips such as the challenging 6-day North Coast Trail. A lot of people opt to visit the park for the day and just stick to San Josef Bay. This is where you’ll find the towering sea stacks, which visitors can access at low tide.

FINAL THOUGHTS

I hope this North Vancouver Island road trip itinerary helps you start planning your own trip! It’s one of my favourite road trips on Vancouver Island and I can’t wait to go back and explore more next year. If you’re looking for more inspiration, here are some other scenic drives on the island to check out:

• Pacific Marine Circle Route
• Victoria to Tofino
• Nanaimo to Victoria

Where to explore next?

Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places in British Columbia. If you’re planning a trip to the island this year, I have a  complete guide to the best places to visit . Here’s a quick summary:

• Cowichan Valley

Love from Steph

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Love From Steph is a travel and adventure blog by Steph, a British expat living in Canada. Through practical guides and thoughtful itineraries, it helps curious travellers discover the world in a more responsible way.

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The Ultimate Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on March 1, 2024

Are you read for an epic road trip on Canada’s west coast? Do you love wild beaches, ancient forests, roaring waterfalls and big views? If that sounds like you, you’re going to love a Vancouver Island road trip.

I’ve spent lots of time on Vancouver Island over a lifetime and I’m so glad to share all the best places to go on your Vancouver Island road trip. This article starts with some basics for trip planning and then provides a 5 day and 7 day itinerary. If you have less than 5 days, I recommend spending them in the Victoria area or going from Nanaimo out to Ucluelet and Tofino and back. To see both those places and to get to the remote North Island, give yourself 5-7 days. If you have more time, I have lots of ideas for how to spend it at the end of the article.

Road tripping around Vancouver Island gives you the opportunity to travel on the lands of many First Nations people, including the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth and Kwakwakaw’akw People. Indigenous Tourism BC is an excellent resource for learning about First Nations culture and businesses across the province, including on Vancouver Island.

How far is Vancouver from Vancouver Island?

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• What to add if you have more time

What to pack for a Vancouver Island road trip

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

The ferry terminal in Tsawwassen is about a 45 minute drive from downtown Vancouver . That ferry takes you to either Swartz Bay (Victoria) or Nanaimo. The Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal where you catch the ferry to Nanaimo is about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver.

Ferry crossing times are:

• Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay – about 90 minutes
• Tsawwassen to Nanaimo – about 2 hours
• Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo – about 1 hour 45 minutes

You’ll need a car for your Vancouver Island road trip. You can rent a car in Victoria or Nanaimo (which makes the most sense if you are flying into one of those cities). If you are driving from home somewhere in the Pacific Northwest, or if you are renting a car in Vancouver, Seattle or elsewhere, you’ll need to bring the car on the ferry to get to Vancouver Island.

You have three options for taking the ferry with a car to Vancouver Island

• BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay – this is the best option if you are including Victoria on your road trip itinerary. The Tsawwassen terminal is south of Metro Vancouver and relatively close to the US border. Swartz Bay is about a 45 minute drive from Victoria.
• BC Ferries from Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo – If you aren’t going to south end of the island (Victoria and the Pacific Marine Circle Route) then you want to take the ferry to Nanaimo. You can take the ferry from the same terminal in Tsawwassen, or you can take the ferry from Horseshoe Bay (which is more convenient if you’re starting on the north side of Metro Vancouver or Whistler).
• Black Ball Ferry (the Coho) from Port Angeles to Victoria – If it’s more convenient for you to get to Port Angeles than Vancouver, this is the best option for you.

Which ferry option should you choose? I recommend choosing the one that’s the most convenient to where you are coming from and going to on the island. It works well to take one ferry over to Victoria and return from Nanaimo. This is what I like to do and recommend to others because it gives you more variety and less back tracking at the end of the road trip.

The BC ferries run more often than the Coho from Port Angeles, and reservations are highly recommended for all ferries if you are bringing a car.

If you want to mix things up and combine one of these Vancouver Island road trip itineraries with the Sunshine Coast, you can also take the ferry from Courtenay to Power River and then you’ll need to take two ferries along the sunshine coast to get back to Vancouver.

Because of the limited road system on Vancouver Island, you can’t exactly drive around it. Most places you’ll be driving out and back on the same roads. An exception to this is the Pacific Marine Circle Route, which makes a 260 km (160 mile) loop around the south part of Vancouver Island. The loop starts and ends in Victoria, taking you to Port Renfrew and Cowichan Lake (Days 1 and 2 on the itineraries below).

Sample driving times (not including stops and construction) are the island are:

• Victoria to Nanaimo – 90 minutes
• Nanaimo to Tofino – 3 hours
• Tofino to Campbell River – 3.5 hours
• Campbell River to Port Hardy – 2.5 hours

You can do a Vancouver Island road trip any time of year, though there are some seasonal considerations to keep in mind:

• Summer – the longest days and the warmest and driest weather. Expect construction delays in summer and more expensive and harder to find lodging and camping. All tours are operating and businesses are open. This is the best time for high elevation hikes in Strathcona Provincial Park as well as beach days for soaking up the sun.
• Fall – Cooler and wetter weather but more availability in lodging. Some businesses may be closed or have more limited hours
• Winter – Storm watching is popular on the coast as well as winter sports in Strathcona Park and skiing at Mt Washington or Mt Cairns. Lower prices and easier to find lodging, though many businesses may be closed or have limited hours and most tours are not operating. Short and very rainy days led to slower driving conditions
• Spring – Cool and wet spring days are often before the crowds, construction and highest prices arrive. Some tours will be operating and whale watching can be especially good as gray whales migrate past on their way to Alaska. Waterfalls are epic!

Cell phone coverage is excellent in the main towns on Vancouver Island. Most of the highways have at least some service, however there are significant dead zones.

There’s no service outside of towns north of Campbell River, or between Port Alberni and Ucluelet. Make sure to download maps, music, podcasts, audio books and anything else you might need in preparation.

If you are not Canadian, you will be roaming on the Canadian network. Check with your cell service provider to find out if there is an additional charge for this (it could be significant, but you may be able to change your plan so it’s included).

EV charging is more abundant on Vancouver Island than you might expect, given how many remote areas there are. Charging is abundant in the greater Victoria area as well as Nanaimo. Beyond that, I recommend using Plugshare and your vehicle’s range to determine if you can make this trip in an Electric Vehicle.

Fast charging is available at the Port Renfrew Community Centre, the Pacific Rim National Park Visitor Centre in Ucluelet, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Courtenay, Campbell River, Port McNeill and Port Hardy.

My EV has a very limited range so I can do some portions of a Vancouver Island road trip, but not all the way to the north island.

If you are camping on your Vancouver Island road trip, BC parks is an excellent resource for finding camping, along with iOverlander. Expect campgrounds to fill up frequently, especially in busier areas in summer (not so much on the north island).

If you’re looking for a hotel or vacation rental, expect high prices and things to book up very early for summer. This map can help you find a place to stay that’s in a convenient location as well as compare prices. It’s centered on Nanaimo, but you can expand it to see the whole island.

If you can get to Victoria the day before, you’ll have a whole day to explore Victoria, which I highly recommend. If that doesn’t work in your itinerary, you can also arrive in Victoria on Day 1.

This itinerary has you staying in Parksville between Port Renfrew and Ucluelet, which I recommend so you can experience the different coasts of Vancouver Island (Victoria, Parksville and Ucluelet/Tofino), but you can also drive all the way to Ucluelet on day 3 and spend two nights there instead. See the 7 day itinerary for details on this.

Day 1: Exploring Victoria

Driving Distance : None, unless you’re driving in and out of the city (or arriving in Victoria this day)

Where to sleep : A hotel in downtown Victoria (walking distance to inner harbour) or camping at Goldstream Provincial Park.

Highlights in Victoria

There are so many amazing things to explore in Victoria! On a short visit, make sure you get a chance to at least walk around the Inner Harbour and take in the shops on Government Street. Afternoon tea is a great way to start off your trip as well as Butchart Gardens (which is a good stop between the ferry and downtown Victoria). Pro tip – have your tea at Butchart Gardens!

If you want to stretch your legs, go for a walk around Beacon Hill Park and see the world’s largest free standing totem pole, or head out along Dallas Road for a view of the Strait of Juan de Fuca or along the breakwater.

Day 2: Victoria to Port Renfrew

Driving Distance : 111 km (69 miles). Allow at least 2 hours of driving time.

Where to sleep : Cottage or Lodge in Port Renfrew or camping at China Beach Campground.

Highlights from Victoria to Port Renfrew

The drive along the coast of Vancouver Island opposite Washington’s Olympic Peninsula is absolutely stunning. Make sure to stop in the small community of Sooke, with wonderful farm (or sea) to table food in a beautiful setting. You can rent kayaks here for even more exploring.

As you continue, you’ll have the opportunity to visit numerous beaches along the Juan de Fuca trail. Mystic Beach and Botanical Beach are a couple of favorites but you can’t go wrong on the beaches here! Botanical Beach is particularly known for it’s stunning tidepools nestled into the black rocks.

Port Renfrew is particularly well known for its enormous old growth trees, so make some time to explore the famous forests.

Day 3: Port Renfrew to Parksville

Driving Distanc e: 173 km (107 miles). Allow at least 2.5 hours of driving time

Where to sleep : Hotel in Parksville or camping at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

Highlights from Port Renfrew to Parksville

Cowichan River Provincial Park is a wonderful picnic stop or place to stretch your legs on a hike. Swimming is also an option here at the day use area. Pay attention to signs and current conditions as the river conditions can change rapidly.

Ladysmith makes for a fun stop in this seaside town with plenty of historic buildings and charming shops.

Waterfall lovers should not miss beautiful Englishman River Falls before arriving in Parksville.

The main highlight of Parksville is beautiful sun drenched beaches so make sure to arrive early enough to spend some time at the beach.

Day 4: Parksville to Ucluelet

Driving Distance : 147 km (91 miles). Allow at least 2 hours of driving time.

Where to sleep : I like to stay in Ucluelet instead of Tofino because it’s a bit more low key and quieter. There are a number of hotels, vacation rentals and campgrounds in both towns and in between them. If you’re looking to save money, try camping along the way before you get to Ucluelet or finding a hotel in Port Alberni instead.

Highlights from Parksville to Ucluelet

There are so many wonderful things to see on this stretch of your Vancouver Island road trip that I have an entire article just about this part !

Make sure to stop at Little Qualicum Falls for a beautiful pair of waterfalls on a loop hike that takes about an hour. The trail doesn’t have a lot of elevation gain but it does have some and there are quite a few rocks, roots and mud.

Cathedral Grove is another stunning area of old growth trees that you don’t want to miss. The area on the north side of the highway is a board walk so a good place for wheelchairs, strollers and anyone who doesn’t want to navigate a lot of mud and roots. There’s an additional trail on the other side of the highway that’s a little rougher for those who prefer that.

Cameron Lake, Sproat Lake and Kennedy Lake are all good places for a picnic or a swimming break when it’s warm enough for that.

When you arrive in Ucluelet and Tofino, there’s plenty to do there as well. If possible spend an extra day here (see below for how to spend it) but at a minimum make sure to go to Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park. If it’s clear, this is an epic place for sunsets!

Day 5: Ucluelet to Nanaimo (or home)

Driving Distance : 182 km (113 miles). Allow at least 3 hours of driving time (and make sure to get to the ferry an hour early).

Where to sleep : Look for a hotel near the ferry, or head home this day no matter how far you’re traveling after your Vancouver Island road trip.

You’ll be retracing your steps from yesterday so if there are any stops you didn’t have time for you can do that today!

This is a good day to have lunch or dinner and spend a bit of time exploring the town of Port Alberni . There’s a walkway near the river that empties into Alberni Inlet, as well as a waterfront park along the inlet. Those interested in history and economy will enjoy checking out the Port Alberni Maritime Discovery Center (housed in a historic lighthouse) or visiting the McLean Mill Historic Site.

If you have extra time you can also explore the town of Nanaimo before heading to your ferry.

If you have 7 days or more for your Vancouver Island road trip, then you can get up into the most remote and less visited areas of the North Island around Port Hardy, Port McNeill and Telegraph Cove . These destinations are an absolute delight and for those who love road trips, this longer drive is a must-do!

This is the same plan for today as Day 1 in the 5 day itinerary. Spending a day in Victoria is a perfect way to get your Vancouver Island road trip off to a wonderful start.

Make sure you get a chance to walk around the Inner Harbour and take in the shops on Government Street. Afternoon tea is a great way to start off your trip as well as Butchart Gardens (which is a good stop between the ferry and downtown Victoria). Pro tip – have your tea at Butchart Gardens!

Since you’re prepping for a road trip, Victoria is a good place to stock up on supplies for your trip.

The same as Day 2 in the 5 day itinerary, this is where you start getting out into the remoter parts of Vancouver Island.

Day 3: Port Renfrew to Ucluelet

Driving Distance: 317 km (197 miles). Allow at least 5 hours of driving time.

Where to sleep : I like Ucluelet instead of Tofino because it’s a bit more low key and quieter. There are a number of hotels, vacation rentals and campgrounds in both towns and in between them. If you’re looking to save money, try camping along the way before you get to Ucluelet or finding a hotel in Port Alberni instead.

Today is when you diverge from the 5 day intinerary and get deeper into the heart of Vancouver Island. Today you’ll go from the west coast of the island, to the east coast of the island and over two fairly low mountain passes to meet the west coast again in Ucluelet and Tofino.

Ladysmith makes for a fun stop in this seaside town with plenty of historic buildings and charming shops and Parksville has gorgeous beaches perfect for a picnic or just hanging out for a few hours.

There are a couple of amazing waterfalls along the way, Englishman River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls, each with a loop for hiking through the forest to the falls.

Cathedral Grove is a mandatory stop for the stunning old growth trees. A wheelchair accessible boardwalk goes through the forest on the right side of the highway as you head towards Ucluelet and Tofinfo.

There are several lakes along the way with beautiful picnic areas and and opportunities for swimming on hot days.

Day 4: Exploring Ucluelet and Tofino

Driving Distance : 80 km (50 miles) round trip between Ucluelet and Tofino.

Where to sleep : The same place you stayed last night.

If you have time in your itinerary, I highly recommend spending a full day in the Ucluelet and Tofino area (or more if you can spare it). There are so many incredible things to do here !

At a minimum, make sure to explore the Long Beach area of Pacific Rim National Park as well as the many other beaches in the area.

The Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet is another must do, especially doing the short lighthouse loop.

Beyond that, there are plenty of forest trails as well as surfing lessons, kayak tours, whale and bear watching tours and fishing charters.

Day 5: Ucluelet to Port Hardy

Driving Distance: 574 km (357 miles) including a 100 km (60 miles) detour to stunning Strathcona Provinical Park.

Where to sleep : I love the Port Hardy RV Resort cabins. They are super cute and comfortable. This is also a great place for camping. The sites have a few of the estuary and plenty of space. They have showers and washrooms for campers.

This is the longest driving day of your trip, but if you can manage it I would still do the trip up to Strathcona Provincial Park. Snow lingers late into summer in the high country here, but even if you’re visiting earlier or you just don’t want to take that much time, I still recommend checking out Buttle Lake. You can swim here in summer and there are trails and picnic areas.

If you’re a hiker, you might want to add an extra day to your itinerary to experience some of the stunning hikes in the mountains here. There is also camping for those wanting to stay longer.

Make sure to stop at Elk Falls Provincial Park on your way to Strathcona (or as an alternative to make the driving day shorter). There’s an awesome suspension bridge with a great view of the falls, however there are 120 steps to get down to the bridge! The rest of the trail is well graded and wide, but watch out for the many many stairs!

Campbell River is a good spot to stop for a bite to eat (Seabreeze Takeout is my absolute favorite – amazing fish and chips as well as PIE). There aren’t too many food options past here along the highway until you get to Port Hardy so it’s a good place to stop.

From here, you’ll be driving mostly inland with occasional views of the mountains in the center of the island.

Day 6: Port Hardy to Telegraph Cove

Driving Distance : 64 km (40 miles)

Where to sleep : I love the Telegraph Cove Resort. The unique historic buildings are all a little different and the restaurant is really good. If you’re camping, there’s a campground close by.

It’s a short drive from Port Hardy to Telegraph Cove, which is a delightful change from yesterday! This gives you plenty of time for exploring the waterfront park of Port Hardy and still get to Telegraph Cove plenty early to enjoy some tours or just relaxing and taking in the vibe when you arrive.

If you’re up for more driving and exploring, Port McNeill, Port Alice and Coal Harbour are all interesting and relatively short detours. Port Alice has an amazing coffee spot (Foggy Mountain Coffee Company) and Port McNeill also has good coffee, a pub and a waterfront walking trail.

All of these communities along with Port Hardy and Telegraph Cove are mostly logging communities and clear cuts and active logging are common. Many people make their living in the timber industry. I’ve found the people in Port Hardy and nearby Port McNeill to be extremely friendly and welcoming and enthusiastic about sharing their beautiful home with visitors.

Telegraph Cove is near one of the best places anywhere to see Orcas, so this is an excellent place to do a whale watching trip. They also offer bear watching and kayak tours. Kayak tours can be a mellow evening paddle during the summer or an all day or even multi day adventure.

Day 7: Telegraph Cove to Nanaimo (or home)

Driving Distance : 356 km (221 miles). Allow at least 4 hours of driving time. Make sure to get to the ferry at least an hour ahead of time.

Today you’ll be retracing your journey on roads you drove so this is a great opportunity to explore any stops you missed on previous days of your Vancouver Island road trip.

Take the time to get some amazing Fish and Chips at Seabreeze Takeout if you didn’t stop on the way north (and maybe even if you did!)and then explore the nearby park at the mouth of the river. This park is part of an extensive trail system that goes all around the town of Campbell River, so plenty of opportunity to stretch your legs as long as you like.

