Explore Vancouver Island’s hidden gems


Take a trip through the scenic landscapes of Vancouver Island; through small, peaceful towns like Port Renfrew, and popular tourist destinations like Victoria. Explore scenic seaside communities and awe-inspiring ancient forests along your adventure.

Use this recommended itinerary as a guide for planning your trip through Southern Vancouver Island.
Pacific Marine Circle Tour map

Recommended itinerary: 3 Destinations, 5 Days 

RECOMMENDATION 1

Metro Vancouver to Ladysmith

Catch the ferry to Nanaimo, keeping an eye out for coastal wildlife as you enjoy the picturesque ride. Once you arrive on Vancouver Island, head south to the seaside town of Ladysmith. Spend the day exploring local trails, including Stocking Creek Waterfalls, Christie Falls, and the Stocking Creek Trail.

Ferry route:
Vancouver (Tsawwassen) to Nanaimo (Duke Point)

RECOMMENDATION 2

Ladysmith to Port Renfrew

Enjoy breakfast at one of the local cafes and begin your drive towards Port Renfrew. Once you’re there, spend time the beach and take in all the marine life around you. Head to Botanical Beach for low tide to see tidepools brimming with sea anemones, sea urchins, starfish, crabs and much more.

RECOMMENDATION 3

Port Renfrew

Start your day in Port Renfrew with a stop at a local cafe for coffee or pastries, then head into the lush rainforest to explore Avatar Grove, home to some of Canada’s largest and "most gnarled" old-growth trees. Head to a rocky beach to lookout for marine wildlife, then enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant. 

RECOMMENDATION 4

Port Renfrew to Victoria 

Departing from Port Renfrew, driving to Victoria is approximately 2 hours. Drive straight there, or make stops along the way in places like Jordan River, Shirley or Sooke. Once you have arrived in Victoria, try delicious local dishes and craft beer, visit the Royal BC Museum and the picturesque Inner Harbour, or go shopping on Government Street. For a true taste of Victoria, wander down to Fisherman's Wharf for fish and chips by the water.

Book activities:
 Adrena LINE Guided Canopy Zipline Tour

RECOMMENDATION 5

Victoria to Metro Vancouver 

Wrap up your Vancouver Island adventure with brunch at one of the many local spots downtown, or take a detour to explore Butchart Gardens or Butterfly Gardens before hopping on the ferry back to Vancouver.

Book activities:
 Victoria Butterfly Gardens

 The Butchart Gardens

Ferry route:
Victoria (Swartz Bay) to Vancouver (Tsawwassen)
 

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