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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!

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Vancouver Island Road Trip: PRE-TRIP PLANNING

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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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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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How to have an EPIC 10 Day Vancouver Island Road Trip!

Last updated on March 24th, 2024

Ready for the ultimate Vancouver Island road trip? In this guide we’re sharing a 10 day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary, plus helpful information for your adventure! During our big Journey to Alaska in 2022 one of the top spots we wanted to prioritize along the way was Vancouver Island, which we had visited very briefly back in 2017. While not directly on our route, we decided to take a two week detour to experience the island much more in depth than our previous visit. And it did NOT disappoint! In fact, it was our favorite place we visited on our way up to Alaska!

Watch our experience on Vancouver Island, including different cities and towns, unique beaches, gorgeous hikes, and more!

In this guide we’re sharing a 10 day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary to help you experience the diverse scenery that this island has to offer, plus information on how to get to the island, where to stay, what to bring, and more! We hope you fall in love with the island as much as we did! WARNING: This is a long guide, but we hope it provides everything you need to know to plan your own epic Vancouver Island road trip! We have a table of contents feature below if you’d like to skip ahead to any section. Looking for even more detail? We will be linking to other Vancouver Island guides and videos in this guide to further help with your planning.

Looking for more things to do on Vancouver Island and in Canada?

• 12+ FUN Things to do in Tofino on Vancouver Island (+ 3 day itinerary) 
• The BEST things to do in Campbell River on Vancouver Island (+ 2 day itinerary) 
• Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip: The Best Stops from Vancouver to Whistler (+Itineraries!)
• 3 Days in Vancouver
• Backpacking at Garibaldi Provincial Park
• 17 FUN things to do in Dawson City, Yukon
• Watch all of our Canada vlogs and read all of our Canada guides !

About Vancouver Island

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Vancouver Island is located on Canada’s Pacific coast in British Columbia, just west of Vancouver. If we had to describe Vancouver Island we’d say it’s as if you combined all of the best parts of the Pacific Northwest into a more condensed area. There are over 500 named mountain peaks, lakes, gorgeous coastline, tons of hiking trails, waterfalls, charming small towns, remote wilderness, wildlife, delicious seafood and coffee, and so much more, all in just under 12,400 square miles.  The Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Coast Salish First Nations have lived on the island for centuries, utilizing all of these natural resources. And today, these resources have turned the island into an outdoor playground, attracting nature lovers, surfers (it is home to the surf capital of Canada!), and those who just want to enjoy a laid back, scenic getaway.

Before embarking on your adventure, please review the  Leave No Trace principles  to ensure you leave every place better than you found it, so that others can enjoy these beautiful places for many years to come! These seven principles include planning ahead and preparing, hiking and camping on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly (pack out what you pack in!), understanding campfire rules and always fully extinguishing your fires, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. 

Being an island, the only way to get to Vancouver Island is by ferry or plane and depending on where you plan to go, you may arrive and leave from different areas of the island. Below is a quick rundown of how to get to the island, whether you fly or take the ferry!

Flying into Vancouver Island will be your quickest option. The largest airport on Vancouver Island is the Victoria International Airport (YYJ) , which is located right in Victoria. The island also has two other medium sized airports, the Nanaimo Airport (YCD) and Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) . All of these airports primarily have nonstop flights to locations in Canada, with the Victoria International Airport offering flights to Seattle. So depending on where you’re coming from, you’ll very likely have a layover.

By Ferry (what we recommend!)

The most common way to get to Vancouver Island is by ferry, which is operated by BC Ferries . We LOVE riding the ferry! The views are incredible and being able to drive our van onto a boat is not only so cool to us, but also very convenient, because we can then drive our own vehicle all around the island. The ferries we have been on have all been nice inside, with food to purchase and much more space to spread out than an airplane. But if you’re like us, you may spend the whole time outside enjoying the views!

There are three routes from mainland British Columbia to Vancouver Island:

• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Victoria (Duke Point): 1 hour, 35 minute ride
• Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo (Departure Bay): 1 hour, 40 minute ride
• Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point): 2 hour ride

Any of these routes are a good option to get on the island, depending on where you’re going first. We’ll share what we recommend during the itinerary portion of this guide!

The cost of the ferry varies depending on the number of people in your party, if you’re bringing a vehicle (and its size), and other factors. To see the price for your situation, search for a route on BC Ferries website . For two of us in our oversized Sprinter van, we paid $250 round trip, but it is much cheaper if you are in a smaller vehicle.

Dogs are also allowed on the ferry, but must remain in your vehicle or in a designated pet area. 

Visiting from the US?

Besides the BC ferries, you can also take the Black Ball Ferry from Port Angeles, Washington (on the Olympic Peninsula) to Victoria, which is a 1.5 hour ride, but Port Angeles is about a 2.5 hour drive from Seattle (and may require a ferry), so it’s about the same amount of time to just drive or fly up to Vancouver and take a ferry from there. Make sure to study up on what you can and cannot bring into Canada from the US. You can see all of the rules here . And if you’re bringing a pet, make sure you have a copy of their rabies vaccination and that you only bring dog food in its original packaging, which has to be less than 20 kg (44 lbs).

As for transportation while on Vancouver Island, you have a couple options. You can either drive your own car or rent a car , which is what we’d recommend. Or you can take the Vancouver Island Connector Bus (seasonal), which can take you from various destinations on the island. However, by taking this bus you’ll be much more limited on where you can go and when. So we’d highly suggest having a car! 

Type of vehicle

Any vehicle will work just fine on Vancouver Island. A high clearance vehicle would be nice to have just to be safe, but our non 4×4 Sprinter Van was able to get to every spot on this guide just fine!

Rent a van!

A really fun way to experience Vancouver Island would be by campervan…we know from experience ! By being in a van, you’ll be able to have a consistent “home” every night, even if the location of your home changes. Plus, you’ll be able to stop and cook on longer drives, which is one of our favorite parts of van life. There are a handful of companies on the island who rent vans. Van rentals in Victoria GoCampers Cool Camper Rentals (they have a pickup option in Sidney as well) Base Camp Adventure Rentals Let’sGo Campers (they have a pickup option in Nanaimo as well) Van rentals in Nanaimo JUSTGO Camper Van RV Rentals Van rentals around the island Outdoorsy is sort of like Airbnb, but for camper vans and RVs! If one of the options above doesn’t work for you, check them out!

Although Vancouver Island is an island, it’s not exactly a tropical destination. The island is known for having a mild climate year round, with most of the sea level destinations having highs between 18-24ºC (65-75ºF) in the summer and lows between 0-4ºC (32º-40ºF) in the winter, with snow being a possibility in the lower elevations and a guarantee in higher elevations. Summertime on Vancouver Island, and in the Pacific Northwest in general, is heaven. With way cooler temperatures than most of the United States, plus abundant sunshine after an often gloomy and rainy winter and spring, nothing beats summer in the PNW in our opinion. This would be the prime time to visit Vancouver Island to enjoy everything it has to offer, with the best weather. However, summertime also brings crowds and higher prices. So for the best of both worlds, less crowds and still decent weather (although, be prepared for some rainy days!), we’d suggest visiting in late May, early June, or mid to late September.  We visited Vancouver Island in late May and it was pretty perfect! Our first couple days were gloomy and rainy, but the rest of our time on the island had plenty of sunshine, with a few random sprinkles here and there.

Since this road trip itinerary covers quite a bit of ground, you will need to change lodging throughout the road trip. We will include suggestions of places to stay under each day of the itinerary!

Before you go, here are a few important things to know before hitting the road on your Vancouver Island road trip!

Book in advance

We highly recommend booking things in advance, such as ferries, campsites and other lodging, and anything else that requires a reservation. This will give you the most options and ensure you are able to do everything you want!

Parking fees

Some of the spots on this guide do require a fee to park and we will make sure to mention that, as well as how you can pay.

Seasonal closures

Some restaurants and businesses listed on this guide may close for the winter season. While this guide is definitely catered more towards the summer, we suggest checking the hours of the places you want to visit beforehand so you’re not disappointed!

Pets are mostly allowed

Minus some restaurants, coffee shops, and maybe a few other locations, Vancouver Island is a very dog friendly place! Our dog Kona was able to join us on many hikes, at the beach, and as we explored some towns. Dogs tend to be allowed on many beaches on Vancouver Island, but typically must remain on leash. Please follow this rule, as not all humans or other dogs (our pup Kona included) like having strange dogs run up to them.

Learn how we travel with a dog and what we do with Kona when she cannot join us on our adventures.

Cell Service can be limited

Cell service was hit or miss on Vancouver Island. In the cities, you’ll definitely have service, but there were times when driving on Vancouver Island that we didn’t have cell service, mostly around Strathcona Provincial Park Reserve, on the way to Tofino, and some other more remote areas. If traveling from the US, something else to keep in mind is that your cell phone provider may not provide the same amount of high speed service as in the US. We have Verizon for our phones and we only get 0.5 gb of high speed data and once that is used, the speed will drop dramatically. This would probably be fine for most people who aren’t working or relying on their phone for work, but for us 0.5 gb doesn’t last very long.  One other interesting thing to note is that when you’re on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, you might pick up US cell towers and be able to use your normal amount of data. That was a pleasant surprise for that area of the island! 

Know the tides

If you plan on visiting a lot of beaches, it will be important to know when the high and low tides are, so you can not only explore them as you’d like, but also safely! You can find tide times at the NOAA Tides and Currents predictions site .

If you’re visiting from the United States or another country, don’t forget your passport! For US Citizens, we highly recommend getting NEXUS , which makes crossing the border a breeze! Note: Most travel credit cards will cover the fee for NEXUS! See which travel credit cards we love .

Hiking gear

If you’re doing any hiking, make sure to bring the appropriate hiking gear with you (see what all we take here !). We also always recommend having the 10 essentials on you!

You will definitely want to bring a camera with you to Vancouver Island! The best camera is the one you have at the moment, but if you’re curious what cameras and gear we use, check out our gear list . Since it may be rainy, you’ll want to also bring protection for your camera. We just use a good ‘ol shower cap on our camera to keep it dry, which works pretty well.

Black bears do live on the island, as do wolves and cougars (although these are more rare). When hiking in bear country we always carry bear spray with us. While black bears are not as aggressive as grizzlies, mama bears can be unpredictable, so we’d rather be safe than sorry. We didn’t encounter any bears on any hikes, but we did see two on the drive from Victoria to Jordan River, which was super exciting!

Good hiking shoes (+extra shoes)

With often wet and muddy trails, you’ll definitely want to bring some hiking shoes with good grip! You can see which shoes we use here . We’d also suggest bringing an extra pair of shoes (and socks) in case your shoes get muddy!

Rain Jacket

If visiting outside of the summer months, there is a high chance you’ll get rained on, so make sure to bring a rain jacket !

Layers 

The weather on Vancouver Island can be cool in the mornings and evenings, with mild daytime temperatures that can feel a bit warmer when sunny, so you’ll want to pack some layers to ensure you’re always comfortable.

AllTrails maps

As we mentioned, cell service can be spotty in a few areas and on the trails, so we highly suggest downloading the offline AllTrails map for any hikes you plan on enjoying.

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails+ membership ? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)! We use AllTrails+ on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

There are many ways to experience Vancouver Island and many areas to choose from, but for this guide we’ll be focusing on what we personally experienced during our time on Vancouver Island, which we highly recommend for first timers to the area. There are many more areas to explore that we can’t wait to come back to check out!

For this Vancouver Island Road Trip we suggest starting in Victoria and then heading to Jordan River/Port Renfrew, Tofino, Campbell River, and ending in Nanaimo. This is actually a bit opposite of what we did when we visited Vancouver Island, but it’s the least amount of driving, which means you’ll have more time to explore!

Now that you know a bit more about the area, how to get there, and what to bring, it’s time to plan out your time on Vancouver Island! Below is our 10 day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary, following the route above, which can of course be adjusted to what you want to do, how much you want to do in a day, and how much time you have.  But before we jump into some of the best things to do on Vancouver Island, here are some notes we wanted to make about this itinerary.

• We love jam packed adventures and typically need a vacation from our vacation. This guide is loaded with hikes and activities, with some early wake up calls, so it may not be super relaxing, but it will be a blast! Feel free to adjust it as needed to fit your travel style.
• On a similar note, we have included a variety of hikes and activities on this guide to make it doable for different activity levels and to give you options to choose from.
• We are also including some optional add ons if you have more time or are just looking for even more options!
• Some of these activities are dependent on the tides. Make sure to look at the tide charts beforehand and adjust as needed to ensure you visit places during the proper tide levels.
• Don’t have 10 days to spend on Vancouver Island? We’re including a few options to shorten the trip at the end of this itinerary!

Day 1: Arrive on Vancouver Island + Explore Victoria

Welcome to Vancouver Island! Day one will be a mix of travel and play, as you make your way to Vancouver Island and then explore the beautiful city of Victoria, which is not only the largest city on the island, but is also the second oldest city in Western Canada, and the capital of the entire province of British Columbia.

Watch our experience on the ferry to Vancouver Island and our experience exploring Victoria ,  including enjoying tea, hiking, and seeing the gorgeous buildings!

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

This includes a 1 hour, 35 minute ferry ride from Tsawwassen in Vancouver to Swartz Bay, plus 40 minute drive from the ferry terminal in Swartz Bay to Victoria.

Hop on the ferry! Since this road trip begins in Victoria, you’ll want to take the ferry from Tsawwassen in Vancouver to Swartz Bay. We suggest taking one of the earliest ferries, so you can ideally arrive in Victoria by 9:30 AM at the latest to have enough time to explore!

As soon as you get into Victoria, you’ll immediately notice the gorgeous buildings! The city has had a lot of British influence over the years, with the Hudson’s Bay Company establishing a fort here in 1843 and with the island becoming a British Crown Colony in 1849. And you can see this influence in its architecture! Spend some time walking around the harbor, including admiring the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia building and the Empress Hotel .

Enjoy some afternoon tea (well, in this case, morning tea!)! Due to British history in Victoria, tea has been steeped in its culture since the 1840s! We like going to Murchies’s Tea & Coffee for an affordable tea, but for a more elegant English tea experience, check out the Tea at the Empress , which is offered starting at 11 AM and reservations are highly recommended. Grab lunch at Red Fish Blue Fish , which is a very popular spot. Make sure to get the tacones, which are basically fish tacos, but in a cone shape! Their chowder is also amazing!

Head towards Chinatown to walk through Fan Tan Alley , the narrowest street in Canada! We love wandering around the streets in this area. There are so many cool, colorful buildings! Venture a tiny bit from downtown to Parachute Ice Cream ! This is an incredible ice cream shop with delicious, constantly changing flavors. We LOVED it!

Spend the rest of the day exploring Beacon Hill Park , which is a large park that goes from town down to the Strait of Juan De Fuca and has nice walking paths, coastal views, and tons of free roaming peacocks! Before white settlers moved into the area, this area was the native land of the Lekwungen People. And what is now Beacon Hill Park was an important area for them to harvest camas root, which was a staple in their diet, as well as traded with other First Nations. While in the park, we love just admiring the flowers, ponds, and walking to Finlayson Point , where you can see Washington’s Olympic Peninsula!

For dinner, there are many amazing places to eat in town! We love La Taqueria Pinche for delicious tacos! You might not be in Mexico City , but they sure do have delicious Tacos! We also really enjoyed a nice Italian meal at Il Terrazzo .

Where to stay

Tonight you’ll want to stay in Victoria, so you can explore a bit more in the morning! Campgrounds: Goldstream Campground , Sooke River Campground (in Sooke, west of Victoria on the way to Jordan River/Port Renfrew) Hotels: Chateau Victoria Inn & Suites , Hotel Fairmont Empress , Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites , Hotel Grand Pacific , Delta Hotels by Marriott Vacation Rentals: Oceanfront Penthouse w/Private Rooftop Patio , Unique Chinatown Loft , Bright Studio in Old Town District , Oceanside Getaway (pet-friendly) , Modern Living in Old Town  

Day 2: Victoria + Drive to Jordan River/Port Renfrew

On day two on Vancouver Island you’ll explore a park of your choice near Victoria and then head west to the Jordan River and Port Renfrew area! Jordan River and Port Renfrew are two small beach towns along the Strait of Juan de Fuca and are home to the Juan de Fuca Trail, which is a 47 km (29 mile) wilderness trail that runs along the coastline and can be done as a backpacking trip or as multiple day hikes. And along this trail are tons of unique beaches!

Watch our time in the Jordan River and Port Renfrew area , where we checked out a bunch of unique beaches! 

Travel Time: 1-1.5 hours

Depending on which activities you choose, the drive from downtown Victoria to Jordan River is a little over 1 hour drive. 

Have breakfast at Jam Cafe in Victoria, which is a delicious spot with a wide variety of options! Make sure to get there right when they open, as it gets busy! We also love Hey Happy , which is a coffee shop that has pastries and breakfast items if you want something quicker.

For the first half of the day, you have a couple options:

• Visit Butchart Gardens , which is a famous garden north of Victoria that has been around for 100 years. We personally have never visited, as the cost is a bit steep ($39.50 CAD at its highest), but everyone we know of who has gone has loved it! It’s recommended to spend 4 hours here.
• Check out Niagara Falls at Goldstream Provincial Park ! This is a 47.5 meter (156 feet) tall waterfall that is tucked into a gorge and is stunning! You’ll want to park at the location linked above and then it’s just a quick walk to the waterfall. You’re able to walk down towards the base of it as well!
• Hike at East Sooke Regional Park . We recommend the Beechey Head Loop (5.5 km | 3.4 miles) or the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop (8.9 km | 5.5 miles).
• Go to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park , which has unique pools in the river rock!

After exploring some of the nature close to Victoria, head to Jordan River! Depending on the tides, we suggest arriving close to low tide so you can visit one of the amazing beaches in the area, like Sombrio Beach ! Sombrio Beach is a beautiful beach, but what makes it special is that there is a hidden waterfall!

To get to the waterfall, you’ll hike down to the beach, which takes 10 minutes, and then once at the beach, go left. You’ll follow the beach this direction, going around a large rock cliff that is on the sand (it’s best to go at a falling tide to avoid this). Shortly after this rocky section, you’ll notice a very small stream going down the sand. Look to your left and you should see where the stream meets the trees, which is where you’ll want to enter.

You’ll hike through streams to get to the waterfall (your feet may get wet!), which is tucked into a narrow gorge and is SO unique and cool! It reminded us of the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon and is such a magical place. We share a bit more of how to get to the waterfall in our YouTube video and this AllTrails Map is helpful to have downloaded to find the waterfall as well!

This evening you’ll want to stay in the Jordan River or Port Renfrew area, as it’ll make exploring more tomorrow a breeze! Campgrounds: The BEST developed camping option in the area is the Jordan River Regional Park ! This campground is right on the ocean (the road is right there as well, but it’s quiet at night) and it’s only $10 CAD (Nov-May) or $15 CAD (June-Oct) a night (cash only), which is a steal! It’s first-come, first-served, with only 15 drive in sites and 7 walk in sites, so try to arrive early! You can also camp ON the beach at many of the beaches! Sombrio Beach is a popular choice to do this and it costs $10 CAD per night (you can get the backcountry permit in advance here or pay cash at the trailhead). Just make sure you set up your tent far from the high tide line. Hotels: Fossil Bay Resort , Point No Point Resort Vacation Rentals: Ferngully Cabins , Jordan River Cabin , Jordan River Cedar House and Hot Tub , Mystic Beach Vacation Home , Wild Renfrew cottages

Day 3: Jordan River/Port Renfrew

Today you’ll continue exploring the Jordan River and Port Renfrew area, including more unique beaches, plus delicious local spots! Note: We are listing the itinerary for this day in order from east to west, in order to reduce backtracking while driving, but depending on the tides, you may have to switch it up to ensure you visit beaches at the best time!

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

The drive between Jordan River and Port Renfrew is about 45 minutes each way, so you’ll likely drive 1.5 hours round trip!

Enjoy breakfast at Shirley Delicious ! This cafe is in an A-frame, tucked in the woods and makes food that shirley is delicious! We enjoyed their corn fritters, breakfast sandwich, and caramel latte and everything was insanely good, plus the setting can’t be beat! Just down the road from Shirley Delicious is the Sheringham Point Lighthouse if you want to go for a quick stroll!

Go for a hike to Mystic Beach ! This is a 4 km (2.5 mile) hike through a peaceful forest (warning, there are a lot of roots on the trail) and along a cool bridge, which leads to Mystic Beach, a stunning beach that has THREE unique features.

The first unique feature is a wooden swing, which you can find by going to the right once at the water. It is a lot of fun to swing on this over the sand and water! Right next to the swing is a cave that you can go into! This cave is ONLY accessible at a low or falling tide, so please know the tides in advance.

The final (and our favorite) feature is a waterfall that cascades over the cliffside onto the beach and then into the ocean. We love waterfalls and seeing one ON a beach is something we don’t see often! This waterfall can be viewed at high tide, but you can only get close to it at low tide. So we’d suggest visiting this beach at low tide or falling tide to really take advantage of its fun features!

Next up, head to Botanical Beach in Port Renfrew! It’s just a 1 km/0.6 mile hike down to the beach , which is known for its tidepools. Make sure to visit at low tide so you can see them! We saw a variety of wildlife in the pools, like anemones, but unfortunately no starfish. Hopefully you’ll have better luck than us! After a day of exploring the beaches in the area, have dinner at Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market !

For day 3, we suggest staying in Jordan River or Port Renfrew at one of the lodging options we listed above!

Day 4: Drive to Tofino

It’s time to hit the road to Tofino! This will be a long day of driving, but we are listing some stops to make along the way to help you stretch your legs. You likely won’t have time for them all, but you’ll be doing a portion of this drive again on Day 7, so you can check out whatever you miss then!

Watch us explore some amazing stops on the way to Tofino, including some beautiful waterfalls!

Travel Time: 5 hours

This drive is about 5 hours from Jordan River, but closer to 6 from Port Renfrew. 

Grab a quick coffee and breakfast at Cold Shoulder Cafe , which is such a cool coffee stand, and hit the road to Tofino! Along the drive to Tofino there are tons of things you can stop at! Here are some of our favorites!

• Englishman River Falls Provincial Park : This park has two waterfalls that are just a short walk from the parking area!
• Old Country Market- Goats on the Roof : This market not only has donuts, jerky, and other food items, but it also has goats on the roof! It’s definitely a touristy stop, but if you need a quick snack or just want to see the goats, make sure to swing by. You’ll start to notice their famous goat stickers all across the island!
• Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park : This park is also home to some beautiful waterfalls! Along this easy and short hike you’ll encounter a variety of different vantage points to view the river and falls!
• Cameron Lake : This lake has a stunning mountain backdrop and makes for a great spot to have a picnic or kayak!
• MacMillan Provincial Park (Cathedral Grove) : This park is home to some of the tallest trees in all of Canada and some of the oldest trees here are 800 years old, with the Big Tree being the tallest in the park at 72m (236 ft) tall and 9m (30 ft) in width!

As you get closer to Tofino, you may encounter some road closures . Highway 4 is experiencing closures at Kennedy Hill and the delays can be a bit long. We waited for quite some time on our way to Tofino, but it was worth it because as we went through the construction, we spotted a black bear. It was awesome! Once arriving in Tofino, head to dinner at Shed , Surfside Grill , or Wildside Grill and then relax after a big day of driving!

This evening you’ll want to stay in Tofino. Below are some options! Campgrounds: We stayed at Surf Grove while in Tofino and LOVED it! It is a nice wooded campground just steps from Cox Bay Beach with a store, laundromat, a fire lounge, crate barrel saunas, extremely nice restrooms and showers, surf rentals, and wifi! It’s not cheap, but the amenities and location make it worth it. Some other options include Wildpod Glamping , Green Point Campground , Bella Pacifica Campground , Crystal Cove Beach Resort , West Coast Campground Hotels: Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort , Tofino Motel Harborview , Hotel Zed Tofino , Wickaninnish Inn , Ocean Village Resort Tofino , Pacific Sands Beach Resort Vacation Rentals: Waterfront Condo , Cannery Loft , Tofino Surf Cabin , 5 Star Executive Rental , Middle Beach Lodge  

Day 5: Tofino

Today on your Vancouver Island road trip you’ll be exploring Tofino! Tofino is located on the west coast of Vancouver island on the tip of the Esowista Peninsula and what was once a small fishing village is now known for its pristine beaches, a unique mix of coastal, forest, and mountain scenery, and surfing. In fact, it’s nicknamed Canada’s surf capital! The town itself is pretty small and takes a bit of effort to get to, but has become a popular hot spot for Canadian and foreign tourists in the summertime, who want to hit the waves, hike the trails, and enjoy the beaches. And we can see why! It feels like a wild, remote place that while has become more developed over time, still maintains that authentic, smaller town, laid back feel. And with gorgeous views from the harbor, ample outdoor activities, a quaint downtown with shops, plus trendy local eateries, there is a little something for everyone in Tofino. 

Watch our experience in Tofino, Vancouver Island , including different hikes, surfing, local foods, and more! And to learn even more about the area, check out our guide with 12+ FUN Things to do in Tofino !