If you have time, I recommend the slower highway that goes along the coast between Campbell River and Nanaimo (north of Campbell River there’s only one road). This will add at least an hour to your trip, but gives you the chance for more water views and some new scenery.

What to add if you have more time for your Vancouver Island road trip

If you’re lucky enough to have more time to spend on Vancouver Island, there are plenty of ways to add to your Vancouver Island road trip adventure. A few suggestions:

• Strathcona Provincial Park – this itinerary just has a quick visit to Buttle Lake, but you could easily spend a week just in this park alone. Summer has amazing hiking and there are plenty of snow activities to enjoy in winter. Camp in the park or stay in nearby Campbell River.
• Telegraph Cove – with the opportunity to do whale watching, bear watching or kayaking you can easily spend a few days here taking in all the activities
• Tofino – another hotspot of excellent tours for whale watching, bear watching, kayaking, fishing and more, it’s easy to spend more time here.
• Victoria – a gorgeous city with so much to see and do, you could spend plenty more days here.

My road trip packing list and how to plan a road trip article are good resources for you as you get ready for your epic Vancouver Island road trip adventure!

A couple of highlights to make sure you don’t forget for Vancouver Island in particular are:

• Download all maps and entertainment for locations with no cell service or limited cell service and/or no wifi.
• Rain jacket – you need a good rain jacket for Vancouver Island any time of year! If you already have one that works great. If you’re looking to buy one for this trip, I recommend the Marmot Minimalist or this REI Co-op Rainjacket for a combination of quality and price. The REI jacket is available in plus sizes.
• Waterproof footwear – I love these rubber boots that you’ll see all across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska and are amazing for mud, beach walks and have good traction on wet surfaces. Waterproof hiking boots or shoes are also a good option.
• Snacks and water – especially the further north you go on the island, the fewer options there are for food, so I highly recommend bringing some of your own food and snacks along to take advantage of all the amazing picnic areas across Vancouver Island.
• Sunglasses and sun protection – when the sun comes out, the days are long and the sun is intense, especially at the beach! Make sure you have sunglasses and sunscreen even if the forecast isn’t for sun.

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Wanderlust addicts! Come Meander with  me... Casual budget travel

• Dec 18, 2023
• 11 min read

Vancouver Island North Road Trip: Comox Valley to Port Hardy

Updated: Jan 15

The Vancouver Island North Road Trip takes travellers along the east coast of Vancouver Island, to the northern tip of Vancouver Island, and includes remote landscapes, amazing wildlife, and charming small towns. This 7-day road trip itinerary will make sure you hit all the highlights.

Welcome to the latest installment of my series of suggested British Columbia Road Trip Itineraries. I spend my summers travelling around British Columbia in my converted camper van named Wanda in my quest to see everything there is to discover in this stunning province. Today's post is a continuation of my explorations on Vancouver Island, heading north along a less-travelled path to discover some rich culture, interesting history, and amazing wildlife.

Table of Contents

Why Do A Vancouver Island North Road Trip?

Know before you go, getting to vancouver island from vancouver, how to get around vancouver island north.

Cellular Reception Picking Up Supplies

7 Day Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Comox Valley to Miracle Beach

Day 2; Miracle Beach to Campbell River

Miracle Beach

Oyster Bay Campbell River

Day 3: Campbell River to Port Hardy

Nimpkish Provincial Park

Day 4 : Port Hardy

Day 5: Port Hardy to Malcolm Island

Day 6: Malcolm Island

Day 7: Malcolm Island to Nanaimo

Telegraph Cove

Extending your road trip, final thoughts.

A road trip around Vancouver Island North is not just a journey; it's entering a world where nature collides with captivating history and vibrant culture. The remote wilderness and rugged coastlines with eagles soaring overhead, whales hunting just off-shore, and bears feeding at the water's edge make this area a must for those hungry for adventure and looking for an escape from urban bustle.

Before you hit the road and let the adventure unfold, a bit of preparation can make your Vancouver Island North road trip smooth. Here's what you need to know before starting on this unforgettable journey.

The anticipation builds as you plan your route from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. Whether you opt for the ferry ride, allowing the ocean breeze to heighten your excitement, or take a scenic flight, the journey begins long before you reach the island's shores. Check ferry schedules, book in advance, and relish the anticipation of crossing the waters to unveil the wonders of Vancouver Island North.

Most visitors to British Columbia will arrive in Vancouver and will need to take a ferry or small plane across the Salish Sea to the cities of Victoria or Nanaimo.

Most visitors to BC will arrive in Vancouver and use the BC Ferry system  to travel to Vancouver Island from Tsawassen, Travellers can choose to rent a vehicle in Vancouver or Victoria. Fares are based on number of passengers, vehicle size, and routes. There is public transportation between the ferry terminals and the cities.

Another option is to fly over via regular airlines, a seaplane or helicopter service. Seaplane routes (and aerial tours) are available through Harbour Air .  Harbour Air flies from Vancouver Harbour or Airport South (Richmond) to Victoria Harbour, Nanaimo, and Comox, amongst other small harbour communities. Helijet  offers helicopter flights from Airport South to downtown Victoria.

When researching vehicle rentals, check prices in both Vancouver and Victoria, including ferry costs. It is often less expensive to rent vehicles on Vancouver Island. For those looking for a more immersive camping experience, check out my post on renting an RV or campervan .

To get to Comox where this itinerary begins will depend upon where you arrive. If arriving in Victoria, check out the Pacific Marine Route ( linked here ). If arriving in Nanaimo, you may want to explore the Wild Pacific Route to the west coast of Vancouver Island or hang out in the Comox Valley before starting this itinerary.

There is very little public transportation -- you will need a vehicle. There is one main highway north that goes through most communities. Pack a good map, or let your GPS guide you through the twists and turns -- just make sure you download all maps before getting on the road.

Cellular Reception

Cellular reception is spotty. While the communities and most lodgings will have cellular connection and WIFI, there will be areas where there is no service While you'll want to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, having a reliable connection can be a safety net, so plan accordingly.

Picking Up Supplies

The cost of everything rises and the variety and quality of options lessens the further north you travel. To save some money and to ensure you have all your favourite snacks and groceries, try to pick up the supplies you will need before leaving the Comox area.

7-Day Vancouver Island North Road Trip Itinerary

A week is not enough but that may be all the time you have available. The longest drive (3.5 hours) is on the last day. Most days, the drive is short with the suggested activities filling your day. I urge you to follow the included links to detailed posts that give more information regarding activities and services available to provide the nitty-gritty about each location.

On the other hand, you may have the ultimate luxury of more time. If so, slow down and stretch out the time spent in each location and review my other road trip itineraries and locations found in the "Canada" category to mix and match to create your own perfect British Columbia road trip. You are never going to be able to see everything so focus on the kinds of activities that suit you and start planning your next trip to BC.

Day 1: Comox Valley to Miracle Beach (30.5 km 29 min)

Start your day by exploring some of the great activities around the Comox Valley, as outlined in this post . Enjoy walking the trails at Seal Point, check out Nymph Falls, or enjoy wandering around the village of Cumberland. The first leg of our Vancouver Island North adventure is short, only about 30 minutes from the town of Comox so you'll have plenty of time to explore.

The first stop will be Miracle Beach Provincial Park with a large sandy beach, fabulous trails, lots of natural beauty, interpretation programs and a large campground. Enjoy the rest of your day hanging out on the beach or walking the trails.

If you are travelling during the peak summer season, you will need to reserve a camping spot in advance. My blog post review ( Miracle Beach blog post ) will give you an idea of what to expect.

Day 2; Miracle Beach to Campbell River (29.5 km 24 min)

Day 2 is another short drive from Miracle Beach to Campbell River. Yet, within this short distance, lies a world of exploration waiting to be uncovered. Stop at all the viewpoints and rest stops along the way for stunning coastal views. Not far from Miracle Beach is the community of Black Creek where you can find the Coastal Black Estate Winery where you can enjoy wine and cider tastings. Coastal Black is a member of the Harvest Host network that hosts self-contained ( meaning you have your own toilet and water ) recreational vehicles. I thoroughly enjoyed my overnight stay on my first ' Shake Down' trip in Wanda.

One of my favourite stops is at Oyster Bay Shoreline Park, a rest area and nature reserve along the route. My blog post ( Oyster Bay blog post ) unveils the beauty of Oyster Bay Shoreline Park, inviting you to take a leisurely walk amidst nature's beauty. Keep an eye out for shorebirds like herons, killdeer, and dippers.

Overnight in Campbell River

The last of the larger communities along this route, Campbell River is a good spot to stop for the night and pick up supplies. There are plenty of reasonably priced accommodations including campgrounds, guest houses, and hotels as well as more luxurious oceanfront and wilderness resorts.

Things to Do:

Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park:  The trails and waterfalls in Elk Falls Provincial Park are breathtaking. There is an extensive network of trails of different lengths and difficulty so you are sure to find one to suit.

My favourite is the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge Trail, part of the Upper Day Use trails. The trailhead is off Highway 28 and includes spectacular views of Elk Falls with additional loop trails and viewpoints. Plan on spending between 1 to 3 hours for a visit to this area.

Whale Watching Tour:  Whale-watching tours can be found in almost every community along the coast. Every visitor to British Columbia wants to experience the thrill of seeing orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wonders with a guided whale-watching tour. These tours tend to be expensive but worth every penny. An excellent company to consider in Campbell River is Campbell River Whale Watching .

Fishing Charters: Visitors looking to get out on the water for some fishing adventures will want to consider booking a fishing charter. These charters are led by very experienced expert fishers who know all the best spots and will provide the equipment and instruction needed for a fabulous day. You will enjoy a fabulous seafood dinner knowing that you caught the fish that day. C0astal Wilderness Adventures offers both freshwater and saltwater trips.

Places to Eat:

Serious Coffee:  Start your day with a cup of locally roasted coffee and a delightful breakfast at Serious Coffee , a popular Vancouver Island chain.

Beach Fire Brewing :  Unwind with a unique selection of craft beers and delicious bites in a cozy atmosphere. There is often live music so this makes a great evening activity

Dick's Fish and Chips :  Take advantage of the coastal location and indulge in fresh seafood at this local favourite, known for its casual and friendly ambiance. There is nothing fancy about Dick's but you will get a good and tasty meal. They also have burgers and vegetarian options.

Day 3: Campbell River to Port Hardy (232.6 km/2 hrs 26 min)

Day 3 is a longer but incredibly scenic drive, much of it through remote wilderness. Much of this route does not have cellular service, so if you are using a mapping program, make sure to download your maps before you start your journey. Get your playlists and podcasts downloaded, too to keep yourself entertained as you drive. Again, take advantage of all viewpoints and rest stops along the way.

About halfway is Woss, a quaint village in Nimpkish Valley. Consider making a pit stop at the Woss Fire Lookout. The panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, coupled with the crisp mountain air, create a moment that lingers in the memory. The Woss Heritage Park includes exhibits of the logging history of the area from hand saws to modern mechanized logging. Here you'll find Locomotive 113 and the Woss Fire Lookout .

Nimpkish Provincial Park:

The Nimpkish River Trail in Nimpkish Provincial Park is a perfect escape for those seeking a rejuvenating stroll. The Nimpkish River Trail is a short and easy hike that winds along the riverbank, offering glimpses of the local flora and fauna.

Day 4: Explore Port Hardy

Today is dedicated to immersing ourselves in the wonders of Port Hardy where the sea breeze whispers tales of adventure and the landscapes beckon exploration. Whether you choose to learn about salmon, explore the Estuary Park, wander through the town, hike trails, or enjoy a fabulous kayak tour, you will find plenty of activities. Check out my full post about my visit to Port Hardy here for places to stay, play, and eat.

Day 5: Port Hardy to Malcolm Island (43 km/31 min + 30 min ferry ride)

On Day 5 this Vancouver Island North road trip takes a nautical turn, venturing to one of the islands off the coast. Today's journey carries us from Port Hardy to the captivating shores of Malcolm Island, a magical island where orcas pass by and stop to rub against smooth rocks close to the shore.

First, we head to Port McNeill, a quaint town nestled on the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island where you will take a 30-minute ferry ride to Sointula, the island's charming village founded by Finnish utopians in the early 1900s. For ferry schedules and to plan your crossing, refer to the official BC Ferries website: BC Ferries Schedule - Port McNeill to Sointula

open-decked

Sointula and Malcolm Island

Sointula, with its Finnish roots, is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and a connection to nature. As you step off the ferry onto Malcolm Island, you'll be greeted by the village's charm and the warm embrace of its community. Here, time seems to slow down, inviting you to explore the island's unique attractions. For a full report on activities, and places to stay and eat, check out this post . Be warned -- once you arrive, you'll find it hard to leave.

Today, the itinerary focuses on three distinct treasures that define the island's charm: Big Lake, Bere Point, and Pulteney Lighthouse.

Explore Big Lake

Begin your day with the tranquillity of Big Lake, a serene oasis nestled amid the island's lush landscapes. As you amble along its shores or swim in the warm waters, you'll find the perfect harmony between stillness and nature's vibrant energy. The lake offers opportunities for birdwatching, with resident and migratory species gracing the area.

Bere Point is known for its unique features, including a picturesque pebble beach and the chance to spot orcas and humpback whales during their migratory journeys.

Pulteney Lighthouse

Pulteney Lighthouse is a historic beacon perched on the island's edge. The lighthouse, with its rich maritime history, provides a glimpse into the island's past and a vantage point for breathtaking sunsets.

Day 7: Malcolm Island to Nanaimo (350 km/3hrs 37min + ferry ride)

On the seventh day of our Vancouver Island North odyssey, it is time to head back towards Nanaimo with a stop in the enchanting Telegraph Cove.

Telegraph Cove, with its colourful buildings, echoes a bygone era. Take time to explore the boardwalk. The historic buildings house a general store, pubs and restaurants, a museum, and the opportunity to join an exciting wildlife tour. More details can be found in my Telegraph Cove post .

If your budget allows, I recommend a wildlife tour to witness whales or bears in their natural habitat. Kayak tours are a little easier on the budget and are a fabulous way to explore and get close to marine life.

Recommended Tour Operators:

Stubbs Island Whale Watching :  A reputable operator offering various wildlife tours.

Telegraph Cove Whale Watching :  Known for their eco-friendly approach to wildlife tours.

After your Telegraph Cove adventure, continue south along Highway 19 (the quicker route) or 19A (the coastal route) to Nanaimo, where this road trip concludes.

As this road trip draws to a close there are multiple possibilities for extending your British Columbia adventure. You can choose to explore more of Vancouver Island, head across to the stunning Sunshine Coast, or return to the mainland for your further adventures. The road trip itineraries currently on this blog can be explored by following this link to the Vancouver Island interactive map . For the BC Mainland road trips, click here . There are more itineraries to come so if you want to ensure you don't miss any future posts, you can subscribe by clicking on the log-in button at the top of the page and becoming a member. If there is a specific route you'd like me to cover, let me know and I'll move it up the list (or plan my next road trip

Ferry to Powell River on the Sunshine Coast

From Comox, let the journey continue across the waters to Powell River on the Sunshine Coast. A ferry ride connecting two coastal gems, this leg of the adventure promises scenic vistas and a change of pace. Take in the ocean breeze and explore the charms of Powell River and the Sunshine Coast. Check out my Sunshine Coast itinerary here . ( marked in dark red on the map )

Wild Pacific Route to Tofino from Nanaimo

For those craving more island exploration, consider continuing south from Nanaimo to Highway 4 which crosses the island to the stunning west coast. The Wild Pacific Route ( marked in green on the map ) to Tofino awaits, unveiling the rugged beauty of the west coast of Vancouver Island. Check out that trip here .

Or, if the allure of the mainland calls, return by ferry to Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, where you can turn north to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway route ( marked in purple on the map ) or back into Vancouver.

Victoria Pacific Marine Route

Another Vancouver Island extension is continuing south towards Victoria, the provincial capital. Here, you can follow the Victoria Pacific Marine Route ( marked in blue on the map ), full of historical sites and scenic coastlines. Conclude your island odyssey by heading to Swartz Bay and returning to the mainland via Tsawwassen.

From the serene shores of Miracle Beach to the untamed beauty of Malcolm Island, this road trip has opportunities for exploration, history, and amazing natural beauty and wildlife. The quaint villages, historic landmarks, and the warmth of the communities are sure to impress.

If you are enjoying the content and would like to be kept up to date with new posts become a member/subscribe (it's free!) and follow along on the RamblynJazz Facebook page , Facebook Group , Twitter , and Instagram . You can help the blog to grow by sharing the link with a travelling friend or through social media. I truly appreciate your comments and encourage you to share your thoughts below.

• BC Road Trip Itineraries

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12 Comments

Another excellent and intuitive guide to a spectacular road trip!

I'm always fascinated by the biodiversity and wildlife you show in your articles about Canada. It only makes me want to visit these places even more.

I love the photographs that illustrate the wonderful landscapes so well, combined with the historical context of the place.

Road trip enthusiasts shouldn't miss out on these fabulous routes and itineraries! Angela | Blonde Around The World Travel -

What a great itinerary and way to see the beauty of Vancouver Island. I've been loving all of your posts, but it's great to see it organized in an itinerary post like this. It's important to know about cell reception so someone can download Google Maps Offline to navigate while driving. Great post!

That mama and cub were adorable, from my spot on the opposite side of the river! Mama kept an eye on me. I'm looking forward to exploring more of the Northern Coast of BC this summer.

Another complex post covering Vancouver Island, thanks for sharing your in-depth guide with all the useful information on what to do, where to hike and fetch the best coffee. You are definitely my go-to expert if I ever make it to this part of the world. It is a stunning island and I ca understand why the infrastructure is fairly restricted and traffic is mostly reliant on your own vehicle.

Carolin | <a href=" https://solotravelstory.com/ ">Solo Travel Story</a>

There is a constant campaign for improved public transportation services in the area and signs of progress with a new bus service starting in May 2024. Fingers crossed that ridership will support continuing service.

