An enchanting island a ferry away from Vancouver is home to Canada's 'prettiest small towns'
You'll never want to leave. ✨
A beautiful island with the prettiest small towns in Canada.
Small towns are dotted around this island, each one offering a unique charm, local artisans, and intrigue. The common theme among them, though, is breathtaking natural beauty. From long stretches of sand to moss-covered rainforests — this island is full of incredible wonder.
BC Ferries connects it to Vancouver, making it a go-to escape for city dwellers looking to slow down and reconnect with nature.
We turned to the Narcity audience to see what the "prettiest small towns in Canada" are, from coast to coast. Canada has no shortage of beauty, but Vancouver Island spots stood out time and time again.
Readers dubbed many Vancouver Island small towns as the prettiest in the country, so there's only one thing to do — a Vancouver Island road trip to hit up them all.
From popular tourist hubs like Tofino to low-key hidden gems like Comox, there's a lot to see on the island.
If you sail across the ocean on BC Ferries from Vancouver, you'll either arrive in Victoria or Nanaimo — both great cities to start a trip from. Victoria is the bigger of the two, offering a vibrant charm and lots to do and see.
Nanimo is smaller, with a more eclectic vibe. Think thrift shopping and cool cafes on a visit here. While it's a city, readers did add Nanimo to the list of the country's prettiest towns.
A short drive from the small city though and you'll find a few of the tiny towns named among Canada's prettiest.
Just 30 minutes down the road is beautiful Qualicum Beach, which was shouted out multiple times. This idyllic town is surrounded by miles of sand and sparkling ocean views. It's low-key but still has a lively feel with lots of shops, restaurants, and cute boutiques to explore.
Right outside of town, you'll find lush old-growth forest to explore, adding to that perfect blend of tranquil nature and small town charm.
Drive an hour further and you'll hit Comox — yet another adorable seaside town with coastal charm. This bustling spot has a lot on the go, with picturesque streets that make you feel like you're in a Hallmark movie.
Of course, there's also brilliant natural beauty woven throughout the town, with stunning beaches, an idyllic waterfront, and vibrant natural surroundings all around.
The theme of Vancouver Island towns? Beauty is all around.
Closer to Victoria, you'll find more of the towns named in the poll, including Ladysmith. It's about an hour and a half from the city but is bursting with small-town charm. Nestled in the Cowichan region, there are local farms, art galleries, and small communities scattered around the area that are worth checking out, too.
Ladysmith is especially stunning though, with historic streets and lots of local shops ot explore. First Avenue here is where you'll find cute cafes and shops to check out.
Heading towards Victoria is yet another small town that's beloved by Canadians — Sidney. It's tucked away just 30 minutes from Victoria, but still feels removed from the bustle of it all.
The small community is as scenic as it gets, with a long pier stretching out in the water, cozy cafes, and local bookstores.
Tofino is also a must-visit spot on the island, worth the three-hour drive from Nanaimo to see the unique coastline, which features everything from sandy beaches to vibrant rainforest.
Ucluelet is another spot, just 30 minutes from Tofino, that offers a slower pace and often fewer crowds.
This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to beautiful places on Vancouver Island. Scattered all around are stunning communities and natural wonders.
If you want a trip full of small-town charm, natural beauty, and endless views – this is the spot to go.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.