Travel Time: < 1 hour

The only driving you’ll be doing today is to just get between the different trails and sights in Tofino!

Enjoy coffee and breakfast at Rhino Coffee House in downtown Tofino. Make sure to get donuts or a bronut, which is a breakfast sandwich on a donut!

Explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve ’s Long Beach Unit, which boasts kilometers of beautiful coastline, temperate rainforests, and the beautiful, but wild Pacific Ocean. This park does have a fee to enter, which varies depending on your age group and where you plan to visit. You can find more information on the fees here ! Dogs are also allowed here (except  Combers Beach from April 14 to October 1), but must be on a leash.

We especially suggest hiking the Nuu-chah-nulth and South Beach Trail (6.4 km | 4 miles), which takes you to three beaches, plus through the forest, plus hiking to the Canso Bomber Plane Crash (7.5 km | 4.7 miles), which is the site of a plane crash from 1945 (don’t worry, everyone lived!). We go into much more detail about these hikes in our Tofino guide !

Grab a late lunch at Toki Doki , which is Japanese street food served out of an ‘80s Airstream at Tofino Brewing Co . Make sure to get the Osaka style Okonomiyaki! While you’re there, grab a beer (if you drink) or if you’re like us, head to Licks for ice cream instead! Note: if you want to eat there, you will need to buy something from Tofino Brewing Co.

Explore the town of Tofino, including the House of Himwitsa First Nations Art Gallery and other shops!

Watch the sunset from Chesterman Beach , which is quite.possibly the most popular beach in the area. It is pretty large at 2.7 km and is popular for exploring tidepools at low tide, visiting the Carving Shed by the Wickaninnish Inn, taking a surf lesson or watching the surfers at the south end, and so much more! Unlike most beaches in the area, this one has FREE parking, but it does fill up! Tofino offers a shuttle from town that you can take if you’re unable to park. Have dinner at one of the spots we listed on day 4 that you haven’t tried yet!

For day 5, we suggest staying in Tofino at one of the lodging options we listed above!

Day 6: Tofino

Hike up to the Cox Bay Lookout (2.5 km | 1.6 miles), which was hands down our favorite view not just in Tofino, but on Vancouver Island! While the distance looks easy for this hike, there is a lot to know beforehand. First, this hike MUST be done during low tide or a falling tide, as the entrance to the “trail” is not accessible during high tide and you do not want to risk getting stuck. Finding the actual start of the trail is a challenge, but it doesn’t get easier from there, as it’s not a maintained trail and is very muddy and steep. It can be very confusing to know where to go, so we suggest downloading the AllTrails map in advance. You can see our exact route here .

With all that said, for those willing to tackle the challenge, it’s worth it! From the top you can see Cox Bay Beach, the various islands nearby, and tons of mountain peaks. It doesn’t get much better views wise than this! We share a lot more details about this hike on our Tofino guide , so please give it a read to ensure it’s the right fit for you and you’re prepared.

Enjoy lunch at Tacofino ! This is very likely the most popular spot to eat in Tofino, as evidenced by the very long line and wait times (even at around 2:30 PM we waited an hour), so we’d suggest getting there right before they open if you can. Waiting in line for food is never fun, but if you go there with the expectation of waiting and embracing it then you’ll be just fine! Trust us, it’s worth it! We ordered the Krispy Chicken Burrito, which had fried chicken karaage, guacamole, black chili mayo, cabbage, and pickled red onion and was loaded with different textures and flavors. We also got some Gringa tacos, which are basically a taco/quesadilla hybrid full of melty, cheesy goodness and it was top notch!

Spend the rest of the morning and early afternoon either surfing or have a beach day and check out the different beaches in the area. If you’d like to surf, some of the best beaches to do so are Long Beach , Wickaninnish Beach , Chesterman Beach , and Cox Bay Beach . If you don’t have a surfboard, there are tons of places to rent boards and wetsuits in town. Adam rented his from Pacific Surf Co , which is a cool little shop and the staff were super friendly and helpful. It was $50 CAD for a surfboard and wetsuit for 24 hours, which isn’t too bad! As for beaches to hang out at, Mackenzie Beach (calm waters that are great for kids and stand up paddle boarding), Long Beach , Cox Bay Beach , and Wickaninnish Beach are great! All of these do require some sort of fee to park, which can be paid with a credit card.

If you have time, we suggest going on a sunset hike on the Wild Pacific Trail Lighthouse Loop (2.9 km | 1.8 miles), which is located south of Tofino in Ucluelet and takes you to various coastal viewpoints, plus to the Amphitrite Lighthouse. This lighthouse was originally built in 1906 after a shipwreck of the Pass of Melfort, but was replaced in 1915 to better withstand hurricane force storms. It’s so adorable and unique! Have dinner at Wolf in the Fog or one of the spots we listed under day 5!

For day 6, we suggest staying in Tofino at one of the lodging options we listed above!

Optional Add On: Go on an excursion in Tofino!  If you have additional time in Tofino, or just want more ideas of things to do, we highly suggest going on a wildlife tour or visiting Hot Springs Cove , which is a hot springs area that requires a boat and/or plane ride to get to! 

Day 7: Drive to Campbell River

It’s time to head to your final destination on Vancouver Island, Campbell River! It’s a bit of a drive to get there, but similar to the drive to Tofino, there are things to do along the way.

Travel Time: 3.5 hours

Grab a quick breakfast in Tofino ( Tofitian Cafe is a good option!) and then hit the road! On the way to Campbell River you’ll pass many of the stops we recommended under day 4, so if you didn’t have enough time for some of them before, we suggest stopping at them during this drive. Once you get to Campbell River, grab a bite to eat at Beach Fire Brewing Company and then rest up for the last part of your Vancouver Island adventure!

For your final few nights, you’ll want to stay in Campbell River. Below are some options! Campgrounds: Quinsam Campground , Loveland Bay Provincial Park (where we stayed!) , Miller Creek Recreation Site , Burnt Beach Recreation Site (FREE), Dogwood Bay Recreation Site (FREE) Hotels: Brown’s Bay Resort , Dolphins Resort , Chateau Riverside Boutique Hotel , Comfort Inn & Suites Campbell River Vacation Rentals: Luxury Villa with hot tub and private beach access , Bright 3 Bedroom Home

Day 8: Campbell River

Campbell River is the third largest city on Vancouver Island and is located on the eastern side of the island along the Strait of Georgia, which is an inland waterway that separates mainland British Columbia from Vancouver Island. While you may not find epic waves here, like on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Campbell River is still a gorgeous waterfront city that is a major outdoor paradise, both on and off the water! Campbell River, plus the surrounding area, is home to 5 Provincial Parks, marine parks, hiking and biking trails, snow sports, wildlife viewing, fishing, paddling, and so much more. It is also referred to as the “Salmon Capital of the World” because the waters are home to all 5 species of salmon!

Watch us explore Campbell River , including seeing waterfalls, eating local food, and more! And to learn even more about the area, check out our guide with the best things to do in Campbell River !

Travel Time: < 30 minutes

The only driving you’ll be doing today is around town!

Start the morning at Elk Falls Provincial Park , which is home to a 25 meter (82 feet) tall roaring waterfall, suspension bridge, canyon, a large network of trails, and excellent year round salmon fishing. And what makes it even better is that it is a FREE park to visit! We suggest hiking this trail (1.8 km | 1.1 miles), which will take you down a bunch of steps to the main viewing platform, which directly overlooks the falls!

This will also take you to the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge! This bridge is 60m (197 ft) long and is one of the highest pedestrian bridges in all of Canada, stretching 60m above the canyon floor and river below it! After viewing the falls from here, we highly suggest heading back towards the direction you came and then going right at the first junction, for one final view of the falls, this time from the left side of them.

Grab brunch at The Crooked Spoon Cafe or Ideal Cafe in Campbell River. Head onto the Rotary Seawalk, which is a 6 km (3.4 miles) trail that traces the shore of Discovery Passage and runs parallel to Highway 19A. It’s a great path to walk or ride a bike and provides amazing views of the water, ships passing by, and wildlife. You can hop onto this pathway at Rotary Beach Park , as well as Frank James Park . While on the Seawalk, walk to FoggDukkers Coffee to get some coffee and admire the gorgeous view! Continue on the Rotary Seawalk afterwards for even more views.

For the rest of the day you have a lot of options in and around town!

• We suggest going to Discovery Fishing Pier , which is 600 feet long and is Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier. It provides spectacular views of the water, mountains, and town, plus was built for fishing! The pier has rod holders, bait stands, cleaning tables, and covered areas with picnic tables and benches. If you do not have fishing gear, you can rent it from a stand on the pier from May to October.
• You can also check out the Museum at Campbell River ($8/adult), Discovery Passage Aquarium ($8/adult), Quinsam River Salmon Hatchery (FREE), and Maritime Heritage Centre ($8).
• As you explore town, look for the Driftwood Creations , which are driftwood sculptures created by local artist Alex Witcombe. You can find a map here . Happy hunting!
• For the hikers, go for a hike on the Ripple Rock Trail (9.8 km | 6.1 miles), which is a bit north of town and has some amazing water views!
• You can also hop on the quick 10 minute ferry ride to Quadra Island and check out the Cape Mudge lighthouse , Rebecca Spit Provincial Park , hike to the top of Chinese Mountain (4.2 km | 2.6 miles), and learn about the Kwa’kwa’ka’wa’kw people’s culture and history at the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre . 

Have dinner at Dockside Fish & Chips (they close by 7 PM, so go early)! We loved their two piece combo with salmon (of course, since it’s the salmon capital afterall!) and red snapper with garlic parmesan fries. End the day with a sunset stroll at Dick Murphy Park !

For day 8, we suggest staying in Campbell River at one of the lodging options we listed above!

Day 9: Campbell River 

Travel Time: 3 hours

For day 9, you will be driving a bit to explore more of the area around Campbell River.

Grab a coffee and a quick bite to eat at The Island Grind Coffee & Teahouse and head to Strathcona Provincial Park , which is the oldest provincial park in Canada (established in 1911!) and a massive one, with 250,000 hectares of wilderness. The park is dominated by mountain peaks, many of which are snow capped year round, as well as lakes, waterfalls, and so much more!

For your first stop in the park, head to Lower Myra Falls (1.6 km | 1 miles), a stunning waterfall with multiple tiers as it flows from different pools down the mountainside. While you can enjoy the view of the falls just from the end of the trail, if the conditions are safe, we’d suggest walking down some of the rocks to view more levels of the falls.

Kayak on the 23 km long Buttle Lake! We launched our kayak from the Karst Creek Boat Ramp (there are no kayak rentals). You can also enjoy a nice picnic near the water.

Continue chasing waterfalls with a stop at Lupin Falls (0.8 km | 0.5 miles) and Lady Falls (1 km | 0.6 miles). Head back to Campbell River and enjoy dinner at Session Taproom + Kitchen ! We tried the creatively named Tropic Like It’s Hot pizza, which is a jerk chicken pizza with a marinara base, pineapple and all kinds of other goodies on top. It was quite a unique and tasty flavor combo! They also  have tons of other unique pizza flavors, salads, and other options, as well as rotating beers and ciders, cocktails, wine, or any other beverage you might fancy.

End the day with a beach campfire! Many of Campbell River’s beaches, including Ken Forde Park and Rotary Beach Park , allow campfires on the beach, but be sure to check local fire bans or restrictions beforehand, avoid private property, and always have your fire below the high tide line.

For day 9, we suggest staying in Campbell River at one of the lodging options we listed above!

Optional Add On: Go on a wildlife watching excursion in Campbell River OR go backpacking in Strathcona Provincial Park! If you have additional time in Campbell River or just want some other ideas, you can also go on a wildlife tour to see whales, sea lions, dolphins, bears, elk, eagles, and so much more! There are many tour companies in town that can take you out for whale watching and bear watching. Grizzly bear watching is best from mid August- mid October. You can also spend a night in the backcountry in Strathcona Provincial Park, which is the #1 thing we want to do on our next visit! We’d love to backpack to Landslide Lake (25 km | 15.6 miles, gains 1,129 m | 3,707 feet). It was too snowy in May, so make sure you plan for later in the summer.

Day 10: Head back to Vancouver

This includes a 1.5 hour drive from Campbell River to Nanaimo, plus under a 2 hour ferry ride to Horseshoe Bay, just north of Vancouver.

Depending on your ferry time, head out early to hit the road to Nanaimo! Make sure you get to Nanaimo a little early so you can try the city’s namesake dessert, a Nanaimo bar! This is an iconic Canadian treat that became popular after WWII and in 2006, it was declared Canada’s favorite confection. It has 3 layers and does not require baking. The bottom layer is a mix of wafer, nut, and shredded coconut, the middle is custard icing, and the top is chocolate ganache. We got ours from Bocca Café ! Head to the ferry terminal and enjoy the scenic ride back to Vancouver. We hope you enjoyed Vancouver Island!

Have less than 10 days on Vancouver Island?

If you don’t have 10 full days to spend on Vancouver Island, don’t fret! You can still experience a lot of what the island has to offer in less days, but you will not be able to visit all of the spots listed on this guide. Here are a few ways to shorten this itinerary, catered specifically to those who want to see as much as they can in a short period of time! 

• Day 1: Arrive in Victoria and explore the city!
• Day 2: Take a day trip to Jordan River/Port Renfrew and then head back to Victoria.
• Day 3: Explore more of the Victoria area and catch the ferry back to Vancouver.
• Day 2: Explore Jordan River/Port Renfrew and stay the night.
• Day 3: Drive to Tofino or Campbell River.
• Day 4: Spend the day in Tofino or Campbell River.
• Day 5: Drive to Nanaimo to catch the ferry back to Vancouver.
• Day 2: Spend the first half of the day in Victoria and then head to Jordan River/Port Renfrew and stay the night.
• Day 3: Continue exploring Jordan River and Port Renfrew!
• Day 4: Drive to Tofino or Campbell River.
• Days 5-6: Explore Tofino or Campbell River.
• Day 7: Drive to Nanaimo to catch the ferry back to Vancouver.

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10 thoughts on “ how to have an epic 10 day vancouver island road trip ”.

Hi, Adam and Kathryn! Love your videos and this guide is incredible! I’ll be relying on it heavily for a trip we’re planning to Vancouver Island in September. One question I’m not sure you’ll know the answer to but just in case- the Nexus website is saying that it’ll take 12-14 months to process an application. In your experience, was that accurate or is there a chance it could be processed sooner? Our trip is in September so I’m trying to figure out if it’s worth trying (and paying). Again- totally understand if you don’t know the answer to this question, just thought I’d see what your experience was like. Thanks so much for the incredible content!

Hi Krista, thank you for watching! Wow, I had no idea they give that large of a timeframe. I want to say we got ours within weeks maximum, but that was also in 2018 and I believe (don’t quote me on this), that they shut down the program during COVID, so maybe they have huge backlogs now? But I know for sure it was not 12-14 months!

Got it- thanks for your response 🙂

Hi Adam and Kathryn,

We really enjoy all your videos, they are upbeat, fun and outdoorsy. I can only imagine all the time it takes to research, make and edit your videos, you guys are amazing! And we appreciate it! We are planning on going to Vancouver Island the end of August – Sept of this year. This is a last minute decision and I feel overwhelmed planning this trip. I will be heavily relying on your thorough information to guide me through. Can you recommend a good map of the Island? The campgrounds seem so expensive, do you know of any boon docking sites? Thank you!

Hi! Thank you for the kind words! For a map, do you mean to navigate? We use Google Maps and download for offline use and it works well! As for boon docking, we didn’t really boondock at all, as we couldn’t find many spots. The only spot we kind of boondocked at was in Jordan River, but it did have a fee. It was bare bones though.

I really enjoy your youtube channel and the website. Where can you park a van in Victoria to explore the town?

Hi Rose! We always utilize street parking for our van and usually have zero issues!

I would say finding parking is the #1 problem my husband and I have exploring any urban area. We sometimes just skip cities because of it 🙁

Hi you guys!! You are both amazing and I really enjoy watching your videos and learning so much from you. I’m only going to have 7 days on vancouver island. Everything I research says go To Tofino- The rain forest in the pacific rim seems pretty intriguing. I absolutely love Olympic national park for this- in Washington. But- it seems like I will have to choose between Elk falls or Tofino area. Which should I choose? Ahh! Chances of me being back here again are extremely low. So I’d love to know what you think I should do. We will be going to all the other places you have listed thank you so much! But choosing between Tofino and elk falls seems hard- so I’d love your expert opinion.

Hi Vanessa! That is SO tough!!! Both areas are incredible, but I think I would give Tofino the slight edge. The mix of mountains and coastline there is just stunning! Campbell River is gorgeous too, but I would say out of the two, you can find similar scenery in other places. But Tofino is really one of a kind!

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A Spectacular Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary (7 Days)

Vancouver Island is stunning. Sand beaches. Coastal rainforests. All sorts of wildlife. Artisan, small batch food and drink producers. It has all of our favorite things. Ever since our own road trip on Vancouver Island, we’ve been dying to get back and do more exploring. However, vacation time isn’t unlimited, so it will have to wait for now. 

If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver Island, you’re in the right place. In this SUPER detailed Vancouver Island road trip itinerary , I’m going to give you all the detailed, nitty-gritty details you’ll need to plan an unforgettable trip to this gem of British Columbia and the Pacific Northwest.

Update 2021: Turns out, when you quit your corporate jobs to travel the world, vacation time IS unlimited! However, 2020 had other plans, and we’re still waiting for a return trip to Vancouver Island.

By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to get to Vancouver Island, how to get around, how to see the highlights over the course of a week, where to find the best coffee, wine, food, and cider, and where to stay.

So basically, everything you need to know to plan an incredible trip.

This is almost the exact Vancouver Island itinerary we followed on our trip, altered a bit based on our experiences and discoveries along the way. 

Pssst ! Don’t miss our guide to the best Airbnbs on Vancouver Island , with 16 places that we’ve added to our own list for that return trip.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

An Overview of this Vancouver Island Itinerary

I remember telling people “I’m going to Vancouver Island!” and people saying things like “Oh, I love Vancouver! Great city!”

Let’s get this out of the way early – Vancouver Island is different from Vancouver the city.

Vancouver Island is the island off the west coast of mainland Canada , where you’ll find famous places like Victoria, Tofino, and plenty of unheralded places that you’re going to fall in love with. It’s a part of British Columbia, and is home to coastal rainforests, grizzly bears, orca whales, and some of the best hiking, backpacking, and water sports around. 

I’ve written this itinerary for seven days, but a week is nowhere near enough time to see the entire island. You’d need several months, and you don’t have that much vacation time.

Think of this as a guide to the highlights of Vancouver Island in 7 days, not a complete guide to EVERYTHING to see on Vancouver Island. 

At the bottom, you’ll find sample itineraries for 10 days and 14 days if you’ve got more time. 

It’s also worth noting that there are a ton of cool places to explore on Vancouver Island north of Nanaimo – Campbell River, Courtenay, and Port Hardy, to name a few – but a week isn’t nearly enough time to include them on this itinerary. If you’ve got a few more days, it’s worth looking into adding some time up there.

Here is the overview of this road trip (don’t worry, PLENTY of details below):

Day 1: Arrive in Victoria and head to Salt Spring Island Day 2: Road trip to Tofino Day 3 : Exploring the Tofino highlights Day 4 : Day trip to beautiful Ucluelet Day 5 : More Tofino, featuring wildlife, water taxis, and hikes Day 6 : Tofino to Victoria road trip Day 7 : Victoria and tears at the airport 

Here’s a visual for you.

You’ll be starting your road trip from Victoria – more specifically, Salt Spring Island, which is a short ferry ride from Victoria. If you’re coming from Seattle, Vancouver, or anywhere else, I’ve got a complete guide to how to get there down below.

Getting Around on Vancouver Island

This may sound dumb, but in order to do this road trip, you’re going to need… a car. 

You can either bring your own if you’re coming from the surrounding areas, like Seattle or Vancouver, or you can rent one in Victoria.

We recommend using RentalCars.com to rent cars around the world because they allow you to compare prices and reviews across all the available companies at locations worldwide. PLUS, you can see reviews of the exact location you’ll be picking up your car from, which I know from experience varies wildly.

Getting To Vancouver Island

This road trip starts with a day on Salt Spring Island, which is where you’ll need to get yourself to. It’s an easy journey from Victoria or Vancouver, but it can be a little bit tricky to do from Seattle since it will involve multiple forms of transportation. 

Have no fear, I’ve got you covered with detailed instructions on how to get to Vancouver Island from Seattle, Vancouver, and beyond. 

If you’re coming from somewhere other than Seattle or Vancouver and you’re trying to decide where to fly into, you should fly into Victoria if you can . If you’re not planning on doing any exploring in Vancouver, this is the best option, and is exactly what we did coming from San Francisco.

From Seattle

You’ve got a couple of approaches here, but all require a car. You can either bring your own or rent one in Victoria – I’ve got options for each. 

If you bring your own car , grab the ferry from Anacortes (~2 hours north of Seattle) to Sidney, BC, and drive up to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal to catch the ferry to Salt Spring Island (your first stop on this road trip itinerary). 

You could also drive from Seattle to Vancouver’s Tsawwassen ferry terminal (about 2.5 hours) and catch one of the three daily ferries to Salt Spring Island ( current schedule here ) which will take you another two and a half hours. It’s a long trip. It’s recommended to make reservations for your ferry trip on this route.

The car-less option is to head to Victoria by taking a flight with Alaska Airlines (more affordable ) or Kenmore Air (seaplane – more scenic!), or the Victoria Clipper , then renting a car in Victoria and heading up to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for the ferry to Salt Spring Island. 

From Vancouver

If you’re flying into Vancouver (or just leaving from Vancouver), pick up your rental car in Vancouver and head to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal to catch one of the three daily ferries to Salt Spring Island ( current schedule here ) which will take you about two and a half hours.

If you can, catch the 7am ferry to get a nice early start, otherwise the 11am will do. It’s recommended to make reservations for your ferry trip on this route.

From Victoria

Flying into Victoria? PERFECT. That’s exactly what we did, and I think this is the easiest route.

Grab your rental car at the airport , and make the short drive to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to catch the ferry to Salt Spring Island . If you’ve got time to kill, head to Sidney, BC for lunch at Fish on Fifth (gluten free fryer!) and a walk down Beacon Avenue to the waterfront before heading out to catch the ferry.

The Best Time to Visit Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is best explored in the summer , when long days and beautiful weather will make your trip one to remember. Plus, it’s whale season, which means you can hop on a whale watching tour to see the elusive orcas off the coast of Vancouver Island, or a kayaking trip to see the bounty of wildlife that calls the straits and sounds of the area home. 

Shoulder season in late spring and early fall (through mid-September) are also a great time to explore the island with less people. We were on Vancouver Island the week after Labor Day, and the weather was great except for up in Tofino, where it was essentially a torrential downpour. 

We were told it was the first storm of “storm season,” which is a draw in the winter to see impressive ocean swells and waves crashing on the rocky cliffs. Storm season in Tofino starts in mid-to-late September and runs through the winter. 

The Complete Guide to Planning Your Vancouver Island Road Trip

Now that you know how to get to Victoria, the best time to visit Vancouver Island, and how to get around, let’s get into the day-by-day detailed itinerary. 

Day 1: Arrive in Victoria, Head to Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island was the unanimous (between Alysha and I, to be clear) most surprising part of our road trip. It’s a small island community of around 10,000 people in the Gulf Islands just off of the coast of Vancouver Island. To get there, you’ll need to take a short ferry ride from Victoria (or a longer one from Vancouver). 

If you like slow living and handmade local art, food, and drink products, you’re going to love Salt Spring Island. It’s simultaneously a great place to relax, and it also has plenty of things to explore if you want to be on the go. Unlike my experience in some smaller communities, the locals were super friendly and happy that we were there. 

Needless to say, one day is not nearly enough time to truly explore the island, but it’s enough time to give you a taste of what makes it a special place, and leave you craving your next trip to the Gulf Islands. 

Here is a great map of all the local artisans on Salt Spring Island – from food to art and design. Download it as a PDF to have it with you on the trip. 

How to Get to Salt Spring Island

To get to Salt Spring Island, you’ll need to take a ferry, but it’s relatively simple to get to thanks to BC Ferries . 

From Vancouver, head to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and catch one of the three daily ferries to Salt Spring Island ( current schedule here ) which will take you about two and a half hours. If you can, catch the 7am ferry to get a nice early start. It’s recommended to make reservations for your ferry trip on this route.

From Victoria , you’ll want to take the ferry from Swartz Bay terminal (which is up near Victoria’s airport) to Fulford Harbor – this route has more daily departures than the route from Vancouver, and only takes just over a half hour. Current schedule here . Arrive 15 minutes before departure to make sure you get a spot. 

Where to Stay Overnight on Salt Spring Island

On Salt Spring Island, Airbnb is going to be your best bet for finding an amazing place to stay at an affordable price. 

If you’re a couple , stay at this Hidden Retreat near Fulford Harbor on the quiet side of the island. You’ll be able to wake up and walk to the beach!

Want a super unique stay on Salt Spring Island ? Another option for couples is this Oceanfront Treehouse , which looks spectacular. 

