Vancouver Island

Travel Guide

Vancouver Island
British Columbia Parliament Building showing night scenes, a fountain and heritage architecture
Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island
Sooke which includes a pebble beach and a sunset

Feel the reinvigorating power of the great outdoors on Vancouver Island, a vast swathe of nature on the doorstep of metropolitan cities.

Although only a short journey away from one of Canada's largest cities and home to the regional capital of British Columbia, Vancouver Island feels a world away from urban life. Deserted beaches, forested mountains and rare wildlife cover the sparsely populated island, beckoning Victoria's visitors with its dramatic wilderness. Succumb to its call and experience it on skis, on bike or on foot.

Visit VictoriaOpens in a new window, the lively capital of British Columbia in the south of the island. A modern city that prides itself on its great food, drink and culture sits alongside beautiful heritage landmarks. The Royal BC MuseumOpens in a new window gives a compelling overview of the region's history. Wander the halls of two castles with elegant gardens: the Victorian-era Craigdarroch and Hatley Park, completed in 1908.

You can also tour the other towns on the island. Parksville is a charming collection of sandy beaches, heritage attractions and stylish dining spots. Port Hardy is a pocket of civilization surrounded by rugged wilderness that offers museums and sites of cultural significance for the island's First Nations.

Tie up your walking boots for energetic treks through Pacific Rim National Park ReserveOpens in a new window and Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. Waymarked trails run around the coastline, leading to spectacular views and quiet beaches. Experienced hikers can try the famous West Coast Trail, a 47-mile (75-kilometer) route along the southwest Pacific shores.

Scan the waters for a sighting of black dorsal fins. Families of orcas enjoy the waters around Johnstone Strait and the Broughton Archipelago between June and October. Inland, black bears can be seen around Clayoquot Sound on a bear-watching tour.

Hit the slopes in winter at the Mount Washington Alpine ResortOpens in a new window. Boarding, skiing and tubing are all available for speedy ways to get down the mountain, on routes used by international athletes.

Victoria International Airport is reached by Air Canada, United and other airlines. Perhaps the best way to reach the island, however, is by ferry from Vancouver, which provides unbeatable views of the mountains, woods and lakes when arriving on the water.

Where to stay in Vancouver Island

Victoria featuring a city, street scenes and a house

Downtown Victoria

4.5/5(1,898 area reviews)

Downtown Victoria boasts a lively atmosphere with movie theatres, stage theatres, hotels, and various dining options. Explore tourist attractions like Bastion Square, Centennial Square, and the historic Chinatown.

Downtown Victoria
Victoria Harbour showing a bay or harbour and heritage elements

Inner Harbour

The captivating waterfront views and popular shops are just a few highlights of Inner Harbour. Make a stop by Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal or Victoria Harbour while you're exploring the area.

Inner Harbour
Victoria featuring a coastal town and a marina

James Bay

4.5/5(1,099 area reviews)

You can explore vibrant attractions like Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman's Wharf Park, and the Royal British Columbia Museum in this area near Victoria's Inner Harbour. Accessible via Belleville Street and other main roads, it also offers a HeliJet terminal and a US ferries terminal.

James Bay
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Saanich East

4/5(1 area review)

While visiting Saanich East, you might make a stop by sights like Cadboro Bay and Cedar Hill Golf Course.

Saanich East
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Esquimalt

5/5(2 area reviews)

Southern tip of Vancouver Island hosts Esquimalt, a municipality with a rich naval history and heritage sites like Craigflower farmhouse and schoolhouse. Explore the area along the historic Esquimalt and Nanaimo Railway.

Esquimalt
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Saanich West

4/5(1 area review)

While there might not be top attractions in Saanich West, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Princess Louisa Inlet and Uptown Center.

Saanich West
Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress

4.5 out of 5
721 Government St, Victoria, BC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $367 per night from Sep 30 to Oct 1
CA $367
CA $430 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Victoria. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
Fairmont Empress
Red Lion Inn and Suites

Red Lion Inn and Suites

3 out of 5
3366 Douglas St, Victoria, BC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is CA $197 per night from Sep 30 to Oct 1
CA $197
CA $227 total
Sep 30 - Oct 1
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful ...
Red Lion Inn and Suites
Hotel Grand Pacific

Hotel Grand Pacific

4 out of 5
463 Belleville St, Victoria, BC
The price is CA $280 per night from Sep 7 to Sep 8
CA $280
CA $328 total
Sep 7 - Sep 8
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury hotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a health club. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our ...
Hotel Grand Pacific
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Parkside Hotel & Spa

The Parkside Hotel & Spa

3.5 out of 5
810 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC
Stay at this 3.5-star spa aparthotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
The Parkside Hotel & Spa
Reef Point Cottages

Reef Point Cottages

3 out of 5
1012 Peninsula Road, Ucluelet, BC
Stay at this 3-star cottage in Ucluelet. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 4 hot tubs. Popular attractions Terrace Beach and Little Beach are located ...
Reef Point Cottages
Westover Bed and Breakfasts

Westover Bed and Breakfasts

Salt Spring Island
Stay at this cottage in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free breakfast, patios, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Saltspring Marina and Ganges Marina are ...
Westover Bed and Breakfasts
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Vancouver Island