Welcome to Vancouver Island! An island that is roughly the same size as Belgium. Vancouver Island is the perfect destination for whale watching. But you can also enjoy endless hikes through nature and take in breathtaking views.

There’s plenty to explore on Vancouver Island to keep you entertained for a few days. We recommend spending at least 3 full days on the island.

Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, often ranking in the top 10 on various lists. From March to October, you can spot many different whale species as they migrate through the Pacific Ocean. Vancouver Island is a popular stop along the migration routes of many whale species, as the waters around the island provide a rich feeding ground.

The cold waters surrounding Vancouver Island make it an ideal habitat for orcas (killer whales). On the northern side of the island, the best time to spot orcas is between July and September, while in the south, it’s between May and September.

In addition to orcas, you can also spot gray whales and humpback whales near Vancouver Island. The best time to see these species is along the west coast in April and May, as they travel from Mexico to the Bering Sea. They often make a stop at Vancouver Island to calf and enjoy the abundant food.

Hop into a zodiac boat and race across the water! A whale-watching tour is an unforgettable experience. Besides whales, you’re also likely to encounter sea lions, seals, and porpoises.

Tofino is a small town where you can fully enjoy the beach. From here, you can visit Chesterman Beach, Cox Bay Beach, and Long Beach. These beaches are vast, with Long Beach stretching an impressive 16 kilometers (10 miles). The beaches are perfect for soaking in the rugged landscape and are a popular spot for surfing or learning to surf. MacKenzie Beach is another option, offering calmer waters, making it an excellent choice for families with children or for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).

The Wild Pacific Trail is a hiking route along the west coast of Vancouver Island. The story behind the creation of this trail is quite remarkable. Jim Martin wanted to build a trail along the rugged coastline of Ucluelet, allowing everyone to enjoy the stunning nature. He first began discussing the project with the government in 1980 to seek approval. Ultimately, construction began in 1999, and since then, sections of the trail have been continuously expanded. Jim Martin financed the entire project with the help of donors. Thanks to his efforts, you can now experience the breathtaking, wild landscapes. The Wild Pacific Trail website provides a detailed map of the hiking routes.

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia, which is a bit surprising since Vancouver is also in British Columbia and much larger. Victoria is named after Queen Victoria. The city has a British vibe, with many buildings from the colonial era still standing. The most impressive building is the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. This is the provincial parliament building, where important decisions are made. The building is located near the harbor and boasts beautiful architecture. You can also take a tour inside. Additionally, it’s lovely to walk along the harbor and visit Fisherman’s Wharf, where colorful houses line the water. End your day with a traditional afternoon tea at the Pendray Inn and Tea House.

Strathcona Provincial Park is the oldest park in British Columbia and is located in the heart of the island. It’s a rugged area with tall trees and snow-capped mountain peaks, where the snow remains year-round. The park also features lakes, rivers, and streams, making it a perfect destination for hiking through nature. The park offers a variety of hiking routes, ranging from short trails of about 20 minutes to multi-day hikes. On the park's website, you’ll find safety information and a map to help plan your adventure.

Another impressive natural area is the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. In this national park, you'll find plenty of rugged, forested areas, but it’s also located by the water, which means there are beautiful beaches to enjoy. You can hike various routes, or you might prefer kayaking, biking, or surfing. The park offers a wide range of activities suited for nature lovers and adventure seekers. On their website, you can find up-to-date information about park hours, activities, and fees.

Benson Creek Falls Regional Park is a relatively small park where you can enjoy walking through the forests. It’s a popular area among locals. In the park, you can take a pleasant hike to Ammonite Falls. From the park entrance, you can follow signs that will guide you to the falls. You can also choose to take a hike via AllTrails, such as this 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) trail.