Cumberland is the area of the UK I'm from so I think I'd definitely have to make a visit to the village of the same name on the Island. The trails and beaches, quiet small towns and serene nature are all the things that would make this an excellent road trip. To see whales would be incredible, I'd absolutely do a whale watching tour

It's a lovely little village and I agree that a visit seems to be required... as is a whale-watching tour. Seeing whales playing or hunting in the wild is a profoundly joyful experience.

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Off the Beaten Path Vancouver Island Road Trips: Maps, Ideas + Essential Info

Canada’s Vancouver Island is the ideal place for a road trip. There are opportunities to explore huge lakes, lush rainforests, jagged mountain peaks and pristine sandy beaches that stretch for days. 

Contrary to many first-time visitors’ expectations, however, Vancouver Island is a pretty big place.

At a length of 460km, it is more than 5 times the size of Prince Edward Island on Canada’s East Coast. Vancouver Island also has five times the population of PEI. 

Despite the size, most visitors to Vancouver Island only see Victoria and the coastal town of Tofino . I can totally understand why, especially when short on time.

The coastal scenery around Tofino is simply stunning and British Columbia’s capital city has plenty of attractions of its own.

But Vancouver Island has much, much more to offer beyond Tofino and Victoria.

With all this in mind, here are my top picks for alternative Vancouver Island road trip itineraries for those who want to explore beyond the beaten path.

JR and I are former residents of Vancouver Island and still visit often (typically twice a year). We have personally tried and tested every suggestion on these itineraries.

Last updated January 2024 . This post includes some affiliate links. If you click on these links and then purchase an item, we may receive a percentage of the sale.

Road tripping on Vancouver Island: What you need to know

Despite the large size of Vancouver Island, there are only a few major highways.

The most obvious is Highway 19 , running from Victoria at the southern tip to Port Hardy in the north. It connects the majority of Vancouver Island’s larger communities, such as Duncan, Nanaimo, Courtenay and Campbell River.

The most northern section of the highway, from Campbell River to Port Hardy, is far less travelled than the southern part.

Other major roads include Highway 4 , which cuts through the centre of the island from Parksville to Tofino via Port Alberni and Highway 17 , a short spur from Victoria to Swartz Bay.

A quieter but still important route is Highway 14 from Victoria to Port Renfrew via Sooke.

Beyond Vancouver Island’s main highways is a huge network of backroads. These unpaved routes are the real key to exploring beyond the beaten path on Vancouver Island. More details later on in the guide.

When planning a Vancouver Island road trip, I would recommend making ferry reservations early. And yes, I would consider reservations essential.

Ferry traffic to the Island in 2023 was the highest ever recorded and cancellations were much more common than previously years.

Vancouver Island Road Trip 1: Pacific Marine Circle Route

The Pacific Marine Circle Route is ideal for travellers who want to take in Vancouver Island’s stunning coastal scenery as well as the lush temperate rainforest.

Starting and ending in Victoria, this off-the-beaten-track road trip also provides an opportunity to visit Vancouver Island’s capital.

The total trip length is a lot shorter than the classic Victoria/Tofino combination, which saves both time, gas and money.

The highlights of this road trip include several old-growth forest groves, a lighthouse and half a dozen spectacular beaches.

While most of the beaches are rockier than those in Tofino, they remain wonderfully wild and windswept. One even has a hidden waterfall!

If you’re short on time, the Pacific Marine Circle Route is an excellent road trip choice. While it’s not as remote as some of the other suggestions in this post, it still certainly feels like it!

Starting point: Victoria End point: Victoria Total kilometres: Around 300km Length of road trip: Two to four days Best time of year: March to November

Vancouver Island Road Trip 2: Coastal Circle Route

This off-the-beaten-track road trip features a loop on Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. The latter is a stretch of British Columbia’s mainland located on the other side of the Salish Sea.

The combination of the two coastal areas makes for a particularly scenic road trip. Additional ferry journeys are required (four total, but one is free) to complete the loop but trust me, this adventure is more than worthwhile!

I personally really like the contrast between Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. While they have lots of similarities, the communities feel quite different and the attractions are complementary.

Vancouver Island is an ideal destination for waterfalls, wildlife tours and beaches, while the Sunshine Coast offers incredible paddling and sunset-watching opportunities. Both have excellent hiking trails.

Beginning and ending in Vancouver, this route can easily be combined with a longer road trip to the Canadian Rockies .

Starting point: Vancouver End point: Vancouver Total kilometres: Around 400km Ideal length of road trip:  Five to seven days Best time of year: April to October

Vancouver Island Road Trip 3: Campbell River to Cape Scott (and Beyond)

Looking for a Vancouver Island road trip that is truly off the beaten track? This is the one.

Northern Vancouver Island is almost a different world to the southern parts with huge mountain ranges, rugged rainforest and very few communities.

The linked guide describes the road trip between Campbell River and Cape Scott. At the end, there are several listed ‘side trips,’ with Cape Scott being the first (and best).

Cape Scott is the very northwestern tip of Vancouver Island, situated in a remote provincial park of the same name that protects pristine golden sand beaches, old-growth forest groves, sea stacks and more.

To reach Cape Scott, you’ll need a reliable vehicle, ideally one with high clearance, as the access road is unpaved. I’d also recommend the Vancouver Island Backroads Mapbook for navigation.

Need a rental vehicle? FarOut Wilderness offers fully kitted out high clearance 4X4 trucks with rooftop tents, ideal for travelling the unpaved backroads of Vancouver Island. Contact FarOut with the code FOW-OTT-5 for a 10% booking discount.

Starting point: Campbell River End point: Campbell River Total kilometres: Around 750km Ideal length of road trip:  Four to seven days (or more) Best time of year: May to early October

Please note that phone signal is very limited beyond Campbell River. Bring extra supplies (food, water, clothing etc) in case of emergency or delay. Be sure to have a good spare tire and know how to change it. Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back.

How to extend your Vancouver Island road trip

Here are some additional ideas to extend and enhance your road trip on Vancouver Island:

Salt Spring Island – Laid back and artistic with a side of hippy, Salt Spring is the third largest of the Gulf Islands between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland. Be sure to check out Ruckle Provincial Park and the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company shop. If you have a kayak, consider a trip to Wallace Island

Denman and Hornby Islands – Located just south of the Comox Valley, relaxed Denman Island is accessible via a short cable ferry ride. Marvel at the magnificent old-growth trees in  Fillongley Provincial Park. Hornby Island is just another ten-minute ferry ride away. On Hornby, a trip to the beautiful white sand shores of Tribune Bay is a must

Quadra and Cortes Islands – Easily accessible from Campbell River, these islands offer fantastic coastal views and a slower pace of life. Visit the Cape Mudge lighthouse on Quadra and canoe on the Main Lakes network. On Cortes, take a refreshing swim at Hague Lake

Explore Horne Lake caves – Vancouver Island has the highest concentration of caves in North America. Guided tours (both short and adventurous) are available at Horne Lake

Strathcona Park: Big on hiking? Take a scenic drive from Campbell River along Highway 28 to Strathcona Provincial Park. Enjoy waterfalls and alpine trails, most starting right from the main road. Continue along the highway to visit Upana Caves and Gold River

Victoria – Staying in Victoria for a while? Enhance your trip with a wine tour, a trip to Butchart Gardens , some zipling , a harbour kayak tour or a guided hike

The Inside Passage – For the ultimate departure from the Island, consider travelling up the Inside Passage via Port Hardy. It’s expensive, but a great alternative to driving to Prince Rupert and Haida Gwaii! 

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Check out these other Vancouver Island posts next

Coastal Circle Route, British Columbia: Best Places to Stop, Road Trip Itinerary + Map

Campbell River to Gold River Road Trip Guide: 12+ Beautiful Places to Stop

Campbell River to Port Hardy Road Trip Guide: Best Places to Stop

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Bryan Bjornstad

Friday 10th of May 2024

Greetings from Arnegard, ND.

We will be travelling around Vancouver Is., this summer, in a 26.5 ft (Oliver Travel Trailer). Entering at Part Hardy, then travel around the island.

The question is, what are the road (paved vs. gravel) conditions on what you have shown as the 'Pacific Marine Circle Route'.

Thursday 16th of May 2024

Sounds like a great trip! The Pacific Marine Circle is completely paved. Read more about it in our dedicated Pacific Marine Circle road trip post.

Sunday 14th of March 2021

Please remember that the people living in the smaller communities on Vancouver Island do not have hospitals that can deal with Covid 19 outbreaks. Until everyone is vaccinated we are being asked to stay in our own health zones. If you see fit to travel anyway, please do not drag the virus along with you!

Absolutely! This article, like all our blog posts, are intended for to be used for inspiration and planning during the pandemic. And, of course, local residents may also find these type of articles helpful to discover new places in their backyard. As noted at the top of the article, it was last updated in early 2020. We are following BC government public health recommendations to stay local at this time and assume our readers are too.

Saturday 27th of February 2021

It's these types of post that cause over crowding and ruin the areas. Thanks for posting.

This is a concern for us too, which is why we don’t use Instagram or feature any places not already mentioned in publications like Backroad Mapbooks or on government websites like Sites and Trails BC. Even then, we are careful to avoid mentioning more sensitive locations or those with limited facilities. We also encourage readers to follow Leave No Trace principles. This post was originally published (and since updated) in 2014.

Monday 15th of February 2021

Very well done. Just one correction: at approx. 32,000 square km, Vancouver Island is nearly 6x the size of PEI (not 2X)

Tuesday 16th of February 2021

Vancouver Island is more than twice the size of PEI, but yes, saying more than five times is more accurate. :) Thanks!

jacqueline spencer

Thursday 28th of January 2021

this is ALL amazing. I'm planning a trip incorporating approx 10 nights on vancouver Island. What would your route be if you were planning on staying in one place for 5/6 nights?

Saturday 30th of January 2021

If it's your first time to Vancouver Island, you could easily spend 4/5 days around the Tofino area and see some amazing places. If it's off the beaten path you're specifically looking for, I'd head to North Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Road Trips

Discover what all the fuss is about while road tripping to some of Vancouver Island’s wildest destinations. Connect with your inner adventurer while walking among the giants in the old-growth rainforests and lose yourself on windswept beaches or snowcapped peaks. Abundant with natural wonders, bustling cities and quirky roadside towns, Vancouver Island offers a diverse range of road trips guaranteed to tick items off your bucket-list while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Check out these four routes that are sure to show you the very best this island has to offer.

Download the Road Trip Map

Pacific Marine Circle Route

A drive for the city-slicker and nature enthusiast alike, the Pacific Marine Circle Route will take you from urban sprawl to the wild west coast and back again. This 289 km loop starts in Victoria and heads west through the funky oceanside town of Sooke and onto Port Renfrew, where the waves are as big as the drinks are cold. Take a day or more to enjoy the many stunning beaches, quaint cafes and sweeping waterfalls dappled along a winding road through the rain forest while making your way back to Victoria through Duncan, the City of Totems. 

Explore The Pacific Marine Circle Route →

Victoria to Tofino/Ucluelet

Switch your street shoes for gumboots and put your driving skills to the test with this one-of-a-kind East-to-West Vancouver Island trek. You’ll travel from the major urban hub of Victoria to the untouched old-growth forests of Tofino and Ucluelet, soaking up that island vibe all along the way. World-class accommodations, intoxicating culinary delights and exhilarating wilderness adventures await, but be sure to take it slow through the mountain passes while you enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery.

Explore Victoria To Tofino →

Nanaimo to Campbell River via the Oceanside Route

Take it easy while enjoying all the natural wonders Vancouver Island has to offer with this leisurely oceanside trip from Nanaimo to Campbell River. From sandy beaches and fishing villages to vast valleys and mountainous terrain, this trip offers you a chance to savour it all. You’ll get acquainted with the beauty of the eastern coastline before the road takes you into the Comox Valley, nestled beside the island’s tallest mountain in Strathcona Provincial Park.  You can do this trip in just a few hours or take your time with a day trip to delve deeper into the treasure trove of this Central Island adventure.

Explore Nanaimo to Campbell River →

Nanaimo to Port Hardy

Choose your own adventure along one of the longest – and most wild – Vancouver Island road trip routes. This 385 km trip from Nanaimo to Port Hardy varies in travel time depending on the season but its rugged beauty is gorgeous year-round. The potential for animal sightings will have you at the edge of your seats with excitement but you’ll also find comfort in the warm embrace of trees towering around you. The northernmost town on Vancouver Island, Port Hardy is the end of the road – well, at least the paved road, but for the more seasoned outdoors enthusiasts, it’s here that the adventure really begins.

Explore Nanaimo to Port Hardy →

Need To Rent A Sweet Ride When You’re Here?

Travelling to Vancouver Island without a vehicle? No sweat, you can still plan a memorable road trip by renting something that perfectly suits your travel needs. For simple car, van, or truck rentals, there are a number of car rental companies across the island to serve you almost anywhere.

If you’re looking for a more all-in-one solution to sleep and travel in, check out the following providers:

• JustGo Camper Van Rentals
• Far Out Wilderness

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Unforgettable 5-day Vancouver Island Road Trip itinerary

Vancouver Island is a magical, forested, natural beauty off the coast of British Columbia. From mountains to beaches, this sizable island has it all. There’s so much to see here that it will be hard to fit it into a five-day Vancouver Island road trip, but let’s try!

NOTE: Travel is not recommended at this time. These posts are here to serve as inspiration when we can explore again. Hey there – this post likely contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase from them. This helps me earn a few dollars to run this website.

What you need to know about a Vancouver Island Road Trip

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Vancouver Island, and much of coastal British Columbia, is known for its temperate climate. But, also for its wacky weather. It rains a lot here, and the humidity is unreal. When you go out for a hike, make sure you have good tread for the slick or mucky conditions. A light rain jacket is a good idea too.

The roads are reasonably well-kept on the island, but once you start venturing further out, the more rugged the roads become. Make sure your car can handle the road conditions. Also, make sure to keep your gas tank relatively full. Some of the stops are further than you’d expect. (The island is larger than the country of Belgium, after all.) But, cell signal isn’t great once you leave Port Alberni, so you won’t be able to call out if you run out of gas.

How to get to Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is, wait for it, an island! *gasp* So you’ll have to find some way of getting there. There are three options.

The best option is to rent a car and take one of the many ferries that cross over to the island. It’s the easiest way to have everything you need with you before setting off for the island, and you don’t have to worry about other transportation.

The second option would be to be a foot passenger on the ferry then rent a car once you arrive on the island. Sure, you’ll save yourself the $60 for the ferry fee, but the ferry terminals aren’t close to the towns, so you’ll have to arrange transportation to and from, which adds on to your costs.

The third option is to fly. There are airports (both on land or in the harbour) that you could travel to then rent a car once you land. It’s not a particularly economical option, but an option none-the-less.

I quite enjoyed the ferry ride across the Georgia Strait. It was a calm and scenic journey. The boat was quite large (and fit so many cars!). It had a restaurant, a gift shop, a business lounge and a kids play area.

BC Ferries says its busiest times are on holiday weekends, with peak volumes on Thursday and Friday afternoons, Saturday mornings and Monday afternoons. They highly suggest that mid-week, mid-morning sailing times would be best for a less crowded travel experience.

For most travel crossings, you want to be there at least 30 minutes before your boarding time. I suggest at least one hour before for busy summer travel times. But check the BC Ferries website for up-to-date, accurate information.

For those who may have never boarded a ferry before, it can be an intimidating process. Once you check in to the terminal, you will be told to sit and wait in a lane until boarding. You can leave your car, but someone (a driver) must be with the vehicle at all times. Be careful of traffic in other lanes, and, for everyone’s sanity, make sure you’re back in your car before boarding so you don’t hold up everyone behind you.

Then as you drive up onto the boat, attendants will point you to where you park inside the belly of the ship. Follow the signs on board for how close to park to the person in front of you. Then turn off your car, head up the stairwell (noting where you parked) and enjoy the ride!

There are a couple of ways to get around on Vancouver Island, but the most efficient will be your own car. This will allow you the freedom of your own itinerary, rather than waiting for public transportation. This Vancouver Island road trip is for people with vehicles since there are a couple of stops you’ll want to make in the interior of the island too!

But, there are other options. Just do your research and make reservations as much as possible.

Bus – The Vancouver Island Connector is a transit system that connects the towns all over the city. They have a couple of regular stops, like Victoria, Nanaimo and Tofino, but you can make reservations to stop at one of their many locations. Tickets aren’t super cheap, but depending on how long you are here, it might be the more economical option.

Seaplane – If you’d rather spend your time travelling in the air, then seaplane travel is for you. Unfortunately, there are no direct routes. For example, you could fly from Vancouver harbour to Nanaimo, then back to Vancouver to head to Tofino, then back again in order to fly to Victoria. Obviously, the weather will have a big part to play in landing on the water, that’s why many of their routes are seasonal. But it’s quite the experience!

Water taxi – In Victoria, you can hop onto the water taxis to effortlessly take you from one part of the harbour to the other. It’ll save you some walking time.

On this Vancouver Island Road Trip, you’ll taste the Nanaimo Bar Trail, marvel at giant trees, beach comb at a National Park, hike in a rainforest, go surfing in Tofino, see the capital city and spot whales in the wild. Sound like fun? Let’s go!

Day one of a Vancouver Island Road Trip is all about getting to the islands and seeing your first sights. While it will only take half a day to get from the mainland all the way to the west coast of Vancouver Island, you’ll want to take your time to enjoy the stops along the way, like tasting delicious treats in Nanaimo and marvelling the giants at Cathedral Grove.

The first stop you’ll want to enjoy is the 1.5-hour crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay. I loved the smooth ride staring out the windows on the ship lookout out over the blue channel and seeing all the islands dotting the horizon. This crossing made me appreciate how wild much of British Columbia really is.

When you arrive on Vancouver Island at Departure Bay, you’ll want to make the detour to Nanaimo, rather than heading straight to the western coast. Not only do they have an interesting downtown, but the town also boasts a Nanaimo Bar Trail.

You cannot leave Nanaimo without eating a Nanaimo bar. The coconut custard chocolate dessert bar’s history is a bit mysterious. No one really knows where the origins of the dessert came from, but the first time it was mentioned was in the 1950s in Edith Adam’s Cookbook and published in the Vancouver Sun.

Tourism Nanaimo has a 34-stop Nanaimo bar trail. From the traditional Nanaimo bar to a Nanaimo bar cinnamon bun to a Nanaimo bar pedicure – there is everything related to this delicious dessert.

Other things you should check out in Nanaimo include the Old City Quarter (with its colourful buildings), the Bastion and the 12 o’clock gun.

After you’ve had a grand old time checking out what Nanaimo has to offer, it’s time to hit the road toward Tofino.

RELATED: Sweet dreams are made of this: Nanaimo, British Columbia

Your first and most important stop along the way should be at the Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. Located along Highway 4, you can’t miss the small parking lots located on either side of the road.

Once you stop, you’re greeted with giant Douglas Firs that reach up to the sky. Some of the trees here are over 800 years old. The largest tree stands 76 metres, which is 20 metres taller than the leaning tower of Pisa.

There are two trails, each winding like a figure eight on both sides of the road. On the south side, you’ll find the Douglas Firs that stand sentinel in the forest. On the northern side, you’ll find the ancient cedar groves. Both trails are not very long and are easy to walk, so take your time and hike both.

As you drive from Nanaimo to Tofino, you’ll pass a few interesting places. Like the hole in the wall, a natural attraction outside of Port Alberni. This short trail, only 700 metres off the highway leads you to a human-made hole in the rock that was taken back by nature, becoming a waterfall.

Continuing along the Pacific Rim Highway, you’ll pass Taylor Arm Provincial Park, Sutton Pass Ecological Reserve, Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park and Kennedy Lake Provincial Park before coming to the fork in the road that will take you to either Tofino or Ucluelet.

Another stop on the Vancouver Island Road trip that you have to make is at Wally Creek. This pull-off from the highway. With crystal clear water, it’s a cool spot for swimming in the summer. Plus, there’s also a love lock fence that’s fun to peruse.

Fair warning, the Pacific Rim Highway is not for the faint of heart. After clearing Sproat Lake, the rest of the journey follows the twists and turns of the Kennedy River valley for 42 kilometres. And while the scenery is gorgeous, you need to keep your eyes on the road to watch for falling rocks, tight turns and sections of the mountains that jut over the highway.

RELATED: Visit wild Tofino, British Columbia

Once you make it to the fork in the road, you can decide which way you’d like to go. I stayed at Wya Point Resort , an Indigenous-owned (Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ) resort with cabins, yurts and campgrounds.

Falling asleep in the dark, with the stars above me, listening to the sound of the waves beat against the rocky beach was one hell of an experience.

Wya Point Resort is located just south of the fork – also known as The Junction. Each yurt has a perfect view of the beach and the Pacific Ocean both inside and out on the private deck. Yurts come equipped with a comfortable bed, bedding, a kitchenette (really just a wash station and dishes), a gas fireplace, and a small generator to run the lights. There are no washroom facilities in the yurt, but a common facility with bathrooms and showers is nearby.

I was unbelievably impressed with Wya Resort . I still dream about how quiet the night was, except for the sound of the ocean with that feeling of being in the middle of nowhere and at peace.

I stayed at Wya Resort for the duration of my stay in the Tofino area. I used it as my jumping-off point for all the other adventures!

Looking to book a stay in Tofino/Ucluelet, use this handy map to find the perfect place:

Day two of a Vancouver Island Road trip consists of exploring the gorgeous and wild Pacific Rim National Park. Watch the surfers rip on the constant waves, walk along the shore on the lookout for wild animals and hike into the depths of Canada’s Rainforest.

At Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you feel like you’re at the edge of the world. Quite literally, you are on the western coast of Vancouver Island with nothing but ocean in front of you.

British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, one of 47 parks in Canada, is one of the best places to explore Canada’s Temperate Rainforest. It protects over 500 square kilometres of forest, beach and ocean on Vancouver Island. With activities like hiking and surfing, it is an excellent place for adventure seekers.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve encompasses three units of Vancouver Island’s western coast – Long Beach, Broken Islands and West Coast Trail.

The most popular and most easily accessible unit is Long Beach. Spanning from Tofino to Ucluelet, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve features beaches, trails and forest.

While you explore the park, make sure to stop at the Visitor Centre at The Junction and the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.

The Long Beach unit actually encompasses several beaches along the coastline, from Halfmoon Bay in the south to Florencia Bay, South Beach, Lismer Beach, Wickaninnish Beach, Combers Beach, Long Beach.

Take your pick. Enjoy the surfers play in the waves, look for starfish and other underwater creatures in the tide pools, spot eagles flying gracefully overhead as the wind whips around you.

There are a ton of hiking options in Pacific Rim National Park. From the very short, 200m trail at Radar Hill that leads you to the Kap’Yong Memorial to the multi-day challenging 75km West Coast Trail.

But you can’t leave Vancouver Island without walking through the Rainforest! The Rainforest Trail in Pacific Rim National Park takes you through the temperate Rainforest that makes BC so unique. The trail consists of two 2km loops on either side of the highway.

Each loop takes you through moss-covered boardwalks, up and downstairs, over and under giant trees. It is absolutely breathtaking, and a moment of reflection will reveal how small we are in the world.

RELATED: Exploring British Columbia’s Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Developed close to Chesterman Beach, Outside Break is a surfer’s village complete with shops, food kiosks, and a grocery store. You’ll definitely need to make Outside Break one of your stops on a Vancouver Island road trip. Here you’ll find cute shops like Chocolate Tofino, Groovy Movies and Bike Rentals, Sol Maya Glass Blower, and many more.

This is where Live to Surf, the original Tofino surf shop, started back in the 80s. Make sure to check out Tacofino Cantina – the original Tacofino, which sparked a delicious taco movement into Vancouver. If you’re not full of tacos, then also get some fish and chips at Wildside Grill. Honestly, the best goddamn fish and chips I have ever tasted in my life.

Surfing in the Pacific Ocean requires a full-body wetsuit, boots and gloves. It’s freezing, even in summer. But how exhilarating! Day three of a Vancouver Island road trip lets you ride the waves, explore the gorgeous surfer town of Tofino and, if you have time, head out to the hot springs deep in the island’s archipelago.

One of the most amazing adventures I had on my Vancouver Island road trip was a beginner surfing lesson I had in Tofino. I had never surfed before, so why not throw myself into the rough, cold waters of the Pacific Ocean in Tofino?

The ocean here is not one to mess around with. Sure, you can rent your equipment and go by yourself, but if you’re inexperienced, that’s just a dumb idea.

I’m not going to lie, all morning I was a ball of nerves. There was a high wind warning for the area, making the waves extra powerful, but everyone at the surf shop was chill about it, so I let myself relax.

There are so many surf shops in Tofino that you can have your pick with which one will fit you best. After researching thoroughly, I chose Surf Sister for my first time surfing adventure.

Not only do I love their model for teaching, but I connected with the owner’s story. She wanted to have a shop that helped female surfers make their mark in Tofino. And get this – she succeeded. Surf Sister is a popular shop in Tofino, and their instructors are absolutely incredible and specialize in making a comfortable environment for beginners.

RELATED: Ultimate list of books and destinations for a Canadian road trip

After surfing, you’ll want to explore Tofino. I see why people love it here. Tofino is a small coastal town at the western edge of Vancouver Island. It’s surrounded by water on three sides, meaning there’s only one way in and out of town. It’s a small town with delicious eats and cool cafes, but what I enjoyed most about Tofino is the adventurous culture that helped it become a top destination for travellers.

While you’re in town, make sure to check out Tofino Coffee Roasting Co. and Rhino Coffee House for your morning cup of coffee. For meals, try the Wolf in the Fog, Sea Monster Noodle Bar or Ice House Oyster Bar for a place to dig in. And for shopping, be sure to stop into  Caravan Beach Shop and Mermaid Tales Bookshop for unique souvenirs.

You’ll also want to check out Chesterman Beach, the beach of choice for many visitors of Tofino!

If you’re up for a short hike through the forest, then check out the Tonquin Park trail, which leads you through old-growth forest and beautiful view of the surrounding landscape to Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach. While the trek to the Tonquin Beach is only 800 metres, the whole loop is 3km of boardwalk and gravel trail

If you’d rather go hiking in a remote place that ends in a hot spring than throwing yourself into the waves of the Pacific Ocean, then you won’t want to miss going to Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park.

The island is only accessible by a 1-1.5 hour boat ride from Tofino. Once you get off on the dock, the Hot Springs Cove is located at the end of a 2km boardwalk hike (that includes quite a few stairs).

Once there, you’re on a remote island. There’s no freshwater (bring your own), and you’ll want to bring a dry bag since it’s often very wet there. Lastly, enjoy the boat ride; you never know what creatures you’ll spot on your journey.

RELATED: Explore beautiful British Columbia in 10 days

On day four of a Vancouver Island road trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Tofino and make your way to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Here’s where you can hop on a boat and explore the seas surrounding the island in search of whales!

It’s time to say goodbye to Tofino and hello to British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria. Victoria is a gorgeous city, aptly named the Garden City, and is an excellent stop for a Vancouver Island road trip.

The trek to Victoria from Tofino takes just over four hours since you have to drive all the way back to Nanaimo before heading south. There are many places you could stop along the way, but I suggest straight-shooting it all the way there to give yourself as much time in Victoria as you can.

Once you arrive in Victoria, head straight to Fisherman’s Wharf for some whale watching. If you get to Fisherman’s wharf early, wander around and check out the colourful floating houses and grab a bite to eat at Barb’s Fish and Chips.

If you don’t go whale watching on your Vancouver Island road trip, then why did you come here?! (Joking, obviously.) But, seriously, why pass up an opportunity to see whales in the wild in one of the most populous whale areas?

There’s nothing like the thrill of the silence, with the boat engines cut, waiting for a glimpse of the majestic Orca. Then suddenly, they’re there, in front of you! Seeing these beautiful marine mammals in the wild is an incredible experience.

There are many whale watching tour operators in Victoria and Vancouver. Still, I chose Eagle Wing Whale and Wildlife Watching Tours due to their commitment to the environment and strict whale interaction procedures.

Whale watching tours are fantastic. Not only will you likely see orcas, since there are quite a few in the area, but you may also get a chance to see blue whales, humpbacks whales, seals, sea lions, and more.

RELATED: Whale watching in Victoria, BC

Like many cities, Victoria has so many options for hotels, B&Bs, hostels and more. On my trip, I decided to stay as cheaply as possible, taking a bed at Hostel International in the city, especially since I splurged for the yurt at Wya Point. Victoria’s Hostel International was quite lovely, with decent facilities for a hostel, but I wasn’t there much other than to sleep.

Like I said there are so many options, just look at this map:

Day five of a Vancouver Island road trip is your final day, explore Victoria, grabbing a bite to eat at one of its excellent restaurants, and stop at the Butchart Gardens before heading back to the mainland.

It’s your last day on the Vancouver Island road trip, so make sure to check out some awesome spots in Victoria. I find that Victoria is more charming than the metropolis of Vancouver. Not only does Victoria have more beautiful architecture, but it still has this small city vibe to it, which the giant city of Vancouver does not.

One of the places you have to see in Victoria includes the Fairmont Empress, one of the oldest hotels in Canada. Even if you don’t stay here, be sure to peek inside or make a reservation for its world-renowned high tea.

(If you don’t want to pay that much for high tea, check out Venus Sophia Tea Room. They have amazing scones and an impressive selection of tea at a much more reasonable price.)

You also won’t want to miss taking in the BC Legislature building, which in my opinion, is the most beautiful in Canada. The sprawling gardens are dotted with statues and totem poles. See if you can find the statue of Queen Victoria, for whom the city was named.

Chinatown needs to be on your list too. Chinese immigrants have a long, rich and, many times, heartbreaking relationship to the growth of Victoria, BC. The district stands out with its red and gold colours and unique architecture. Take a look at the several shops and restaurants, but make sure to stop by the Gate of Harmonious Interest, the infamous Fan Tan Alley, and the lesser-known Dragon Alley.

Lastly, the trendy fashion district of Market Square and open pedestrian shopping district of Bastion Square are two stops you have to make before leaving Victoria.

Outside the downtown, try to make at least one stop at either the breakwater (a one-kilometre trail jutting out into the bay), Beacon Hill Park (a 200-acre park home to the fourth-tallest totem pole), Craigdarroch Castle (a Scottish-style castle known for its intricate stained glass windows), or Emily Carr House (once home to one of Canada’s most famous painters).

RELATED: Zoom through Victoria, BC: The regal capital city

Your last stop on a Vancouver Island Road Trip should be the Butchart Gardens. The Gardens, located about 30 minutes north of Victoria, is a National Historic Site of Canada. For over 100 years, these gardens are a treat to the eyes with a wide range of flowers and plants.

Swartz Bay, where you’ll catch a ferry to the mainland, is only 30 minutes from Victoria. So, depending on your departure, you might have time to check out a few more places along the way.

There’s Cattle Point Dark Sky Urban Star Park, or the scenic views of Mount Douglas, the waterfront forest of Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, forested hiking at ȽÁU,WELṈEW̱/John Dean Provincial Park, or check out the small port city of Sydney, BC.

There really is so much to see on the island. This five day Vancouver Island road trip only stops at the highlights, so if you live close or want to explore more, please do, there’s nowhere else in the world quite like Vancouver Island.

Olivia Rutt

Olivia Rutt is the travel writer and photographer behind My Wandering Voyage, a travel website helping working millennials find time to travel. She shares insight in trip planning, travel inspiration and photography tips. Olivia hails from southern Ontario, Canada where she works in the media industry between travels. Follow Olivia on Instagram where she shares her travel photos, or catch up with her on Facebook or Twitter.

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A Vancouver Island road trip, Canada: From the tip to the top

Posted on Last updated: April 28, 2021

Looking at a map of Canada, Vancouver Island isn’t more than a dot off the coast of British Columbia. But this is Canadian scale – where everything’s bigger than it looks. In reality it’s the largest Pacific Island east of New Zealand, stretching 290 miles from north to south. The island has a mix of beaches and rainforests, wildlife and waterfalls, seafood and local wine – and a Vancouver Island road trip is the perfect way to discover them.

AD: My visit was hosted by Canada Keep Exploring but all views are my own.

Vancouver Island lies about 60 miles west of the city of Vancouver, and it’s easy to combine a trip to the city with a few days on the island. BC Ferries run routes from Vancouver to Victoria and Nanaimo, or there are airports in Victoria and other major towns. But in this part of the world, you don’t need an airport or even a runway to fly in, with seaplane services meaning you can get almost anywhere around the island by air.

We were heading to Port Hardy at the far north of the island to visit the Great Bear Rainforest . But rather than flying straight there we decided to drive from the tip to the top of the island on a 365-mile road trip. Where most Vancouver Island road trip itineraries concentrate on the south west region around Tofino, this route took us along the island’s east cost, featuring a selection of the great things to do on Vancouver Island .

Vancouver Island road trip map

Our road trip from Victoria to Port Hardy covered 365 miles one way. We did it two days and one night, stopping in Campbell River for the night. But you could easily extend the trip by adding a day or two in Victoria itself, taking it slower and stopping off along the way (see the section at the end of the post for accommodation suggestions along the route).

With more time you could add in more wildlife-watching activities or walks, or if you’re making it a round trip you could add on a couple of days on the west coast at the popular surf town of Tofino. We travelled by car on our Vancouver Island road trip, but it would also be good to do in an RV motorhome , with plenty of campsites on the island.

We started our Vancouver Island road trip in Victoria. The island’s capital is a charming small city with a beautiful waterfront location and European feel that’s compact and easy to get around on foot. It’s worth adding on a day or two in the city before hitting the road to check out some of the main sites like the Royal BC Museum and British Columbia’s parliament, walk through Beacon Hill Park and have afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress hotel.

Read more: A weekend in Victoria, British Columbia: A 48-hour itinerary 

Cowichan Valley

After leaving Victoria we followed the Trans-Canada Highway north to the Cowichan Valley (34 miles/45 minutes). Canada isn’t the first country you’d think of for wine (other than ice wine), but the south of Vancouver island has a growing number of wineries. The Cowichan Valley was originally a dairy farming area, but has turned to wine-making.

The region’s latitude in the extremes for grape-growing, but as well as Vancouver Island having Canada’s mildest climate, the Cowichan Valley is 10 degrees warmer than Victoria – its name even comes from a First Nations’ word which means ‘warm land’. There’s also plenty of sunshine, shelter from storms thanks to nearby mountains and a low risk of frost. So if you pick the right soil and a south-facing slope then grapes will thrive.

Most wine producers in the Cowichan Valley are small-scale, making only a few thousand cases of wine per year, and many offer cellar door tastings. Blue Grouse Winery was one of the first Cowichan wineries, growing grapes since the 1970s and setting up their tasting room in 1990. It’s been redeveloped into a new, bright and airy building with views out over their vineyards, where winemaker Bailey Williamson gave us a tasting of some of their wines.

The Cowichan Valley’s climate is best for white grapes, though we did try an unusual black muscat, a cult favourite red with flavours of lychee. Most white varieties are cross-bred grapes specially designed for cooler climates. So you don’t get big names like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, but instead there are varieties like Bacchus and Ortega.

With wine supplies for the trip safely stowed, we got back on the road and headed towards the city of Nanaimo (34 miles/45 minutes). It’s located just across the other side of the Salish Sea from Vancouver, with a ferry connecting the two. Nanaimo’s nicknamed ‘Bathtub Racing Capital of the World’ after an annual race where competitors use baths converted into boats to sail to Vancouver. One to check out if you’re visiting on the last weekend in July!

