Curator’s statement
I had the joy of growing up on Vancouver Island and being able to return frequently after leaving home. I take immense pride in my little slice of Canadian West Coast paradise, and great joy in being able to share some of my favorite places with others. Vancouver Island is one of those places where you could spend a few hours to a few days in any of the places you choose to visit, and leave feeling relaxed and refreshed. With beaches, coastal rainforests, mountains and city life, there is something for everyone.
The Fora Difference
Book with Caitlin to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Caitlin to book your trip.
Day 1: Arrive in Victoria
Plan your trip to arrive in Victoria either by airplane, Victoria International Airport, float plane by Harbour Air or boat by BC Ferries. No matter how you arrive, make your way to down-town Victoria. Victoria feels like a little slice of Europe with double-decker buses, historical buildings and cobblestone streets.
Grab Lunch at Barb's Fish & Chips in Fisherman's Wharf and take a stroll by the houseboats. Then make your way into downtown via the Water Taxi. See the Fairmont Empress and the BC Provincial Parliament Building from the water.
Check out the main tourist shops, local boutiques and maybe stop for tea in the Fairmont Empress.
Day 2: Nanaimo BC
Make your way North on the Island Highway, ending for the day in Nanaimo, BC. Stop along the Malahat for a view, or walk the Skywalk. Be sure to try a Nanaimo Bar from one of the stops on the Nanaimo Bar trail. Take some time to walk along the Nanaimo Harbor and enjoy dinner at The View Oceanside Grill. Looking for something more casual? Check out the short boat ride and dine at the Dinghy Dock Pub on Protection Island.
Day 3: Surf town of Tofino
Head West of Nanaimo to the World-Renowned Surf town of Tofino. On the way, stop at the Coombs Market. See the spectacle of Goats on the Roof take a look inside and pick up some fresh baked goods for the road. Vancouver Island is home to Cathedral Grove, a preservation of Old Growth forest unique to the island. Stop here to stretch your legs and take in this awe-inspiring space. Tofino has plenty of beaches to explore as well as cafes, restaurants, the terminus of the Trans-Canada Highway and cute shops to explore. Take a surf lesson, build your own picnic or check out art by World-renowned Canadian First Nations artist Roy Henry Vickers gallery.
Need to know
If traveling by BC Ferries on a weekend or summer months, be sure to plan ahead. Ferries fill up fast and you can secure your spot ahead of time by making a reservation!
There are plenty of fantastic wineries, distilleries, breweries and ciders on Vancouver Island. You will also find many opportunities to get out and hike, mountain bike, ski/snowboard in the winter or check out some water sports like sailing or kayaking.
Let's talk about customizing this itinerary for you. Or, about other destinations.
Travel Advisor
Caitlin Sommers
Get in touch with Caitlin
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Caitlin within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to Vancouver. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Gillian Spatz's guide, Vancouver: Where Natural Beauty Meets Cultural Riches, an Eclectic Traveler's Paradise.