5 of my favourite weekend getaways from Vancouver, from tiny islands to beach towns
The views expressed in this Opinion article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.
Spring is *almost* in the air, and if you're eager to take advantage of the warmer weather, it's time to start planning. When I lived in Vancouver a few years ago, I made it my mission to see as much as possible. This meant many weekends spent on BC Ferries and loading my car with road trip supplies. Time and time again, though, the journeys were well worth the beautiful destinations.
Vancouver's great, but there's something about escaping the city and exploring the slower-paced areas within arms' reach. I found some of the most breathtaking scenery and incredible nature in these spots, that I still daydream about.
While I still have a long bucketlist of things to see and do in B.C., these are my favourite weekend getaway spots from Vancouver.
Salt Spring Island
I warned you — I love a ferry ride. This island is the biggest of the Gulf Islands, and even though I just spent the day here, it would make an ideal weekend trip too.
Although it's tiny it packs a big punch in terms of things to do. There's art galleries, a bustling town with shops and restaurants, lavender fields to tour around, and cideries where you can try out some local brews.
What immediately caught my attention here was the charming roadside farmstands. Driving along you'll noice the stands scattered around the island, offering local goodies that you can buy, simply leaving your cash in a box. It's a trust system and a fun way to shop the local products.
The island also has scenic beaches with clear blue water, thick forests, and a beautiful waterfront boardwalk in town.
My stops included a stroll around Ganges, Salt Spring Wild Cider House for some sips, a visit to Lavender & Black, and an ocean dip at Beddis Beach.
Tofino
I know, I know. Everyone talks about this spot, and there are other less crowded, cheaper, and stunning small towns on Vancouver Island, but I can't help it – Tofino stole my heart.
To be fair, I did stay in the nearby town of Ucluelet — which is a bit less popular and was a great alternative — but there's nothing quite like Tofino. There's a reason why it draws people in from all around the world, especially in the summer months when you can take advantage of the sprawling beaches.
The few times I've gone here I've camped (accommodates are pricey), and I wouldn't have it any other way. Bella Pacifica Campground has sites right on the beach, so I went to sleep with the soundtrack of the waves and my toes hit the sand first thing in the morning.
The town centre is cute, with lots of shops and boutiques to check out, so make sure to spend some time exploring. The real intrigue here though is the nature. Lush rainforest sit alongside the white sand beaches, and you can rent a bike to take onto the long pathway that winds you through the beautiful scenery of the area.
It's also is known for it's surf-able waves, so definitely rent a board at one of the many shops in town or get a lesson.
Although it's about a six-hour trip from Vancouver (involving a ferry ride to Vancouver Island) I've done it for a weekend getaway. If you have the time though, I'd recommend a few extra days, because I guarantee you won't want to leave.
Whistler
This is another popular tourist destination, but I'd argue yet again that it's popular for good reason.
When I lived in Vancouver, I took a few weekend trips to Whistler, and then I ended up moving there for a year because I loved it so much. During the winter, of course, there's the intrigue of skiing, but it also makes a great spring and summer destination.
There's a small-town vibe, great restaurants, cute coffee shops, and endless outdoor activities.
On a warm day, you can rent a bike or walk along the paved trail system that runs throughout the area and take in the beautiful lakes, towering trees, and mountain views. Lost Lake is a favourite of mine for the summer, with lots of space to explore and beautiful water enclosed by a serene forest.
It's also just an hour and a half from the city, so it's an easy weekend getaway option.
Victoria
You're not escaping the city life by going to Victoria, but it feels like a retreat nonetheless. It's a smaller city with a more charming feel and a fun way to mix things up. You can try out new restaurants, stop at cute coffee shops, and shop at all the local boutiques.
For some extra relaxation, you can stay at Oak Bay Beach Hotel, which will leave you feeling pampered. They have hot pools along the ocean, so you can breathe in the salty air while soaking in the toasty waters.
The city is also close to some incredible natural features. I drove out to the Sooke Potholes when I stayed here, which is about 45 minutes away, and it felt like a little hidden slice of beauty. The unique rock formations are filled with deep emerald waters, and swimming through is a pretty unreal experience.
Juan de Fuca is also not too far and is famous for its coastal views. Mystic Beach is along the trail, and it has a breathtaking waterfall that cascades off a cliff into the ocean.
Victoria is one of my favourite cities in the country, and you can't go wrong with a weekend getaway there.
The Sunshine Coast
It's a 40-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to the Sunshine Coast, and this place is as dreamy as it sounds.If you want to explore Gibsons — the town right next to where the ferry drops you — then you could make it a day trip for sure. I definitely want to go back, though, and spend more time exploring the coast.
You can drive along the highway here and pass through many communities and stunning scenery. Sechelt is another great spot here with breathtaking beaches, parks, and a lively community.
If you're looking for natural beauty, cozy small-town vibes and beach days, the Sunshine Coast is perfect.
These are the spots I love most, so far, but there's a lot out there to be explored.