Nanaimo’s other claim to fame is the Nanaimo Bar, and you can’t pass by without picking one (or two) up. These triple-layered treats don’t need baking and are made up of a biscuit crumb base, buttercream layer and dark chocolate topping. The city’s so proud of them they feature in the local museum and there’s a whole trail dedicated to the best bars, whether you’re a purist or fancy trying a cheesecake version or Nanaimo Bar Martini.

A short drive north of Nanaimo (27 miles/35 minutes) we stopped for lunch at another quirky stop – Coombs Country Market . Not just your average shop and restaurant, it’s famous for its grass-covered roof home to four resident goats. They’ve got a wooden house to live in and plenty of grass to munch on, which they do oblivious to the camera-toting tourists below. And you can have a (goat-free) Italian feast of pizza and pasta at Cuckoo restaurant.

MacMillan Provincial Park

Next we took a short diversion inland to MacMillan Provincial Park (12 miles/17 minutes). The park is home to one of the oldest and most impressive ancient forests in Canada. The most famous section south of the highway and is known as Cathedral Grove. Some of its Douglas Fir trees are over 800 years old and the largest has a circumference of nine metres.

You can follow walking paths through this land of giants, with loop hiking trails and raised viewing platforms which take you up among the trees. You can also go swimming in Cameron Lake or visit the waterfalls in neighbouring Little Qualicum Falls Park.

And if you’ve got a couple of days to spare on your Vancouver Island road trip, carry on along the Pacific Rim Highway to Tofino (88 miles/2 hours 10 minutes each way). The road has stunning views of snow-capped mountains, lakes and forests. And Tofino itself is known for wildlife-watching in Clayoquot Sound as well as for hiking, biking and surfing.

Campbell River

After rejoining the Island Highway at Qualicum, we travelled further north up the island to Campbell River (80 miles/1 hour 20 minutes), passing waterside holiday spots to one side of us and the ski resort of Mount Washington on the other. Our stop for the night was at two twin resorts which face each other across the waters of the Discovery Passage.

On the Vancouver Island side is Painter’s Lodge *, a favourite spot for salmon fishing trips. I had no idea how big salmon could get (mine come filleted from the supermarket) but they have a special club for people who’ve caught one bigger than 30lb, known as a tyee. And if catching it isn’t hard enough, you also need to do it from a traditional rowboat.

A five-minute boat ride took us to April Point Resort * on Quadra Island, one of the enticingly named Discovery Islands. It gets its name from Peruvian explorer Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra who mapped the BC coastline along with another famous name, George Vancouver. The island is 22 miles long and a permanent home to 2700 people, including First Nations communities, mostly living in the south and leaving the north as unspoilt rainforest.

You can hike, cycle, kayak or take a Zodiac boat tour to spot wildlife – whales, dolphins, seals and sea lions all live in the waters of the Discovery Passage. But I’d have happily spent a week there just soaking up the scenery. It’s one of those places that feels miles from modern life as we ate freshly caught salmon and watched the sun set over Campbell River.

The following morning we were back on the road for the next stretch up to Port Hardy, Vancouver Island’s most northernmost city. But first up was a stop at Elk Falls Provincial Park (3 miles/6 minutes away). The park is one of the most popular on the island with a path through a thick conifer forest leading you to the falls. They drop 25 metres down into a rock-walled canyon and are at their most powerful in the spring when the snow melts.

There are wooden viewing platforms as well as a 60-metre-long suspension bridge across the canyon, giving you a great (if slightly wobbly) view of the falls. It’s another area known for salmon fishing, and you’re visiting from August to November look out for spawning salmon in the river. Salmon lovers can also take a tour of the nearby Quinsam Hatchery.

Telegraph Cove

Leaving Campbell River behind, the road got quieter and the towns got smaller and sparser. After driving through miles of forest roads we emerged alongside Nimpkish Lake before rejoining the coast at Telegraph Cove (128 miles/2 hours 40 minutes).

This colourful village was founded in 1912 as a sawmill but fell into disrepair until the late 1970s when a local couple created a campground and marina before restoring its old wooden buildings and boardwalks. Now it’s a protected area and eco-tourism hub that’s a prime spot for whale-watching, and there’s also a whale museum in the village.

Although it can get packed in the summer, off-season there are only 20 permanent residents. The lovely, brightly coloured fisherman’s houses – which are built up on stilts and connected by a raised boardwalk – have been turned into holiday rentals, where you can go off the grid for a few days away from the modern world and its phones and TVs.

Port Hardy (and beyond)

The final stretch of our Vancouver Island road trip took us 40 miles/50 minutes to Port Hardy – the end of the line for the Island Highway. Port Hardy is home to the largest community in northern Vancouver Island, but its main attraction for visitors is as a jumping-off point for all sorts of exciting wilderness adventures.

From Port Hardy you can catch the ferry to Prince Rupert on the northwest coast of British Columbia, or travel along the Discovery Coast and through the Inside Passage to Bella Coola. You can also leave the car behind and take on a long-distance a hiking trip, including the 11-mile Cape Scott Trail and the challenging, multi-day North Coast Trail.

Or you can take to the skies on board a float plane to explore some of the region’s more remote spots. We headed out into the wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest – an area covering 12,000 square miles that stretches up to the Alaskan border, where you can watch grizzly bears from boats in spring or feeding on salmon in autumn.

Where to stay on a Vancouver Island road trip

The Coast Bastion Hotel * is just across from the harbour in Nanaimo and it’s an easy walk to reach bars and restaurants. Rooms start from CAD $170 a night. Or just outside the city the Living Forest RV park and campground has a peaceful location by the waterside.

April Point Resort * is in a gorgeous spot on peaceful Quadra Island, accessible by boat from Campbell River. It has a mix of rooms, suites and cottages, which start from CAD $189 a night, as well as a restaurant, terrace bar, spa and activities like kayaking and boat tours. Or there’s a campsite which also has RV pitches at the nearby Elk Falls Provincial Park.

Telegraph Cove Resort has a mix of lodge rooms, dockside suites and the historic wooden cottages, which sleep from two to nine people and start at CAD $145 a night in high season. There’s a café and pub on site, plus a campground with full hookup for RVs.

The Kwa’lilas Hotel (which means the ‘Place to Sleep’) is a First Nations-owned four-star hotel which features masks and artworks created by First Nations artists. Rooms from CAD $149 a night. Or try the Quatse River Regional Park and Campground for RV pitches.

Looking for somewhere to stay on Vancouver Island?*

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Thursday 13th of July 2023

Just found this article on your blog. My wife and I are heading north from Victoria to Courtenay this September, and there are some ideas here for us to check out.

Thank you for the inspiration.

Lucy Dodsworth

Friday 14th of July 2023

You're very welcome, have a wonderful trip!

Jim Harrigan

Monday 27th of February 2023

Hi Lucy, My wife, Penelope, and our dog Nico and I are on our trawler boat in Sausalito, Ca. trying to research a road trip with 20ft RV the length of Vancouver Island intended to allow Penelope maximum running, cycling, walking etc 6 out of 7 days each week. Your page is one of the most inspiring we've run across and would love to be in contact for some advice. Thank you so much. Aloha, Jim

Tuesday 7th of March 2023

Hi Jim, great to hear the post was useful and happy to help if I can – you can get in touch at [email protected]

Friday 7th of January 2022

Painters lodge. Over price . Food terrible. Rooms outdated. One big disappointment. Dot trust pictures. Only nice view.

Thursday 14th of October 2021

I live on the island and did the trip when I was younger. From Victoria to what is now from what I heard no longer active CFB Holberg just before Cape Scott. So I have pretty much being from Tip to Tip. Absolutely amazing

Tuesday 26th of October 2021

Such a great place, I would love to come back sometime.

Silas McLean

Thursday 9th of July 2020

This is great for anyone considering at least traveling here, I highly endorse moving to Vancouver Island if you're looking for small town feel yet everything you'd need in a big city. Nice job on the post!

Of course it's dependent on your preferences as to what you would like about the island, but to pretty much anyone looking for good nature/wildlife I'd recommend exploring Goldstream, Sooke - Port Renfrew, Cathedral Grove, Comox Valley and Mt Washington, just to name a few. There are endless places to go though!

Thursday 23rd of July 2020

Thanks for the tips – hope to get back to the island and explore some more someday!

Things to do on Northern Vancouver Island

By: Author Taryn Eyton

Posted on Last updated: February 23, 2024

Vancouver Island in British Columbia is a special place. But most visitors tend to stick to the well-known spots on the southern end. Which is really too bad because there are so many great things to do on northern Vancouver Island. It’s actually my favourite part!

Northern Vancouver Island is off the beaten path so it feels a bit wilder: Tiny towns, lush rainforest, great hiking, camping and kayaking, and SO MUCH WILDLIFE. North Vancouver Island is the place to go if you want to see whales, bears, sea lions, porpoises, and more.

I’ve made nine trips to Northern Vancouver Island over the years, and each time I discover another incredible place. (A of the trips were research for my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island .) I haven’t seen everything there is to see on the north end of the Island yet, but believe me… I’m trying!

In this guide, I’ll give you all my insider info on the best things to do on Northern Vancouver Island as well as where to stay and where to eat.

Hey there: Thanks so much to At the Water’s Edge Adventures, BC Ferries, and Vancouver Island North Tourism for hosting me on a trip in 2020. All the other trips were at my own expense and all opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. Thanks for supporting my website! -Taryn

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials . Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike .

Table of Contents

Northern Vancouver Island Basics

Northern Vancouver Island is located… on the north end of Vancouver Island. 😉  (Thanks Captain Obvious!)

Since most of Vancouver Island’s population is clustered around the southern tip, the definition of which part of Vancouver Island is the northern part can get pretty broad. (Some people think it’s anything north of Nanaimo which isn’t even half way up the island!)

In general, there is no dispute that anything north of the town of Campbell River is considered Northern Vancouver Island. So that’s the region I’m going to focus on in this post. 

How to Get to North Vancouver Island

The easiest way to get to Northern Vancouver Island is by car. Highway 19, also known as the Island Highway, runs the length of Vancouver Island from Nanaimo in the south all the way past Campbell River to Port Hardy in the north.

If you’re coming from the mainland, you can take a BC ferry from the Vancouver area to Nanaimo, then drive north from there. The drive from Nanaimo to Port Hardy takes about 4 hours.

It’s also possible to fly to north Vancouver Island via charter flights between Vancouver and Port Hardy. You can also take a bus between Campbell River and Port Hardy.

It’s easiest to get around by car. The best place to rent a car is in Nanaimo. But you can also rent cars in Port Hardy. I use Discover Cars since it lets you compare prices from lots of different companies so you can be sure you are getting the best deal.

North Vancouver Island Weather

Northern Vancouver Island has a wet maritime climate. The area gets a LOT of rain between October and March. The driest months are July and August, but May, June, and early September can be nice too.

While it’s not a warm place, it never gets that cold either. In July and August, the average temperature is between 10 and 18C (50-64F). Between November and March, the average temperature is between 1 and 8C (34-46F).

In general, expect rain and chilly weather at any time of year. But you could also luck out. I’ve had several trips with good weather including in 2020 during my hike to Cape Scott and a kayaking trip in the Johnstone Strait where we saw temperatures up to 25C (77F)!

READ NEXT: The Best Weather Apps for Hiking

Indigenous Context

Northern Vancouver Island has been home to several indigenous groups since time immemorial and they still live here today.

The Kwakwaka’wakw have traditional territory on the entire northern end of Vancouver Island, extending into the islands of the Johnstone Strait and the adjoining mainland.

On the west coast of Vancouver Island, they share their territory with the Quatsino people.

Further south near Sayward, Kwakwaka’wakw territory overlaps with the We Wai Kai Nation, the K’omoks Nation, and the We Wai Kum Nation.

Consider supporting Indigenous-owned businesses on your trip to northern Vancouver Island. I’ve got several recommendations in this post.

North Vancouver Island Map

I made a custom google map for you that includes everything I mention in this post. Enjoy! This map is all you’ll need if you plan to stick to the paved roads and major towns.

However, if you are venturing off onto any of the gravel roads, I highly recommend you bring a copy of the Vancouver Island BC Backroad Map Book so you don’t get lost. (There’s no cell service outside of the towns.) I also love the offline version of the Gaia GPS app for navigating backroads and hiking trails.

Northern Vancouver Island is a huge area, with lots of things to do. My list of things to do in North Vancouver Island is set out in geographic order, from south to north, in the order you could visit them if you were driving up the Island Highway from Campbell River towards Port Hardy. 

Visit Sayward and Kelsey Bay

The tiny logging-oriented village of Sayward has been around since the 1890s. Originally only accessed by boat, today it is connected by road to the Island Highway.

Drive the short spur road into town to visit the Cable Cookhouse, a local cafe that is completely wrapped in steel logging cables. Continue through town to the port of Kelsey Bay. The wharf here is a popular place to fish or to just enjoy the view across the Johnstone Strait. 

Learn About Logging Railways in Woss

Woss is another tiny logging town just off the Island Highway. It has the unique distinction of being home to the last operating logging railway in North America .

After a tragic accident in 2017, the railway finally closed after 100 years of operation. Today, you can drive into town to visit historic Steam Locomotive 113. A nearby pavilion has interpretive panels where you can learn about the history of railway logging.

There is currently talk of turning the 90 km-long railway into a biking and hiking trail , which would be amazing as it cuts through some real wilderness. 

Little Huson Caves

Despite being just 20 minutes from highway 19, it took me several visits to north Vancouver Island before I made it to Little Huson Caves . In fact, I didn’t even know they existed until a few years ago. There are tons of caves on Vancouver Island, but this is one of the easiest to visit.

Atluck Creek runs through an area of limestone that is easily eroded. That means that here the creek runs right through a huge cave! Take a short walk down a hill (with some stairs) to two different viewing platforms, one at the creek entrance to the cave, the other at the exit!

READ NEXT: Little Huson Caves Hiking Guide

Stroll the Boardwalk at Telegraph Cove

Telegraph Cove used to be the northern end of a telegraph line that stretched the length of Vancouver Island. It slowly changed from a telegraph station, into a fishing and cannery village, and today it is an eco-tourism hub. It’s definitely worth the detour off the highway – it’s really cute!

Stroll the wooden boardwalk past historic buildings to the Whale Museum or grab a drink at the cafe and soak up the views. Telegraph Cove is also a popular launching spot for fishing boats , whale watching , and kayaking tours .

Kayak with Whales in the Johnstone Strait

The Johnstone Strait off the coast of northern Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world to see whales. Humpback whales migrate through all summer long and the area has a high concentration of orcas (killer whales). And one of the best ways to see whales is from a kayak.

I went on a life-changing kayaking trip in the Johnstone Strait in 2020. We saw whales every day, visited Indigenous sites, saw tons of sea lions, seals, porpoises, and eagles, and visited some remote (and gorgeous) islands.

The most popular place to launch kayaks is from Telegraph Cove. You can rent kayaks or go on guided tours that last anywhere from an afternoon to a week.

I went with At the Water’s Edge Adventures who launch from a private beach next to Telegraph Cove. They are offering my readers 10% off any trip with them – just use code HAPPIESTOUTDOORS.

READ NEXT: My guide to Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait

Visit Port McNeill

Port McNeill is the second largest town on Northern Vancouver Island. It’s a compact little town with shops, restaurants, and hotels. Wander along the seawall downtown for great views of the harbour.

Don’t miss the world’s largest burl at the east end of town. (Fun fact: Port McNeill is also home to another giant burl. It was the world’s largest burl until the current one was discovered in 2005. You can find the runner-up burl about 5 minutes east of town just off Highway 19.)

Take a Grizzly Bear Watching Tour

Taking a boat-based bear watching tour up Knight Inlet was definitely one of the best things to do on Northern Vancouver Island. While Northern Vancouver Island has roads and settlements, the nearby mainland has only a few boat-in villages. The huge expanse of wilderness supports a healthy population of grizzly bears.

We watched a mother grizzly bear and her two nearly full-grown cubs explore the coastline in search of mussels and other food. Later, we switched to a smaller boat to cruise up a river estuary and spy on a huge male grizzly eating grass.

I did my tour with Sea Wolf Adventures , based in Port McNeill. They are a local indigenous-run company. Our guides (Sherry and Karissa) were knowledgeable and worked hard to make sure the boat was always in position to take the best photos. The food was great too! 

Go Whale Watching

With humpbacks migrating through every summer and a large resident orca (killer whale) population, northern Vancouver Island is one of the best places to see whales in BC.

Since I have been kayaking with whales and saw quite a few whales on my bear watching tour with Sea Wolf, I haven’t actually been on a whale watching tour on northern Vancouver Island.

But locals recommend Mackay Whale Watching out of Port McNeill. They are a small family-run company and have been running whale watching tours in the area for four decades. 

Ride the Eco-Conscious Island Aurora Ferry

BC Ferries runs the Island Aurora from Port McNeill to the nearby island communities of Alert Bay and Sointula on Malcolm Island. While the towns are definitely worth visiting (and info about them is below), the ferry ride alone is pretty fun.

This brand-new ferry was added to the BC Ferries fleet in 2020. It’s part of a move towards eco-consciousness and uses a hybrid engine. (It runs 20% on battery power, the remainder on diesel.)

Eventually, BC Ferries hopes to introduce a shore-based charging system so that the Island Aurora can run entirely on battery power. The hybrid system is much quieter than conventional engines, which is great for both passengers and the resident whales.

The views of Johnstone Strait from the ferry are spectacular, and with fairly low rates for both walk-on passengers and cars, it’s the cheapest way to get out on the water on northern Vancouver Island!

Pro tip: Take a day trip to both Alert Bay and Sointula on the same day using just one ticket to save money. You will need to take the ferry back to Port McNeill to switch between the two communities – just tell ferry staff you want to visit both.

Experience Indigenous Culture in Alert Bay

Alert Bay is a small community on Cormorant Island, just a short ferry ride from Port McNeill. About half of the island is a ‘Namgis First Nation reserve. The ‘Namgis are part of the larger Kwakwaka’wakw Nation. This is one of the best places to experience Indigenous culture in Canada .

I highly recommend a visit to the U’mista Cultural Centre to learn about their history and culture. This fabulous museum has a huge collection of traditional Kwakwaka’wakw dance masks and memorabilia used in cultural events like potlatches.

In the 1920s, potlaches were declared illegal and the government stole these ceremonial objects and gave them to museums around the world. The Kwakwaka’wakw have worked hard to bring these important cultural treasures back to their traditional territory and display them on their own terms. 

Alert Bay is also home to a forest of totem poles with over 30 poles spread around town. The world’s largest totem pole, at 173 feet tall (53m) also towers over the island.

If you want to go for a walk, the Alert Bay Ecological Park is a great option. Well-marked flat trails and boardwalks lead through an upland marsh fed by underground springs. It’s a great place for birdwatching.

You can also walk around the town and explore the historical buildings .

Visit Sointula and Malcolm Island

The village of Sointula on Malcolm Island has an interesting history. Finnish settlers founded the town in 1901 as a utopian collective society. In Finnish, Sointula means “place of harmony”.

Even though it is just across the water from Port McNeill, it has retained a lot of its unique character. Many older residents still speak Finnish and the cooperatively-run local store, the Sointula Coop, has been open for over 100 years. You can learn more about local history at the tiny Sointula Museum .

Today, the island is home to lots of artists and is a great place for hiking and biking.

If you have time, be sure to make the short drive out to Bere Point . The pebble beach there is a favourite spot for resident orcas to rub their bellies at high tide. A citizen science orca research team sets up tents near the viewpoint each year. Stop in to ask them about the most recent whale sightings.

Drive the Alice Lake Loop

If you are up for some backroads driving, take on the Alice Lake Loop . I haven’t had time for the 2.5-hour trip yet, but it’s high on my list. This mini-road trip visits some of northern Vancouver Island’s unique karst features, formed by centuries of water eroding rock.

Highlights include the Devil’s Bath, a water-filled sinkhole that connects to a river underground, and the Eternal Fountain, a waterfall that appears out of the side of a cliff, then disappears beneath your feet. Take a break in the town of Port Alice part-way along to have lunch and stroll along the ocean-front seawalk.

Visit Port Hardy

Port Hardy is the largest town on north Vancouver Island, its economic centre, and the jumping-off point for ferries to northern BC. It’s a good place to grab a meal, buy groceries, or shop for souvenirs.

Don’t miss the Book Nook and Drift, which share space with Cafe Guido on Market Street. Drift has really cute locally-made clothing and home goods and the Book Nook has a great selection of local books.

For the easiest eagle spotting around, go for a walk along the seawall. The resident eagles are sure to be flying overhead, foraging on the beach at low-tide, or calling out from their nests in the nearby treetops.

Although I haven’t had time to visit, I’ve also heard that the museum at the Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre is great for rainy days, especially if you take a tour of the hatchery.

Another thing that’s on my list is visiting the nearby Kwagu’ł Nation community of Tsaxis (Fort Rupert) to visit Calvin Hunt ‘s gallery of traditional Kwakwaka’wakw carvings.

Take the Inside Passage Ferry to Northern BC

Port Hardy is the departure point for the Inside Passage ferry to Northern BC . This epic all-day ferry cruises up the coast to Prince Rupert . Along the way, it passes spectacular scenery including picturesque islands, towering mountains, narrow inlets and tons of whales. On my trip we saw the best rainbows.

READ NEXT: Inside Passage Ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert, BC

Get Off the Beaten Path on Gravel Roads

If you venture off the paved Island Highway, you’ll be heading further off the beaten path than most tourists who visit north Vancouver Island. The remote communities of Coal Harbour, Winter Harbour, Quatsino, and Holberg are small resource-based towns, focused on fishing and forestry with a growing community of summer residents.

But if you are into nature, the surrounding areas are worth investigating too. You’ll find remote beaches, deserted campgrounds, hiking trails, and incredible fishing.

Use the Vancouver Island North Recreation map to get ideas on where to go. You can drive sometimes rough gravel roads to Coal Harbour, Winter Harbour, and Holberg, but you’ll need a boat to get to Quatsino.

If you make the drive, bring a map or use the Gaia GPS app since there is no cell service. Pack a spare tire, and be prepared to pull over for speeding logging trucks. Most roads go through the town of Holberg. If it’s open, be sure to stop at the Scarlet Ibis . It’s Vancouver Island’s most remote pub.

Visit Winter Harbour

Winter Harbour is a tiny town that has been around since the 1890s. It began as a fishing village but diversified to become a logging town as well by the 1950s. When the logging operation shut down in 2017, the town’s population dropped to just two year-round residents.

However, in the summer the old loggers shacks fill up with vacationers going salmon fishing or exploring the labrynith of inlets. Be sure to stop at the Outpost General Store, then walk the unique waterfront boardwalk which connects homes and businesses along the inlet and predates the road network.

If you’re up for adventure, drive the backroads to hike to Grant Bay. The short trail leads to what I think is one of the most beautiful remote sandy beaches on Northern Vancouver Island. To get there, take West Main from Winter Harbour Road, then follow it to its end.

Hike, Canoe, Camp, and Surf at Raft Cove Provincial Park

Remote Raft Cove Provincial Park is located on the wild west coast of Northern Vancouver Island. There are two ways to get there, but both start with a long drive on logging roads.

You can canoe 5 km down the Macjack River to its mouth from a put-in off Topknot Main FSR accessed from Winter Harbour. Or you can make a tough and muddy 3 km hike to the beach from a trailhead on Ronning Main FSR access from Holberg.

Once you arrive, the sand stretches for a kilometres and waves pound in from the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular spot for surfers. There is a great backcountry campground on the peninsula at the mouth of the Macjack River.

Get more info on visiting Raft Cove in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island .

Visit Ronnings Garden

Ronning’s Garden is one of the most unique places to visit on Northern Vancouver Island. Norwegian settler Bernt Ronning built a homestead on the wagon road between Holberg and Cape Scott around 1910. He cleared the bush to create an impressive garden that spanned nearly 5 acres.

He died in 1963 and the rainforest started to reclaim the garden. But in the last few decades new owners have worked on restoring the garden. Today you can walk into the garden to see huge monkey puzzle trees and many other interesting plants from around the world.

Find Ronnings Garden just off San Josef Main on the way to Cape Scott Provincial Park.

Hike and Camp at Cape Scott Provincial Park

Cape Scott Provincial Park sits at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. It’s a wild and beautiful place of white sand beaches, dense rainforest, incredible wildlife, and settler history.

The only way to explore the park is by day hiking or backpacking in to one of the remote backcountry campgrounds. The park has three main trails: the easy and flat day-hike to San Josef Bay , the moderate 3-day backpacking trip to Cape Scott Lighthouse , and the challenging 6-day North Coast Trail . Cape Scott is one of my favourite places and I’ve hiked into the park six times.

Get more info on visiting Cape Scott Provincial Park in my book, Backpacking on Vancouver Island .

Get My Book…

Backpacking on Vancouver Island

Discover Vancouver Island’s best day hikes and overnight trips

• 25 backpacking trips and 10 day hikes throughout Vancouver Island
• Info about permits, reservations and campground facilities
• Detailed maps and photos
• Advice for extending your trip
• Points of cultural and natural history

READ NEXT: Cape Scott Trail Guide

READ NEXT: North Coast Trail Guide

Where to Eat on North Vancouver Island

Since many of the communities on northern Vancouver Island are small, you may have to do a bit of advance planning when it comes to where to eat. Most of the towns have at least one restaurant, pub, cafe, or general store but a few do not.

There are also a few restaurants that are worth planning for. Here are my picks for the best restaurants on north Vancouver Island.

Cluxewe Waterfront Bistro

This indigenous-run restaurant serves slightly upscale seasonal food and has a great location right on the ocean at the Cluxewe Resort just outside Port McNeill.

We tried to eat there on our 2020 visit to north Vancouver Island, as several locals told us it was the best food around. But when we called for a reservation we were told they were booked up for a week! Lesson learned: call further in advance.

BUT… we did get to sample their food since they catered our lunch on our trip with Sea Wolf Adventures. Delish!

This adorable hipster coffee shop in Port Hardy wouldn’t be out of place in a big city. Cafe Guido has sandwiches, baked goods, and of course coffee. They share space with the Book Nook and Drift, so allow time for browsing.

Duchess’ Bannock and Desserts

If you’re in Alert Bay, don’t miss trying Duchess’ Bannock . If you’ve never had bannock before, it’s a traditional indigenous fried bread. Duchess’ bannock was some of the best I have ever tasted.

If you have a sweet tooth, order the bannock and berries instead of just the plain bannock. It comes covered in three kinds of berries, berry sauce, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, and sprinkles. Sooo good. (Just make sure you share it with someone – it’s huge!)

ha’me’ Restaurant and nax’id’ Pub

The ha’me’ Restaurant and nax’id’ pub at the newly refurbished Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy serve local, Indigenous-inspired west coast cuisine. (Fun fact: in Kwakwaka’wakw, ha’me ‘ means food and nax’id’ means drink.)

We’ve eaten there a few times. My husband was really impressed with their salmon burger… which was served on bannock. 

Where to Stay on North Vancouver Island

With campgrounds, B&Bs, and lodges scattered across northern Vancouver Island, it’s easy to find a place to stay. Here are a few of my favourites:

Bere Point Campground , Malcolm Island

I haven’t actually camped here, but it’s high on my list after visiting for the day in 2020. Located next to the famous whale rubbing beach on Malcolm Island, it has incredible campsites, many of which are right on the ocean. On my visit, campers were trading stories of their many whale sightings! Book in advance as it is popular.

Telegraph Cove Resort , Telegraph Cove

We stayed in the Telegraph Cove Lodge building at the Telegraph Cove Resort before our Johnstone Strait kayaking trip. It has great views of the cove. You can also stay in their collection of historic homes right on the boardwalk – they are super cute! Check prices .

Kwa’lilas Hotel , Port Hardy

I spent three nights at the Indigenous-run Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy on my 2020 visit to northern Vancouver Island. It’s completely renovated with gorgeous First Nations art in every room. Definitely one of the more upscale places to stay on northern Vancouver Island (without being expensive or pretentious). Check prices .

The Quarterdeck Inn, Port Hardy

We stayed at harbour-front Quarterdeck Inn in Port Hardy in 2021. It has comfortable rooms and is right on the water. It’s the best place to stay if you are hiking the North Coast Trail since it is right next to the water taxi dock. (We stayed here the night before our 2021 NCT hike.) Check prices .

Nimpkish Hotel , Alert Bay

This boutique hotel stands out along the waterfront in Alert Bay. The Nimpkish Hotel is a bright blue historic building with a big deck and lots of windows for great views of the Alert Bay Harbour. With only nine rooms and breakfast included, you’ll feel like you’re staying at a B&B, not a hotel. Check prices .

Humpback Inn, Port McNeill

The Humpback Inn in Port McNeill is a newly refurbished motel with a cute retro vibe. It’s right by the water and an easy walk to everything including whale and bear watching tours. Friends stayed her and loved it. Check prices .

Cape Scott Provincial Park

If you want to get away from it all, you can’t beat a hike-in campsite at Cape Scott Provincial Park. The sea stacks at San Josef Bay are great if you want a short hike, but for the real experience, make the full-day trek out to Nel’s Bight for the full white sand beach experience. The best part: no reservations required! (Read my guide to Cape Scott to plan your trip.)

Now you have all the info you need to head to northern Vancouver Island. What is your favourite thing to do on north Vancouver Island? Tell me in the comments. And as always, send me your questions as I’m happy to help answer them.

More Things to do on Vancouver Island

• Little Huson Caves on Vancouver Island
• Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait: Everything You Need to Know
• The Ultimate Guide to the Pacific Marine Circle Route on Vancouver Island
• How to Visit Avatar Grove, Big Lonely Doug and Other Big Trees on Vancouver Island

Hiking Guides for Vancouver Island

• North Coast Trail Guide: Backpacking on Vancouver Island
• Cape Scott Trail Guide: Hiking and Camping on Northern Vancouver Island
• Your Guide to the West Coast Trail in British Columbia
• Wild Side Trail: Hiking and Camping Guide
• Latest Posts

• The Ultimate Self-Guided Tour of Stockholm Subway Art - May 18, 2024
• 2024 West Coast Trail Hiking Guide - May 2, 2024
• BC Parks Day Passes 2024 – Everything You Need to Know - April 25, 2024

Wednesday 29th of March 2023

Well documented! Thx for a great read! Looking forward to explore this year!

Saturday 20th of August 2022

based on your experience, where is the best place to spot whales or killer whales in late September? north or south of vancouver island? with a whale-watching tour

Taryn Eyton

Sunday 21st of August 2022

Both north and south Vancouver Island have resident killer whales that you can see all year. Between April and October you can also spot other kinds of whales, especially gray whales and humpback whales. South Vancouver Island (Victoria) is a popular place to take whale watching tours since it is easy to get to. But they have less resident whales and are further away from the areas where gray whales and humpback whales normally travel. Northern Vancouver Island has more resident whales and it's easier to spot humpbacks there. You have a good chance of seeing whales from either location though, but if the question is which is "best", I'd say northern Vancouver Island.

Monday 23rd of May 2022

Thanks for all the info, Taryn. We are planning our trip to Vancouver Island and found your information so helpful. We are not as energetic as you. Even though we will be traveling with a camper, we are big on off the beaten track places, dirt roads and hikes albeit none like the one to the Lighthouse.

Brookes Laidlaw

Sunday 14th of November 2021

Great info Taryn! Well written and very informative!! We hope to see you back exploring the bounty of Vancouver Island North soon!

Friday 27th of August 2021

Great information, I wish I read this before visiting Cape Scott so I was more prepared for the trek but it was so worth going. Thank you!

7 Day Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary (With Map)

Are you looking for a 7 day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary?

I was born and raised in Vancouver, and Vancouver Island is only a ferry ride away. I have been to Vancouver Island countless times from the mainland and have done road trips on the island.

A Vancouver Island road trip is a fantastic way to explore the island’s beauty. The island is home to diverse wildlife, a mild climate, storm watching, surfing, and more.

While there are many places to visit on the island, this itinerary includes the main destinations, such as Victoria and Tofino.

Let’s dive into the itinerary for this seven day road trip on Vancouver Island.

7 Day Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Here is a brief overview of the Vancouver Island road trip. You can also start your trip backwards, but you will have to start at the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal instead of Tsawwassen Bay Ferry Terminal.

• Day 1 & 2: Victoria
• Day 3: Nanaimo
• Day 4 & 5: Tofino
• Day 6 & 7: Ucluelet

Day 1 & 2 In Victoria

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and the first stop on your road trip to Vancouver Island.

Victoria is worth visiting because it combines historic and modern locations, making it a unique destination. It has much to offer, with iconic landmarks, beautiful parks, and a thriving culinary scene.

While there are many things to do in Victoria, you can still pack a lot of places to see in a couple of days.

Things To Do In Victoria

Here are a few things to do while you’re visiting Victoria. If you’re visiting Victoria in winter, there are still things to do.

1. Walking Around Downtown

Nothing beats walking around downtown Victoria on a sunny day. Many hot spots include Chinatown , The Empress Hotel , and Fisherman’s Wharf . Downtown is also excellent for checking out local restaurants, pubs, and coffee shops.

Fan Tan Alley

Fan Tan Alley is a famous landmark in one of Canada’s oldest Chinatowns . It holds the record for the narrowest street as well.

Fan Tan Alley’s location is in Chinatown. It’s an alley in the middle of the block between Fisgard and Pandora Avenue, with boutiques, jewellery, clothing, and more.

Victoria Bug Zoo

If you have children who love looking at bugs, insects, and arachnids, head to the Victoria Bug Zoo. It’s a great place to learn everything bug-related and closely examine their daily habits. Karly, the manager , is an excellent guide and incredibly informative!

I have been to the bug zoo many times, and while I’m not a huge fan of bugs, I did enjoy holding the stick bugs.

Ghost Ramen

If you’re looking for a place to eat for dinner, check out Ghost Ramen. They offer excellent ramen (a Japanese-style noodle dish served in soup with various toppings). The ambience at night was fantastic, and the service/servers were friendly.

2. Victoria Guided Food And History Tour

Suppose you want a more in-depth history of specific locations in Victoria, or interested in the culinary scene, or are a foodie in general. I recommend looking into the Victoria Guided Food and History Tour .

The tour will take approximately two hours , and a guide will take you around downtown Victoria to try local food, craft beer, chocolate and more!

➡️ Check Prices & Availability for The Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

3. Tour The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia

Explore the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in Victoria and learn about the province’s political history and governance.

Take advantage of free daily guided tours , providing a look into the operations of the historic parliament buildings. Discover the legislative process and wander through the chambers.

Knowledgeable guides share narratives that showcase the development of democracy in British Columbia, creating an educational and immersive journey for visitors.

Where To Stay In Victoria

Here are a couple of places to stay in Victoria.

💎 Luxury Hotel — The Magnolia Hotel And Spa

The Magnolia Hotel and Spa is a beautiful, luxurious four-star hotel in Downtown Victoria. Depending on which side of the hotel you’re on, you will have a magnificent ocean/scenic view or the Parliament Building.

It’s on the more high-end side of a hotel, but considering its location, the Magnolia Hotel and Spa is the perfect spot to stay.

🎯 Budget-Friendly — Hotel Zed Victoria

Hotel Zed in Victoria has modern comfort with a retro vibe, offering practical amenities like free Wi-Fi and a ping pong room. Conveniently located across from Mayfair Shopping Centre, it’s a budget-friendly option not far away from Downtown Victoria.

