Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands

BeachVancouver Island has one of the most rare and beautiful eco-systems on earth. And at 32,261 sq. km (12,456 sq. miles) – almost twice the size of Hawaii – there is lots to explore. Yet it’s possible to take many interesting day trips or see the entire island, which is 483 km (300 miles) long, in just a few days. Old growth forests, sandy beaches, beautiful waterfalls and provincial parks are within an hour or so driving time of Victoria. There are many quaint towns, cities and resorts "up-island" that are close to ski hills, seaside spas and other pleasures.

lighthousePopular destinations. The island’s population of 700,000 is spread over seven cities and dozens of little towns and villages, each with its own story. The mid-coast resort community of Parksville is renowned for its sandy beaches. The rugged North Coast is famous worldwide for great fishing in spectacular settings. Out in the west, the rain-soaked forests and beaches of Pacific Rim National Park are a ‘can’t miss’ for camping families, storm watchers and surfers alike. And only on Vancouver Island can you golf and ski on the same vacation.

Parks from coast to coast to coast. We take our beautiful environment seriously here. Some 13% of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands is parkland and protected area. There are two national parks and more than 130 provincial parks, like the ancient forests of the Carmanah Valley on the island’s west coast, and the gigantic Strathcona in the mountainous interior.

Tofino

Vancouver Island - West Coast - TofinoVisitors will not want to miss Tofino, a unique temperate rainforest experience and one of Vancouver Island’s ‘must see’ places. With wild Pacific surf pounding the wide and sandy beaches, trees that seem to reach up forever, and the beautiful mountains that frame the waters of Clayoquot Sound, Tofino truly calms the soul and is the perfect year-round getaway. The coastline of Tofino is best explored on a surfboard, and eager riders come from around the globe in an attempt to tame the mighty waves of the world-famous Long Beach. The beach is an attraction in itself, offering a sandy stretch of coastline that is perfect for a day of fun or a leisurely stroll. Occasionally, the powerful Pacific Ocean unleashes its fury in an awesome display of natural prowess. Watching these storms is the latest activity in Tofino, and one that is unique to the Pacific Rim. However, storm watching is a sport that is best done from the comfort of an indoor fireside seat.

Nanaimo

Located on Vancouver Island, 111 km (69 miles) north of Victoria, Nanaimo is a former mining community that has been transformed into an all-purpose destination, offering a mixture of natural attractions, recreational opportunities and historical significance. Surrounded by mountains, lakes and a seasonal rain forest, this area offers dozens of outdoor activities. The secluded nature of the area allows for exceptional opportunities to view a variety of wildlife.

Bungy JumpingThe more adventuresome who want to get that ultimate adrenalin rush can visit the world-famous Bungy Zone Adrenalin Centre, where you can bungy jump from North America’s first legal custom made bungee jumping bridge over the Nanaimo river, hit radical speeds on the ultimate swing or ride the high-speed zip line through the River canyon. You can bungee jump “classic style” or join the growing group of naked bungee jumpers that gather annually to “let it all hang out” as they bungee jump in the buff.

DivingThose who are willing to brave the cold waters of the Pacific may want to visit some of Nanaimo's famous artificial reefs and see why Jacques Cousteau has dubbed Western Canada's coastline the second best overall diving location in the world after the Red Sea, and the best cold-water diving location in the world.

Reward yourself after a day of adventure with a pint at Canada’s only floating pub, Dinghy Dock Floating Marine Pub. Nanaimo is also home to a major BC Ferries terminal linking Nanaimo and Vancouver, located at Duke Point.

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