Endless possibilities for adventure and relaxation
Best things to do on
Vancouver island
Must-see Vancouver Island, located off the southwest coast of British Columbia, is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts. If you are planning a weekend trip or a long vacation, here are 20 amazing things to do on Vancouver Island. You won’t want to miss them.






Table of Contents
20 Amazing Things to Do on Vancouver Island
- Explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour
- Visit Butchart Gardens
- Surf in Tofino
- Whale Watching in Telegraph Cove or Tofino
- Hike in Provincial Park
- Discover Cathedral Grove
- Kayak in the Broken Group Islands
- Go Bear Watching in Port Hardy
- Taste Local at Cowichan Valley Wineries
- Visit the Comox Valley Farmers’ Markets
- Relax in Hot Springs Cove
- Discover Indigenous Culture
- Camp on the Juan de Fuca Trail
- Explore the Town of Chemainus
- Take a Scenic Drive on the Pacific Marine Circle Route
- Fish in Campbell River
- Explore Hornby Island
- Go Caving in Horne Lake Caves
- Watch the Sunset at Sombrio Beach
- Visit Coombs Old Country Market


An exciting journey full of hidden treasures.
Guide to The Best Things
to do on Vancouver Island
Discovering Vancouver Island is an exciting journey full of hidden treasures. With stunning mountains and beautiful beaches, every moment on the island will amaze you.
This guide will lead you on an emotional journey. Each moment will transport you to a place where dreams come true and memories last forever. Prepare to experience the magic of Vancouver Island and uncover its finest offerings!
01
Explore Victoria’s Inner Harbour
One of the most popular things to do on Vancouver Island is exploring Victoria, the charming capital city of British Columbia. The Inner Harbour is the center of the city. Visitors can take scenic walks by the water.
They can admire the beautiful architecture of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Street performers also entertain people passing by. Just steps away, you’ll find the Royal BC Museum, showcasing Indigenous history, natural science, and early colonial artifacts.
Victoria’s Inner Harbour is also a hub for whale watching tours, seaplane rides, and ferry connections. The nearby Empress Hotel and countless waterfront restaurants make this a perfect starting point for your Vancouver Island adventure. It’s a vibrant mix of history, culture, and coastal charm.


02
Visit Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island. It’s a great activity for all ages in your family. Located in Brentwood Bay, near Victoria, this famous garden has over 55 acres of seasonal flowers. The gardeners arrange the flowers in themed gardens, such as the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Sunken Garden.
The gardens are beautiful year-round, with enchanting lights and events during the holiday season and fireworks in summer. A stroll through Butchart Gardens offers not only visual delight but also a tranquil escape surrounded by nature’s beauty. It’s a must-visit destination that draws millions annually.
03
Surf in Tofino
If you love flowers and beautiful gardens, visit Surfing in Tofino is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating things to do on Vancouver Island. With its wild waves and stunning beaches, Tofino has become Canada’s surfing mecca. Long Beach, Cox Bay, and Chesterman Beach offer consistent surf for all levels, and numerous surf schools provide rentals and lessons for beginners.
Even if you don’t surf, the vibe in Tofino is laid-back and welcoming, with cozy cafes, artisan shops, and beautiful oceanfront lodges. Tofino also offers incredible sunsets, storm watching in the winter, and easy access to Pacific Rim National Park.

04
Whale Watching in
Telegraph Cove or Tofino
One of the most awe-inspiring things to do on Vancouver Island with kids is going on a whale watching tour. Both Tofino and Telegraph Cove are premier locations to witness these majestic creatures. Between May and October, visitors can spot orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales in their natural habitat. The towns of Tofino and Ucluelet often appear in “top places to visit” lists.
Knowledgeable guides provide insights into marine biology and conservation efforts while navigating the coastal waters. The experience of seeing a breaching whale or hearing an orca’s call is once-in lifetime. Whether you’re with family or exploring solo, whale watching is a magical Vancouver Island experience.

05
Hike in Provincial Park
If you love the outdoors, hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park is a great weekend activity on Vancouver Island. Strathcona is in the center of the island. It is the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. The park has a diverse landscape with alpine meadows, lakes, waterfalls, and jagged peaks.
Popular trails include the Elk River Trail, Forbidden Plateau, and the challenging hike up to King’s Peak. Wildlife sightings are common, and the park is a paradise for backpackers, photographers, and climbers alike. It’s a wilderness experience that reveals the island’s untamed beauty.
06
Discover Cathedral Grove
Walking through Cathedral Grove is one of the most humbling and peaceful things to do on Vancouver Island. Located within MacMillan Provincial Park near Port Alberni, Cathedral Grove is home to some of the oldest and tallest Douglas fir and red cedar trees in Canada—some over 800 years old and more than 75 meters tall.
The easy, well-marked trails lead visitors through a lush, ancient forest that evokes a sense of wonder and reverence. It’s a perfect stop for families, photographers, and nature lovers who want to connect with the island’s primeval landscapes.
07
Kayak in the Broken Group Islands
To fully enjoy nature, kayaking the Broken Group Islands is one of the best adventures on Vancouver Island. This cluster of over 100 small islands is part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and accessible by boat from Ucluelet or Bamfield.
Paddlers can explore hidden coves, sandy beaches, and kelp forests teeming with marine life. Camping on remote islets and witnessing sunsets over the Pacific make this a bucket-list-worthy trip. Guided tours are available for all skill levels.