For groups , take a look at The Sanctuary , a treetop lodge just outside of the town of Ganges. It sleeps six with three bedrooms, two baths, and stunning views from the outdoor deck. 

What to Do on Salt Spring Island

Visit Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm

Alysha’s favorite thing to do in the whole wide world is visit lavender farms and frolic amongst the beautiful purple blooms. Unfortunately, they were closed on the day we were on the island, or we might not have actually made it to any of the other stops we made. Visit the farm to do a self-guided tour of their lavender fields, which bloom during the summer time, and shop for all sorts of lavender-infused goods like honey and tea. 

Drink cider at Salt Spring Island Wild Cider

For us, two cider lovers, this was the standout of the trip to Salt Spring Island. They make amazing ciders from local fruits, and they fall on the dry side of the spectrum – just how we like it!

You can get a flight to try some (or all) of the different varieties they make – basics like Pear, all the way to more adventurous flavors like Pineapple Amaro and Hopped Apricot – or buy a bottle and share it with lunch.

The staff was super helpful in not only helping me figure out if all the cider is gluten free (yes, but I’d avoid any bourbon barrel aged ciders), but also helping us craft an amazing tasting flight.

Oh yeah, did I mention lunch?

They make “farm style tapas” (their words, not mine) which are 100% gluten free (when we were there, double check if you’re heading there), and 100% delicious. We were hungry when we arrived, so we decided to order a few different things to try and it was phenomenal food. The cider-braised sausage was the standout dish.

This is a fantastic place to go for lunch, and I’d head straight here from the ferry. They’ve got relatively limited opening hours – 12-5pm daily – so grab a bottle to enjoy at home tonight. 

Drink all the drinks!

It’s not just cider that’s made on Salt Spring Island, though that’s my favorite stop since I have Celiac Disease and can’t have gluten, including most beer.

There are all sorts of craft beverages to enjoy on Salt Spring Island.

If you’re into craft beer, head over to Salt Spring Island Ales to try some island-made brews.

Garry Oaks Winery is the spot to be for wine lovers, with a beautiful vineyard and a lovely tasting room. There’s also Salt Spring Vineyards , where you can get 4 pours for $5 (waived with purchase) and a wide range of island-made artisan food products.

Last, but not least, is the local distillery – Salt Spring Shine – which is crafted exclusively from British Columbia honey. Their tasting room is open 11am – 5pm spring to fall, and you can also find them at the local market – more on that in a second.  

Try some local cheese at Salt Spring Island Cheese

The other thing Alysha loves (and I do too)? Cheese. Salt Spring Island Cheese is a couple of minutes from where the Victoria ferry drops off, and is worth a stop as you roll off the ferry. Inside their small shop, you can try all sorts of different cheeses – like garlic chevre and spicy feta – and of course, buy them. It’s also a working farm, and the animals are behind the shop. Walk by and say hi!

Hike to spectacular views of the surrounding islands

There are plenty of amazing hiking trails to choose from on Salt Spring Island, but the two that I’d recommend would be the Mount Erskine Loop – which takes you 3.9km (that’s round trip) up through the forest to a lookout with views across the Gulf Islands, and back down – and Baynes Peak , which takes you to the top of Mount Maxwell. 

Kayak the coast

After our amazing sunrise kayaking adventure on our New Zealand south island itinerary , which was my first time in a kayak, I’m all about the kayaking.

On Salt Spring Island, you can take a day trip or a multi-day kayaking adventure with Salt Spring Adventures to explore the harbor, the coastline, or the surrounding islands. They now have night tours, too! We didn’t do this on our first trip, but it’s at the top of my list for our next trip to Salt Spring Island. 

Visit the Saturday Market

I’m a sucker for a good farmers market, and I was bummed when our midweek visit meant we wouldn’t be able to check out the Saturday Market on Salt Spring Island. If you do find yourself in town on Saturday, definitely check it out. Many of the vendors mentioned above have a stall at the market. The draw is their “homespun guarantee” – “Vendors must ‘make it, bake it, or grow it’ themselves, and all products must be ‘vendor produced and sold’.

A Perfect 24 Hours on Salt Spring Island

Starting off your trip on Salt Spring Island is a treat! Arrive on the island from Victoria or Vancouver at about noon, and head over to Salt Spring Island Cheese , which you’ll find a few minutes away from where the ferry from Victoria drops off (Fulford Harbor), and grab some cheese and crackers for later.

Then head over to Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm and take a stroll through the purple blooms (at least in summertime), and visit their shop to pick up some locally made gifts. 

For lunch, head to Salt Spring Island Wild Cider and get a flight of their incredible dry ciders alongside some farm-style tapas (the whole menu was gluten free when we were there). Their outdoor seating area is a great spot to hang out in the sun and sip on some amazing ciders. Grab a bottle or two of your favorites to enjoy later in the road trip. 

Next, head over to do some wine, beer, or spirit tasting at one of the places mentioned above, depending on what you’re into. 

For sunset, head up to either Mount Erskine or Baynes Peak to enjoy the incredible sunset over Vancouver Island. Bring the cheese and crackers for a lovely picnic, then head to wherever you’re staying for the night.

In the morning, get up and head over to the Switchboard Cafe in Ganges, which has the best coffee on the island. Grab breakfast in town and head over to the Vesuvius ferry terminal for the short ferry back to the mainland to start your journey to Tofino. 

Day 2: The Road Trip to Tofino

This is a little bit of a long day of driving, but the good news is that there are plenty of great stops along the way to break it up.

Grab the Vesuvius Ferry in the morning back to the Vancouver Island mainland, and head north.

Here are some stops to make along the way.

Wild Poppy Bistro in Ladysmith

A 100% gluten free bakery and cafe with amazing sandwiches, burgers, and of course, baked sweet treats. 

Regard Coffee Co, Country Grocer, and Greenrock Liquor are all in the same vicinity.

Regard has some of the best coffee on Vancouver Island and is worth the stop for coffee lovers. Or to send you into a caffeine-induced road trip dance party for the rest of the drive. Either way.

Country Grocer is my favorite grocery store on Vancouver Island, and is a good place to stock up on snacks, drinks, and groceries if you’re planning on cooking for yourself – there isn’t one in Tofino.

And Greenrock Liquor was one of my favorite liquor stores on the trip, with a huge selection of cider, wine, and beer (though I can’t drink that). 

Pirate Chips serves up all sorts of fried goodies, like fish and chips, that can be made gluten free in a dedicated fryer. It’s worth a stop if you skipped Wild Poppy, and it’s in the middle of the downtown area along the water. Also a good stop if you’re arriving on the ferry from Vancouver. 

The Vault is a good spot in downtown Nanaimo for coffee.

Coombs and the Old Country Market

The famous goats on the roof! Yes, literal goats on the roof. It’s a small market off the highway with a parking lot that’s too small, and inside you’ll find a range of basic to specialty grocery items, with a few gluten free items hidden on the shelves. Stop for the good cheese selection, and the decidedly NOT gluten free baked goods from the in-house bakery. There’s a produce market out back that is worth stopping at to pick up some farm-fresh fruit for the Tofino leg of the trip. 

Cathedral Grove

By now, your legs are getting a little stiff, and Cathedral Grove is the perfect place to get out and stretch your legs. There are two relatively short walks (I can’t even call them hikes) on either side of the road. You’ll be able to walk amongst the moss-covered 800 year old Douglas Fir trees that call Cathedral Grove home.

It’s a stunning walk full of green – the moss hanging from the tree branches, the ferns sprouting between trees, and the trees themselves, which you’ll have to crane your neck to see. You might have to park along the road as there are shockingly few parking spots available at the entrance to the park. 

Walk the Rainforest Trail near Tofino

Located in Pacific Rim National Park, the Rainforest trail is a short stroll through a forest of ancient trees. It’s a unique spot – there aren’t many coastal temperate rainforests around, but this is one of the best places to see one (along with Olympic National Park in Washington).

There are two loops – A & B – that each focus on a different aspect of the forest’s ecosystem, and it’s worth doing both. It’s an easy flat walk along the boardwalk, for the most part. Trail A starts across the road from the parking lot, Trail B starts from the parking lot. 

Day 3: Tofino 

For days 3-5 of this road trip itinerary, you’re going to base yourself in Tofino. 

The coastal town of Tofino is paradise for all sorts of people – surfers and outdoor adventure enthusiasts to name a couple. The combination of lush greenery, sandy beaches, and sometimes stormy weather make it one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited. 

Tofino itself is a small, walkable town that is at the northern tip of a peninsula jutting into Clayoquot Sound and the vast Pacific Ocean. Along the coast on the west side, you’ll find incredible sandy beaches, along with the best surfing in Canada.

Whether it’s Cox Bay, Chesterman Beach, or Long Beach, those beaches should be a focal point of your time up in Tofino. It’s easy to appreciate the spectacular oasis that Tofino has become when you’re watching the surfers and taking in an epic sunset on the beach. Which, let me tell you, Tofino has plenty of. 

In the winter, Tofino turns into the premier destination for storm watchers, and while we were there in mid-September, we got to see exactly what that means for one of our days. Picture sideways rain, huge waves crashing onto the beach, and wind whipping the hood of your jacket off your head. It was quite something – not ideal hiking weather, to say the least. 

Where to Stay in Tofino?

We stayed in this Airbnb along the waterfront , which was a fantastic choice. It’s small – perfect for a couple – but it has everything you might need in a home base for exploring Tofino, and it’s walkable to the entire downtown area. 

Here is another incredible waterfront Airbnb choice in Tofino . 

At the Shoreline Tofino , you’ll find Instagram-ready A-frame cabins tucked away from the hustle and bustle (not that there is much to begin with) of Tofino. I’m only half joking about the Insta-ready part. It’s a little bit removed from the downtown Tofino “main drag,” but it’s walkable (about 1km to Rhino Coffee, door to door). 

Tofino Resort & Marina is a solid option if you’re after a more traditional hotel – they’ve got 63 newly renovated and budget-friendly rooms, which are words that you don’t always see together, and the helpful staff can help you put together the perfect adventure in Tofino. Their tagline is “inspired by adventure” after all. It’s totally walkable to downtown. 

Last, but certainly not least, are the beachfront resorts and lodges along the coast to the south of downtown Tofino. You’ll trade proximity to downtown for incredible beachfront properties, which is a worthy trade off for some people. Check out Middle Beach Lodge (most rustic, Long Beach Lodge and Pacific Sands (my top pick of the three), which are all just outside of town. 

What to Do in Tofino?

The list of things to do and see in Tofino are nearly endless, but here are a few ideas to get started. Don’t worry, you’ll get a detailed day-by-day itinerary down below to help you plan an amazing couple of days!

Explore the Beaches : Short hikes to Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay, and all the beach walks.

Learn to Surf! What better place to learn to surf than Tofino, Canada’s capital of surfing? Here’s a highly-rated surfing lesson on Airbnb experiences.

Hike Lone Cone: Unfortunately, we skipped this because the weather was pretty terrible on our last day, which was when we had planned on doing it. It’s a hike up one of the tallest mountains in the Clayoquot Sound, and waiting for you at the top of the 3.5km climb are stunning views across the sound and beyond. It was super foggy and raining sideways, so we skipped it, but I wish we’d had a chance to do it. It’s short, but it’s straight up. You’ll need to take a water taxi from Tofino to get there. Here are some helpful details about the hike .  

Wildlife Watching : There are countless whale watching tours and bear watching tours that operate out of Tofino. The whale watching tours take you out of the Clayoquot Sound into the Pacific in search of gray whales, humpback whales, and ORCA WHALES, depending on the season. June to September is the best time of year to see whales. Bear watching tours, which is what we opted for, take you out at dawn or dusk into the fingers of Clayoquot Sound. We wanted to explore the picturesque islands and inlets of the sound, so we opted to go out in search of bears. We used Ocean Outfitters , and liked them. We saw a couple of bears, some seals posing for pictures (see below), and a bald eagle. 

Drink some local beer: In a cool warehouse space just outside of town, you’ll find Tofino Brewing Co . They had exactly zero gluten free options for me, so we didn’t spend much time here, but it’s a cool space and is a must-stop for beer lovers in Tofino. 

Where to Eat & Drink in Tofino?

Here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Tofino: 

• Bravocados : 100% vegan, and 100% delicious. Eating here, I turned to Alysha and actually said the words “do we even need meat?” with a mouthful of their cauliflower wings, which is something I legitimately never thought would come out of my mouth until recently. Gluten free options aplenty, and a dedicated fryer. 
• Wolf in the Fog : If you’re eating gluten free, I’d go elsewhere as the menu is VERY limited. But for everyone else, this is the place to be for a nice night on the town. Great ambiance, great cider selection, and the food is pretty good. Again, hard to tell when I could order only one or two things, but that’s my issue, not theirs. Make reservations – it was packed on a Tuesday night. 
• Shed : Don’t bother if you need to eat gluten free, but this place was recommended to us by a couple of different people, including our Airbnb hosts. Burgers, pizzas, etc in a casual atmosphere with a good beer selection, if that’s your thing. 
• Rhino Coffee House and the Tofitian Cafe are where to go for the best coffee in Tofino, but the latter is a ways out of town. Rhino is your best bet in town , but it will be packed. On a nice day, grab your coffee to go and take it to the waterfront. 
• SoBo : The Chowder! Get the smoked salmon chowder! It’s gluten free, and I had to order a third bowl because it was so incredible. They’re a highly regarded restaurant, and were super helpful answering my gluten-related questions both before I showed up, and when I sat down. 
• Tacofino: The original! Unfortunately, I chose not to eat here. Lots of fried stuff and flour tortillas, which is a cross-contamination nightmare for me and my fellow Celiacs. But, if you don’t have an issue with gluten, this should be high on your list. They’ve now got outposts around British Columbia, but this is the original. 
• Chocolate Tofino : Most of their chocolate is gluten free! And it’s delicious. You’ll find everything from truffles to caramels, and they have ice cream which we regrettably passed on because it was stormy outside. 

How to Spend Your First Day in Tofino

On your first day in Tofino, wake up and take it slow. Walk to Rhino Coffee for your morning caffeine boost, and grab breakfast before walking from town down to Tonquin Beach , a nice easy 1.5km walk through the forest. Add on a side trip to Third Beach too, while you’re at it. 

Head back into town for a quick and easy lunch, either at home or at Shelter, and hop in the car for the drive out to Cox Bay. Take a surfing lesson here, or just relax at the beach. Park and walk along the beach to the south end, then back up the beach to Sunset Point for the sunset. 

Day 4:  Half Day Trip to Ucluelet

Today, you’re going to head down to the southern end of the peninsula (not sure if that’s the right word for it, but close enough) to check out the town of Ucluelet. 

A Morning in Ucluelet

Head south out of Tofino along highway 4 and stop at the Tofitian for some of the best coffee in the Tofino area. It’s a good spot for a quick breakfast too – they have a good pastry selection – but not if you need to eat gluten free. 

Drive all the way to the south end of Ucluelet to the trailhead for the Wild Pacific Trail , which was the highlight of Ucluelet for us. There are a couple of great hikes in the area that make up the Wild Pacific Trail, and you should do your best to do a couple of them. 

Start with the Lighthouse trail , which is the trailhead I just directed you to, and then hop back in the car to head to the other section of the trail, which starts from Big Beach Park and heads north along the coast. Supposedly, there’s a way to connect the two trails on foot ( according to this map ), but we couldn’t figure it out, and decided this way was the best solution. 

Here’s a super useful map of the hiking trails in Ucluelet . I’d recommend doing the hike from Big Beach all the way to the Rocky Bluffs if you’re up for it.  

After your hike, explore the town of Ucluelet. For an afternoon pick-me-up, head to the Foggy Bean for a nice cup of coffee (tea lovers head to nearby Thay Tea – it’s right around the corner).

There are a bunch of places to eat along Peninsula Road, but none of them were safe for Celiacs, so we packed sandwiches for lunch. If you’re not worried about gluten, then look at Zoe’s Bakery & Cafe and the Blue Room are highly rated, though I’ve never eaten at either. 

For ice cream, the perfect post-hike recovery food, head to Ukee Scoops . 

The Ucluelet Aquarium is worth a stop if you have kids, otherwise skip it. 

Back to Tofino You Go!

On the way back up to Tofino, there are a couple of stops worth making. 

First, stop at the Willowbrae trail to do a short hike out to the coast to see Florencia Bay and Halfmoon Bay. It’s an easy hike through the dense green forest out to a set of wooden stairs that will take you down to the waterfront. Admire the sandy beach that extends out to your left, with steep, rocky cliffs jutting out over the ocean. On the way back, take the short side trail to Halfmoon Bay. 

Next, stop at Long Beach to do some walking along the beach. How romantic. Here’s a map of the beach to help you figure out where to park and walk.

Third, stop at Chocolate Tofino for essential recovery food – handcrafted truffles and gelato. It’s next door to the Tofitian, where you stopped this morning on the way out to Ucluelet. Almost everything, except the cones, was gluten free, and they even offered to change gloves and wipe down the scale for me as they were weighing out my chocolate. WITHOUT ME ASKING.

Last, but certainly not least, round out the recovery food trio (that’s ice cream, chocolate, beer) with local craft beer at Tofino Brewing Co . They didn’t have any gluten free options for me, otherwise we would’ve spent more time there in the industrial, warehouse-feeling space. 

Head back to your place and relax before dinner out in Tofino. If you want something casual, head to Bravocados for awesome vegan food (plenty of gluten free options) that made me question my need to eat meat. If you’re looking for something a bit more upscale, make a reservation for Wolf in the Fog , or head to SoBo (AND ORDER THE CHOWDER). 

Day 5: Tofino

Today, your last day in Tofino, I’d choose between two great adventures. If you’re stuck, you could do them both, but it will be a long day. 

Your first option is whale watching or bear watching . We opted for a bear watching tour with Ocean Outfitters , which took us out on a Zodiac boat into the fingers of the Clayoquot Sound.

Exploring deeper in the sound was the main draw for us, and we were rewarded with gorgeous foggy treescapes, photogenic seals, and a couple of bears. It was a cool experience, and they offer tours in the early morning and late afternoon, which are the best time to catch the bears close to the water.

Whale watching is also a great option, and we only skipped it because I’ve done several whale watching tours (having grown up in Seattle), and wanted to check out the inner part of the Sound. If you’ve never seen an orca whale in the wild, this is one of your best shots if you’re in Tofino over the summer. 

The second option is hiking Lone Cone , the mountain that towers over the Clayoquot Sound and offers spectacular views on a clear day. If it’s not a clear day (it was pouring rain and super foggy for us), I’d probably skip it. Here’s a great guide on how to do it .

You could, theoretically, do both in one day if you wanted. I’d do wildlife watching in the morning, and Lone Cone in the afternoon.  

Day 6: Road Trip from Tofino to Victoria

Your time in Tofino has come to an end, and it’s time to complete the loop back to Victoria. I’d get an early start so that you have time this afternoon to explore Victoria a little bit. 

Stop along the way to stretch your legs at any of the stops you missed on the way from Victoria to Tofino. 

Once you get past where the ferry dropped you off from Salt Spring Island, there are a couple of stops worth making on your way from Tofino to Victoria. 

First is Westholme Tea Farm , which is, you guessed it, a tea farm. It’s a little ways off the highway, and Alysha loved it. You can either buy their loose leaf teas that they source from around the world, try their tea of the day for free, or sit down in their little tea garden and enjoy a tea of your choice. 

Next is Merridale Cider , which is a cidery and distillery (complete with an apple orchard) in Cobble Hill near Cowichan. They have a cool tasting room where you can try some of their ciders overlooking their orchard.

They’ve also got a full food menu if you’re hungry. Their cider isn’t my favorite – especially in a place with such a great selection of amazing ciders, but it’s certainly worth a stop.

We actually spent an evening in one of their yurts on the orchard , and it was fantastic! It was our honeymoon, so it felt like the right time to splurge. Highly recommend it – you get to walk around the orchard at sunset after everyone else has gone home, and we saw a bear!

Last is the Goldstream Trestle , a picturesque railway through the forest and over a bridge, which is a quick 3km hike off the highway. It’s sketchy to walk out onto the bridge, especially if you’re afraid of heights and are somewhat accident prone… like me. 

Head into Victoria to drop the car off at your accommodations, and head to Be Love for dinner. It’s a 100% gluten free and plant-based spot, and it was fantastic. I’d eat there again in a heartbeat. 

Where to Stay in Victoria

In Victoria, your best bet is to stay somewhere with parking, since you’ll still have the car at this point. Unfortunately, you’ll have to pay for parking at hotels, so I’d recommend finding an Airbnb that includes parking.

We stayed at this apartment downtown , and it was perfect. Plus, free parking! It’s a corner spot, so it wasn’t the easiest to get into, but still. Free parking!

Here are some great choices in Victoria that caught my eye.

Stunning Views and Modern Luxury Overlooking the Empress (1 bedroom + sofa bed, 1 bathroom)

Beautiful Suite in the Heart of Victoria with Parking (1 bedroom / 1 bathroom)

Spotless 11th Floor with Gorgeous Mountain Views, Sleeps Six (2 bedrooms / 1 bathroom)

Day 7: Victoria, Fly Home in the Evening

Ah, Victoria! It’s a charming port town with a relatively small downtown area that quickly turns into residential areas, which are full of hidden gems – independent bookstores, coffee shops, and some underrated shopping. 

All that being said, Victoria is a little too sterile for my liking. It’s not my favorite city in the world, which is why I’ve only given it a day on this itinerary. If you’ve got more than a week on Vancouver Island, I would spend an extra day in Victoria, but no more than that. There are some really cool things for outdoor lovers to explore just outside of Victoria – like Sooke to the west and the Tod Inlet to the north. 

On your last day, explore downtown Victoria in the morning, and head to the airport in the afternoon for your flight home. 

Start your day at Hey Happy , the best coffee shop in Victoria. You can get an incredible pour over from one of the amazing coffee roasters in the Pacific Northwest, or the usual espresso drinks. 

Next, go on a self-guided walk of the inner harbor of Victoria. 

Head back to check out of your accommodations, hop in the car, and head north to make a couple of stops on your way to the airport. 

First is Butchart Gardens , which I actually have been to a couple of times now thanks to a few Victoria trips with my family while I lived in Seattle. It’s beautiful, and is worth a stop. I wouldn’t call it a MUST STOP though. 

Second is Sea Cider , my favorite cider on Vancouver Island. And maybe in all of British Columbia. I’ve found a few of their ciders down in the United States, and every single one I’ve tried is outstanding. Their Bramble Bubbly is outstanding.

Anyway, they have a tasting room up in Saanichton (open 11am-4pm) where you can enjoy a flight of their craft ciders in a tasting room overlooking their apple orchard. It’s super cool, and is a good stop on the way to the airport to catch your flight home. 

If they have the Witch’s Broom, a fall seasonal that is a little sweet, full of cinnamon and other spices, get it. 

Now, sadly, it’s time to head to the airport and catch your flight home, bringing your trip to Vancouver Island to an end. 

What to Add to with More Time

If you have 10 days on Vancouver Island, I’d add a day in Victoria, a day in Sooke, and a day in Port Renfrew. This is how that itinerary would look:

Day 1: Arrive in Victoria and head to Salt Spring Island Day 2: Road trip to Tofino Day 3 : Exploring the Tofino highlights Day 4 : Day trip to beautiful Ucluelet Day 5 : More Tofino, featuring wildlife, water taxis, and hikes Day 6 : Tofino to Port Renfrew road trip Day 7 : Port Renfrew Day 8: Sooke Day 9: Victoria Day 10 : Victoria & Home

With a full 2 weeks on Vancouver Island, take the 10 day itinerary above and add three days North of Nanaimo, and an extra day on Salt Spring Island. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Campbell River . 

Day 1: Arrive in Victoria and head to Salt Spring Island Day 2 : Salt Spring Island Day 3: Road trip to Campbell River Day 4: Campbell River Day 5 : Campbell River Day 6 : Campbell River to Tofino Day 7 : Exploring the Tofino highlights Day 8 : Day trip to beautiful Ucluelet Day 9 : More Tofino, featuring wildlife, water taxis, and hikes Day 10 : Tofino to Port Renfrew road trip Day 11 : Port Renfrew Day 12: Sooke Day 13: Victoria Day 14 : Victoria & Home

At the airport, if you’re anything like me, you’ll probably be planning your return to British Columbia. It’s such an amazing place to explore, especially if you love the outdoors. One week is enough to get a taste for it, but you’ll need a lifetime to fully explore it. 

Don’t miss our other Canada posts to help you plan the perfect Canadian adventure.