Day 3 In Nanaimo

While Victoria to Nanaimo is approximately one hour and a 40-minute drive, it’s a great spot to relax before hitting the road to your next location on your Vancouver Island road trip.

Nanaimo is situated on the Eastern coast of Vancouver Island, and it has many recreational options. It also has an extensive shoreline, one of the longest in Canada, and a backdrop of forested mountains just outside the downtown area.

Things To Do In Nanaimo

Here are some things to do while you’re in Nanaimo.

1. Neck Point Park

Walk through the forest of Neck Point Park until you reach the beautiful pebble beach entrance to the ocean — a great park to take the dogs and children or have a picnic until you catch the sunset.

2. Nanaimo Bar Tasting

Nanaimo Bars are a well-known dessert or treat (at least well-known in Canada).

Originated in Nanaimo (hence the name) is a layered treat with a smooth chocolate layer on top, butter and custard powder mixed in the middle, and crushed graham crackers and nuts mixed with chocolate at the bottom.

It’s then refrigerated to chill, and then you can eat! I personally like eating Nanaimo Bars. I’ve been eating them since I was a kid.

Bocca Café is a great spot to try the original or different flavours of Nanaimo Bars. They also have a Nanaimo Bar Latte, which is worth a try.

3. Ammonite Falls

If you want to hike, Ammonite Falls is an excellent spot in Nanaimo. It’s also a fantastic hike in the snow if you happen to be hiking in the winter.

The two to three hour hike will take you to the Ammonite Falls. It can be a strenuous trek for some. As a precaution, there are steep areas. However, there are ropes in those locations to help you in those specific spots.

Where To Stay In Nanaimo

Best western northgate.

The Best Western Northgate is further out from downtown Nanaimo; however, it’s still surrounded by all your needs, for example, restaurants and grocery stores.

However, it’s just off Island Highway North, so it’s accessible to Downtown Nanaimo — only 12 minutes away by car and 28 minutes by transit.

Stops Between Nanaimo And Tofino

Nanaimo and Tofino are a three-hour drive away. The drive is beautiful and scenic, with views of mountains and lakes. However, there are stops on the way to Tofino that are a must-do. It’s also considered one of the best winter road trips in British Columbia .

Old Country Market – Goats On Roof

In Coombs , British Columbia, there’s a great market you need to check out called Old Country Market, aka Goats on Roof. If you’re wondering, yes, they have actual goats on their roof during the summertime .

The main market store is excellent for picking up groceries, pastries, and deli meat. You can also pick up gifts from a wide range of nicknacks to home goods from around the world.

On the outside, the surrounding areas have a gelato/ice cream parlour where you can grab some snacks, a retail store, and a produce market. Also, a small doughnut shop is at the back of the Old Country Market.

If you go through the fenced area, there are a handful of more stores to look at, too.

Hole In The Wall

There are many Vancouver Island waterfalls around Port Alberni; notably, one is called Hole in the Wall. A small hike along a gravel path will only take about 20 minutes to do.

It was once a shortcut to the city’s waterline; however, now it’s a fantastic small waterfall for tourists to experience.

Port Alberni

Another rest stop along the way is Port Alberni. It’s a small town where you can stretch your legs and top off your gas. Port Alberni will be one of the last few places to fill up gas before heading to the next stop on your Vancouver Island road trip.

Day 4 & 5 In Tofino

Tofino is worth visiting and is located on the western edge of Vancouver Island. It’s a small coastal village renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.

It’s a popular destination for surfing, whale watching, and exploring the pristine beaches and old-growth rainforests.

Things To Do In Tofino

Are there things to do other than surfing in Tofino? Yes, there is!

1. Tacofino

One of the most popular things to check out is the Tacofino Food Truck. It serves Mexican-inspired food with a Western influence. The most popular items on the menu are fish tacos and burritos . I liked the pork gringas when I had them.

2. Beach Hopping

Tofino has many beaches to hop around, which are all amazing to experience during the storm-watching season. Some beaches that are closer to Tofino are Wickaninnish Beach , Cox Bay Beach , Long Beach , Mackenzie Beach , and my favourite, Chesterman Beach .

Where To Stay In Tofino

Cox bay beach resort.

Cox Bay Beach Resort is in an excellent location in Tofino. The resort is situated on Cox Bay Beach, with beautiful views and fully stocked amenities, making it feel like a home away from home. It’s also the perfect spot for families.

Day 6 & 7 In Ucluelet

Ucluelet is another coastal village 30 minutes from Tofino known for its rugged coastline and easygoing atmosphere. I personally liked visiting Ucluelet over Tofino.

The landscape features rocky shores, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, providing a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Things To Do In Ucluelet

While Tofino and Ucluelet are a short distance away, you may wonder if is Ucluelet worth visiting . What is there to do? Here are a couple of things to do.

1. Amphitrite Point Lighthouse

A must-visit attraction in Ucluelet is the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse or the Lighthouse Loop. This accessible 2.9-kilometer (1.8-mile) loop typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete .

My boyfriend and I had a fantastic experience on this trail. We thoroughly enjoyed the numerous lookout points and discovered access to a charming small beach.

2. Big Beach

Big Beach in Ucluelet offers a captivating exploration experience. Turning over rocks can uncover tiny crabs and small tidal pools with hidden sea creatures at low tide.

Upon entering the beach, you will find a display featuring a picture of an eagle’s wingspan , allowing you to compare your wingspan with eagle information.

Do not miss The Tree of Life , a notable tree stump with historical information dating back to the 1200s!

Where To Stay In Ucluelet

Black rock oceanfront resort.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is on a small cliffside surrounded by black rock and spectacular ocean views. It’s in a great location, only a 15-minute walk from the main town of Ucluelet and a five-minute walk from the Wild Pacific Trail.

Fantastic for couples or families and has a small outdoor pool everyone can enjoy. During dinner, you can also experience Currents Restaurant with a spectacular ocean view and sunset. I also want to note that the rooms have no air conditioning .

When Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver Island?

While you can visit Vancouver Island year-round, the best times are from March to May or September to November .

Also, temperatures during those months are more moderate and comfortable. However, you can expect possibly more rain.

If you’re on a budget, travelling during those months mentioned above will most likely be cheaper than going during the summer.

How To Get To Vancouver Island

How to get to Vancouver Island is incredibly easy, and it’s only a ferry ride away from the mainland of Vancouver. Before you start your road trip, you’re probably wondering how to get to Vancouver Island first.

Head along Highway 99 South , approximately a 40-50 minute drive to Tsawwassen Bay Ferry Terminal . You want to catch the ferry heading to Swartz Bay, Victoria .

The ride between the two ferry terminals will be approximately an hour and a 40-minute ride.

The other option is from the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal . Heading on Highway 99 North towards West Vancouver is roughly 20 minutes from Downtown Vancouver (without traffic).

💡 Note: Departure times change, and delays may occur.

A bus route runs to and from the ferry terminal departing from Richmond. However, getting to the terminal by bus will be a more extended trip.

Depending on where you’re coming from in the city, you want to head toward the Canada Line . Once on the Canada Line, you want to get on the train to Bridgeport Station ; after you get off, head to Station Bay 12 and get on the 620 Tswwassen Bay Ferry Express bus.

You’ll then have to buy a walk-on ferry ticket at the desk or online. Once you reach the island, buses stop at the ferry terminal and take you to Downtown Victoria.

How To Get Around Vancouver Island

While Victoria is the central city, multiple buses operate throughout Downtown Victoria . However, getting to the more remote locations around Vancouver Island will be much more accessible by car .

If you’re travelling on foot, no rental car places are immediately close to the ferry terminal. However, there are many car rental companies in Downtown Victoria .

In addition, you can take a bus that regularly stops are the ferry terminal that will take you directly to Downtown Victoria.

Biking in Victoria is growing in popularity and is another way of getting around downtown Victoria. However, I would not recommend biking around Vancouver Island unless you’re prepared and qualified for a long bike ride.

Where Is Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is located off Canada’s Southwestern coast, part of the British Columbia province. It’s separated from the mainland by the Strait of Georgia to the East and the Juan de Fuca Strait to the South.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary — FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about a Vancouver Island road trip.

What Is Special About Vancouver Island?

What is special about Vancouver Island, you may ask? Well, to start with, Vancouver Island is known for its untamed wildlife, beautiful scenic views, moderate temperatures, relaxing and easy-going environment, and so much more.

Hiking beautiful trails and water activities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, are the most popular things on Vancouver Island.

Can You Drive All Around Vancouver Island?

While you can drive on Vancouver Island, the island is an end-to-end type of drive as you can’t drive all of the island in a loop situation . There are also remote locations that you can’t get to by car on the island.

Can You Drive Vancouver Island In A Day?

No, you can’t drive Vancouver Island in a day . You can drive from one end of the island to the other, but it will take you more than seven hours without stops.

Is Driving Easy On Vancouver Island?

Overall, yes I would say driving on Vancouver Island is easy. However, there may be tight turns around corners, so always exercise caution regardless.

As you can see, there are many things to do and see on Vancouver Island in seven days. From Victoria to Tofino, each day offers different experiences and something waiting for you to explore.

Have a good day 🙂

Kelena is the founder and author of The Travelling City Girl. She's a part-time travel blogger passionate about exploration and dedicated to becoming a full-time travel blogger. She's here to help you gain information and knowledge, focusing on her expertise on her home province of British Columbia.

The Ultimate Vancouver Island Road Trip: Day-by-Day Guide

There's no place in the world like Vancouver Island, and you owe it to yourself to visit. The best way to take in the area is with a Vancouver Island road trip.

Not sure what to do or how to plan it? Read on to discover all that you need to know to plan it all out, whether it's a north Vancouver Island road trip or a jaunt around the whole island.

Planning Your Vancouver Island Road Trip

A Vancouver Island road trip is a wonderful chance to explore a unique locale in British Columbia, but to guarantee the best possible time, it's good to sit down and plan things out first . How long will your road trip be? How will you get there? Where can you camp your RV? When is the best time to visit? It's time to answer some of these questions!

How Long Will Your Road Trip Be?

Ask yourself, how much time do you want to devote to your Vancouver Island road trip? Usually, around five to seven days for an introductory visit is a good start. Some enthusiasts will actually insist that you need at least two weeks to take it all in!

While the amount of time you spend there is up to you, this guide will stick to a five-day Vancouver Island itinerary that you can follow or build off of!

How To Get To Vancouver Island

There are no bridges to Vancouver Island, so if traveling by RV, you'll have to take a ferry to get there. You can take a ferry to Vancouver Island from a few points within British Columbia, or if you prefer, you can even take a ferry to Vancouver Island from Port Angeles, Washington. During the busy season (May through September), you'll want to reserve a spot on a ferry as early as possible to guarantee space onboard for you and your RV.

When is the Best Time for a Vancouver Island Road Trip?

Honestly, there is never really a "bad" time for a Vancouver Island road trip, so it really depends on a few things, but mostly: Why are you going there?

Spring is obviously the best (and only) time to see cherry blossoms in full bloom in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.

Summer brings with it the best weather, and the most camping options –– but also, the most tourists (just like you!).

Fall is calmer, perfect for checking out harvest festivals and wineries.

Winter is also a nice time to visit Vancouver Island, where you can enjoy winter sports and encounter the fewest tourists.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

What follows is an example of a brief five-day road trip itinerary around Vancouver Island. Add on or remove items as you see fit!

Day 1: You'll hop on the ferry, which should bring you right into Victoria . Spend a full day here, with highlights including the Royal British Columbia Museum, Victoria Butterfly Gardens, and Victoria Public Market.

Day 2: Head north as early as you can, because it will take you a few hours to get to Pacific Rim National Park Preserve . Once there, you can enjoy ocean sights and the beaches, go hiking, or learn about the First Peoples of the area.

Day 3: Head out over to Port Renfrew, a hiker's paradise. Along the way, check out Big Lonely Doug, a 70-meter (230-foot) tall Douglas fir tree. For an incredibly bucolic time, check out Avatar Grove , a huge forest near Port Renfrew.

Day 4: You're heading back up north today to see Elk Falls Provincial Park , with the stunning 25-meter (82-foot) waterfall for which it is named. After taking in the falls and suspension bridge, hike the park's 6-km (3.7-mile) trails.

Day 5: Your north Vancouver Island road trip comes to an end. Drive up Highway 19 (the North Island Route) to Port Hardy , where you can spend the day on the trails, on the beach, or exploring the forests.

RV Camping on Vancouver Island

You'll need to find a place to park your rig each night of your visit to Vancouver Island, and you have a wide range of choices. Here are a few to check out for your road trip.

Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park

With 53 acres of ocean, forest, and river guests can enjoy, Living Forest RV park offers an incredible chance to experience all that makes Vancouver Island special in one setting.

Capacity: 206 RV sites

More Information: Living Forest Oceanside Campground & RV Park

Fort Victoria RV Park

Family-owned and operated since 1961, Fort Victoria RV park is a great home away from home (with full hookups!) during your Vancouver Island road trip.

Capacity: 160 RV sites

More Information: Fort Victoria RV Park

Seal Bay RV Park

Open year-round, Seal Bay RV Park has 20 acres of camping delights. Every space has full hookups, a picnic table, and fire pit, and there are also coin-operated showers and laundry facilities available.

Capacity: 140 RV sites

More Information: Seal Bay RV Park

Go On a Vancouver Island Road Trip With Cruise America

You know how to get there, some of what you can see, and where to stay. What's left? Ah, yes: The RV! You're in need of an RV rental , and Cruise America has plenty to choose from. You can make the most of your Vancouver Island itinerary with a Cruise America RV , so get in touch now!

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Posted on May 18, 2023 - North Vancouver Island , Southern Vancouver Island , Victoria Area

Are you ready for an epic adventure? Look no further than Vancouver Island – this beautiful island off the west coast of Canada is the perfect destination for a road trip. With stunning natural beauty, charming towns, and plenty of outdoor activities, Vancouver Island has it all. So buckle up, grab your road map, and get ready for the ultimate Vancouver Island road trip.

Day 1: Start your journey in Victoria, the island’s capital city. Take a stroll through the beautiful Butchart Gardens before hitting the road towards the west coast. Make a stop in Sooke and hike to the stunning Sooke Potholes, a series of rock pools and waterfalls in a scenic canyon.

Day 2: Drive to Port Renfrew and visit the Botanical Beach Provincial Park, famous for its tide pools and unique rock formations. Continue along the coast to Cowichan Bay, a charming fishing village with great seafood and wine.

Day 3: Explore the town of Duncan, known as the “City of Totems” for its impressive collection of totem poles. Drive to Nanaimo and take a ferry to Gabriola Island, where you can explore the beautiful beaches and hike through the forests.

Day 4: Return to the mainland and drive to Parksville, home to the famous “Goats on the Roof” market. Stop by Cathedral Grove to admire the towering old-growth trees.

Day 5: Drive to Tofino, a surfing town with some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Go on a whale watching tour or hike the famous West Coast Trail.

Day 6: Take a day trip to nearby Ucluelet and explore the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Visit the stunning Long Beach or hike to the top of Mount Ozzard for panoramic views of the region.

Day 7: Return to Victoria and visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the island’s history and culture. End your trip with a sunset stroll along the beautiful Inner Harbour.

This road trip is just a taste of all the amazing things Vancouver Island has to offer. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

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A first-timer’s guide to Vancouver Island

May 8, 2024 • 11 min read

Explore stately Victoria (pictured), hike long-distance trails, catch a wave in Tofino and much more besides on Vancouver Island © Aaron Black / Getty Images RFC

Once dismissed as a sleepy retirement home for aging Anglophiles, Vancouver Island has acquired a racier profile in recent years, courtesy of its free-spirited surfing towns, pastoral wineries, community-built biking networks and extravagantly eccentric accommodations.

If you’ve ever spent time fantasizing about “hanging ten” in Tofino , sleeping in spherical treehouses, visiting Canada ’s only commercial tea farm or climbing above the forest canopy on a wooden skywalk, welcome to heaven.

Here's everything you need to know before you visit Vancouver Island for the first time.

When should I go to Vancouver Island?

Most of Vancouver Island has a relatively mild climate. Victoria , in the south, is the balmiest city in Canada, while the nearby Cowichan Valley, famed for its viticulture, is practically Mediterranean. These two areas can be visited year round, although late spring and summer are the driest times. Tofino is another year-round destination with surfing conditions at their best in September and October. The storm-watching season runs from November through February when the winter squalls are spectacular.  

Read more:  A postcard from Vancouver Island: a storm-watching trip in photos

The months of July, August and September enjoy dry, semi-drought conditions, perfect for east and west coast beaches and long-distance hikes such as the West Coast Trail (open May 1 to September 30). Most of the island’s rain falls between mid-October and April. For Mt Washington skiers, the winter season usually runs from early December to early April.

For the best prices, avoid high summer and public holidays (Canada has one every month). Some of the island’s smaller towns – most notably Tofino – can get very crowded during the school summer holidays (July and August), meaning you’ll need to book accommodations months in advance.

How much time should I spend on Vancouver Island?

Short island breaks from Vancouver can be spread over a long weekend, although once you’ve factored in ferry travel, you probably won’t get much further than Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula. To take in additional highlights, such as the Cowichan Valley and Tofino, bank on at least five days. If you’re aiming to visit the island’s wilder north coast and/or indulge in some backcountry adventures, one week is the bare minimum.

How do I get to Vancouver Island?

The only way to get to the island from the mainland is by ferry or airplane. Victoria International Airport has connections to major Canadian cities, plus Seattle in the US. Small planes serve airports in Port Hardy, Campbell River, Tofino and Nanaimo . Harbour Air runs seaplanes between Vancouver and Victoria harbors.  

