Vancouver Island in British Columbia is one of the best tourist destinations in Canada and on the North American west coast. Learn about the top things to do in Vancouver Island, BC, with our visitor guide below!
Whale Watching
If you’ve always wanted to witness the majestic beauty and incredible power of some of the earth’s most awe-inspiring creatures, there are few better places to do it than Vancouver Island. There’s no shortage of places for whale watching on Vancouver Island, like Nanaimo, Victoria, and Tofino—each with many boats and cruises running all day for whale watchers.
On a whale-watching tour around Victoria Island, you can expect to see orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, and other marine life like sea lions! Whale watching has to be at the top if you’re putting together a checklist of the top things to do in Vancouver Island, BC.
Admire the View from the Malahat Skywalk
Vancouver Island is known for its incredibly scenic views, and there’s no better place to admire the stunning landscapes than the top of Malahat Skywalk. One of the most recent additions to the island, the Malahat Skywalk, is a multi-tiered spiral tower that stretches over 100 feet over the local forest and 250 feet above sea level.
See Mount Baker, Finlayson Arm, the Saanich Peninsula, and more of Vancouver Island, all from the lofty perch of the Malahat Skywalk. While at the top, take the experience further by relaxing on the Adventure Net that suspends above the tower and gives visitors a full view of the forest and structure below!
Tour Victoria and Its Historic Buildings
While Vancouver Island is known for its natural wonders and scenic landscapes, don’t underestimate the human-made beauty of the city of Victoria, its harbor, and its historical buildings. A bike tour is an excellent way to see everything the historic city offers, from the coastal shoreside to the British Columbia Legislature building.
The legislature building is a remarkable architectural feat offering daily guided and self-guided tours, and you may even see some Canadian politicians at work! And no trip to Victoria is complete without experiencing afternoon tea at one of the many tearooms in the city.
Hike One of the Many Stunning Trails
Vancouver Island has plenty of trails to offer, ranging in difficulty and landscape, for outdoor adventurers who want to hike or camp to connect with nature personally. The island is replete with gorgeous hiking trails through various parks and forests, like:
- Rainforest trail
- West coast trail
- Wild pacific trail
- Juan de Fuca Marine trail
- North coast trail
- And more!
Each trail offers a unique experience for hikers; you’ll be amazed they’re all on the same island!
Where To Stay on Vancouver Island
You’ll need a place to stay when visiting Vancouver Island! Sointula Lodge is one of the premier luxury wilderness resorts in BC and offers guided fishing tours, wilderness tours, and luxurious amenities from the intimate and beautiful setting of Malcolm Island. Learn more about Sointula Lodge and book your stay today!