• Gluten Free Vancouver, BC
• Gluten Free Victoria, BC
• Where to Stay in Vancouver, BC
• The Best Weekend Trips from Vancouver, BC
• A Perfect Weekend in Vancouver (Complete Itinerary)
• A Complete Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Hikes in Banff
• 3 Days in Banff
• Gluten Free Banff
• Where to Stay in Jasper

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi, Many thanks for taking the time to post your itinerary. It sounds brilliant and just the sort of thing we’re looking for. We’ve got 7 days on Vancouver Is. in a hire car (because our scheduled cruise got cancelled) so this is perfect. After this we pick up a Motorhome for 20 days around the Rockies (so if you have any ideas/itineraries for this region that would be great!). Salt Spring Island sounds an amazing start to the week and somewhere we wouldn’t thought of visiting. Thanks again and keep blogging, John and Diane. North Wales, UK

Hey there! We actually have a guide to the Canadian Rockies (which we loved, by the way). You can find it here: https://wheatlesswanderlust.com/canadian-rockies-road-trip-itinerary/ . We loved Golden and Yoho National Park too, so make sure to stop there along the way (assuming you’re coming from the west, which means you’ll likely pass right through it). Enjoy!

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The Complete Six Day Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

Last updated on May 5th, 2024 at 04:02 pm

There is a never ending list of incredible things to do on Vancouver Island so for those with limited time, here is my six day Vancouver Island road trip itinerary. We spent time in different locations and explored around those locations to try and have fewer driving days and more exploring days! If you have more time though, the opportunities are endless!

If backpacking is more your thing, there are never ending opportunities on Vancouver Island, we have been lucky enough to backpack the West Coast Trail and couldn’t recommend it more. There are also the Juan De Fuca trail to the south, the North Coast Trail and Nootka Island trail as well as endless possibilities in the Strathcona Provincial Park. I would love to have the time to spend an entire summer exploring on Vancouver Island but instead we will have to see it in short spurts!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission on any purchase made, at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the blog running, so thank you for your support!

Getting To Vancouver Island

The first challenge of a Vancouver Island road trip is getting to the Island, luckily there are many options. The fastest way is flying, it is possible to fly into Victoria, but there are also airports at Nanaimo and Comox. There is also the option of getting a float plane from Vancouver to Victoria.

The easiest way to explore Vancouver Island is with a car, so for many the ferry is the obvious option as it saves renting a car on Vancouver Island. You can get the ferry from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen, to Nanaimo or Victoria on Vancouver Island. You can also ride the ferry as a foot passenger. I can’t recommend booking your ferry trip ahead of time enough. We didn’t on the way home and had a long long wait!

How To Spend Six Days On Vancouver Island

Day one – nanaimo to sproat lake provincial park.

We got off the ferry at Nanaimo and it was late, we grabbed some groceries in Nanaimo and hit the road towards Tofino. There are so many great spots to stop along the way. The drive is just over 200 kilometres so can easily be completed in a day. We split it into two because we were late arriving on the island for the first day of our Vancouver Island road trip.

A quick stop at Coombs for ice cream and to see the goats on the roof is a must do and a small but clearly signposted detour from the main highway. An awesome and unique spot.

You’ll pass by Cameron Lake, a true beauty spot and a great place for a picnic on a nice day. Shortly after you will pass Cathedral Grove, make sure to stop here and do one of the interpretive walks to see some truly incredible trees. Before you know it you are on the outskirts of Port Alberni. Port Alberni has all the essentials you might need if you’ve forgotten anything. If you are looking for a meal, check out the crab bucket, it is a great spot for some fresh fish and chips!

A few minutes outside of town you’ll reach Sproat Lake Provincial Park, this is where we spent our first night of our Vancouver Island road trip. The campground is split across both sides of the highway, the sites on the lake side offered less privacy so we opted to camp on the other side. There is a trail that connects both sides, and on the lake side there is a shower block with some of the best showers we had on our own trip. For that reason alone I’d recommend staying here.

Day Two – Sproat Lake To Tofino

The second day of our Vancouver Island road trip we headed to Tofino. The drive is gorgeous, winding through the countryside, past forests, lakes and mountains. You’ll likely find you want to stop everywhere.

We spent two nights camping at Green Point campground between Tofino and Ucluelet, this campground is one of the cheapest in the area, with awesome facilities since it’s run by Parks Canada. It’s a short walk to the beach and a fantastic spot to explore the area.

After we set up camp we headed to Tofino for the afternoon, walking the docks and looking in the shops. We checked out Tofino Brewing just outside of town and they have a sweet little beer garden, a perfect spot to enjoy a local beer!

On our way back to camp we stopped at Radar Hill, a short accessible walk brings you to an incredible view as well as providing lots of information about the role the area played in defending Vancouver Island and Canada during times of war.

From Green Point campground, there is a short trail down to long beach and the number one spot we found during our five day trip to Vancouver Island, to watch the sun set. Nothing beats long sandy beaches on warm evenings, watching the sun disappear.

Day Three – Tofino And Ucluelet

We kept our base at Green Point campground for the third day of our Vancouver Island road trip and we headed to Ucluelet, a short drive away. A cute little town, we opted to hike the Lighthouse Loop, which showed off the rugged shores of this area of the island. It’s a fairly easy hike with lots of spots to sit and take in the views.

The Lighthouse Loop is one part of the Wild Pacific Trail, another part takes you to Big Beach where you can find the remains of a shipwreck right on the coastline. A fun little detour if you have time or the desire.

We also stopped at Ucluelet Brewing, their balcony looks right out over the harbour and is a perfect spot for a bite to eat and a drink on a nice day.

Day Four – Tofino To Goldstream Provincial Park

On day four of our Vancouver Island road trip, we woke early and packed up camp. We decided to check out the Canso Plane crash, a shorter hike to, well, a plane crash. The wreckage still remains mostly intact so it’s a popular spot. Then we hit the road.

Vancouver Island doesn’t have a great network of roads, so you’ll backtrack to Nanaimo and from there we headed south towards Victoria. We camped at the awesome Goldstream Provincial Park , which is a perfect location to explore both the forests, coastlines and city! This is a big driving day at just over 400 kilometres.

Day Five – Victoria

Day five of our Vancouver Island road trip, we headed into Victoria, a straight drive down the highway takes you to the coast near downtown Victoria. We parked here and walked the coastal trail to Fisherman’s Wharf for some fish and chips! 

Continuing on will bring you to downtown Victoria and the Legislature buildings of British Columbia, a gorgeous building fronted by gardens. Downtown Victoria is filled with little shops and alleys to explore, you can easily spend a day here.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as we chose to walk and experience as much as possible but a good pair of comfortable running shoes were definitely necessary!

If you have the enthusiasm and energy after a day of exploring Victoria, there are some treasures in Goldstream Provincial Park to explore as well. Luckily in summer the days are long! Just below the first come first serve loop of the Goldstream campground, is a fantastic swimming spot, with rocks to lounge on and jump off, this spot can get noisy and busy.

From the campground you can also walk to Niagara Fall, this beautiful waterfall is well worth checking out. It’s a rather mundane hike through the forest from the campground or you can stop at the Goldstream Provincial Park day use area and from there it is a five minute walk on the opposite side of the highway to the waterfall.

Day Six – Goldstream Provincial Park to Nanaimo

The final day of any Vancouver Island road trip requires getting back to the ferry. First off though, we couldn’t recommend a trip to Fort Rodd Hill and Fisguard Lighthouse enough! This Parks Canada historical site has so much to see and do and is well worth spending the morning at. If you have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, entry is free! We spent the morning here and it is so worth a stop.

From here you can choose to head to Schwartz Bay to get back to the mainland or head to Nanaimo to catch the ferry. We chose the later as we wanted to get the ferry to Horseshoe Bay as we were heading north.

Other Spots On Vancouver Island To Check Out

If you have more time to spend on a Vancouver Island road trip, it would be easy to spend more time in the Tofino and Victoria areas. There are also some other incredible spots to explore, such as the Sooke area and up to Port Renfrew. Driving along this coastal area you’ll find gorgeous beaches.

Strathcona Provincial Park in the central area of the Island is home to campgrounds, lakes and hiking opportunities which seem endless, it is well worth spending a few days exploring the park but you could easily spend a week!

The northern areas of Vancouver Island have many treasures to explore as well, Telegraph Cove is one of the top places on Vancouver Island to see Orcas.

Ultimately we finished our Vancouver Island road trip wishing we had more time and wanting to see so much more. I’m sure you’ll probably feel the same!

Items That Can Make A Vancouver Island Road Trip More Enjoyable

Rain Jacket – Vancouver Island is known for its variety of weather but mostly for it’s rain. Don’t let wet weather slow down your trip, a good rain coat will allow you to explore regardless of the weather.

Gazebo – This is one of my favorite items to take car camping because it is great come rain or shine! Make sure if it’s windy it is steak down correctly. You can easily set it up over your table to create a dry place to cook and eat, or put it over your tent, if like us you are staying in a small tent. It keeps your tent dry and makes getting in and out of the tent a much drier experience.

Tarp – If you aren’t a fan of the gazebo or space in your car is at a premium, a tarp can be a great alternative to help create dry areas to hang out. Make sure to pack plenty of paracord in order to make sure it can be set up regardless of how far away the trees are!

Waterproof Hiking Boots – If it’s raining a lot, these will be lifesavers, not just to hike in but to walk around town in.

Flip Flops – I absolutely love my Chaco flip flops, they stay on my feet and are cushioned with vibram soles, meaning they are perfect to adventure in, whether it’s heading to the beach or walking around town. These are perfect for even warm and wet days.

Map – A backroads map book can be a perfect companion, great to find little gems to stop at while exploring Vancouver Island. We used this book on our trip and it made planning so much easier!

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Camping On Vancouver Island: 20+ Best Campgrounds (+ Camping Tips)

Beata Urmos

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Vancouver Island is among the most special ones in Canada , with mild climate and astonishing natural beauties, scenic beaches, thundering waterfalls, old-growth forests and dramatic canyons. It’s 50-120 km wide and stretches 460 km parallel to the British Columbia mainland. Hikers, bikers, kayakers and campers all find their happy place here.

I’ll never forget that our first camping trip with our son was on Vancouver Island, and we fell asleep to the sound of a rushing creek in Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Campers are spoiled on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re looking for waterfront campsites, beach camping, tent camping, options for RVs or backcountry camping, there are options – and very tempting ones!

In this post you find our subjective selection of the 15 best camping spots on Vancouver Island, along with 5 glamping options for those who like combining the close proximity of nature with comfort, and lots of tips to make your Vancouver Island camping trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Do you find planning your British Columbia road trip a bit overwhelming?

What if I told you that someone has ALL the planning done: get our compact, easy BC Road Trip Guide! Read it, then go and enjoy.

Best campgrounds on Vancouver Island

So let’s see the best campsites on Vancouver Island, grouped by region:

Campgrounds near Victoria

Goldstream provincial park campground.

looking for the best places to camp on Vancouver Island? find a waterfall and check for campgrounds nearby

Only 20 minutes drive from Victoria, Goldstream Provincial Park makes you feel like you are far away from civilization. The campground has 173 vehicle accessible campsites set in the forest among the huge Douglas fir trees and well off the highway.

Still you’re a convenient drive away from many shops, and the campground has hot showers, flush toilets and potable water. It’s one of the best Vancouver Island campgrounds for beginner campers , and families will appreciate the playground and the easy trails and lots of water access points in the area.

Campground info:

• Operation: year-round (limited service between November 1 and March 12)
• Facilities: hot showers, pit and flush toilets, drinking water, playground
• Find more info and reserve your campsite here.

Things to do:

• visit 47 m high Niagara Falls (not THAT one, this is yet another with the same name)
• dip into swimming holes on the Goldstream River
• hike among 600-year-old Douglas fir trees
• get up to the top of Mount Finlayson
• witness the salmon spawn in late fall

Sooke River Campground

The Sooke River Campground is one of the best private campgrounds on Vancouver Island which is ideal to explore the eastern region, Victoria and Sooke . It offers 70 shady campsites right next to the peaceful Sooke River. It’s a few minutes drive away from Sooke, so shops and restaurants are close. Victoria is 45 minutes drive away.

It’s great for families, as there are lots of amenities, a playground and large open space for biking and playing. It’s also great for kayakers, as it offers water access. If you’d like more comfort, they have some rustic cabins, too.

• Operation: April 1 – Thanksgiving
• Facilities: coin-operated hot showers, playground, free wifi, boat launch

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

• hike and swim in Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
• walk on Whiffin Spit
• take a cruise from Sooke Harbour
• hike the East Sooke Coast Trail
• bike the Galloping Goose Trail that connects Sooke and Victoria
• SEAPARC Leisure Complex (with swimming pool, leisure pool, swirl pool, golf course)

Tofino campgrounds

You have several options for camping near Tofino, but it’s among the most popular places to visit on Vancouver Island, so make sure to reserve your campsite well in advance.

Surf Grove Campground

Looking for the best oceanfront camping on Vancouver Island? How about stunning Cox Bay? It’s one of the best surfing destinations in Canada – if that sounds tempting, Surf Grove is your place. Rentals and lessons are available at the on-site Pacific Surf Company at the campground.

Surf Grove offers both semi-serviced and full-service sites, and it’s the most suitable for RVs, motorhomes or sleepers . There are sites for tents, as well, but they’re the same as for smaller vans, priced accordingly. Amenities are brand new, and they even have a sauna at the campground.

It’s a very special and well-equipped Vancouver Island campsite, ideal for those living the #vanlife.

• Operation: year-round
• Facilities: showers, washrooms, laundry, full-service RV sites
• surf in Cox Bay and on other Tofino beaches
• hike up to Cox Bay Lookout

Read this, too: Cox Bay Lookout Hike: The Best Panorama On Vancouver Island

Bella Pacifica Campground

This Vancouver Island campground is just outside of Tofino, but in a quiet forest setting. (Not that Tofino is such a busy town. It’s among the cutest coastal towns in Canada.)

Some sites are on the beachfront, some have ocean views, and the rest are in the shaded forest. It also offers sites with full hook-up for RVs. Four boardwalks give access to MacKenzie Beach, and you’ll have three nice washroom buildings with showers, and even laundry.

• Operation: March 1 – November 13
• Facilities: (coin-operated) showers, flush toilets, drinking water, (coin-operated) laundry
• enjoy MacKenzie Beach
• explore Tofino and Clayoquot Sound

Green Point Campground, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

The most affordable campground near Tofino is certainly Green Point Campground in Pacific Rim National Park. You can imagine the demand is huge for these sites. Anyone looking for places to camp on Vancouver Island near the beach and close to Tofino will try to grab a spot here.

While it’s not right on the beach, it’s behind Long Beach, and it’s the only campground in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve . It has 94 vehicle accessible sites (with electrical service) and 20 walk-in tent sites. They’re sheltered in the forest and a short distance away from iconic Long Beach.

It’s midway between Tofino and Ucluelet, hence you can conveniently visit both while staying here.

Make sure to reserve your site in advance. Most sites fill up as soon as reservations open each year. Since it’s located within Pacific Rim National Park, you need a park pass to stay at Green Point Campground.

• Operation: May 1 – October 10
• Facilities: showers, flush toilets, drinking water, electrical service
• walk (or try surfing!) on Long Beach
• explore Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Ucluelet campgrounds

Ucluelet campground.

This is a straightforward choice for Ucluelet camping. This campground doesn’t have a wilderness feeling, you definitely feel like being in a city park, but then, you are. Ucluelet is easily accessible on foot, and you’re close to cafes and restaurants. 

From the 125 campsites, some overlook the pretty harbor, some are in the shady forest, and others offer mountain views. Facilities are good, hot showers and clean toilets.  It’s one of the best Vancouver Island campsites for beginner campers because of all the conveniences , and also because of the great hiking and paddling opportunities nearby.

• Operation: March – October (limited options between October and April, only for fully-contained RVs)
• Facilities: showers, flush toilets, drinking water, full-hookup for RVs
• walk and dine in Ucluelet
• kayak or paddle on the sheltered waters of Barkley Sound
• hike the Wild Pacific Trail

Wya Point Resort

Wya Point Resort is for those who’d love a peaceful oceanfront campground, with great amenities . It’s located just south of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and gives access to a beautiful, secluded beach.

It’s primarily a tent campground, but smaller RVs might also fit. The sites are mainly in the forest and offer plenty of privacy. Most of them are vehicle accessible, but the oceanfront sites require a short walk from the parking. Hot showers, flush toilets and a dishwashing station are available.

To access the campground, you need to drive on a dirt road , well off the main highway.

Thanks to the remote location and the close proximity of the beach, Wya Point Resort offers one of the best camping on Vancouver Island if you’re looking for a romantic getaway .

• Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets, drinking water, dishwashing station
• walk to Wya Point Beach from the campground

Nanaimo campgrounds

Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Resort

This private campground is a few minutes drive from downtown Nanaimo, and it’s the best RV campground on Vancouver Island .

300 well-equipped sites await, nestled between ocean and old-growth forest. Some sites are oceanfront, some are riverfront, while others are in the shady forest. This is mainly a resort which offers plenty of facilities, like 30 and 50 amp service, sewer, water and showers.

You can stay there in a tent, as well, but personally, I’d choose another campground for tent camping, as this one really focuses on RVs.

• Facilities: showers, flush toilets, full hookup
• walk or bike on the roads and trails inside the campground
• swim in Nanaimo River
• visit downtown Nanaimo and the Harbourfront Walkway
• explore the coastal parks of Nanaimo (Neck Point Park, Pipers Lagoon Park, Departure Bay Beach)
• hike to Ammonite Falls

Camping near Port Alberni

Little qualicum falls provincial park campground.

our very first tent setup (how many things can you count that we did wrong?)

It’s an ideal stay on your way from Nanaimo to Tofino. This was the first campground we stayed at in Canada, but it’s not only nostalgia that makes us think it’s one of the best campsites on Vancouver Island.

It’s quiet and shaded, located along Little Qualicum River, and it gives access to the Little Qualicum Falls loop trail. It’s a short drive from Cameron Lake, Port Alberni and Cathedral Grove.

It has 96 vehicle accessible campsites in two areas, the Lower and Upper Campground. Amenities are quite basic, but the location and the peaceful vibe makes up for it.

• Operation: Lower Campground is open from April 14 to October 14, Upper Campground is open from May 12 to October 14
• Facilities: flush and pit toilets, drinking water, playground

• hike the Little Qualicum Falls loop
• visit Cameron Lake, and conquer Wesley Ridge for a scenic view above the lake
• visit Cathedral Grove
• Englishman River Falls are a short drive away

Parksville campgrounds

Rathtrevor beach provincial park campground.

Where to camp on Vancouver Island with small kids? Centrally located and close to an endless beach with shallow, warm water , Rathtrevor Beach Campground is a favorite for families and one of the most popular campgrounds on Vancouver Island. It’s a few minutes drive from Parksville.

Most campsites are less than five minutes walk from the beach, but they have plenty of shade under the huge Douglas Fir trees. The campground is huge, with 250 drive-in campsites, 25 walk-in sites and great amenities, including multiple hot showers, flush toilets and a playground .

Rathtrevor Beach Campground is Vancouver Island beach camping at its most convenient. I know, and I’ve already explained that the sites are not directly on the beach. However, you rarely want to camp on the beach, because it’s the least sheltered. The forest behind the beach often offers the best “beach camping” experience.

• Operation: year-round (limited facilities in the winter season, from mid-October to mid-March)
• Facilities: showers, flush and pit toilets, drinking water, playground
• enjoy the warm, shallow water at the beach (at high tide)
• bird-watching and picnicking on the beach

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park Campground

It’s a great campground to stay for a night or two on your way towards the west coast of Vancouver Island. It’s close to two powerful waterfalls – you can reach them on easy hiking trails from the campground. In summer swimming is allowed in the river below the lower falls.

The campground offers 104 vehicle accessible campsites, but only in the summer season. Parksville is 15 minutes drive away.

• Operation: May 1 – Sept 30
• Facilities: flush and pit toilets, drinking water
• visit Englishman River Falls and the deep canyon
• swim in the pool below the lower falls in the summer
• visit the giant trees at Cathedral Grove
• enjoy sandy beaches in Parksville and Qualicum

Juan de Fuca campgrounds

Camping on the beach on Vancouver Island (this time for real, truly on the beach!)? Find quieter camping spots, ideal for tent camping? That’s why we love the campgrounds on the Juan de Fuca coast.

First of all, here are the best things to do when staying at these campgrounds :

• hike to several beach waterfalls, like Mystic Beach, China Beach, Sombrio Beach or Sandcut Beach
• explore Juan de Fuca Provincial Park
• hike the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail (or part of it)
• go surfing on Sombrio Beach
• visit the tide pools at Botanical Beach (low tide is the ideal time)
• find Canada’s gnarliest tree in Avatar Grove

China Beach Campground, Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

This is a great campground to explore Juan de Fuca Provincial Park and the southwest coast of Vancouver Island. It’s the southern terminus of the Juan de Fuca Trail.

Also, it’s not actually a beach campground as the sites are 1 km from the beach . (But it means you get protection from the wind.) China Beach is accessible via a steep forest trail, and it’s a large pebbly-sandy beach with cliff waterfalls, driftwood and panoramic views.

There are 78 large vehicle accessible campsites among the giant pines and cedars, and they offer plenty of privacy.

• Operation: from mid-May to mid-September
• Facilities: outhouses, drinking water

Jordan River Regional Park Campground

It’s an oceanfront camping site, looking out on the Juan de Fuca Strait and offering views of the Olympic Peninsula. There’s a trail through coastal hemlock and cedar forest to Sandcut Beach.

It has 15 vehicle accessible campsites and 7 walk-in sites, all operating on a first-come, first-served basis.

Facilities are limited as there are only pit toilets, but you can camp right by the ocean. I know, I’ve mentioned this already, but it’s really the location that sells this campground (and the fact that you don’t need to nervously click and book months in advance to get a spot, like in many cases when you’d like to stay at a provincial park). It’s Vancouver Island tent camping at its best.

• Facilities: pit toilets, drinking water
• Find more info here.

Sombrio Beach backcountry campsite

Sombrio Beach is the best off-the-beaten track beach camping on Vancouver Island. It’s not accessible by car and is one of the backcountry campgrounds along Juan de Fuca Trail, however, it’s only a short walk (~1.5 km) away from the Sombrio Beach Trailhead parking (and you can pull your stuff down in a beach cart).

It’s ideal for surfers, hikers, beach lovers and spontaneous campers as reservation is not possible. Sombrio Beach is among our favorites in British Columbia! It’s scenic, backed up by beautiful coastal forest, there’s a secret waterfall in a slot canyon behind the beach, then another waterfall that flows into the ocean, and some exciting tide pools.

Read this, too: Sombrio Beach, Vancouver Island: Why Should You Visit?

East Sombrio Beach offers no designated sites, you can simply set up your tent on the beach. The West Sombrio camping area has camping pads. It only offers basic facilities, like pit toilets and bear canisters to store food safely. There’s running water, but it’s not potable, and there’s no garbage bins, so you need to pack your trash out.

You find self-registration envelopes at the trailhead where you can pay a camping fee of 10 CAD (or you can pay online in advance).

It’s one of the most beautiful secret camping spots on Vancouver Island. You compromise on comfort, but not on outdoor adventures.

• Facilities: pit toilets, bear-proof food caches

Pacheedaht Campground (near Port Renfrew)

Pacheedaht Campground is another one for beach campers! You can camp right on the 2 km long sandy beach here, and it’s at the southern terminus of the West Coast Trail ( reservation required ). It’s also where Gordon River meets the ocean, so lack of natural attractions can’t be a complaint.

From the roughly 65 sites some are on the waterfront, others are set into the forest or offer views of the San Juan river estuary.

It’s located on Pacheedaht First Nation land, and is just outside of Port Renfrew.

• Facilities: showers, flush toilets, outhouses, laundry, drinking water, powered sites (with water and electrical hookup)
• Find more info and reserve your campsite by contacting them: [email protected] or (250) 6470 090

Campbell River campgrounds

Quinsam campground, elk falls provincial park.

Quinsam Campground might be your best bet for Campbell River camping, as it’s a few minutes drive from Campbell River and offers riverside camping in Elk Falls Provincial Park .

It has 122 campsites. Most of them are in the second-growth forest, some are right next to the Quinsam River, and all of them are vehicle accessible. With a playground on-site and lots of short trails in Elk Falls Provincial Park, it’s an ideal campground for families.

• Operation: March – October (winter camping is allowed, but no services is available in winter)
• visit 25 m tall Elk Falls and the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge
• witness salmon spawn in the Quinsam and Campbell Rivers in the fall, fish for salmon year-round
• visit the Quinsam River Hatchery
• explore the Campbell River area and Strathcona Provincial Park

Loveland Bay Provincial Park Campground

Searching for the best lake camping on Vancouver Island? You have so many options. Just half an hour drive from Campbell River, Loveland Bay Provincial Park has a campground along this tranquil lake, with all the 31 campsites along the lakeshore .

It’s vehicle accessible, but to access the campground you need to drive the last stretch on a gravel road.

The facilities are minimalist, mainly toilets and drinking water, but there’s a boat launch, as well. Campbell Lake warms up fairly quickly in the summer, and it’s popular for swimming, kayaking and paddling.

• Operation: April 27 – October 9
• Facilities: flush and pit toilets, drinking water, boat launch
• enjoy water activities at Campbell Lake
• hike the Lookout Loop
• visit Elk Falls Provincial Park
• day trip to of Campbell River, Gold River, Sayward, Kelsey Bay and Cortes Islands

Kitty Coleman Beach Provincial Park Campground

One of the very few secret campgrounds on Vancouver Island is Kitty Coleman Beach Provincial Park Campground. It’s a half an hour drive from Campbell River and run by volunteers.

