7 of the best small towns near Vancouver to visit, according to locals
Want a weekend escape? Head here.
Small towns near Vancouver.
If you want a summer escape to round out the season, there are a handful of cute small towns near Vancouver that make for the perfect getaway. From quaint streets to seaside views, these spots are brimming with charm.
We polled the local Narcity audience to see what the best small towns near Vancouver are, and people came through with dreamy recommendations. So hop in the car and hit the road — these places will get you out of the city and soaking in the last bit of summer.
White Rock
This little beach town is technically a city, but it has all the small-town feels.
It's home to Canada's longest pier, which stretches far out into the water and gives the town a classic beachy feel. The town is picturesque in every way, though, from the cute shops along the waterfront to the sandy beaches. White Rock actually has eight kilometres of beach — divided into "East Beach" and "West Beach."
After going for a dip, you can visit one of the many restaurants nearby, or grab a scoop from Maya's Ice Cream to walk out onto the pier with. Time it right and you'll be rewarded with a stunning sunset here too.
It's just about an hour away from Vancouver, too, making it an easy escape on a nice day.
Hope
Around two hours from Vancouver, this little town is ideal for people looking to get out in nature. It's as scenic as it gets, surrounded by the river, deep gorges, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
Driving into town, you'll be greeted by view after view, and there are tons of ways to get out into nature here. Hiking trails wind all throughout the area, leading you into the vibrant forest. Not too far from this town is the beautiful Manning Park, which is full of incredible natural beauty, too.
It's all balanced out with a charming downtown, filled with local businesses to explore.
Gibsons
This stunning waterfront town is set on the Sunshine Coast, just a 40-minute ride on BC Ferries from West Vancouver.
While it's pretty close to the city, sailing across the water makes it feel like all your daily worries and stress have been left behind. The small town streets here overlook the water and are lined with local boutiques, eateries, and cafes — like The Black Bean Cafe and Beachcomber Coffee.
There's also a public market here that's open six days a week and the perfect spot to check out for fresh produce and yummy baked goods.
Beaches are all around here, but close by to Gibsons are Armour's Beach and Bonniebrook Beach.
Keep on driving along the coast and you'll also find a slew of other communities worth visiting. The Sunshine Coast is the kind of place you go and never really want ot leave.
Steveston
If you want a super easy escape from Vancouver, drive 30 minutes to this cozy neighbourhood that feels like it's the set of a Hallmark movie. Charm is bursting at the seams of this town, with a picturesque wharf, a donut shop, and fish 'n chips to eat by the water. You can even go whale watching from here for a little adventure out on the water.
It's all wholesome vibes and pretty scenery in this place.
Qualicum Beach
"Close" is a bit subjective, but locals named this pretty small town on Vancouver Island as a go-to from Vancouver. It'll take you about three and a half hours to reach it, and a ferry ride is involved, but it's worth the journey.
Any spot on Vancouver Island is basically guaranteed to be beautiful, but Qualicum Beach has a special charm to it. It's not too crowded, has that cute small-town feel, and is near sandy beaches.
There's a waterfront walkway that makes for an easy stroll with incredible views, and a bustling downtown village to explore. The farmer's market here runs every Saturday, so you can check out some of the local artisans and business owners.
Beach days are a must here too, with long stretches of sand to walk along and beachy weather. According to the tourism website, Parksville Qualicum Beach is also "one of the sunniest and warmest spots" on the island. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park and Parksville Beach are go-tos in the area.
Fort Langley
This is another go-to for people who don't want to go too far from Vancouver, since it's tucked away less than an hour outside of the city.
Fort Langley is the epitome of a quaint small town, to the point that you'll feel like you may see Rory Gilmore rounding the corner any minute. It's a tiny village with cozy streets and idyllic farms surrounding it — plus, it was even named among the most charming in the country.
Right in the historic village, you'll find cute shops and storybook-like cafes like Wendel's Bookstore & Cafe. The market here — The Fort Langley Village Farmers' Market — runs on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., making for the ideal wholesome summer weekend activity.
Bowen Island
Time to hop on the ferry again, but this time the trip is only 20 minutes. Even though it's close by, it still feels like a world away.
The ferry will take you right into Snug Cove here, a short walk from local restaurants, cafes, and stores. It's yet another idyllic water from community that perfectly balances things to do and a slow pace.
The Snug Cafe is the spot to go for a cofee, and then you can head up to Artisan Square for some shopping. If you feel like getting your heart rate up, you can take on the Mount Gardner hike, and be rewarded with an unreal view. Renting a bike from Bowen eBikes, or going for a kayaking tour, are also great ways to explore here.
If you want a more relaxed vibe, you can relax on the pebble-filled beaches of the island and just enjoy the views.
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.