The main ferry services are run by BC Ferries , which operates vessels between Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (for Victoria); Tsawwassen and Duke Point (Nanaimo); and Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) and Departure Bay (Nanaimo). There’s also a smaller central island ferry that runs between Comox and Powell River on the Sunshine Coast. All Vancouver Island ferries carry cars.  

Direct international ferries connect Port Angeles in Washington State , USA, with Victoria. The  Black Ball car ferry runs four times a day in either direction in the summer and twice a day in the winter. The journey lasts 90 minutes. The passenger-only  Victoria Clipper ferry operates daily between Victoria and Seattle, USA.

Is it easy to get around Vancouver Island?

In short, yes. While the island has a relatively scant road network, especially in the north and west, the main highways are in good condition and a car will get you to most places that are of interest to travelers.

The island’s main north-south highway runs between Victoria and Port Hardy – a total distance of 500km (311 miles). It’s called Hwy 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) between Victoria and Nanaimo and Hwy 19 further north.

Vancouver Island Connector has one daily bus in either direction between Victoria and Tofino, stopping at Nanaimo, Port Alberni and several other towns.  Island Link offers a more comprehensive service running multiple buses between Victoria and Tofino, Victoria and Campbell River, and Campbell River and Port Hardy. Book at least a day in advance. 

There are currently no public trains operating on the island.

Top things to do on Vancouver Island

Surf or storm-watch in tofino.

Abutting the turbulent seas of the Pacific Ocean with a necklace of broad sandy beaches,  Tofino is, inarguably, the best place in Canada to go surfing. From semicircular Cox Bay (host of numerous surfing competitions) to blustery Long Beach inside Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the swells are legendary – and not just for their wave-riding potential. Backed by a smattering of low-rise accommodations, Tofino has become a popular storm-watching destination in recent decades, with its winter tempests perfectly complementing the elemental surroundings.

Sit down to afternoon tea in Victoria

While Victoria is an increasingly diverse city, it still clings in part to the British traditions of its past, a legacy reflected in its grand legislative building, “royal” museum and local penchant for afternoon tea. The tea ritual prevails in an array of refined cafes and tearooms scattered around town, where fluffy scones and dainty cakes are paired with refreshing cups of orange pekoe sipped from fine china.

The poshest – and also most expensive – place to partake in the repast is the  Fairmont Empress Hotel , where “high tea” (finger sandwiches, homemade pastries and fresh scones) is served in a regal lounge.

Visit a cidery in the Cowichan Valley  

The Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s own Provence, where gentle hills and a warm Mediterranean-like climate provide a fertile environment for vineyards, farm-to-table restaurants and craft drinks. A notable innovator is  Merridale , a craft-cider maker and microdistillery in the farming community of Cobble Hill, whose rustic grounds are speckled with a gnarly orchard and large, gabled barns. Inside, there’s a tasting bar dispatching samples of the fruity booze, a patio bistro serving crusty apple pie and posh yurts for overnight stays.

Feel the full force of nature on the West Coast Trail

Muddy, swampy and slow-going for much of its course, the perennially popular  West Coast Trail is one of Canada’s most celebrated hikes. The 75km (47-mile) trail of ladders, bridges, creek crossings, rock-hopping and beachcombing hugs the Pacific shoreline for most of its course and incorporates large tracts of Indigenous land. You’ll need a permit, camping equipment and between five and seven days to complete it, but despite fickle weather and the ruggedness of the beaches and adjacent forest, the rewards are immense. Book your passage well in advance.      

See one of Canada’s best Indigenous cultural museums in Alert Bay

Head north to Alert Bay on tiny Cormorant Island to see one of the best manifestations of Indigenous culture in Canada. The  U’mista Cultural Centre is a unique museum modeled on a wooden longhouse that displays a vast collection of Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts – including masks, carvings and totems – reclaimed after being confiscated by Canadian authorities in the early 20th century, when potlatch gift-giving ceremonies were prohibited.

Climb above the forest on the Malahat Skywalk

Opened in 2021 and built in collaboration with the Malahat Nation, this novel Skywalk rises like a giant wood-and-glass basket above the forest just off Hwy 1, 30km (19 miles) northwest of Victoria. A 600m-long (1969ft) elevated walkway leads through arbutus forest to the 32m-high (105ft) multi-tiered tower that's been fitted with multiple viewpoints, a bouncy adventure net and a helter-skelter-style slide that’ll shoot you back down to the bottom in 15 seconds.

Looking for more great experiences? Here are our top picks on Vancouver Island  

My favorite thing to do on Vancouver Island  

I’m no daredevil mountain biker, but the extensive and unique trail network around the central-island village of Cumberland is my favorite place for downhill practice (and boy do I need it). The trails were built by a local nonprofit called the  United Riders of Cumberland in the early 2000s with the cooperation of Canadian timber companies. Around the same time, an enterprising group of village residents purchased an adjacent portion of old growth forest to save it from logging and furnished it with walking trails.  

To support the two-wheeled and two-legged tourists, Cumberland’s once downbeat main street of mining-era buildings has sprouted a cool array of independent shops and restaurants. Last time I was in town, I stayed at the  Riding Fool , a friendly hostel with bike rentals available at the adjacent  Dodge City Cycles .

How much money do I need for Vancouver Island?

Prices on the island mostly reflect those of mainland British Columbia (BC) and the rest of Canada. Travelers from the US, Eurozone and the UK may find things slightly cheaper than at home.

How much money you’ll need will depend on the season, your location and your choice of activities. Hit tiny Tofino in the summer for whale-watching and a dinner of baked halibut washed down with a bottle of Muscadet and things could get pricey. But visit nearby Ucluelet in the shoulder season to sample beer in the local brewpub and hike the elemental Wild Pacific Trail for free, and you’ll have some cash left in the coffers.

If you’re just visiting the Victoria area, you can stretch your budget by ditching the car (meaning no parking fees), traveling “walk-on” with the ferry and taking the cheap public bus from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal into Victoria.  

Typical prices:

• Ferry fares for cars/walk-on passengers: from C$50/19.85
• Front-country camping per night: C$20–35
• Backcountry camping: C$5
• Room for two in mid-range hotel: C$180–240
• Kayak rental (two hours): from C$50
• Victoria – Tofino bus ticket: C$73
• Local bus fares: C$2.50
• Coffee: C$3–5
• Fish ‘n’ chips: C$16–22

Are there any wild animals?

There are plenty. Zodiac boats leave direct from Victoria’s Inner Harbour on whale-watching excursions year round. Tofino and Telegraph Cove are also known for their wildlife cruises, and sightings of dolphins, otters and whales are common.  Prince of Whales is the best island operator.

Black bears are present across Vancouver Island and are regularly spotted on popular wooded hikes such as the West Coast and Juan de Fuca trails. There are no grizzly bears on the island itself, but boat trips operated by  Tide Rip run during summer from Telegraph Cove to Knight Inlet on the mainland, where grizzlies are relatively common.

Unbeknownst to many, the island has the highest concentration of cougars in North America.     

What's the bike culture like?

Vancouver Island is one of the most bike-friendly places in Canada. Urban Victoria has a large and growing network of dedicated bike lanes that crisscross the downtown core and complement a wider web of multi-use trails, including the 55km (34-mile) Galloping Goose Trail and the 29km (18-mile) Lochside Trail, both of which are built on top of old railway lines. Further north, the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet are linked by the newer ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced “ups-cheek ta-shee”) trail that passes all the best Pacific beaches.  

For off-road action, Cumberland has one of the most comprehensive single-track mountain biking networks in BC, with 170 named trails and a strong reputation among cyclists for its diversity and competitive edge.   

How English is Victoria?

Victoria isn't as English as it used to be, but you can still enjoy several genuine British-style pubs in the BC capital, including such downtown haunts as  The Sticky Wicket (with a cricketing theme), where the menu still lists bangers and mash.

Craigdarroch Castle is a grand neo-Romanesque mansion that once belonged to a British coal baron. It wouldn’t look out of place in the Scottish Highlands.

Fish ‘n’ chips is a local staple, and authentic versions can be procured at the floating food shacks of Fisherman’s Wharf . Afternoon tea is also popular – Murchies Tea & Coffee on Government St does a cheap version.

Look out for games of cricket in Beacon Hill Park in the summer and don’t miss the world-class floral displays at  Butchart Gardens in nearby Brentwood Bay.   

What are the best long-distance hiking trails?

The island has three multiday backcountry hiking trails, all regarded as classics.

The West Coast Trail is world famous and was once used as a rescue route for shipwrecked sailors. It’s open from May to September, and aspiring hikers must book in advance to secure a space.  

The 47km (29-mile) Juan de Fuca Trail is a lesser-known southern extension of the West Coast Trail with no prior reservations necessary.

The newer, more remote 43km (27-mile) North Coast Trail links sandy coves, empty beaches and thick, wind-contorted rainforest via a rough, unkempt path that utilizes sections of boardwalk and cable cars to cross creeks and rivers.

The all-encompassing  Vancouver Island Trail runs south to north from Victoria to Cape Scott, though it still lacks proper signage in some places. See the trail website for details.    

Are there any national parks?

There are two national parks on Vancouver Island: Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , established in 1970, and Gulf Islands National Park Reserve , designated in 2003. The former abuts the stormy west coast between the twin surf towns of Tofino and Ucluelet and is split into three sections: the West Coast Trail (a hiking route), Broken Group Islands (only reachable by boat) and the more accessible Long Beach Unit, where there’s a visitor center and a raft of beach activities.

The Gulf Island National Park Reserve consists of numerous disconnected areas spread across a dozen landfalls on the so-called Gulf Island archipelago between Vancouver and Victoria. Pender and Mayne Islands are the easiest to reach on the public ferry network.  

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The best West Coast travel spots, according to readers

Sometimes 101 is just too small a number.

Many readers, having digested our new list of 101 best West Coast experiences , have stepped up to make the case for destinations we left out, from a country road in Malibu to a remote beach town on a Canadian island. We've gathered a sampling of them here.

Most of these readers are pitching their hometowns or sharing finds from their own western ramblings, but others are more mysterious.

One reader wrote from a beloved corner of coastal Northern California to say, "I would tell you [where], but then it would be CROWDED."

Another reader, insisting on anonymity, said he likes living on a boat in Baja Peninsula, looking out at "the world's biggest aquarium" in the Gulf of California.

Yet another reader described a "magical" spot at Stinson Beach in Marin County, where birders could watch scores of snowy egrets and great blue herons nest. Alas, officials at Audubon Canyon Ranch say, that moment has passed. A campaign of prolonged and increasing harassment by bald eagles has chased the egrets and herons from the Martin Griffith Preserve . As much as we'd sometimes like it to, the West does not stand still.

As the guy who put together the 101 destinations on our list and fretted plenty over which to include, I have to admit that the readers' choices here are solid, if not downright jealousy-provoking. I hope to see some of these places in coming months.

Meanwhile, they're arranged here from south to north.

A road in Malibu

In a passage that sounds like it might be the beginning of a novel, Bryan A'Hearn of Los Angeles writes in praise of driving Malibu Canyon Road on a dewy morning after a long evening with an old friend.

A'Hearn: "Our late night — of lousy cards and sips of cheap vodka and orange juice and industry gossip with too many characters and old and new news — crawled into early morning, and a scenic drive seemed appropriate. It was not quite dawn, and the fog in the valley climbed and coiled the hills ahead of us. Sometimes you were caught in the canyon fog, and the road stretched as long as your low beams. Malibu Canyon Road forks onto tree-hooded backroads; there the fog is mist and veils cul-de-sacs with long, flat houses and fancy mailboxes. My old friend mentioned she once baby sat or dog sat or tutored or nannied — you forget, really — a family up here. The sun yawned over the Pacific and the fog began to lift, and we made the descent to Malibu Colony."

A historic Black town in Tulare County

Lisa Fitch of Los Angeles first visited Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park — site of the first California town founded, financed and governed by African Americans — on a neighborhood group field trip. Soon after, she joined the Friends of Allensworth.

The park is a collection of restored and reconstructed wooden buildings, 12 miles west of Delano in the San Joaquin Valley. The 800-acre town was founded in 1908 near a Santa Fe rail route. Its key proponent, Fitch writes, was an educator and Army chaplain named Col. Allen Allensworth, a charismatic leader who had been born into slavery in the 1840s.

After several years of growth, the town faltered and eventually emptied amid a water shortage, the loss of rail service and the death of Col. Allensworth in a traffic accident. The remaining buildings were at risk of demolition in the late 1960s when former resident Cornelius "Ed" Pope launched a campaign to preserve it. Allensworth became a state historic park in 1974.

On June 8 of this year from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Fitch writes, "Allensworth will hold a Juneteeth event! Bring a blanket and umbrella and enjoy tours of the refurbished buildings, entertainment and vendors."

The star of Sequoia National Park

"I understand that any list is curated," begins Eric Gersh of Agoura Hills. Then his note let me have it for overlooking the General Sherman Tree and its companion sequoias in Sequoia National Park. "Still, astonishing that the largest living things on the planet don’t make that list! Too many memories to list, from my own childhood awe to watching my children experience the same wonder at such ancient giants. Yes, you got the redwoods ... twice, but no General Sherman amidst the splendor of the Sierras???"

Mea culpa, Mr. Gersh. For the record, the National Park Service affirms that the General Sherman Tree is "the largest in the world at 52,508 cubic feet (1,487 cubic meters)," standing 274.9 feet high with a base circumference of 102.6 feet.

A lighthouse hostel in San Mateo County

Anna Glynne of La Jolla commends the Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel , where she stayed last July. Traveling with her sister and her sister's three children. Glynne booked two nights in a six-person room.

"Our stay was magical," Glynne writes. "We explored redwood trails in Butano State Park. Her kids spotted elephant seals basking at Año Nuevo State Park. We drove 9 miles to Pescadero for fancy coffees and fresh-baked bread."

The group's room had three bunk beds and a private bathroom, with access to a communal kitchen and living area. Other Pigeon Point options include a sunset soak in a hot tub with an ocean view (and often a sea lion soundtrack) or a fort-building session with driftwood on a nearby beach.

Added Glynne: "If you dread camping (like my sister) but still want to explore the California coast on a budget, don't forget the hostels."

A theater festival in southern Oregon

Reader Trinity Tracy of Ashland now takes center stage to speak in favor of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival in Ashland.

As Tracy writes, it's not just Shakespeare and not just a summer thing. The theater festival, which dates to the 1930s, runs March through October, featuring new and traditional plays. Like many theater companies, Oregon Shakespeare has faced struggles since the pandemic, but "it's really incredible ... one of the best and biggest Elizabethan theaters in the world and two other theaters." In addition, the town of Ashland (not far from Crater Lake) has more than its fair share of restaurants, pubs and lodgings for theatrically inclined travelers.

This year's Oregon Shakespeare productions include Shakespeare's "Macbeth," "Coriolanus" and "Much Ado About Nothing;" along with "Born With Teeth" by Liz Duffy Adams (an imagined encounter between William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe); "Lizard Boy," an indie-rock musical by Justin Huertas; an adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's "Jane Eyre" by Elizabeth Williamson; and several one-person shows.

A rugged beach in Olympic National Park

Joel Kawahara of Quilcene, Wash., suggests Ruby Beach , which is a rugged patch of rocky shoreline, often full of driftwood, in Olympic National Park.

Kawahara: "Ruby Beach is almost completely undeveloped. There is a parking lot, a potty and a trail to the beach. There is no development on the beach; it is simply just as the last wave left it. It is perhaps a little over-visited so crowds are an issue. But if you want to understand the north coast, just stand there and watch the surf and look carefully in the tide pools. Don’t think. Be zen. Or as zen as you can."

A park in Washington's Port Townsend

Jeffrey Crocker of Pittsfield, Mass., suggests Fort Worden Historical State Park in Port Townsend, Wash. Crocker calls it "a beautiful place. Where the movie ' [An Officer and a Gentleman' (1982) was filmed. Rustic, scenic area at entrance to Puget Sound. Camping, hiking."

Bellingham, Wash.

Michael Grass of Bellingham, Wash., suggests his hometown. (And really, you have to love a place that calls itself "the city of subdued excitement.")

For best effect, Grass says, arrive by train around sunset, taking in the scenery near Chuckanut Mountain and focusing on the historic Fairhaven neighborhood.

"I work remotely from Bellingham and commute into Seattle via Amtrak Cascades a few times a month," Grass writes, "and never tire of the waterside train views on the 6 p.m. departure out of Seattle."

Grass notes that Bellingham's Amtrak station is in the Fairhaven neighborhood. He recommends eating at Fairhaven Poke, drinking at Southside Bar, checking out the watery views from Taylor Dock, hearing music at Skylark's and browsing Village Books, "a three-level bookstore and community crossroads known for its book talks, programming and writing workshops." Or you could head to the cruise terminal and catch a ferry to Ketchikan via the Alaska Marine Highway System .

Among Washington's San Juan Islands

David Tull of Mountain View casts his vote for the San Juan Islands.

"The San Juan Islands are beautiful. Period," he writes. "The archipelago contains numerous islands of different sizes and accessibility. In places there are narrow channels between islands as well as open sea. The region is home to pods of orcas and gray whales and humpbacks. In addition, bald eagles are thriving in the islands. My biggest thrill was being out on the water in a small boat with orcas coming alongside. Tourism is the principal industry now, but the islands' largest town, Friday Harbor, is not garish, schlocky or overrun."

A coastal town on Canada's Vancouver Island

Tyler Mark of Los Angeles was disappointed in us for overlooking Tofino, on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

Writes Mark: "How you make a list without a visit to Tofino is beyond anyone who has been there. This small town perched on the tip of a peninsula on the west coast of Vancouver Island, with the Pacific and its whales on one side and its bay full of otters on the other, is a gem. White-capped mountains cascade down to redwood forests and an archipelago of small timbered islands with beautiful surfable beaches." Mark also lauds Tofino's food scene. Basically, he concludes, "This place has everything except easy access, which makes it more special."

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times .