It’s not only affordable, but has incredible oceanfront campsites and a boat launch, as well. There are 65 campsites altogether, and all operate on a first come, first serve basis. That’s right, no booking months in advance! It’s as flexible, as peaceful and as beautiful as your perfect image of island camping.

• Operation: April 16 – September 30
• walk on the beach and in the Douglas fir forest at the campground
• swim, kayak or paddle at Kitty Coleman Beach in the summer
• explore the Comox Valley and the Campbell River area

Buttle Lake Campground, Strathcona Provincial Park

Another tempting Vancouver Island lake camping option is at Butte Lake, in the heart of the wilderness – yet accessible by car.

Strathcona Provincial Park is the oldest park in British Columbia, and it’s located in the center of Vancouver Island, among rugged mountains, and is dotted with lakes. Rivers, creeks, streams are rushing, and you find some of the prettiest waterfalls on Vancouver Island here.

Strathcona Provincial Park has two vehicle accessible campgrounds, and Butte Lake Campground is the one that’s quicker to access. It’s a great base to explore more of Strathcona Provincial Park.

It’s set on Buttle Lake, though the campsites are mainly in the Douglas fir forest , only a few of them are on lakefront. Altogether there’s 85 campsites, some can be reserved, and some are first-come, first-served.

• Operation: April 1 – October 31
• Facilities: pit toilets, drinking water, playground
• swim in Butte Lake (there are buoys that mark the designated swimming areas)
• kayak or paddle on Butte Lake
• hike to Lady Falls, Upper and Lower Myra Falls, Lupin Falls
• conquer Crest Mountain
• do a day hike (or multi-day hike) in Elk River Valley

Ralph River Campground, Strathcona Provincial Park

Ralph River Campground is towards the southern end of Buttle Lake, more remote and more peaceful. The campground is by the lake, but the sites are in an old growth Douglas fir forest.

All the 75 campsites are first-come, first-served and vehicle accessible. There are few facilities (pit toilets and potable water with hand pump), but lots of hiking trails of various length and difficulty nearby.

• Facilities: pit toilets, drinking water (hand pumps)
• stop at Auger Point on your way to the campground
• walk the short (2 km) and easy Karst Creek Trail
• see the old-growth forest on Wild Ginger Trail that starts from Ralph River Campground

Lake Cowichan

Gordon bay provincial park campground.

Are you looking for a campground far out in the wilderness, yet with easy access, great facilities and possibly the sunniest climate in Canada? Gordon Bay Provincial Park Campground is ideal for families and those who prefer exploring off the beaten track as this is not on the typical Vancouver Island road trip route.

The campground is set in a second-growth Douglas fir forest, a short walk away from Cowichan Lake, and it offers 126 vehicle accessible campsites. Families will appreciate the playground at the campground and the sandy beaches at the lake.

There’s also a boat launch for kayakers and paddlers.

• Operation: year-round (limited service between November 1 and March 31)
• swimming, sunbathing, paddling, windsurfing and water skiing at Lake Cowichan
• hike the Cowichan Valley Trail, Marble Bay Trail and on the Bald Mountain Peninsula

Want help planning your BC road trip?

• Get the BC Road Trip Guide eBook.
• Use the easy-to-follow itineraries.
• Go and enjoy your trip.

Buy it here.

Free camping on Vancouver Island

Wild camping is not typically allowed or encouraged in British Columbia. Sleeping in your car is tolerated as long as you’re considerate and keep nature intact, but what about free tent camping?

Actually, it very well exists. The province has a wonderful recreation site system that offers low cost or even free camping opportunities. You find many recreation sites on Vancouver Island, check them out here on a map .

But you need to be aware that recreation sites have only the very basics and operate a bit differently than provincial park counterparts. Their campsites are all first-come, first-served and are usually accessible via gravel roads (they might require a high clearance vehicle for access).

Facilities are normally pit toilets only. There’s no potable water (bring water or treat lake/river water), and garbage bins are rare, so you should carry out everything you packed in. Some of these campgrounds are regularly maintained, others are only infrequently.

Marble River Recreation Site

Marble River Recreation Site with 33 free campsites is just off Highway 30, on your way to Port Alice. Granted, not many people take this route, but that’s what gives a special charm to the northern region of Vancouver Island.

There’s a small boat launch, picnic tables and pit toilets. No garbage bin.

The recreation site is closed and gated for the winter season. Find more info here.

Clayoquot Arm Beach Recreation Site is closed

Free camping near Tofino? This was your best bet, with a possibility to camp on the beach at Kennedy Lake. It’s not actually in Tofino, but 40 minutes drive away, including driving 8 km on gravel road. However, it’s closed until further notice – see more info here .

5 essential things to pack for tent camping in British Columbia

Lightweight tarp (two of them, actually): shelter from the rain, shade from the sun and an extra layer under your tent. It can rain any time of the year, and tarps kept us (and our tent) dry during so many downpours. Nothing fancy, just a simple, lightweight tarp – and a…

Paracord : to fix the tarp and to solve a million other problems. Really, paracords are versatile and come handy in so many situations while camping. Have a spare one, keep it in the trunk of your car.

Mosquito repellent : the mosquitoes in some areas of BC can be vicious, especially in spring and early summer. Use a repellent spray , mosquito patches or a mosquito head net (or all of them).

Lighting : always, always bring a separate source of light (and I don’t mean your phone). If your hands can be free, it’s ideal: headlamps and/or lanterns . A lantern is great for hanging out by the fire or lighting up the tent for evening card plays.

Camping stove : don’t rely solely on campfires for cooking food. Campfire bans can come in at any time, or the wood might be too wet. Bring a classic propane stove, extra points if it has wind-blocking panels.

Glamping on Vancouver Island

Have you been scrolling all the way here to finally find the glamping possibilities? Lucky you, because there are some very cool ones on Vancouver Island.

Free Spirit Spheres, Qualicum Beach

This might be one of the most unique accommodations not only on Vancouver Island, but in the whole world!

It’s a treehouse resort, and your place to stay is one of the three giant spherical treehouses. They’re simply works of art, and you can spend a magical night up in the tree, like you imagined it as a child.

Find more info and book the place here.

Cowichan River Lodge, Lake Cowichan

Cowichan River Lodge is set in the majestic forest, along the river and has rooms with a terrace or a balcony. This wooden lodge is a perfect getaway for those who’d like to feel like being in the wild while enjoying a cozy house.

Find more info and book a room here.

Wya Point yurts and lodges, Tofino

I’ve already mentioned Wya Point Campground in this post, but it has options for you even if you’re not a camper. You can stay in one of the lodges and waterfront yurts, and they have heating!

You’ll either have a shared or private bathroom, depending on the exact place you book. Lodges come with a fully equipped kitchen.

Find more info and book your place here.

Wild Pod, Tofino

Wild Pod Glamping is right in the heart of Tofino and offers futuristic waterfront geodesic domes. Located at the tip of Grice Point, they’re walking distance from shops and restaurants in Tofino. 

Each pod is suitable for 2 adults and comes with a panoramic window. Ensuite bathroom, blackout curtains, kitchenette and a propane fireplace is included. Kids or pets are not allowed.

Fort Rodd Hill National Park oTENTiks (near Victoria)

Fort Rodd Hill National Park doesn’t offer traditional campsites, but five oTENTik sites. Many Canadian national parks have oTENTiks, they’re fully equipped tents with bunk beds, heat, lights, a table and chairs, cooking equipment, a cooktop and barbecue. You also find an outdoor deck and a picnic table.

The oTENTik sites in Fort Rodd Hill National Park are located in the same area that military families used to stay back when the fort was in operation. Refrigerators, freezers, flush toilets, water and sinks are available in the central building.

Don’t get lost on the backroads of Vancouver Island!

As we learned from our own mistakes, relying on Google Maps and other online maps in British Columbia is risky, especially when driving on the back roads. They don’t have accurate information. What to use then not to get lost?

The Backroad Mapbooks has a great outdoor recreation guidebook series about Canada, with waterproof maps, GPS maps and a smartphone app. Their Vancouver Island edition comes very handy for traveling extensively on this large island.

Get the Vancouver Island BC Backroad Mapbook now.

Vancouver Island campgrounds on a map

Click here to see all the campgrounds on Vancouver Island on a map, grouped by provincial campgrounds, national and regional park campgrounds, private campgrounds – and free ones!

Vancouver Island camping tips

When are campgrounds open.

Lots of campgrounds are seasonal and only operate from March/May to September/October. July and August are the sunniest, warmest and busiest months. I strongly recommend booking in advance for the summer months, and avoiding holiday weekends, like Canada Day, BC Day and Labour Day. Also, prepare for campfire bans due to wildfire risk towards the end of the summer.

Some campgrounds operate year-round, but most of them have very limited facilities in winter (like water taps are shut off).

What if you don’t have a reservation?

Most provincial campgrounds offer a number of first-come, first-served sites (check the exact number for each campground). If you go in the summer, arrive as early as possible. First come, first served “check-in” time at provincial parks starts at 7 am, and you should be there at 10 am the latest to grab a spot.

Spring and fall are less busy, the competition for camping is not that nerve-wracking. The weather is colder, especially the nights, but it could still be warm enough for a pleasant camping experience. With that said, be prepared for chilly and rainy days.

Even if a provincial campground is fully booked, it’s worth calling them or checking in person for no shows. Cancellations happen, and you can take advantage of them.

What if you want to reserve a campsite, but the campground is fully booked?

Patience and hope, that’s all I can tell you as good advice. And to book as early as possible to avoid this situation . But people might cancel, and if it’s a large campground and you simply show up, you might be able to get a spot because of a last-minute cancellation. Don’t count on that though.

For the provincial park campgrounds, there’s actually a new feature introduced last year, called “Notify Me” . This means emailing you when a campsite becomes available. You can create up to five different availability notifications through your reservation account.

Can you camp in the winter?

It’s technically possible, but most people won’t enjoy tent camping on Vancouver Island in winter. The coast rarely gets snow, but torrential rains and high winds can make it challenging to enjoy being outdoors , let alone sleeping outdoors.

Private or provincial campgrounds?

It depends on your travel style and personal preference. Provincial parks are better for tent camping, because sites usually offer more privacy, nightly rates are more affordable and basic facilities are available. Most of them don’t offer hookups for RVs though, and some of them are not even suitable for RVs, especially for larger ones.

Private campgrounds focus more on RV owners who likely need serviced campsites with power, water and sewer hookups. They offer more facilities and charge more accordingly.

We camped in a tent and loved provincial campgrounds (other than the crazy race for booking them months in advance!). We found them nicely maintained and clean, and their location is also usually wonderful. Each campsite has its own picnic table.

Get the BC Road Trip Guide eBook and enjoy the trip of your lifetime in British Columbia.

Where to do the shopping?

It’s worth doing bulk shopping at the beginning of your Vancouver Island camping trip, and a few times during the trip. You find Walmarts in the bigger cities (Victoria, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Campbell River and Courtenay) and smaller local supermarkets in the small towns and villages.

The most popular Vancouver Island tours

Related articles.

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of In Love With BC, a blog about British Columbia travel, hiking and outdoor adventures. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, and she’s passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way. North America is one of her favorite destinations, and she spent a year living in Vancouver and traveling all over BC with her family.

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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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Vancouver Island Road Trip – 7 Day Itinerary [2024]

Known for its stunning coastal scenery, lush forest trails, and vibrant local culture, Vancouver Island is a road tripper’s dream come true!

Vancouver Island showcases everything the West Coast is known for, and so much more. With its temperate climate, it offers year-round opportunities to explore the great outdoors. Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves on the rugged shoreline, spending your day exploring quaint towns, and ending your evening by a bonfire under a starlit sky.

A Vancouver Island road trip is the best way to soak up the island’s natural beauty and embrace the laid-back island lifestyle. But with so much to see and do, where should you start?

If you’re visiting from mainland Canada, or flying in from abroad, the city of Victoria is likely your starting point. As the capital of British Columbia and located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. From here the island is your oyster!

I’ve been to Vancouver Island from the mainland countless times, there are so many amazing spots on this itinerary that top my list of beautiful places in British Columbia! Jordan River and Tofino are definitely two of them!

In this post I’m going to focus on the southern half of Vancouver Island, starting in Victoria and ending in Tofino. But don’t worry, even if you don’t have enough time to cover the entire island, this itinerary will give you a taste of all that Vancouver Island has to offer.

This guide covers everything you need to know to plan an incredible Vancouver Island road trip, including how to reach Vancouver Island, navigate the region, and discover the must-see highlights! Let’s go!

A City Girl Outside contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for reading!

Vancouver Island Road Trip: Pre-Trip Planning

Where is vancouver island.

Vancouver Island is located on the west coast of Canada and is part of the province of British Columbia. It is separated from mainland Canada by the Strait of Georgia and from Washington state, USA by the Juan de Fuca Strait.

The island stretches over 460 kilometres (290 miles) in length and covers a land area of 31,285 square kilometres (12,079 square miles). The island is home to over 870,000 residents and has a diverse landscape that includes rugged coastlines, dense rainforests, and snow-capped mountain peaks.

How To Get To Vancouver Island

Before you start your road trip, you’ll need to plan your journey to the island. The most common way to get to Vancouver Island is by taking a ferry from the mainland. There are several routes available, including ferries from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo, and Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria).

If you’re coming from the United States, there are also ferries that depart from Anacortes, Washington and Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria. Be sure to make your reservations in advance, especially during peak season.

If you prefer to fly, there are also direct flights from major cities such as Vancouver, Seattle and Calgary into the Victoria International Airport or the Comox Valley Airport. Once on the island, you can rent a car or take public transportation to get around.

Since this itinerary starts in Victoria, I would suggest flying into Vancouver Airport (YVR) and then either a connecting flight to Victoria (then picking up your rental car) OR picking up a rental car at Vancouver airport and then getting the ferry from Tsawwassen to to Swartz Bay.

The second option will most likely be the more convenient option and the views from the ferry are stunning!

Best Way To Get Around Vancouver Island

The best way to explore Vancouver Island is by car. This gives you the flexibility and freedom to stop at any attraction or town along your road trip. You can rent a car from major cities like Victoria, Nanaimo, and Comox Valley.

By RV/Campervan

A popular alternative to car travel on Vancouver Island is to rent a motorhome or RV. This allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace, while also providing a comfortable, self-contained accommodation option. There are several motorhome rental companies operating in the major cities, and numerous campgrounds across the island are equipped with RV hookups. This option is particularly popular with families and groups, providing all the conveniences of home as you travel.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is a year-round destination, but certain times of the year are better for specific activities. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, the summer months (June-August) are peak season and offer warmer weather for activities such as hiking, camping, and swimming. The shoulder seasons of spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) boast comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

If you’re interested in whale watching, the best time to visit is during the spring months when they are migrating. For storm watching, head to Tofino during the winter months (December-February) when the waves on the rugged west coast are at their wildest!

This itinerary is best taken during the summer months between May and October when all attractions and activities are open. But keep in mind that accommodations and transportation may be more expensive during peak season.

It’s also worth noting that in the winter and dead seasons (November-April), some activities and attractions may be closed. So, plan your trip accordingly to make the most out of your visit.

Vancouver Island Itinerary Road Trip Itinerary – Overview

Although Vancouver Island shares a name with the city of Vancouver, they’re actually two completely different destinations. Located on the west coast of Canada, Vancouver Island is the largest island on the Pacific Coast of North America. Boasting a mild climate all year round, Vancouver Island is an ideal destination for a road trip at any time of the year.

Vancouver Island is vast, and I mean really vast! To make the most of your road trip, it’s essential to plan and prioritize the places you want to visit. Some popular spots on Vancouver Island include Tofino – a quaint coastal town known for its breathtaking beaches and surfing culture; Campbell River – a paradise for fishing enthusiasts; and the capital city of Victoria – a bustling urban hub with colonial architecture, lively markets, and delicious seafood.

But the beauty of a road trip is that you can go wherever your heart desires. So don’t be afraid to take a detour, step off the beaten track, and discover your own hidden gems. With over 3,000 km of coastline, countless lakes, rivers, and forests – there’s always something new to explore on Vancouver Island.

Now that we’ve covered the logistics of getting to Vancouver Island and the best times to visit, let’s dive into the must-see destinations on your road trip. Keep in mind that this itinerary can be adjusted based on your personal preferences and time constraints.

→ Check out my Canada packing list for all seasons for all the essential items you’ll need when visiting Canada year-round, from hot to cold! (Don’t come unprepared like I did!)

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 1 & 2 – Victoria

As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is a must-visit city on this Vancouver Island road trip. Victoria offers a charming mix of history, outdoor adventures, and urban vibes. Victoria is often a one-day stop on most cruise ship itineraries, but I recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Victoria .

Although it is the capital of BC, it does offer a very different vibe to the big cities on Vancouver and Toronto. There are also an abundance of outdoor spaces to explore. Spend your first day exploring the historic Inner Harbour area, home to iconic landmarks such as the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings.

The Fairmont Empress Hotel dominates the Inner Harbour with its grand architecture. I stayed here on my most recent trip to Victoria – it was simply unforgettable!

The hotel oozes old-world elegance with a dash of modern luxury. I mean, just the lobby itself is enough to make your jaw drop – it’s all plush carpets, gleaming chandeliers, and oh-so-elegant decor. And don’t get me started on the views! The picturesque Inner Harbour forms a stunning backdrop that I could gaze at for hours.

While a stay here might be considered a splurge, it is undeniably worth every penny. If the Fairmont Empress is outside of your budget, a stroll through its elegant lobby is a must. You can check out my complete review of the Fairmont Empress for more information.

After admiring the Fairmont Empress, take a short walk to the BC Parliament Buildings . These impressive buildings are home to British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly and have been standing since 1898. Visitors can explore the building through free guided tours that run throughout the day – you can book through the website in advance.

I highly recommend visiting the BC Royal Museum , which is located just steps from the Fairmont Empress. The museum features a vast collection of natural and human history artifacts, giving you a glimpse into British Columbia’s rich heritage.

If you are more interested in Victorias outdoor spaces, there are many easy hikes in Victoria . Some of my favourites include the Kinsol Trestle, Mount Douglas Park and Niagara Falls.

For your second day in Victoria, head to Beacon Hill Park, a beautiful urban park that spans over 200 acres. Don’t forget to stop by Mile Zero – the starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway that runs all the way across Canada.

If you have extra time, consider taking a trip to nearby Butchart Gardens, known for its stunning floral displays. You can also take a whale watching tour from Victoria’s Inner Harbour or enjoy a traditional English tea at one of the many tea rooms.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 3 – Victoria to Jordan River

Sooke offers a plethora of outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes to explore. Just a short 30-minute drive from Victoria, this coastal gem is an enchanting blend of natural beauty and small-town charm.

Start you time in Sooke at Whiffin Spit Park, a picturesque haven for birdwatchers and hikers alike. Keep your eyes peeled for a variety of bird species soaring above or perched on the rugged coastline.

If you’re in need of a refreshing dip, make your way to the Sooke Potholes along the banks of the Sooke River. These natural pools were carved by centuries of rushing water. On hot summer days, they provide the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy a rejuvenating swim.

But Sooke’s allure extends beyond its natural wonders. Explore the East Sooke Regional Park, where coastal trails await your discovery. The famed East Sooke Coast Trail showcases the untamed beauty of the Pacific coastline with its dramatic cliffs, windswept trees and vibrant wildflowers.

Just a little further down the road from Sooke on Highway 14, you’ll find the gem of a town known as Shirley. While it may be a small place, Shirley packs a punch when it comes to charm and beauty.

Located along the scenic West Coast Road, Shirley offers stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. But, it’s not just the views that make Shirley a must-visit. It’s also home to the acclaimed Shirley Delicious café . This quirky, A-frame eatery serves up some of the best coffee and pastries you’ll find on the Island. Considered a local secret, this place is perfect for a laid-back brunch or a quick coffee stop.

While in Shirley, be sure to check out the short trail leading to Sheringham Lighthouse, a historic landmark built back in 1912. You can’t actually go inside the lighthouse (it’s still in use, after all), but the exterior views are more than enough to make your visit worthwhile.

Alternatively, take a stroll along the pebble-lined shores of French Beach, where you can soak in the breathtaking fabulous views of the Juan de Fuca Strait.

Jordan River

After exploring Sooke, continue your drive northwest towards Jordan River. This small community is known for its surfing beaches, off-grid cabins and rugged coastline.

I totally love Jordan River! It’s one of those hidden gems in BC that hasn’t been overrun by tourism, which is pretty rare these days. Plus, it’s an awesome place for camping and beach bonfires!

Although small in size, there’s quite a lot to do in Jordan River. While many itineraries will suggest 1-night here, I suggest 2 nights in Jordan River if you really want to do the main highlights. I’ve been to Jordan River on two occasions, a 1-night trip and a 3 night trip. One night will not give you enough time to soak in its beauty! You can also opt to do one night in Jordan River and then One night in Port Renfrew.

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is beach that Jordan River is most famous for. There is a stunning trail that leads you through the forest and out to Mystic Beach. The trailhead is located in the parking lot for China Beach.

The hike is relatively easy, but does require some climbing over logs and navigating uphill sections. The trail to Mystic Beach takes you through old-growth forests and along a suspension bridge before opening up to stunning views of the beach below.

The reward is a secluded beach with pristine sands, beautiful tide pools, and a stunning waterfall! The Mystic Beach waterfall is located right on the beach and flows into the Pacific Ocean. It is best viewed in the spring months when the flow of water is at its strongest.

Sombrio Beach

It’s time to explore Sombrio Beach’s best kept secret – a hidden waterfall that is an absolute must-see! Tucked away within the forest, this magical spot is like something out of a fairy tale.

You have to navigate through a mystical slot canyon, which is an adventure on its own, but trust me, the end reward is totally worth it. The waterfall cascades down a mossy rock face into a crystal clear pool. The sun filters through the dense rainforest canopy above, casting a dappled light that dances across the falling water. It’s a chilled out, zen kind of place that’s perfect for a little solitude and reflection.

Although the waterfall is Sombrio Beach’s most popular attraction, it’s also one of few places in this area where you can camp on the beach.

China Beach

Grab your coziest blankets, fill up your thermos with some hot cocoa, and head on over to China Beach for an unforgettable end to your day. This place is the real deal when it comes to sunset viewing. Framed by towering spruce trees, and with a backdrop of the vast Pacific Ocean, China Beach has a unique, tranquil charm that just can’t be beaten.

And if you’re as much of a sucker for a good photo op as I am, you’re in luck! The silhouettes of driftwood and sea stacks against the bright evening sky make for some seriously Instagram-worthy shots!

I’ve watched the sunset here on two separate occasions now, and it’s always so magical. I think this is the perfect way to end your time in Jordan River before exploring Port Renfrew tomorrow!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 4 – Jordan River to Port Renfrew

Port renfrew.

Welcome to the final destination of your journey along Highway 14! Port Renfrew is small community that proudly stands as the westernmost point on the Pacific Marine Circle Route, nestled on the picturesque south shore of Port San Juan.

Botanical Beach

Make your first stop in Port Renfrew, Botanical Beach – a place that is really gonna knock your socks off! This spot is one of Port Renfrew’s crown jewels and it doesn’t disappoint.

Botanical Beach is famous for its incredible tide pools that are brimming with marine life. When the tide is out, these little microcosms reveal all kinds of cool critters – starfish, sea urchins, crabs, you name it! It’s like Mother Nature’s own little aquarium and it’s right there for you to explore. And let’s not forget about the rock formations – they’re really something else.

Pack your binoculars because this place is also a bird-watcher’s paradise. You might catch a glimpse of bald eagles, sea birds, or even a cheeky otter or two.

Remember to check the tide tables before you head out – you’ll want to visit during low tide to get the most out of this beautiful beach. Oh, and don’t forget to respect the wildlife and leave no trace. After all, we’re just visitors in their home.

Avatar Grove

One of the reasons I suggest staying more than one night in the Jordan River/Port Renfrew area is so that you can venture deeper into some of BC’s most spectacular and untouched scenery.

Get ready to feel teeny-tiny as we enter the mighty Avatar Grove. This is where you get to rub shoulders with some of the most towering personalities on Vancouver Island – ancient Western Red Cedars and Douglas Firs. No kidding, some of these guys are over a thousand years old and standing at over 200 feet tall.

Stepping into Avatar Grove, you’ll feel like you’ve wandered into some ancient, enchanted forest. It’s a wild, gnarly kind of beautiful, with moss-draped trees, giant burls, and fern-filled undergrowth. And the air! It’s like breathing in pure, unfiltered nature.

Walking among these giants really puts things into perspective and makes you realize just how magnificent our natural world is and how important it is to protect it. In fact, Avatar Grove was a major battleground for local environmentalists, who fought tooth and nail to protect it from logging. Good thing too, because this place is really something special.

The trail is pretty well maintained, with boardwalks and stairs in the steeper sections. But be ready for a bit of a workout. It’s not too strenuous, but let’s just say you’ll feel it in your legs the next day.

