British Colombia
British Columbia, located on the west coast of Canada, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant urban centers. The province is characterized by majestic mountains, lush forests, and an extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean. Vancouver, the largest city, is known for its multicultural atmosphere, thriving arts scene, and proximity to outdoor activities, including skiing in the nearby Rockies and hiking in lush national parks like Garibaldi and Pacific Rim.
Victoria, the provincial capital, offers a charming blend of historic architecture and beautiful gardens, including the famous Butchart Gardens. British Columbia is also home to Indigenous cultures, with numerous First Nations communities and cultural sites. With its mild climate, breathtaking scenery, and a focus on sustainability, British Columbia is a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking adventure in nature.
Recommendations
Bowen Island
Just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, Bowen Island is a coastal gem in British Columbia. With its lush forests, dramatic shorelines, and charming villages, the island offers a perfect blend of beauty and tranquility. Opt to walk on the ferry to explore the harbor town Snug Cove and nearby trails, or bring your car on to explore the entire island.
Food:
Tell Your Friends Cafe - great food, great people, great prices (for an island)! The breakfast sandwich was delicious and filling
Tuscany Restaurant - homemade pizza and pasta, sit outside under the vines and lights (they’ll bring you blankets if it gets cold), the specials menu rotates to highlights local produce, as other spots in Snug Cove - expect higher prices on the island
Snug Cove Harbor
Points of Interest:
Killarney Lake - access this trail easily from town. This moderate trail leads you through the forest and can aid in a healthy appetite for dinner to follow
Killarney Lake
Lake Cowichan
Lake Cowichan, located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, is a freshwater lake surrounded by lush forests and mountains. The area is known for its recreational opportunities like swimming, floating, boating, and fishing. This spot is worth the stop if passing by!
Points of Interest:
Saywell Park - if you’re looking to swim or launch from your paddle board or kayak, this would be the spot to go. A small dock juts out into crystal clear water, friendly to humans and dogs alike
A Paddle Along The Cowichan RiverPort Renfrew & Sombrio Beach
Points of Interest:
Botanical Beach - an easy loop best observed at low tide. Features include tide pools, rock formations, and whale sightings
Sombrio Beach - best known for it’s beachside camping and surf culture, this gem of a stop takes you through the rainforest to a secluded beach. Take your board out in late summertime to catch a wave next to a 50 foot whale. Note - you can overnight in the lot
Port Renfrew, located on Vancouver Island, is a charming coastal village renowned for its natural beauty, access to old-growth rainforests, and outdoor adventures like hiking, surfing, and kayaking, making it a haven for nature lovers and explorers.
Tent camping at Sombrio Beach
Surfing alongside whales at Sombio Beach
Squamish
Squamish is an outdoor playground, with the massive cliffs of the Chief and stunning scenery all around. The town houses trendy eateries, local shops, and friendly folks. Whether you’re into rock climbing, hiking, or just soaking in the views, it’s a spot that’s hard to beat.
Eateries/Drinkeries
Fox and Oak - a popular coffee and bakery. Their menu has classics and seasonal options. The donuts are unique and made with love
Raincity Distillery - a small batch distillery, each drink is hand crafted with spirits and syrups made in house and enjoyed in their cozy lounge
Flipside Burger - located inside Aframe Brewing, visit this spot to complete the ultimate duo - a burger and a beer
Outdoor Seating at Fox and Oak
Hikes/Sights
Stawamus Chief First, Second, and Third Peak Loop
Distance: 3.6 mi
Elevation: 2,142 ft
Route Type: loop
Difficulty: Hard
Highlights: short but steep! Hiking experience is preferred for this high elevation hike. We recommend to trek to the third peak first, then work your way around to the second then first. Fun fact - we got engaged on the third peak!
Stawamus Chief, Third Peak
Distance: 5.4 mi
Elevation: 1,385 ft
Route Type: loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: this hike is a bit closer to Whistler, we’d recommend it if you end up in that area. This hike features views of the forest, loggers lake, and a ragging river. Go counterclockwise for the best experience
Loggers Lake
Tofino
Tofino is a bustling adventure town. Folks visit for it’s welcoming surf scene, scenic kayak and water plane tours, and the expansive food scene. Expect crowds and high prices during the peak season. Paid parking and overnight restrictions mean you’ll need to book a campground or cottage in this town.
Campgrounds:
Location: nestled along MacKenzie Beach
Highlights: the lowest rates midweek in September. Rates are higher on weekends and before labor day. No access to surf from this location, the calm water is best situated for swimming or paddling. Trees help divide space between the small campsites.
Beachfront Camping at Bella Pacifica
Location: beachside at Cox Bay
Highlights: easy access to a popular break, the campground offers surf rentals/lessons. The campground has unlimited hot showers and modern facilities. We found the sites to be tight, overpriced and lacking character, so we ultimately decided not to stay here
Location: an hour east of Tofino, a secluded lakeside spot located 5 miles down a dirt road
Highlights: easy lakeside access to Sproat lake, great for swimming or launching a paddle board or kayak. The only people you’ll see here are from the other 29 campsites.
Note: pit toilets, no water, no service, 6 FCFS spots available
Spot 25 at Snow Creek - features direct access to lakeEateries/Drinkeries
Vancouver
Blurb about town
Points of Interest:
Victoria
Blurb about town
Points of Interest: