9 Of The Best Things To See And Do On Vancouver Island

Exploring Vancouver Island

I will be honest that there is a list of hundreds of things to do the area and someone who truly wants to explore it should go for a couple weeks minimum. It's truly one of the most beautiful areas of the world, with tons of parks, villages, and just the most amazing nature and outdoor experiences one can have.

We are just going to cover 9 of the best things to do and see because we are writing a blog post and not a novel; which is required to truly cover all the amazing things that are available on Vancouver Island.

Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens, located in Brentwood Bay, is a must-visit for garden enthusiasts. Spanning over 55 acres, these world-renowned gardens feature beautifully manicured landscapes, stunning floral displays, and tranquil walking paths. A visit here is like stepping into a vibrant, living painting.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada
Operating Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM (seasonal variations may apply).

Pacific Rim National Park

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve offers breathtaking coastal scenery, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. The park is divided into three regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail, each providing unique opportunities for hiking, surfing, and kayaking.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: British Columbia, Canada
Operating Hours: Open year-round, but specific facilities and trails may have seasonal hours.

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum is one of Canada's greatest cultural treasures. It offers immersive exhibits that cover the natural and human history of British Columbia, including the impressive First Peoples Gallery.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: 675 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8W 9W2, Canada
Operating Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Tofino

Tofino, a charming town on the island's west coast, is a haven for surfers, nature lovers, and foodies. Known for its pristine beaches, such as Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay, Tofino also offers incredible whale watching and the chance to relax in natural hot springs.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0, Canada
Operating Hours: Vary by attraction and business

Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove, located in MacMillan Provincial Park, is home to a collection of ancient Douglas fir and red cedar trees, some over 800 years old. Walking among these giants is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience and makes for some amazing kodak moments to place on the shelf at home.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: Alberni Hwy, Nanaimo, BC V9G 1L8, Canada
Operating Hours: Open year-round, 24 hours a day.

Victoria's Inner Harbour

Victoria's Inner Harbour is the heart of the city, bustling with activity and surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll, taking in sights like the Fairmont Empress Hotel and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: Victoria, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Vary by attraction and business

Cowichan Valley Wine Tour

The Cowichan Valley is known for its burgeoning wine scene. A wine tour through this region offers the chance to taste award-winning wines, enjoy scenic vineyard views, and experience the local food culture. Check out a list of the top wineries on in Cowichan Valley.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, BC, Canada
Operating Hours: Vary by winery; typically open daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Whale Watching in Telegraph Cove

Telegraph Cove is one of the best places on the island for whale watching. From here, you can embark on tours to see orcas, humpbacks, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. Here is a one of my favorite travel blogs that talk about the Whale watching, as well as many other amazing things to do in Telegraph Cove.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: Telegraph Cove, BC V0N 3J0, Canada
Operating Hours: Vary by tour company; typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the season.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is a premier destination for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. In the summer, it offers excellent hiking and mountain biking trails with stunning panoramic views.

Location and Operating Hours

Address: 1 Strathcona Pkwy, Mt Washington, BC V9J 1L0, Canada
Operating Hours: Vary by season; typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM for lifts.

Vancouver Island offers a an incredible range of activities and sights that cater to all interests. Whether you're exploring ancient forests, relaxing in beautiful gardens, indulging in local wine, kayaking, camping, or park hopping, your time on the island will be filled with unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime on Vancouver Island.