It’s not everyday that you get to hang out with trees that have been around since the Middle Ages. So take your time, soak it all in, and don’t forget to snap a pic with Canada’s gnarliest tree – yes, it’s officially a thing and yes, it’s as cool as it sounds!

Big Lonely Doug

The next stop on our Vancouver Island road trip odyssey is a true testament to resilience and survival. Meet Big Lonely Doug – the second tallest Douglas fir tree in Canada. Doug, as he’s affectionately known, stands tall and proud at a whopping 226 feet. But what really makes Doug special is his story.

Doug got his name from the fact that he stands alone in the middle of what used to be a vibrant forest. All his buddies were logged down in 2011, leaving Doug as the solitary survivor. It was a conservationist who noticed Doug’s uniqueness and tagged him for protection, hence his lonely moniker.

But Doug is anything but lonely! This majestic tree has become a symbol of hope and resilience, drawing visitors from around the globe. Standing at his base and looking up at his towering form will leave you feeling tiny yet incredibly inspired.

So, when you visit him, take a moment or two to appreciate his grandeur. Maybe even give him a pat and say thanks. ‘Cause Doug here is a living reminder of the power of nature to endure against the odds. Trust me, you won’t want to miss this experience!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 5 – Port Renfrew to Tofino

Start your fifth day on this Vancouver Island road trip by driving the Pacific Marine Road to Fairy Lake, home to a charming little celebrity known as the Bonsai Tree. This tiny Douglas fir tree has chosen a rather unusual place to call home – the top of a dead log floating in the middle of the lake!

I mean, talk about a room with a view! But don’t be fooled by its size. This pint-sized tree is over 30 years old! The Bonsai Tree is a fine testament to the resilient spirit of nature, thriving in a seemingly impossible environment.

Getting a glimpse of this Instagram-famous tree is a real treat. It’s like you’ve stumbled upon a secret fairy-tale world. If you’re keen on photography, you’ll want to play around with reflections in the water – the best time of day is sunrise.

The Bonsai Tree is located just off the highway, making it an easily accessible and quick stop on your Vancouver Island road trip. In fact, you’ll need no more than 10 minutes to marvel at this unique sight.

Cowichan Valley

Next up on our road trip is the delightful Lake Cowichan. Tucked away in the island’s heart, this place is a haven for those who love tranquillity and unspoiled natural beauty. Seriously, this lake is so sparkling blue, you’ll pinch yourself to make sure it’s real! The town of Lake Cowichan itself is pretty charming too. It’s got that small-town vibe with friendly locals and quaint shops.

Adding to the charm of the Cowichan Valley is its burgeoning wine region, a haven for wine enthusiasts seeking to explore the unique flavours of Island-grown grapes. This idyllic setting is home to a handful of wineries that are increasingly gaining recognition for their exceptional vinos.

One of the notable wineries to visit is the Averill Creek Vineyard, perched on a southeast facing slope and known for its full-bodied Pinot Noirs and elegant Pinot Gris. Another must-visit is the Blue Grouse Estate Winery, where you can taste award-winning wines, including their signature Bacchus and Ortega.

Next on our itinerary, we are heading over to the bustling city of Nanaimo. Now, don’t let the term ‘city’ fool you – Nanaimo might be urban, but it’s still got that laid-back island charm.

While I wouldn’t dismiss Nanaimo entirely, if you do not have the time to stop here I would skip it on this itinerary as there is much more ahead of you where I think you should spend your time. It’s a good spot for filling up on gas, getting lunch and to stretch your legs.

If you have a spare few hours, take a hike around the Ammonite Falls, or go for a leisurely walk in the Pipers Lagoon Park.

Coombs Old Country Market

On the road from Nanaimo to Tofino , you’ll find the little town of Coombs. But what makes this place stand out is its famous Old Country Market! Once a simple country store, this market now boasts an iconic feature – a grass-covered roof inhabited by goats. Yes, you read that right!

The market offers a variety of local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food options. It’s a great spot to pick up some Canadian souvenirs from your trip, or grab a bite to eat.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Just up the road from Coombs, you’ll stumble upon one of the island’s natural wonders, Little Qualicum Falls. This is a spot you’re going to want to pull over for.

Conveniently located right off the highway within Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, these waterfalls are the epitome of Pacific Northwest beauty. There are two waterfalls in the park, the Upper and Lower Qualicum Falls.

For first-time visitors, I highly recommend walking the 2 km main loop trail, which will take you past the Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and several smaller cascades along the Little Qualicum River.

The trail itself is fairly easy, allowing you to hike at a leisurely pace. Plan for approximately an hour or so to fully enjoy this hike. Afterward, consider venturing to the nearby Cameron Lake, where a picnic area and beach await.

Cathedral Grove

One stop you can’t miss on the drive from Nanaimo to Tofino is Cathedral Grove. Located right in the heart of MacMillan Provincial Park, this ancient forest is home to some of the largest and oldest trees in all of Canada, including majestic Douglas Fir, towering Western Hemlock, gorgeous Bigleaf Maples, and stately Western Red Cedars.

There’s a network of trails winding through the grove, letting you get up close and personal with these gentle giants. You can walk under the towering canopy of Douglas firs, some of which have been around for over 800 years.

The highlight of Cathedral Grove has to be The Big Tree – reaching a staggering height of 75 metres and an impressive width of 9 metres. That’s about the equivalent of a 25-story building. Woah, right? Just imagine the stories these ancient trees could tell.

Hole In The Wall

As you continue your Vancouver Island road trip, be sure not to miss the quirky and delightful ‘Hole in the Wall’ hike near Port Alberni. This isn’t just some random hole we’re talking about, it’s a local legend!

It’s an easy, 1-kilometre trail that leads to a fascinating sight. What you’ll find is a man-made phenomenon that dates back to the days of an old pipeline – a massive hole that’s been drilled through the rock. With the pipeline long gone, what remains is a mesmerizing sight: the Hole in the Wall.

There’s a beautiful swimming hole filled with crystal-clear water that’s fed by a small creek flowing right through the enormous hole in the rock. While the water may be a bit chilly, it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer’s day.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 6 & 7 – Tofino

You made it to Tofino! There are many things to do in Tofino year-round and to truly appreciate its beauty I recommend spending 2 or 3 days in Tofino .

Famous for its endless beaches, surf-worthy waves, and breathtaking sunsets, Tofino is a little slice of coastal paradise. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to drop everything, grab a surfboard, and ride the waves—or just chill with a cup of coffee while enjoying the stunning ocean views.

Check Out The Tofino Beaches

Chesterman Beach – the heart and soul of Tofino’s surf scene, is perfect for beginner surfers or to just dip your toes in the water. And then there’s Cox Bay, a little slice of rugged beauty. This is one of my favourite places in Tofino to watch the sunset – it can’t be beaten! It’s also a favourite among the local surfers, so if you’re keen to catch some serious waves, this is your go-to.

Tonquin Beach is a bit of a hidden gem, and is only accessible via a short hike. But trust me, it’s worth the effort. With its secluded location, this beach offers the perfect spot for a quiet picnic or some peaceful contemplation as you watch the waves roll in.

Pacific Rim National Reserve

The Pacific Rim National Reserve is where Mother Nature truly puts on a show! Situated on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, you will pass through this park on your way to Tofino. You will need a Canada Parks Pass to enter the reserve.

The reserve is spread across three units – Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. Each has its own unique charm, but they all share the unmistakable vibes of wild and untamed beauty that the Pacific Rim is known for.

The part of Pacific Rim National Reserve you’ll be visiting on this Vancouver Island Road Trip is Long Beach, which is also the most accessible area of the reserve. As the name suggests, this stretch of beach goes on for miles and is a surfer’s paradise. But even if you’re not into catching waves, there’s plenty to do here.

But the real treat lies in its hiking trails. Wander down the Schooner Cove Trail or the Rainforest Trail, where you’ll meander through towering cedar, fir, and spruce trees.

One of the most fun hikes in Tofino is the Canso Plane Crash. This 2-kilometre hike takes you through mossy forests before ending at the wreck of a WWII bomber plane that crashed here in 1945. It’s eerie, fascinating, and definitely worth checking out.

Cox Bay Lookout Hike

The Cox Bay Lookout is a hidden gem tucked away in the lush forests near Cox Bay Beach. The lookout is a 2-kilometre round trip trail that has you weaving through towering spruces, navigating root-riddled paths, and even clambering over a few boulders, it’s not a hiking for beginners by any means.

At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view that’s simply out-of-this-world. The viewpoint offers a bird’s eye view of the sprawling sandy beach, the rolling waves of the Pacific, and the rugged coastline that Tofino is famous for.

Although this is one of the best hikes in Tofino, I would not recommend attempting it unless you have hiking experience. The trail is not official and therefore not marked, it is super easy to get lost.

Tofino Brewing Company

After a day of adventure and exploration, there’s nothing quite like kicking back with a local brew. And that’s where Tofino Brewing Company comes in! This local craft brewery is all about creating beer that captures the essence of the town’s unique coastal vibes. Their brews are made using locally sourced ingredients and natural mountain-fed water – talk about a refreshing taste of Vancouver Island!

Grab a seat in their funky, welcoming taproom, and sip on their popular Tuff Session Ale or maybe the Hoppin’ Cretin IPA if you’re after something punchy. Fancy something different? Go for their seasonal specials, always crafted with a local twist.

Often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour Tofino, ‘Ukee’ as it’s fondly known by the locals, is a gem in its own right. Ucluelet is just a short drive from Tofino, and can easily be added onto this Vancouver Island road trip itinerary.

This small town has a laid-back vibe, and it’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy road trip. Here are some highlights that make Ucluelet worth checking out.

The Wild Pacific Trail is a 9-kilometre trail that winds along the rugged coastline of Ucluelet. The trail offers stunning views of the ocean, rocky cliffs, and the opportunity to spot some marine life. Several benches along the way offer a chance to take in the scenery and just breathe in that fresh ocean air.

At the end of the Wild Pacific Trail lies Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, a charming lighthouse with a history dating back to 1915. The lighthouse has been restored and is now open to visitors, offering a glimpse into its past as well as incredible views of the ocean.

The waters around Ucluelet are also home to a remarkable diversity of marine wildlife, making it an excellent spot for a whale or seal watching tour.

Extend Your Vancouver Island Road Trip

Your road trip may be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean the adventure has to stop. Vancouver Island is a playground for outdoor adventures, offering endless opportunities for hiking, camping, surfing, whale watching, and more.

If this road trip wasn’t enough for you and the beauty of Vancouver Island has you hooked, consider extending your stay and exploring the island even further. Below are some ideas for extending your Vancouver Island road trip. Below are some additional ideas if you want to venture further.

Campbell River

The city of Campbell River, aptly dubbed as the ‘Salmon Capital of the World’, sits on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island. This vibrant town offers a mix of wilderness, urban comforts, and unique cultural experiences. Here, you can catch a glimpse of majestic orcas on a whale-watching tour, try your hand at fishing in the bountiful waters, or explore the stunning coastline by kayak.

The city is also brimming with a growing arts scene, a diverse range of eateries, and welcoming locals who are passionate about their community. So if you’re looking for the quintessential Vancouver Island experience, Campbell River has plenty to offer.

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Elk Falls Provincial Park is located just a few minutes drive from Campbell River. This stunning park is home to a 25-metre waterfall that cascades into a deep canyon below. The park is crisscrossed with walking trails that guide you through lush, old-growth forests, leading you to the showstopper – the falls.

One of the highlights here is the suspension bridge that spans the canyon, offering a unique vantage point of the falls and the surrounding topography.

Another stunning waterfall is the breathtaking Myra Falls in Strathcona-Westmin Provincial Park. Myra Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls and pools that tumble down into Buttle Lake. The trail to Myra Falls is a moderate 1.2-kilometre round trip journey, that end with a view of the falls cascading down a series of rocky ledges.

Telegraph Cove

Tucked away on the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island, Telegraph Cove is a tiny and picturesque hamlet. With its cluster of brightly coloured buildings perched on stilts and hugged by the emerald green forest, this cove feels like it’s been lifted straight from a postcard.

The journey to Telegraph Cove itself is an adventure, winding roads guide you through the lush wilderness. The quaint boardwalk, historic buildings, and the warmth of the tight-knit community are as charming as they come.

But what really sets Telegraph Cove apart is the incredible wildlife experiences it offers. Known as one of the best places in the world to see orcas in their natural habitat, a whale-watching tour here is a must. The nutrient-rich waters attract a variety of marine life including dolphins, sea lions, humpback whales, and of course, the majestic orcas.

To round off your visit, take a leisurely stroll along the historic boardwalk. Lined with characterful buildings that now serve as cafes, shops, and a museum, there’s enough here to keep you entertained. The local cafe serves up a mean cup of coffee and some of the best views in town.

What to Pack for a Vancouver Island Road Trip?

Packing for any road trip can be overwhelming, but when it comes to Vancouver Island, there are a few essential items you shouldn’t leave behind. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Vancouver Island is known for its mild climate, but temperatures and weather can vary. Bring layers and rain gear to be prepared for anything.
• Hiking shoes: With so many trails and parks on the island, having a comfortable pair of hiking shoes is essential.
• Beach essentials: Don’t forget your swimsuit, flip flops, and beach towel! You’ll want to take advantage of the beautiful beaches along the way.
• Binoculars and camera: To capture the stunning views and wildlife sightings, be sure to pack a good camera and binoculars.
• Insect repellent: While the island is not known for mosquitoes, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
• Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protect your skin and eyes from the sun while exploring outdoors.
• First aid kit: Always have a first aid kit on hand, especially when traveling to remote areas.
• Cash and credit cards: While most places on the island accept credit cards, it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses or emergencies.

Thanks For Reading!

And there you have it, folks! That’s the lowdown on how to have the most epic Vancouver Island road trip ever. But remember, this guide is just your jumping-off point. The real magic happens when you’re out there on the open road, with the wind in your hair and a map in your hand, ready to carve out your own path.

Of course, there’s so much more to see, to do, to taste, and to experience along the way. Whether it’s the whispering pines in the parks, the thundering waterfalls, the charming hamlets, the majestic wildlife, or a hearty local brew, Vancouver Island is waiting for you with open arms.

So crank up those tunes, keep those snacks handy, and get ready to make some memories that will last a lifetime.

Before you go, be sure to check out my other posts below on visiting British Columbia and beyond!

Explore More Of British Columbia! Related Posts

• 3 Days in Tofino Itinerary
• Jordan River Weekend Itinerary
• 3 Days in Victoria Itinerary
• 2 Days in Vancouver Itinerary
• Vancouver to Banff Road Trip
• Best Things to do in Whistler in Summer
• Best Things to do on Bowen Island
• Best Things to do on Salt Spring Island

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About Rachael

Rachael is an avid adventurer and writer, originally hailing from London, England. She embarked on a life-changing journey by moving to Canada in 2016. Settling in the picturesque town of Whistler, British Columbia, Rachael found solace in the majestic beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

A City Girl Outside invites readers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and encourages them to embrace the transformative power of exploration.

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10 Epic Vancouver Island Road Trip Itineraries That You Will Want to Explore

Vancouver Island is a prime destination for road trips, boasting scenic coastal highways, charming towns , and stunning natural landscapes. A popular Vancouver Island road trip route is the Pacific Rim Highway, which stretches along the west coast of the island, offering breathtaking ocean views and access to Pacific Rim National Park. Another must-see is the Cowichan Valley, known for its wineries, cideries, and artisanal food scene. The island also has plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park, surfing in Tofino, and whale watching in Victoria. With diverse attractions and stunning scenery, Vancouver Island road trips offer something for everyone.

Tips for a Road Trip to Vancouver Island

How to get to vancouver island.

There are several ways to get to Vancouver Island. This is an island with no bridges, so you can either take a seaplane, commercial airplane, private boat or a ferry. The ferry is the most popular option and is an extension of the highway system in British Columbia. Likely you will use the ferry if you are bringing a car. If you are flying to the island, you can also get a rental car on arrival (make sure to book ahead ).

Here are the most popular ways to get to Vancouver Island:

• Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (Victoria)
• Tsawwassen to Duke’s Point (Nanaimo)
• Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay (Nanaimo)
• Port Angeles (WA) to Victoria
• Anacortes (WA) to Sidney (Victoria)

How long should you spend on Vancouver Island

This all depends on how much time you have. A short Vancouver Island road trip can be done in a long weekend. To really explore the island, you will want at least a week. The island is 456 kilometers (283 miles) long and 100 kilometers (62 miles) wide. To drive from the bottom to the top (or vise versa) it would take about eight hours without stopping.

When is the best time to visit Vancouver Island?

The best time to visit Vancouver Island depends on what you plan to do. Summer is peak time to visit just about anywhere in British Columbia with families on summer break and international visitors. Victoria sees cruise ship passengers who are headed on an Alaska cruise as well as many international visitors who are exploring British Columbia’s capital. The rest of the island sees plenty of locals who are taking weekend trips from Vancouver . British Columbians love to camp and explore the beautiful province in the summertime.

Vancouver Island really can be visited all year round as long as you are prepared for the weather.

Do I need a Car

The easiest way to explore Vancouver Island is by car. Whether you bring your own or rent one , it will make it much easier to explore. There is a limited bus service on Vancouver Island that you can book, but it is not the easiest way to see the island.

What to Pack for Vancouver Island

Packing for a road trip adds a few more things than a normal packing list. I do have some complete packing lists for places like Tofino . So have a read of that list as well so you are prepared for the West Coast.

• Car Phone Charger or Battery Pack
• Sim card for Canada
• Cooler for snacks and drinks
• refillable water bottles and coffee cups
• rain jacket and waterproof shoes

Popular Stops on your Vancouver Island Road Trip

• Victoria (Read about Victoria with kids, Victoria with teens , Victoria at Christmas , and Victoria in 3 days )
• Tofino (Read about Tofino restaurants , best places for breakfast, Where to stay )
• Port Alberni
• Campbell River
• Qualicum Beach

Sample Vancouver Island Road Trip Itineraries

• Vancouver to Parksville (via Nanaimo)
• Parksville to Tofino (via Port Alberni and Ucluelet)
• Tofino to Victoria
• Victoria to Vancouver

6 days from Washington

• Washinton to Parksville (via Tsawassen Ferry Terminal)
• Victoria to Port Angeles

7 days from Vancouver

• Parksville to Tofino (via Port Alberni)
• Pacific Rim National Park and Ucluelet

7 days from Washington

• Vancouver to Parksville (via Nanaimo Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal)

8 Days from Vancouver

• Arrive in Vancouver
• Vancouver to Parksville (via BC Ferries)
• Parksville to Tofino (part of the Nanaimo to Tofino road trip route)
• Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park
• Victoria to Vancouver (via BC ferries)

5 Day Circle Route from Victoria

• Arrive in Victoria via BC Ferries, WA Ferries or Air drive to Sooke
• Sooke to Port Renfrew
• Port Renfrew to Cowichan Bay
• Cowichan Bay to Victoria
• Depart Victoria

6 Day Circle Route from Victoria

• Arrive in Victoria via BC Ferries, WA Ferries or Air
• Victoria to Sooke

8 Days Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island

• Vancouver to Sechelt vit Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal
• Explore Sechelt
• Sechelt to Powell River
• Powell River to Tofino
• Pacific Rim National Park to Victoria
• Depart Victoria via Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal

5 Days Victoria Express to Powell River

• Victoria to Cowichan Bay
• Cowichan Bay to Sechelt (via BC ferries)
• Powell River to Vancouver (via BC ferries in Sechelt)

Northern Vancouver Island 8 Days

• Arrive Vancouver
• Vancouver to Tofino (via BC ferries)
• Tofino to Parksville
• Parksville to Campbell River
• Campbell River to Port Hardy
• Port Hardy to Vancouver (via BC ferries in Nanaimo)

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

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• Canadian Rockies Itineraries

Canada’s Enchanting Vancouver Island – 4 day Road Trip Guide

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• January 19, 2024

Covered in lush temperate rainforest, surrounded by pods of killer whales, inhabited by very few humans, and resident of many genera of flora and fauna,  Vancouver Island is a beautiful introduction, or farewell, to your road trip around Canada .

What draws most people to The Island, in my opinion, isn’t the inland mountains, which by the way are much grander than I thought they’d be, but the  relaxed coastal lifestyle, the surf, and the late-night bonfires  on the beach.

Victoria is the biggest city and serves as the Capital of British Columbia. Though relatively it has its charm, if you’ve only got a limited amount of time on Vancouver Island, it’s not somewhere I’d really recommend . The highlights of the island are further north in the rainforests and on the west coast. 

If you are  road-tripping across Western Canada  and starting or ending your trip in Vancouver,  consider adding a few more days to your itinerary for a side trip to Vancouver Island. 

The best way to travel around Vancouver Island

The best way to get around the Island is by campervan. It gives you the freedom of being in the right place at the right time without having to worry about hotel bills.

The best place to search for camper vans is on the most extensive campervan price comparison website  Motorhome Republic.   Make sure you book your campervan well in advance! Canada is a popular destination for RV holidaymakers! 

If renting a campervan isn’t within your price range or you are not into camping just rent a compact car instead. I always use and recommend  Discover C a rs   for that purpose. It’s the world’s biggest car rental search engine.  

When is the best time to visit Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island can be partial to some pretty bad storms, most of which come from November to February. This is also the coldest time of the year with average temperatures flirting with freezing point (0C/32F). That being said it is the quietest time of the year too.

The off-season lasts from November to April. Many of the shops, and most of the campsites, in places such as Tofino and Port Alberni, are closed for the winter season.

This road trip itinerary is best between May and October

When the longer days start to bring warmth back to the Island and the darling buds of May start to blossom, the island springs back to life. The  spring shoulder season of May and June  is a great time to visit. The Island’s not that crowded and the wildlife is already out in full force.

In the  peak summer months of July and August,  you are going to get the most sun, the least rain and beautiful long days, but because of this, you’ll find it hard to find some peace and quiet. Roadside pull-offs will be jam-packed and parking will be difficult to find at times but I highly doubt you’ll care about any of this when the sun is beating down on you.

After the summer rush, everything slowly winds down in the  shoulder season, from September and October . It’s still warm and the light still hangs around long enough to have a day’s worth of activities. Not a bad time for road-tripping either. 

Interactive map of the road trip around Vancouver Island

Below you can find the map of the itinerary. If you click on the top left of the map you will find separate layers marking the destinations, photography spots, hikes and accommodation.

To hide and show different layers just click on the check box next to the layer’s name. You can also click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I have marked. I will be talking about them as I break the itinerary down day by day.

Vancouver Island Road Trip Day 1

Part 1: getting to vancouver island: horseshoe bay to nanaimo.

To get to Vancouver Island you will need to take a ferry. There are two major ferry terminals in Vancouver from where the ferries leave: Horseshoe Bay and Tsawwassen. Tsawwassen is closer to the city center and Horseshoe Bay is out to the West. I prefer Horseshoe Bay for several reasons:

• You don’t have to drive through the center of Vancouver to get there.  
• It gives you much better access if you plan on  traveling along the Sea to Sky Highway  up to Whistler after visiting Vancouver Island.
• The ferry from Horseshoe Bay takes you to the departure point in Nanaimo which is easier for disembarking and offers access to supermarkets in the area should you need to get some supplies for your road trip.  

The ferry, for two people,  costs upwards of 90 CAD  one way with a normal-size car (less than 7ft/2.13m high and less than 20ft/6.1m long), with prices slightly increasing for larger cars and camper vans. 

You can make reservations, and check prices and the timetables for all ferries from Vancouver to Vancouver Island on the BC Ferries website .  I was travelling in the shoulder season and bought my ferry tickets right at the terminal.  Only cash or credit cards were accepted. 

The ferry journey is really spectacular, if you’ve chosen to depart from Horseshoe Bay then you’ll be embarking in the  Howe Sound  (pictured above), sailing past  Bowen Island,  crossing the  Salish Sea , and portaging just north of  Newcastle Island Park . I couldn’t help but notice the similarities between Howe Sound and  Milford Sound in New Zealand. 

Nanaimo itself has some nice parks and restaurants but it wasn’t exciting enough to keep me there for longer than a day. Aim at catching the earliest ferry, restock in one of Nanaimo’s supermarkets if necessary, and head straight for the scenic Highway 4, through the center of the Island to Tofino in the West. 

Part 2 – Nanaimo to Tofino. Where to stop along the way

After the initial excitement of the ferry, this is where you’ll be left in awe of the spectacle of nature. Head north on Highway 19 until you reach the turnoff for scenic  Highway 4 . It is a stretch of 170 km (106 mi)  pristine curvy road through the mountainous rainforest . There are several stops you can make on the way to Tofino and back. 

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

The park is home to several waterfalls most notably – the Upper and Lower Qualicum Falls. The walk around them, with stops for photos, could be done quickly. However, there’s no need to rush. Take it all in and give yourself at least an hour. It’s a perfect spot to practice some long-exposure photography of the waterfalls!

Cameron Lake

Shortly after you’ve had your warm-up on that short hike around Little Qualicum consider stopping at one of the many viewpoints that straddle the shoreline of Cameron Lake.  On a still day, it offers reflections of the surrounding mountains.