08
Go Bear Watching in Port Hardy
Bear watching is one of the most thrilling wildlife things to do on Vancouver Island, especially in the northern regions like Port Hardy. During the salmon run, black bears and grizzly bears come to the rivers to eat. This gives great chances to see them from boats or riverbanks – without the rare risk of running into a grizzly bear.
Tours often include Indigenous cultural elements and conservation education. Seeing a bear in its natural environment is both safe and awe-inspiring when done with expert guides.
09
Taste Local at Cowichan Valley Wineries
Sipping wine in the Cowichan Valley is one of the most relaxing and flavorful things to do on Vancouver Island. This fertile region, with its mild climate, has become a premier wine destination, often called the “Napa of the North.”
Visit boutique wineries to sample award-winning pinot noir, ortega, and sparkling wines. Many estates offer vineyard tours, on-site bistros, and scenic picnic areas. The region also features cideries, distilleries, and local cheese producers.

10
Visit the Comox Valley
Farmers’ Markets
Exploring the farmers’ markets in the Comox Valley is one of the most community-driven things to do on Vancouver Island. Held year-round in Courtenay, Cumberland, and Comox, these markets offer fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts and live music.
It’s a great way to support local farmers and artisans while tasting the flavors of the region. Seasonal treats, like wild berries and locally roasted coffee, are always crowd-pleasers.

11
Relax in Hot Springs Cove
One of the most rejuvenating things to do on Vancouver Island is soaking in the natural geothermal pools at Hot Springs Cove. Accessible by boat or seaplane from Tofino, this remote destination offers visitors a chance to relax in oceanfront hot springs surrounded by old-growth forest.
After a 2-kilometer boardwalk hike through the rainforest, you’ll be rewarded with warm pools carved into the coastal rocks, fed by mineral-rich spring water. It’s a serene escape perfect for nature lovers looking to unwind.
12
Discover Indigenous Culture
Learning about Indigenous heritage is one of the most enriching things to do on Vancouver Island. The island is home to many First Nations communities, and you can engage with their stories and traditions through cultural tours, art galleries, and events.
Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay to learn about the Kwakwaka’wakw people, or take part in guided canoe trips and traditional feasts. These experiences offer a deeper understanding of the island’s true history and living cultures.
13
Camp on the Juan de Fuca Trail
If you’re into multi-day hikes and coastal wilderness, camping on the Juan de Fuca Trail is both challenging and rewarding. The trail spans 47 kilometers along the island’s southwestern edge, featuring rugged cliffs, hidden beaches, and misty rainforests.
Campsites are spread out along the trail. They provide nature experiences and beautiful ocean views. Whether you hike the whole trail or just a part, it will be a memorable journey.


14
Explore the Town of Chemainus
Visiting the mural-filled town of Chemainus is one of the most artistic things to do on Vancouver Island. Known for its more than 40 vibrant outdoor murals, Chemainus tells the story of its past through public art.
Stroll through the quaint streets, enjoy boutique shops, and catch a play at the Chemainus Theatre Festival. It’s a perfect day trip filled with creativity and charm.
15
Take a Scenic Drive on the Pacific Marine Circle Route
Driving the Pacific Marine Circle Route is one of the most scenic things to do on Vancouver Island. This loop takes you from Victoria to Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, and Duncan. It shows some of the island’s best coastal and forest views.
Along the way, stop at beaches, waterfalls, and local eateries. The route is ideal for road trip lovers seeking hidden gems and local experiences.

16
Fish in Campbell River
Fishing in Campbell River is one of the most classic things to do on Vancouver Island. Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” this town offers opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, guided tours can take you trolling for chinook salmon or fly fishing in scenic rivers. The experience is both exciting and peaceful.

17
Explore Hornby Island
One of the most relaxing and laid-back things to do on Vancouver Island is taking a ferry to Hornby Island. Known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and artsy atmosphere, Hornby is a summer favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Enjoy hiking, biking, and snorkeling, or simply soak in the calm island vibes. The community is welcoming, and local markets and festivals offer a taste of the island’s bohemian culture.
18
Go Caving in Horne Lake Caves
For an underground adventure, exploring Horne Lake Caves is one of the most thrilling things to do on Vancouver Island. Located near Qualicum Beach, the park offers guided tours through a series of limestone caves.
Learn about geology as you crawl, climb, and marvel at stalactites and crystal formations. It’s a unique and educational activity for families and thrill-seekers alike.
19
Watch the Sunset at
Sombrio Beach
Catching a sunset at Sombrio Beach is one of the most magical things to do on Vancouver Island. This hidden beach along the Juan de Fuca coast is known for its dramatic cliffs, surf waves, and secluded waterfall.
It’s a favorite spot for photographers, surfers, and campers looking to experience nature at its most raw and beautiful. The golden hour here is unforgettable.



20
Visit Coombs Old Country Market
Stopping at Coombs Old Country Market is one of the quirkiest things to do on Vancouver Island. Located near Parksville and the small town of Qualicum Beach, this market is famous for the goats that graze on its grass-covered roof.
Inside, you’ll find international foods, baked goods, unique gifts, and a bustling atmosphere. A great pit stop for families and travelers looking for a fun and memorable experience.

Looking for water adventures, forest walks, or delicious food on the island?
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What other things to do on
Vancouver Island?
Vancouver Island has amazing attractions, adventures, and landscapes for families to enjoy. Sports lovers will have even more fun exploring all the exciting activities available on the island.