West Coast Wonders
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and laid-back charm of British Columbia’s west coast. This unforgettable itinerary takes you from the vibrant urban energy of Vancouver to the tranquil shores of the Sunshine Coast, and onward to the wild, windswept landscapes of Vancouver Island. Along the way, you’ll experience lush coastal rainforests, charming seaside towns, and awe-inspiring ocean views.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 : Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver, British Columbia’s largest city known for its stunning natural scenery nestled between the mountains and Pacific Ocean. Check into your hotel for a 1-night stay. Depending on your arrival time you may want to spend the afternoon exploring Granville Island, shopping on Robson Street or taking a walk on the Seawall.
Day 2 : Sunshine Coast – West Coast Wilderness Lodge
Collect your car hire this morning and take the BC Ferry service first from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, and enjoy a beautiful coastal drive to West Coast Wilderness Lodge in Egmont. Check in for a 2-night stay and unwind amidst lush rainforest and dramatic ocean views.
Day 3 : West Coast Wilderness Lodge
The day is free for you to enjoy optional lodge activities such as kayaking, hiking, or a wildlife adventure tour. Enjoy a gourmet dinner overlooking the water and a peaceful night under the stars.
Day 4 : Campbell River
This morning drive to Earls Cove and take the ferry to Saltery Bay. Continue to Powell River, and take the ferry to Comox on Vancouver Island and arrive in Campbell River for a 2-night stay.
Day 5 : Campbell River
Today brings a highlight of your trip to Vancouver Island. Enjoy a whale watching excursion from Campbell River. Explore the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. With an abundance of wildlife in the area, you’re likely to encounter Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins.
Day 6 : Parksville
Leave Campbell River and travel south to the seaside community of Parksville. Enjoy the scenic journey through the island’s forests and coastal landscapes before checking in for the night with the remainder of the day free to explore at your leisure.
Day 7 : Tofino
Continue west today towards the dramatic Pacific coastline and beautifully rugged Tofino. Stop at the colourful Coombs Market on your drive, famous for its eclectic shops, cafes and local produce and of course the goats on the roof. Arrive in Tofino later this afternoon.
Day 8 : Tofino
Today is another unforgettable wildlife experience as you venture into sheltered waters and coastal inlets by zodiac in search of black bears feeding from the shoreline. The combination of rugged coastline and rainforest provide the perfect backdrop to abundant wildlife sightings.
Day 9 : Salt Spring Island
Make your way to Salt Spring Island today, renowned for its laid-back atmosphere and artisan communities. Check in for a relaxing 2-night stay.
Day 10 : Salt Spring Island
Enjoy a free day on Salt Spring Island, giving you the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Discover local galleries and artisan studios, browse the island’s independent shops and markets, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. With no scheduled excursions today, you can make the most of island life at your leisure.
Day 11 : Victoria
Continue towards Victoria today, the elegant capital of British Columbia. You may wish to stop at one of the wineries in the Cowichan Valley for lunch. As you arrive in Victoria, settle into your hotel for a 2-night stay.
Day 12 : Victoria
Discover the highlights of beautiful Victoria today. The city combines historic British character with a distinctly West Coast atmosphere, with elegant architecture, colourful gardens and a picturesque waterfront. Your day also includes a spectacular float-plane flightseeing panorama tour, offering breathtaking aerial views of Victoria, the surrounding coastline and Vancouver Island. The remainder of the day is free to explore this charming city.
Day 13 : Vancouver
Take the ferry across the Strait of Georgia today as you head back to Vancouver. Sit back and enjoy the coastal scenery as you make your way to the mainland. Return your car hire downtown and later experience Vancouver’s vibrant restaurant scene.
Day 14 : Vancouver
Today is yours to enjoy Vancouver at leisure. Perhaps explore the vibrant waterfront, wander through Stanley Park, browse the shops and cafés of downtown, or simply soak up the spectacular mountain-and-ocean setting. It is the perfect opportunity to revisit a favourite spot or discover somewhere new before your journey home.
Day 15 : Vancouver departure
Make your way back to Vancouver Airport ahead of your departing flight as your time on the west coast comes to an end.