Cathedral Grove

The next major stop along Highway 4, at the western tip of Cameron Lake, is  MacMillan Provincial Park . It’s only a small park but it sure packs one hell of a punch.

It’s home to an ancient Douglas-fir forest, known as  Cathedral Grove , which was shortlisted as being one of the seven wonders of Canada. Although I wouldn’t go that far, it is pretty impressive. Some of the trees are over 800 years old and almost 3m in diameter!!

Bear in mind that  parking next to the Cathedral Grove trailhead  is right by the main road and it  can get pretty busy , especially in the peak summer months. 

The Hole in the Wall Waterfall

After Cathedral Grove, continue along on your epic road trip. You should be close to Port Alberni. A superb place to have some food and take a short stroll to  The Hole in the Wall Waterfall . It was man-made by blasting through a wall of volcanic shale the hole in the wall is a means to reroute the town’s water supply.

Generally speaking, I’m against humans interfering with nature but this turned out pretty photogenic. The waterfall can be tricky to find. Once you get to Port Alberni follow the signs for the visitor center where you can pick up a detailed map that will lead you straight to the waterfall. 

After Port Alberni, the road then continues to wind through the mountains stopping at various viewpoints such as  Sproat Lake and Kennedy Lake . It’s a bit like a roller coaster ride so make sure to keep your eyes on the road and stop only at designated pull-outs.

Once you get to the West Coast, it’s a short drive north to  Tofino through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Where to stay in Tofino

Tofino Hostel

Ecolodge – Tofino  

For Luxury Fans

Long Beach Lodge Resort

Day 2-3: Tofino and surroundings

Tofino and the surrounding islands were once small fishing villages inhabited only by the First Nations. Peaceful places where the local communities only took what they needed and left the rest to flourish. We could learn a lot from the way they used to, and still, try to live.  

Today Tofino is mostly known for being an awesome surfing hub and popular tourist destination.  It’s rife with coffee bars, restaurants, hotels, and tour operators. With that said it has still retained its charm of a tiny harbour town, so don’t be put off when I say it’s touristy. 

Join the hot springs tour

Speaking of tour operators. Most of them offer 3 different kinds of specialty tours. Bear watching, whale watching, and hot springs tours. They all cost roughly the same amount of money ($100 per person). 

I have opted for the  tour to the hot springs cove  with a local company called the Whale Centre and was it the right choice!  By choosing the latter I felt like I had just shot not two but three birds with one stone! Here is why.

On the way to the hot springs, which takes 90 minutes by boat btw, we spend some time looking for grey whales. As luck would have it we found 2 of them hanging out in one of the bays. We watched in awe as they resubmerged to catch their breath a few times.

Our tour then continued to the Hot Springs Cove. Upon arriving we hiked for 20 minutes through one of many beautiful rainforests on the Island. The natural hot springs were a delight.  The water temperature oscillates around 40-45 degrees year-round and there are a few different pools where you can soak until it’s time to leave.

Because we were one of the first ones to arrive, the area was peaceful. However, as we were getting ready to leave it got busier and busier. A tip from me would be to go as early as possible. 

During the return journey our captain, born and raised on one of the little islands around Tofino, managed to spot a mama bear with two small cubs hanging out on the shore, a lone wolf right on the beach and a sea otter  playfully cleaning its fur as we drove by!! Now you know what I mean when I got 3 tours in 1.

We were indeed pretty lucky, but to be honest wildlife appearances are very common on Vancouver Island hence I won’t be surprised if you see some on the way if you decide to do the hot springs tour! The professionalism and contagious enthusiasm the staff at the Whale Centre showed us, made it easy for me to recommend them.

Hike to the top of the Lone Cone

For the hikers amongst you with an extra day to spare, there’s an awesome trek to the top of the mountain near Tofino, called the Lone Cone. The peak is located on Meares Island to the north, right across from Tofino, and should take around 4 hours to complete.

There’s a campsite/hostel on Meares Island, that offers free water transportation if you choose to stay with them. You can also pay for a water taxi to get across. The ride only takes a few minutes and operates on a telephone request basis. 

Watch surfers & catch the sunset at the Pettinger Point

The trail to Pettinger Point heads out toward the beach. The view from the much larger outcrop is a fantastic spot to watch the sunset or surfers waiting for the perfect wave. It should only take you around 15 minutes to get from the road to the point but you could easily spend a few hours there, like I did, watching the world go by. 

To access the viewpoint  park your car in a public parking lot near Cox Bay Resort, across from the visitor center. Walk towards the beach through the resort grounds.

Once at the beach turn right and walk towards the forest until you see a path. The path will take you to the rocks where you can find a spot to sit down and watch the sunset. The walk will only take 15 minutes one way, but I would recommend taking sturdy shoes when walking on the rocks. 

Day 3-4: Explore Pacific Rim National Park

There are loads of hikes and paths in the Pacific Rim National Park, most of which are short affairs that end up on the beach. The national park, which hugs the western shoreline receives a lot of precipitation, about 3000mm a year to be precise, which is caused by the coastal mountains.

As a result, the catchment area is flooded with continual moisture culminating in a dense lush temperate rainforest and many marshes and bogs.

Before you set out on a walk, I would recommend stopping at Tofino’s visitor center, where you can pick up an awesome map with trail descriptions and the trailheads conveniently marked on it. 

Schooner’s Cove

Best at low tide the Schooner’s Cove trail heads through thick scrub before emerging out at the north point of Long Beach. Directly in front of you will be a small outcrop, possible to walk around.

This is only doable at low tide, do not attempt it otherwise. On this outcrop crabs, starfish and sea enema are a common sight. Take some lunch to eat, whilst sitting on the rocks and listening to the sound of the ocean.

The Rainforest Walk

Inland from Long Beach, the figure of eight-track is located on both sides of the highway in two separate 1km loops. Both along raised boardwalks through thick foliage offer a fantastic opportunity to take in the sights and smells of the area.

The trail encompasses 731 steps so is not as easy as a flat 2 km hike, but even with stops at the informative trail plaques and photography opportunities, it should take no longer than an hour. 

Day 4: Returning to Nanaimo

After several rounds of freshly caught fish ‘n’ chips, many early morning coffees, and hopefully some memorable sunrises and sunsets you’ll be reinvigorated with a new lease of life.

The road back the way you came will be just as exciting as the first time you did it. To drive nonstop from Tofino back to Nanaimo should take around 3 hours and although it seems like you haven’t seen much of the Island, trust me you’ve seen the best bits.

You also probably missed some roadside pullouts as well so make sure to visit them on the way back along Highway 4. You can leave Tofino late in the afternoon and catch the last ferry from Vancouver Island back to the mainland. 

Tips for Travelling around Vancouver Island

A lot of the cafes and other businesses in Tofino are only open 6 months a year they  do not accept cards . The ATMs here are scarce and will charge you for withdrawal. Remember cash is king.

Always carry bear spray  

Unless you are visiting in the winter carrying bear spray is essential. Know how to use it as well. I’ve heard horrid stories of people thinking the spray works the same way as a mosquito repellent. Here is the hint:  it doesn’t!  You don’t want your trip to end in a hospital. 

Pack a rain jacket  

The weather can change quickly. What looks like a bluebird day can become rainy within an hour.  After all Vancouver Island is known to be the rainiest place in Canada.   

Useful travel resources for planning a road trip around Vancouver Island.

Below are some links that will become useful in planning your road trip. They are all affiliate links meaning I receive a small commission when I book something. If you would like to pay it forward and help me run this site now it’s your chance. Thank you!  

• Motorhome Republic  – find your perfect road trip campervan with this easy-to-use booking search engine
• Discover Cars   If you are after renting a smaller car, this is the best website for comparing the prices and booking one. 
• Booking.com  – my go-to website for booking accommodation.
• BC Parks Website  – up-to-date information about campsites, trails & any wildlife warnings

As always if you have any questions please leave them in the comments! No questions or comments are left unanswered.    Go to my  Canadian Rockies and Beyond Travel Guide  for more hiking, backpacking, and photography inspirations! 

Hi! I am the photographer and creator of www.inafarawayland.com. I come from Poland, but I've been living, travelling and working around the globe since I turned 18. A few years ago, during one of my trips to Scotland, I bought my first DSLR and my adventure with photography began. When I am not stuck to my computer editing photos, you can find me hiking somewhere in the mountains.

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Hi Marta! You said that best way to travel is campervan (we have hired one!) but then recommended hotels/hostels… we are not sure where we stay with the campervan in/near Tofino – can you suggest something? Are you recommending all three nights in Tofino?

Hi Kim. Thanks for visiting. I recommend hotels for those who decide to travel with normal car. I recommend the green point campground which is not too far from Tofino. It has great access to the Long Beach. I hope that helps! Have a wonderful time on the Island!

Thanks for the fantastic blog! We are heading to Vancouver in late May or early June and hope to explore Vancouver, then travel to Whistler, then travel to Vancouver Island before flying to Calgary to explore the Rockies. I’m looking at car hire through Discrover Car and can see a restriction on the cars of no Ferry travel – can you recommend a car hire company for a compact to travel across to Vancouver Island by ferry with a hire car?

Hi Rebecca. Thanks for stopping by. That’s an excellent question and I don’t understand why every single company has that in place. I would suggest that you contact them directly because it seems to me like it has been checked by default. Plenty of people take their rentals on the ferry, it is within the same province. As I said, it seems to me like the rule is written by default.

hi we are flying into Calgary first week of May (we know it will still be cold) and have rented a motorhome for 3 weeks. our plan was to drive to Vancouver Island first How long would this take and where would you stop on the way? we dont need to visit Vancouver as we have visited there in the past. planning on about 5 days on VI before making our way back to Calgary via the Rockies naturally. is there a preferred route? final question would we need to book campsites ahead? really like your blogs so helpful so obviously the logical choice for all our questions. Thank you

Hi BJ. I recommend that you looked into my post about Western Canada in three weeks which takes you from Vancouver to the Rockies and back, It shows you both ways between the Rockies and Vancouver and all the things you can do there. As for the campsites, since you are going so early in the season you should be able to get away with it, although popular campsites might be booked out by the locals on weekends especially in areas like Whistler, Banff or Jasper. I hope that helps!.

Very helpful❤️

Thanks for the feedback!

Good morning, this was incredibly helpful. We are wanting to know if you got to Tofino and traveled back and forth each day.

We plan on staying in Nanaimo and was hoping that wouldn’t hinder your guide.

Hi Shailah. Thanks for your great feedback. I stayed in Tofino. I wouldn’t recommend staying in Nanaimo and doing day trip to Tofino because you are looking at a 3 hour drive one way so most of your day will be spent in the car.

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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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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 Trip Itinerary- The Best of the Island in 7 Days

Purchases made through links earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

One summer Mike and I set out on 15 day road trip from Edmonton to Vancouver Island and back.  We spent a lot of our time on “The Island” (as us Western Canadians call it) since it has a little bit of everything- great beaches, whimsical towns, gorgeous provincial parks, and romantic gardens.

There’s no better way to get to know someone than going on a massive road trip together.  A trip like this definitely has the potential to make or break you as a couple.  For one, it was a long time to be together.  Secondly, it was a long time to be camping!  Even though we were constantly on the go, re-setting up camp in a different place almost every night, we got along great and worked well as a team during our Vancouver Island road trip.  It helped that Vancouver Island is such a romantic and relaxing place to be.

7 Day Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

To help you plan a trip to Vancouver Island, we decided to share our road trip itinerary (it’s quite ambitious). We’ve included some thoughts about each place we stopped at on our 7 day road trip around Vancouver Island, hopefully making it easier for you to decide where to visit on your own Vancouver Island road trip.

DAY 1: Early morning ferry from Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point)

Ferry ride time: 2 hours. Drive from Nanaimo to Tofino: 3 hours 13 mins without stops (207 km).

Qualicum Beach

Our first stop was Qualicum Beach.  It was just a quick visit where we enjoyed a simple morning walk along the beach. The beach’s perfect sand stretches over four kilometers along the Strait of Georgia.  We would have loved to stayed longer, but the weather was not really beach worthy.

About 10 kilometers west of Qualicum Beach, on Highway 4A, is the small community of Coombs. We stopped in specifically to check out the Old Country Market and the Goats on the Roof.  Yes, you read that right, there are goats on the roof!

The market has a “green roof”, an environmentally friendly method of building that provides warmth in the winter and a cooling effect in the summer.  In the spring, the roof becomes home to a family of goats who help keep the grass nice and trim.  They also do a great job of keeping the market’s visitors curious and entertained.

Although the main attraction is on the outside of the market, it’s worth your time to go inside.  The market has a wide selection of baked goods (all made in store), imported gifts, and international foods.  My favourite treat was the Root Beer ice cream!  Back behind the market is the “Big Villa”, a trattoria and pizzeria selling entrees and desserts.

Cathedral Grove: MacMillan Provincial Park

Our next stop was MacMillan Provincial Park.  Here we walked under towering ancient Douglas-fir trees, some over 800 years old, at Cathedral Grove.

Douglas-fir is one of Canada’s oldest living tree species and can live to be over 1000 years old.  A lot of them are so tall that you can’t even see the tops of them no matter how much you crane your neck.  The “Big Tree” is the park’s largest at 76 metres tall and 9 metres around.  There is a sign at the park comparing it to the Leaning Tower of Pisa- the tree dwarfs it!

Mike is a forester so he taught me all about the different things we were seeing as we wandered the tree shaded paths. A neat thing we saw was a nurse log, which is a fallen tree that provides nutrients to other seedlings as it decomposes. Eventually, the seedlings grow and there will be a tree growing on a tree!

Although it doesn’t take long to walk the short loop through the forest, Cathedral Grove delivers a sense of calm.  Mike described it as feeling like an old spirit was present.  There are not too many places in the world that have trees as tall and as old as the ones here.  Cathedral Grove is most definitely a special place.

Tofino: Bella Pacifica Campground on MacKenzie Beach

Bella Pacifica is probably one of the best located campgrounds we have ever been to!  It’s surrounded by trees, right on the ocean with direct access to gorgeous MacKenzie Beach.  It’s wonderful to walk out of your tent in the morning and have the beach just steps away.

We spent a lot of time just walking down the long sandy beach and hiking up onto the bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  

Unfortunately, being on the coast, the weather was overcast and chilly so there was no sun tanning for me.  A shame really, because the beach was so nice!  At night, a lot of people head out onto the sand to build a campfire.  It’s quite the sight to look down the beach and see all these campfires scattered along.  A campfire on the beach is so romantic but technically there is a municipal by-law prohibiting fires, so don’t say we didn’t warn you!

We made our reservation well in advance because Bella Pacifica is a really popular camping spot, for good reason.  If you want to be one of the lucky ones who get a beach front site, avoid disappointment by booking months in advance. Oh, and be prepared to pay a premium during the peak summer season.

DAY 2 & 3- Explore Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park

There are a lot of great places to go exploring in the Tofino area.  Surfing, seafood, wildlife viewing tours, hiking and more is all at your fingertips!

Village of Tofino

Literally at the end of the Pacific Rim Highway, you will find the small village of Tofino.  A timber and fishing a town, Tofino is now a popular spot for visitors wishing to take in the beauty and adventure of Clayoquot Sound.  Tofino offers a world class local food scene, thrilling physical adventures, stunning natural beauty and a rich community heritage.

Our time in Tofino was spent enjoying a waterside fresh seafood lunch, browsing art galleries and works by First Nations artisans, and watching sea planes take off from the harbour.  We looked into going on a wildlife viewing tour (I really wanted to see some bears), but they were already full.

Next time we return, we plan on going kayaking and exploring the islands and mountains of Clayoquot Sound.  The most rare kind of rainforest in the world, covering less than 0.2% of the Earth’s land surface, is found in Clayoquot Sound. UNESCO designated Clayoquot Sound a Biosphere Reserve because of the area’s commitment to conservation, sustainable development, and support for research, education, and training.

Named after it’s 12 km of white sand, Long Beach is popular spot for surfers who brave the chilly ocean waters (the temperature hovers at 6-7 degrees Celsius year-round) to ride the breaking waves.  If you are new to surfing, there are surf shops that can provide you with lessons and the necessary gear.

Since I am not a fan of being cold (and a little bit scared of the ocean), we opted to walk some of the short trails that meander through the forest and down along the beaches of Pacific Rim National Park.

Schooner Cove Trail

Mike and I really enjoyed wandering down Schooner Cove Trail!  A fairly easy hike, the boardwalk winds up, down and around the lush coastal rainforest, bringing you to a secluded beach at Schooner Cove.  From there you can walk for miles down Long Beach, or if the tide is out, explore the rocks for sea life including starfish, mussels, anemones, crabs and many other creatures.

Not much remains of the old WWII radar station that was installed here, but the short climb up Radar Hill rewards you with sweeping views of the ocean, inlet and mountains.  There is also a memorial that commemorates the involvement of the 2nd Battalion Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry during the Korean War.

DAY 4: Drive from Tofino to Cowichan Lake

Trip Time: 4.5 hrs without stops (300 km).

Little Qualicum Falls

Our first stop of the day was at Little Qualicum Falls.  We walked around for a bit then jumped in the river and went for a swim- so refreshing after a long drive on a hot day!  Make sure you choose your swimming spot wisely- 75 metres above the Middle Falls Bridge to the downstream park boundary below the Lower Falls Bridge has a strong current and is closed to swimming.

Chemainus is a work of art-literally!  There are over 40 professionally painted outdoor murals around the town that display the small community’s pride and history.  Drive around and see how many you can find!

After our mural scavenger hunt we stopped downtown to browse the shops and enjoy an ice cream.  I loved the historical looking buildings and the character they bring to the main street.

Cowichan Lake

Cowichan Lake is located in one of Vancouver Island’s sunniest valleys and is known for its fantastic fresh water fishing. You can try your hand at catching rainbow, cutthroat and Dolly Varden trout.

We arrived at Gordon Bay Provincial Park just in time to set up camp and watch the sunset on the beach.  We would have had more time to explore the area, but setting up the tent was a nightmare!  The ground was so hard and full of rocks, destroying most of our tent pegs.  At least we had a gorgeous sunset to ease the frustration!

DAY 5: Drive from Cowichan Lake to Victoria

Trip time: 1 hr 45 mins (111 km)

Butchart Gardens (23 km north of Victoria)

This was my favourite place out of our whole entire road trip!  With stunning floral blooms, vibrant colours, trickling streams and fountains, it was the perfect place to have a romantic date.

There are five unique gardens you can visit- the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, the Rose Garden, the Bog Garden and (our personal favourite) the Sunken Garden.  There is so much to do here besides admire nature’s beauty. You can pick up a gourmet picnic to enjoy on the one of the impeccably manicured lawns, delight in some live musical entertainment, ride the Rose Carousel, and take an electric boat tour of Brentwood Bay and Tod Inlet.  We were at the gardens from almost open to close and didn’t once get bored.

If you are visiting in the summer, you must try and come to the gardens on a Saturday.  There is a jaw dropping firework show combining pyrotechnics, animation and music.  This spectacle was the most unique firework show we have ever seen!  Just make sure you lay down your blanket early in the evening so you get a good view of the show.

DAY 6 & 7: Explore Victoria

Everyone we know who has gone to Victoria just loves it! Commonly called the “City of Gardens”, Victoria is an attractive city with a relaxed pace, mild climate and year round golf season (not many places you can do that in Canada!)  For these reasons, it’s a popular destination for tourists and retirees.

Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest and has preserved many of it’s historical buildings such as the Empress Hotel, the Parliament Buildings and Craigdarroch Castle.  The Empress and the Parliament are conveniently located around the perimeter of the downtown harbour and Craigdarroch Castle is just a leisurely walk or short drive away.

We spent one day relaxing and walking around the harbour area and our second day we went on a Whale Watching tour.  It was really exciting to see a pod of killer whales working together to hunt a school of fish. It was quite intense with all the jumping and slapping of tails!  We also were lucky enough to see sea lions, seals and some marine birds.

Goldstream Provincial Park

While in the Victoria area, we camped at Goldstream Provincial Park.  It’s only 16 km away from downtown Victoria and is surrounded by temperate rainforest.  Head out on the many hiking trails and you will find waterfalls, colourful wildflowers and 600 year old Douglas fir trees.

Mike would like to come back here during the annual Chum Salmon spawning run in October.  The riverside trails and observation platforms allow great opportunities to view this phenomenon.

Savouring the calm, natural beauty of this picturesque park was the perfect way to end our memorable 7 day Vancouver Island road trip.

Tips For Visiting Vancouver Island

Camping: Campsites can be booked on-line using the Discover Camping reservation system.  If you know your itinerary, it’s a good idea to make your reservations in advance since campsites fill up in the busy summer months.

Ferries: BC Ferries transports vehicles and passengers from mainland Vancouver to Vancouver Island. We arrived very early to catch our desired ferries since without an advance booking, vehicles are loaded in order of arrival at the terminal. Not arriving early enough can leave you waiting in line only to have the ferry sail off without you.  You do have the option of making a vehicle reservation, which will guarantee a spot on your desired ferry.  Even with a reservation, you still need to check in at least 30 minutes before sailing or the reservation will not be valid.  For more information on reservations and ferry sailing times, visit bcferries.com .

Information was correct at the time of publishing, but can change without notice. Please confirm directly with service providers.

Vancouver Island Tours

Here is a trusted site where you can book tours and tickets for activities in Victoria and the surrounding area. You can choose from city tours, whale watching adventures, excursions to Butchart Gardens, and day-trips from Vancouver.

Accommodations on Vancouver Island

For your convenience, here is a list of hotels on Vancouver Island. Please consider booking your Vancouver Island accommodations through the included link. It costs nothing extra and helps support this website. Thank you!

More British Columbia Destinations and Travel Guides

• The Okanagan- Western Canada’s Wine Country and Summer Playground
• Bridal Falls, British Columbia
• Winter in Osoyoos- Photo

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Camping On Vancouver Island: 10 Great Campsites (Free And Paid)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Canada

Vancouver Island is a beautiful island with splendid nature, lovely cities such as Victoria and Nanaimo , cute villages like Tofino and Coombs, and lots of outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.

While there is no shortage of campgrounds on Vancouver Island, there are full-service RV campgrounds, backcountry campsites only accessible on foot, and even several glamping options for those looking for a bit more luxury.

No matter if you are looking to go camping near Victoria or searching for Tofino campgrounds, this post got you covered.

In this guide to camping on Vancouver Island, you can find 10 great camping spots and 3 glamping options, plus practical tips when going on a Vancouver Island camping trip.

Everything you need to know about camping on Vancouver Island

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Planning a camping trip on Vancouver Island: important things to know

What is the best time for a camping trip to vancouver island.

When planning your camping trip on Vancouver Island, please note that while camping is possible year-round, the most popular (and therefore busiest) months are July and August.

If you plan to go camping in summer, it's best to book well in advance!

Spring and autumn are excellent for Vancouver Island camping, the weather is generally quite nice and campgrounds aren't that busy.

Keep in mind that while winter camping on Vancouver Island is possible, most campgrounds are seasonal and only open from April/May until September/October.

Plan your Canada trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals with Kiwi.com . ? Rent a campervan for your Canada road trip (or a car via Rentalcars.com ). ? Arrange your Canada working holiday with Global Work & Travel . ? Plan your journey with the Canada Lonely Planet . ?️ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ? Join the best tours in Canada via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

How to get to Vancouver Island?

The only way to get to Vancouver Island with your car is by ferry. You can find the schedule and information about prices here .

Alternatively, you can bring your camping gear and rent a car  in Victoria. Alternatively, you can rent a campervan in Vancouver ).

In any case, we took the boat from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (near Victoria) and returned from Duke Point (near Nanaimo) to Tsawwassen.

Another good option if you plan to drive the Sea to Sky highway to Whistler after visiting Vancouver Island is taking the ferry from Departure Bay (Nanaimo) to Horseshoe Bay.

Horseshoe Bay is located north of Vancouver, so you'll avoid driving through the busy city center.

Or, if you have lots of time, you could take a ferry from Comox to Powell River and explore the quiet but breathtaking Sunshine Coast.

How to find (free) places to camp on Vancouver Island?

We bought a red GMC Safari van , built a bed in it, bought some kitchen stuff and other camp gear and our little home on wheels was ready.

We slept in our car most of the time and as we were traveling Canada on a budget , we tried to find free campsites for most nights.

In general, it's not difficult to find a free place to park for the night in Canada. However, sometimes you'll see a sign saying ‘No overnight parking or camping', obviously you shouldn't stay there.

It also goes without saying that you should be quiet and respectful when stealth camping and leave your camp spot spotlessly clean when you depart.

Click here for more information!

We found free campgrounds with the iOverlander app . In this excellent free app, you can find both free as well as paid campsites, information about the facilities, accessibility, and comments of people who have (recently) visited a particular camping spot.

While it's great to find a free spot to spend the night, there are many good reasons to stay at an official campground.

Besides easy access to all sorts of facilities, such as potable water, showers, coin laundry, and potentially WiFi, campgrounds are a great place to meet other travelers and exchange stories.

For popular campgrounds in Tofino, Ucluelet, and Nanaimo, it's smart to make a reservation, especially when you're traveling during the busy summer months.

Where to buy groceries on Vancouver Island?

