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Aerial view of the west coast of Vancouver Island

Victoria & Vancouver Island


OVERVIEW

Take a scenic ferry ride to Vancouver Island and explore its parks, beaches, mountains, and more. Enjoy outdoor adventures like kayaking, fishing, surfing, and ziplining in the summer, or skiing, snowboarding, and storm watching in the winter. Savour local craft beer, wines, and farm-fresh food. Visit Victoria, the largest city on the island, where you can find friendly locals, unique shops, and waterfront dining.

Vancouver Island map with BC Ferries routes and nearby cities

Top things to do

Explore cities

House boats at Fisherman

Victoria

Visit the quaint waterfront city of Victoria for a captivating blend of natural beauty, history and culture. Known for having the mildest climate in Canada, there is plenty to see and do in Victoria year-round. Get out out on the water and book a kayaking lesson or join a wildlife tour, or stick to strolling the cobblestone streets for quaint shops, and dining at world-class restaurants. 

Victoria is also known as the Garden City, with flowers blooming all around town, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings. 

Coastal landscape view of Pacific Rim National Park and the surrounding mountains in Tofino BC

Tofino

Visit the popular destination of Tofino, in Tla-o-qui-aht territory, to see the rugged beauty of the west coast.  With laid-back surfer vibes, the downtown offers a variety of charming shops and restaurants. 

The beach is the place to be in any weather here, spending sunny beach days enjoying endless sandy beaches or watching Mother Nature put on a show with epic storm watching opportunities. 

Whether you are catching a wave while surfing, or catching an unbelievable sunset, this is a Vancouver Island gem you won't want to miss. 

Boats in harbour of waterfront marina in Nanaimo BC on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo

Sail from Vancouver (Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo for a stop in Vancouver Island’s second-largest city. Socialize with friends over a round of golf at one of several local golf courses, or stroll through the Old City Quarter. Looking for adventure? Canoe, kayak or paddleboard along the waterfront, or explore natural wonders at nearby provincial parks and waterfalls.

Golden hour at Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort in the summer near Port Hardy

Port Hardy

Take a trip to the peaceful, waterfront town of Port Hardy, nestled on Northern Vancouver Island. Whether you prefer to be on the water or on land, there's an adventure in Port Hardy for everyone; from diving and fishing, to hiking and camping. 


 
 
 
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