Eating out is great, but costs add up quickly! A much more economical way to travel around Vancouver Island (and Canada as a whole) is by cooking your own breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

There are Walmarts in the bigger cities (Victoria, Nanaimo, and Port Alberni) and smaller (slightly more expensive) local supermarkets in the villages (Ucluelet, Tofino, and Qualicum Beach).

Here you can buy all the necessary ingredients to cook a delicious meal to enjoy at one of the beautiful Vancouver Island camping sites.

10 Vancouver Island campsites and 3 glamping spots: map

Click here for the interactive map

Official campsites on Vancouver Island

Goldstream campground (near victoria).

Dean & Laynni from Routinely Nomadic : Goldstream Campground is one of the largest and best campgrounds in British Columbia.

It's located within Goldstream Provincial Park (one of the 120+ Provincial Parks found on Vancouver Island) and only a short drive (15 minutes) west of Victoria.

This tranquil wilderness haven is conveniently close to the amenities and attractions of the city, making it a perfect stop on any  Pacific Northwest road trip .

Encompassing 1,200 acres of prime old-growth forest and offering 175 campsites, Goldstream is filled with terrific hiking trails and engaging sights.

The 47-meter-high Niagara Falls (no, not THAT one) is almost as impressive as its namesake, and there are several other smaller falls and a fascinating old trestle bridge.

Thick forests of 600-year-old Douglas fir and red cedar trees combined with dozens of other species to create a dense, atmospheric setting.

Other outstanding activities are hiking to the top of Mount Finlayson and visiting in late fall to witness the spectacular salmon spawn (when you might see bald eagles doing a little fishing of their own).

Goldstream is open to RVs, camping, and day-use (including a children’s playground). It has full washrooms with running water and hot showers but no electrified sites.

This excellent Vancouver Island campsite is open year-round (with limited facilities in winter). Fees are $35/night plus a $6 fee if you  book online .

Check the BC Parks website for more information.

If you'd like to create your own souvenir to commemorate your Vancouver Island trip, check out these  custom pins  that make for a fun collectible, and unique travel souvenir.

Sombrio Beach backcountry campsite

Campbell and Alya from Stingy Nomads: Sombrio Beach is the best beach camping on Vancouver Island and remains off the beaten track!

It's located on the south coast of Vancouver Island and is part of the spectacular Juan de Fuca Marine Trail .

The beach, mostly covered in big round stones, is one of the most popular surf spots close to Victoria, and surfers often camp here for the weekend. Campsites are on the beach and are suitable for tents only.

Sombrio Beach is also a popular stop for hikers (and outdoor enthusiasts in general). The Juan de Fuca trail is a wilderness backpacking trail stretching for 47 km along the coast, from China Beach to Botanical Beach (near Port Renfrew).

The campsite at Sombrio beach is about a 1.5 km walk from the car parking area next to the road.

The fauna and flora on the coastal trail are amazing with black bears, deer, and marine mammals like whales, dolphins, and orcas.

There is a waterfall in a slot canyon, hidden in the forest next to Sombrio Beach, great for a refreshing shower.

This tent campground has well-kept basic facilities, a bear canister to protect food from bears, running water, and a pit toilet. Water is not potable and small fires are allowed on the beach.

Self-registration envelopes and safes are located at the trailhead for depositing a $10 camping fee, you can also pay online.

Camp sites can not be booked ahead, so on weekends try to get there early to find a nice spot.

Pacheedaht Campground (near Port Renfrew)

Taryn from Happiest Outdoors : the Pacheedaht Campground in Port Renfrew is one of the few campgrounds on Vancouver Island where you can camp right on the sandy beach.

It’s located on Pacheedaht First Nation land just outside of Port Renfrew and about a two-hour drive from Victoria.

The campground is on a beautiful stretch of sand where the Gordon River meets the ocean. You can surf right from your campsite, go hiking, or explore nearby Avatar Grove, home to Canada’s gnarliest tree.

An overnight (or two) in Port Renfrew is a great way to experience the Pacific Marine Circle Route , a loop road trip from Victoria via Sooke, Port Renfrew, and Lake Cowichan. 

There are about 40 sites in the campground, with about half on the beach and the other half in the rainforest. Many of the spots have water and electrical hookups for RVs.

There’s a newer indoor bathroom building with showers and laundry, plus outhouses and taps throughout the campground.

To book a site, call the Pacheedaht Nation campground managers at 250-647-0090 (country code +1).

They get booked up on long weekends, but first-come, first-served spots are usually available at other times. Prices vary depending on the type of site and time of year but are generally between $15 and $50.

The Living Forest Oceanside Campsite & RV Park (near Nanaimo)

One of the best campgrounds on Vancouver Island is the Living Forest Oceanside Campsite & RV Park. This is a great campground located only 5 kilometers from Nanaimo city center.

Our nice shady forest camp spot had a fire pit and picnic table. The toilet facilities were clean and the hot showers cost $1 for 5 minutes.

There is a coin laundry which costs $2,50 for the washing machine and $1 for the dryer.

In the common room, there is free WiFi and sockets to charge your electronics which is very convenient if you are camping in a tent or in a self-converted van without any power outlets.

Full-service sites, as well as basic spots (no water and no electricity), are available. Prices range between $31 and $61, depending on the facilities at your campsite.

Altogether the Living Forest Oceanside campground offers a great camping experience! Check the official website for more information.

Ucluelet Campground (in Ucluelet)

I'll start by saying this was one of the most expensive campgrounds we stayed at in Canada. As Ucluelet is a very popular place to visit on Vancouver Island, this was to be expected.

Nevertheless, the campsite is nice and there are good facilities (clean toilets, hot showers) though the sites aren't that big.

You can choose between a waterfront site, a forest site, or a full-service RV site, prices vary accordingly ($30 and $65).

The location is excellent, right at the edge of Ucluelet and it's only a short walk to several cafes and restaurants as well as two supermarkets.

Check the Ucluelet Campground website for more information.

Green Point Campground (near Tofino)

Green Point Campground is located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and close to Long Beach. This site is run by Parks Canada, reservations can be made online .

There are powered sites ($33 a night) as well as unpowered sites ($28 a night), flush toilets, hot showers, fire pits, and picnic tables.

Plus, it's only a short stroll to beautiful Long Beach (sites 67-94 are closest to the beach).

Unofficial campsites on Vancouver Island

The clipper ferry parking lot, victoria.

It can be challenging to find overnight parking in Victoria as there are lots of no camping/overnight parking signs.

However, the Clipper Ferry parking lot in downtown Victoria (254 Belleville Street) didn't have any of those so we decided to give it a try.

We paid $18 for 24-hour parking, which enabled us to explore Victoria on foot, park our car in a safe place, and sleep in the city center!

Since it's not an official place to stay, I strongly recommend keeping a low profile (no cooking or relaxing outside, just use it as a place to sleep).

It was very quiet during the night and as long as it's allowed, I definitely recommend this perfect place in Victoria city center!

Jakes at the Lake parking lot, Lake Cowichan

We had dinner at Jakes at the Lake and after paying for our meal we asked the staff if we could park there for the night.

They didn't mind at all and we could roll straight from the patio into our bed. The next morning we woke up to the view pictured above, not bad at all!

French Creek Marine Pub parking lot, Parksville

We spent a very rainy afternoon at the French Creek Marine Pub in Parksville and asked the pub staff if we could park for the night. The manager said that was fine and directed us to a good spot.

We paid $5 for a night (and we had a couple of drinks at the pub). During opening hours, you can use the washroom in the pub.

Note: I think an important reason why the pubs we stayed at didn't mind us parking overnight is that we spend money on food and/or drinks first, before asking if we could overnight there in our van. Also, our small incognito van didn't take up much space or draw any attention. I'm not sure how they would feel about big RVs parking there for the night.

Public Library parking lot, Port Alberni

We found this place on the iOverlander app and stayed here twice (both on our way down to Ucluelet and Tofino and on our way back up). Nobody bothered us and we bothered nobody.

It's a very quiet spot and you can even take a shower ($4 if I remember correctly) at the Recreation Center next to the library.

If at any time in the future overnight parking is no longer allowed at this spot, there is also a Walmart in Port Alberni where you can stay.

Glamping on Vancouver Island

If you are visiting Vancouver Island but don't want to go camping in a tent, car, van, or RV, there is an excellent alternative: glamping.

Instead of setting up your own tent, you can stay at a comfortable yurt, a luxurious white canvas tent, or even a spherical treehouse!

Wya Point, Ucluelet

This property is run by the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation, their mission is to let people experience the traditional territory, hospitality, and values of their people.

There are several yurts offering all the comforts you need, such as a french press coffee maker, comfortable beds, lounge chairs, and more.

The yurts were built to have a minimal impact on the land and with environmental sustainability in mind. On the Wya Point website , you can read more about this beautiful place on Vancouver Island.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Quait Bay

This luxurious property requires a 40-minute boat ride from Tofino and is located in a beautiful secluded bay.

There are 25 lavishly decorated canvas tents with antique furnishings and plush beds with high-quality linens.

While spending a night here costs a small fortune, it will surely be one of the most unique accommodations you'll ever stay at and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

More information can be found on the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort website .

Free Spirit Spheres, Qualicum Beach

Another Vancouver Island glamping option is the Free Spirit Spheres .

These amazing treehouses are made from fiberglass exteriors and shaped like a nut. But the coolest thing is they are suspended several meters above the forest floor!

With a double bed, a small kitchen area, and comfortable seating you'll have everything you need, but what truly makes the spheres special is their integration with the surrounding forest.

You'll be up in the trees and get to experience life in the forest, with birds chirping around you and the leaves whistling in the wind.

I personally can't imagine a more soothing sound to fall asleep to…

Best campgrounds on Vancouver Island: in conclusion

I hope you have enjoyed this post about Vancouver Island campgrounds and camping tips. Feel free to ask any questions you may have, you can leave a comment below or send me a message .

For more Vancouver Island travel tips, check these posts:

• 10 best hotels in Victoria
• 20 things to do in Campbell River
• 20 things to do on Pender Island
• 20 things to do in Ucluelet
• 25 things to do in Port Alberni

If you are looking for more Canada travel inspiration, check out my Canada page where you can find all the posts I've written about this wonderful country.

This post was updated in February 2023.

Campgrounds & RV Parks

A camping or RV trip to Vancouver Island is the perfect way to explore all the islands’ nooks and crannies. Where do you go when there are over 150 provincial parks, two national parks, hundreds of recreation sites, and dozens of private campgrounds to choose from? Check out our Campground and RV partners below, or find out more about all the different ways to camp on and around Vancouver Island.

Types of Camping

Camping on Vancouver Island is the best way to experience the outdoors on the west coast, and there are endless options to choose from when deciding how you’d like to sleep under the stars. From do-it-yourself experiences of backpacking along sandy beaches to the cozy comforts of glamping in a manicured tent. Learn more about the different types of camping on Vancouver Island to find what inspires you in our guide.

CAMPING AT PROVINCIAL PARKS, NATIONAL PARKS, & PRIVATE PARKS

Being the easiest to organize and set up, front country camping is the most popular camping experience in BC. On Vancouver Island, visitors can choose from campsites in provincial, national, or private parks. Drive right into your site, pitch a tent (or park an RV), and you’re camping.

• BC Parks Campsite Information & Booking
• Parks Canada Campsite Information & Booking

For other camping and RV providers, please see the listings section of this page.

MULTI-DAY BACKPACKING TRAILS

Up for a challenge? There are a number of multi-day hiking routes on Vancouver Island that can take you into remote backcountry camping areas. Wake up to the sound of the ocean crashing on the beach, tucked into a hidden inlet on a secluded island, or on the banks of an alpine lake.

The most famous route on the Island is the  West Coast Trail  and reservations book up quickly but there are many other multi-day hikes worth checking out.

The Nootka Trail is a 44km (25 mi) hike on remote Nootka Island. This trip takes plenty of pre-planning and experience but is worth the effort for dedicated backpackers.

The West Coast Trail’s sister route, the  Juan de Fuca Marine Trail , offers remote beaches and untamed rainforest without the crowds. On this route, Mystic Beach rewards hikers with a waterfall that plunges into the ocean.

For a really remote experience, head for  Cape Scott Provincial Park  and the  North Coast Trail , where you can hike along more than 40 km (25 mi) of trail. Camp on secluded beaches that dot the most northwestern tip of Vancouver Island.

Prefer the alpine? Head for  Strathcona Provincial Park  and hike through the  Forbidden Plateau  to summit Mount Albert Edward before camping at Circlet Lake.

WALK-IN CAMPSITES

Prefer to get a little closer to nature and camp without the sound and distraction of vehicles? Many provincial parks on the island offer walk-in campsites, a great way to get a little deeper into the wilderness. Many of the sites are less than a 1 km walk-in and come with wheelbarrows for transporting your gear to and from the parking lot.

Head for  Ruckle Provincial Park  on  Salt Spring Island  for walk-in sites that overlook the ocean. While camping here, spot whales and other sea life from your tent. This park is a great base for bike-packing campers, too. Ride onto the ferry and explore Salt Spring Island by bike while basing yourself at Ruckle.

In Ucluelet, campers can stay at Wya Point Resort. This resort sits on 600 acres of Ucluelet First Nation’s traditional territory and features walk-in sites beside the ocean. Be sure to check out the First Nations-owned and operated  Way Point Surf Shop  for surf lessons and rentals while here, too.

PADDLE, BOAT, AND FERRY-ACCESS CAMPING

What can get more remote than paddling to your campsite? On Vancouver Island, visitors can kayak, canoe, boat, or ferry to campsites on remote islands, in hidden inlets, or the far reaches of secluded lakes.

In Clayoquot Sound, north of Tofino, the Hesquiaht First Nation own and operate  Hot Springs Cove Resort & Campground , accessible by water taxi, private boat, or floatplane. Set up camp here before following a boardwalk through the rainforest to soak in the natural mineral pools of Hot Springs Cove.

In the  Gulf Islands National Park Reserve , boaters and kayakers can check out  Sidney Spit Campground , on the north end of Sidney Island for family-friendly camping with sandy beaches, trails, and marine life.

Sea kayakers will find that another archipelago, the  Broken Group Islands , is perfect for exploring crystal-clear waters and sheltered bays.

Part of the  Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , paddlers have a chance to camp at eight different campsites while on a multi-day kayaking adventure.

To avoid the crowds of peak season, try visiting this park in May, June, or September.

See more stories about Camping

Oceanside Resort (Parkbridge)

Cumberland lake park campground, wya point resort, seaside r.v. & campground park, farout wilderness, moutcha bay resort, windy waters, brown’s bay resort & marina, port alice oceanfront rv park, telegraph cove resort, crystal cove beach resort, esquimalt eco tours.

10 Ultimate Seattle To Vancouver Road Trip Itinerary

• Take a road trip from Seattle to Vancouver for stunning coastal vistas, outdoor adventure, and charming towns along the scenic route.
• Explore Olympic National Park's old-growth forests, tour the Boeing Factory in Everett, and relax on Whidbey Island's beautiful beaches.
• Don't miss Chuckanut Drive's breathtaking coastal views, Campbell Valley Regional Park for hiking, and the charming fishing village of Steveston.

Winding along Washington's rugged Pacific coastline and through scenic mountains and farmland, this 130-mile road trip between Seattle and Vancouver offers glimpses of the region's natural beauty and diverse attractions. It even includes many of the stops on the scenic Amtrak Cascades train route from Seattle to Vancouver .

Stops include hiking Olympic National Park's old-growth forests, touring the Boeing commercial jet factories, exploring the Lake Chelan shores in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, and taking in Whidbey Island's laid-back charm. The cost to visit Vancouver ranges from budget-friendly to luxurious, depending on visitors’ travel style and preferences, but for budget-minded travelers, there are also plenty of cheap vacation spots in Vancouver , such as Granville Island, Gastown, and Chinatown.

Naturally, many travelers enjoy the route from Seattle to Vancouver, as it showcases some of the most beautiful scenery on the West Coast of the USA as tourists head up toward Canada. Outdoor adventure, coastal vistas, and charming towns await along this picturesque international route. Here is the ultimate road trip itinerary for Seattle to Vancouver road trippers, detailing the top stops along the way.

RELATED: 10 Surprisingly Free Things That You Can Do In Seattle

Olympic National Park

Located along Washington's rugged Pacific coastline, Olympic National Park is a highlight of any Seattle to Vancouver road trip.

Sprawling over 3.8 million acres , the area is filled with alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and over 60 miles of pristine beaches displaying the park's awe-inspiring ocean vistas and mountain scenery.

• Fee: $30 per vehicle , valid for 7 days
• Hurricane Ridge Road Operational Months: Late May to mid-October

Boeing Factory Tour

About an hour's drive north of Seattle lies the city of Everett, home of the world’s largest factory, The Boeing Everett Factory . Here, visitors can go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the commercial aircraft manufacturing facility. Visitors see firsthand where iconic planes like the 747, 767, 777, and 787 are constructed.

Those planning a trip to Vancouver who stop by the Boeing Factory Tour will have front-of-the-line access to aviation history and the construction of aircraft.

• Operating Days: Thursday through Monday,
• Admission Fees: $12 (Gallery & Sky Deck)

Tours for the Boeing Everett Factory, including the general admission tour, are $33

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Sprawling over 3.8 million acres of mountainous terrain, the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest offers a variety of outdoor recreation along the northern section of the road trip route between Seattle and Vancouver.

Highlights include visiting the scenic Lake Wenatchee area, hiking trails around Leavenworth , and exploring the majestic landscape near Lake Chelan with swimming or kayaking.

• Entry is free

Seasonal wildfire hazards may temporarily restrict access to some trails

Whidbey Island

Accessed via a short ferry ride from Port Townsend across Puget Sound, Whidbey Island is another one of the best stops for a Seattle to Vancouver itinerary. It has a laid-back island charm with beautiful beaches, quaint towns, picturesque farmland, and shorelines.

History buffs can tour the historic naval station in Oak Harbor, the Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI), or visit the antique shops of Langley.

• Ferry fee: Varies on the date, transport method, and vehicle size

Weekends and summers are the busiest seasons for ferry travel. Also, Greenbank Farm is an educational spot for seeing heritage livestock.

RELATED: From The Space Needle To Pike Place: Exploring 10 Top Places To See In Seattle

Chuckanut Drive

North of Bellingham lies the scenic Chuckanut Drive , which is one of the best stops from Seattle to Vancouver on a road trip, as it's renowned for its breathtaking coastal vistas.

Winding for 22 miles along steep coastal bluffs above the shores of Samish Bay, this nationally recognized scenic byway weaves through verdant forest with periodic overlooks of the water and islands below. A relaxing morning leading to an afternoon drive to take in the area's natural beauty makes way for a peaceful journey.

Cyclists are often along the route, and there are periodic areas of narrow roads.

Campbell Valley Regional Park

Located east of Abbotsford, Campbell Valley Regional Park is another one of the best road trip stops from Seattle to Vancouver for an afternoon picnic. Its 1,444 acres offer extensive hiking trails that wind through forests and meadows, with the Cascade Mountains rising to the east.

The park's camping facilities and extensive recreational amenities make it an ideal nature explorers' base camp, found a little over halfway between Seattle and Vancouver.

• Operating Hours: September 26 to November 6: 7 am-7 pm​​​, November 7 to December 31: 7 am-5 pm​

Camping reservations are recommended during peak season, but be sure to book campsites early.

Edmonds is found between Seattle and Everett along Puget Sound’s shoreline. It charms visitors with its historic downtown waterfront and the pier walking trails that give views of sailboats and frequent whale sightings.

Things to do in Vancouver after the trip include hiking in Stanley Park, visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, and taking a ferry to Granville Island.

• Seattle/Edmonds Whale Watching Tours Tickets: Adults $145, Children from 2 to 10 $105

Many local restaurants serve fresh fish here, with shoreline dining available.

RELATED: Book These 10 Vancouver Hotels That Are Closest To The Airport For a Convenient Stay

Mount Vernon

The oldest city of Skagit County ’s river towns, Mount Vernon is known for its tulip fields that attract thousands of visitors each spring. Though the tulip festival spans just a few weeks each April, it's still worthwhile visiting the surrounding Skagit Valley anytime to take in the pastoral farmland scenery.

Drives through the countryside dotted with barn murals and bulb farms leave room for much more to explore.

• Tulip Town Park: free
• Best Time for Tulip Views: Mid-April

Bellingham And Fairhaven

Surrounded by mountains and waterways, Bellingham is the ideal spot to spend a night near the end of the Seattle to Vancouver road trip route. Its international airport also makes timely connections convenient if one needs to cut the trip short. One of the best places to visit in Bellingham is Whatcom Falls Park, which is superb for a stroll and picnic.

Also, another spot near Bellingham is Fairhaven ; an afternoon spent here reveals its bookstores, cafés, and marina.

• Whatcom Falls Park : Entry is free

For those continuing onward from Bellingham into Canada, the charming fishing village of Steveston on the South Arm of the Fraser River near Richmond provides relaxing scenery with a fresh outdoor atmosphere. The boardwalk runs along the waterfront lined with restaurants, shops, and fishing boats.

A stroll through the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site educates visitors about its fully restored 1930s-era salmon cannery .

• Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site Fees: $12.50 for adults

On weekends and busy times, expect limited availability for parking downtown

Written by js4mk • May 20, 2024 • 6:33 pm • Camp America - Road Trips , Travel

Road Trip | Chesapeake Bay and Beaches, Maryland

Road Trip Along Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay and Beaches

The Chesapeake Bay in Maryland is a fantastic destination. In addition the beaches and towns located along the coast of Maryland are also wonderful places to visit. Travelers can take a nice road trip in order to explore these fantastic destinations.

Travelers can start their journey in Annapolis. This city has some important history, which can be explored at some sites throughout the city. One great destination is the Maryland State House, which is an architectural and historical point of interest. The Kunta-Kinte Alex Haley Memorial is another good destination for those interested in history.

Sandy Point State Park

One park you can explore is Sandy Point State Park. Also located on the Chesapeake Bay this park is excellent for wildlife viewing, especially birding, and more. Sandy Point also has a great beach for swimming, and in the summer part of the beach is lifeguard protected. This park is an amazing destination for enjoying the beautiful waters of the Chesapeake Bay and seeing some of Maryland’s wildlife.

North Point State Park

Traveling along the coast, one excellent outdoor destination is North Point State Park. This park actually has some history of its own, it is the site of the historic Bay Shore Amusement Park, and the Defenders Trail, which was important during the War of 1812 passes through the park. You can take the opportunity to learn about the history, and enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Maryland. North Point State Park is located on the Chesapeake Bay and is a great spot to enjoy some recreation.

This city is filled with art, culture, entertainment, fine dining, history and much more. If you can, plan to spend at least a few days exploring all that the city has to offer. You will find a wide variety of fascinating museums, a few that you won’t want to miss are the Baltimore Museum of Art, the Great Blacks in Wax Museum and more. Baltimore also has a long and fascinating history. You will have many opportunities to learn about Baltimore’s history at destinations like, the Baltimore Civil War Museum, the USS Constellation and more. You can also take a tour that will visit many of Baltimore’s important sights. There are many more destinations and attractions worth visiting. The Baltimore Aquarium is an amazing destination. You can also try to catch one of Baltimore’s Major League games, either the Orioles or the Ravens.

Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

This important site is the location were our National Anthem was first written. You can start your visit to Fort McHenry at the Visitor Center, which has an introduction and information about the site’s important history. After the Visitor Center, you can take a tour of the park. You can also visit Star Fort, the museum, which has all sort of exhibits about the Fort’s history and importance. You can also tour the structures of Fort McHenry, like the barracks and more.

Ocean City Beach

This Maryland Beach has miles of beautiful sandy beaches. In addition, there is a boardwalk for visitors to enjoy. It is a great spot to enjoy fishing, windsurfing and more.

Elk Neck State Park

The bluffs of Elk Neck State Park overlook the North East River, the Elk River and the Chesapeake Bay. Visitors to this park will find that there are many destinations to explore as well as plenty of recreation. The park has sandy beaches, as well as wooded areas and  marshlands. In addition the park is also home to the Turkey Point Lighthouse. The lighthouse is located on the Elk Neck Peninsula, and visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse, as well as learn more about it’s history and more.

Pocomoke River State Park

This park, located on the Pocomoke River offers visitors excellent camping. In addition the park is also a wonderful destination for hiking and biking with it’s many trails. Visitors can choose to visit either section of the park, one section is located on the south side of the river, while the other is located on the nor side. Each section of the park has something fantastic to offer visitors. Pocomoke River State park also has a an interesting natural landscape, with both swamp and upland, so visitors can enjoy the many species of plants and animals, as well as fish.

Assateague Island National Seashore

This National Seashore is a fantastic end to a wonderful Maryland road trip. Assateague Island National Seashore is a amazingly beautiful spot in Maryland. Visitors to this national park will love the sandy beaches, as well as the other natural features of the island, including salt marshes, maritime forests and more. A trip to Assateague Island should start at the visitor center, the exhibits educate visitors about the National Seashore. Visitors will find a wide variety of recreational activities to enjoy, including biking, kayaking, surf fishing and even horseback riding.

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