British Columbia

10 best places for weekend getaways from Victoria, BC

06 Jun 2026Updated last time

Discover Idyllic Weekend Getaways from Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC, is a vibrant city with an abundance of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern amenities. However, sometimes the lure of exploring nearby gems becomes irresistible. Whether you're looking for a tranquil retreat, an adventure in nature, or a taste of local art and culture, the surrounding regions offer myriad options for a perfect weekend escape. From the scenic vineyards of Cowichan Valley to the rugged coastal beauty of Tofino, there is no shortage of amazing destinations just a short distance away from Victoria. Dive into our curated list of top getaway spots that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and offer memorable experiences. Each location has its unique charm and attractions, ensuring that every visit feels like a new adventure. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on an unforgettable journey to these fantastic spots around Victoria, BC.

Recommended Activities

  • 1

    Salt Spring Island

    Salt Spring Island offers a blend of natural beauty and artistic culture. It is known for its local artisans, farmers' markets, and stunning landscapes, making it perfect for relaxation and exploration.
    Google Maps
  • 2

    Tofino

    Tofino is renowned for its pristine beaches, surfing opportunities, and lush rainforests. It is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
    Google Maps
  • 3

    Sidney

    Sidney is a charming seaside town that boasts beautiful waterfront views, whale watching tours, and a variety of boutique shops and restaurants. It is a wonderful destination for a peaceful and scenic weekend getaway.
    Google Maps
  • 4

    Cowichan Valley

    Cowichan Valley is known for its picturesque vineyards, artisanal food producers, and scenic landscapes. It's an excellent destination for wine tasting, gourmet dining, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
    Google Maps
  • 5

    Nanaimo

    Nanaimo offers a mix of urban and natural attractions, from its historic downtown with unique shops and restaurants to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking. Don't miss trying the famous Nanaimo bar dessert.
    Google Maps
  • 6

    Galiano Island

    Galiano Island is a tranquil retreat with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and artistic communities. Perfect for a peaceful escape, the island offers stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
    Google Maps
  • 7

    Duncan

    Duncan, known as the 'City of Totems,' is rich in Indigenous culture and history. It's a great place to explore art galleries, enjoy local cuisine, and learn about the region's heritage through its impressive collection of totem poles.
    Google Maps
  • 8

    Sooke

    Sooke is a nature lover's paradise offering rugged coastal landscapes, stunning beaches, and lush forests. It's perfect for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, making it ideal for those looking to escape into nature.
    Google Maps
  • 9

    Chemainus

    Chemainus is famous for its outdoor murals and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can enjoy walking tours of the murals, quaint shops, theatre performances, and a charming small-town atmosphere.
    Google Maps
  • 10

    Shawnigan Lake

    Shawnigan Lake offers a peaceful retreat with its serene lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. The surrounding area is great for hiking and exploring nature, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing weekend getaway.
    Google Maps

Restaurants

  • The Butchart Gardens Dining Room

    800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada
    Located in the stunning Butchart Gardens, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience surrounded by beautiful floral displays. Perfect for a serene and picturesque meal.
    4.7
    $$$$
    Google Maps

    • Tree House Cafe

      Salt Spring Island, 106 Purvis Ln, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2S5, Canada
      Situated in a historic house on Salt Spring Island, this cafe is known for its vibrant live music scene and fresh, locally sourced cuisine. The tree house setting adds a whimsical charm.
      4.5
      $$$$
      Google Maps

      • Sooke Harbour House

        1528 Whiffin Spit Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T4, Canada
        Overlooking the ocean in Sooke, this restaurant offers an exquisite farm-to-table dining experience with unparalleled views of the coastline. It's perfect for a romantic getaway.
        4.3
        Google Maps

      • True Grain Bread

        1735 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC V0R 0C2, Canada
        Located in Cowichan Bay, this artisanal bakery specializes in organic, freshly baked bread and pastries. It offers a unique culinary stop with a focus on sustainability and quality.
        4.7
        $$$$
        Google Maps

      • The Crow & Gate Pub

        2313 Yellow Point Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1W9, Canada
        Situated in Nanaimo, this charming English-style pub is set in a rural garden and offers a cozy atmosphere with traditional pub fare. It's a quintessential stop for something distinctly different.
        4.6
        $$$$
        Google Maps

        Hotels

        • The Wickaninnish Inn

          500 Osprey Ln, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0, Canada

          4.4
          5-star hotel
          Located in Tofino, this luxurious inn offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and a serene, nature-focused experience. It's known for its high-end amenities and exceptional service.

        • Salt Spring Island's Harbour House Hotel

          Salt Spring Island, 121 Upper Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2S2, Canada

          4.1
          3-star hotel
          This eco-friendly hotel on Salt Spring Island offers stunning waterfront views, locally sourced dining options, and a peaceful, relaxing atmosphere. Perfect for a quiet retreat.

        • Sooke's Points West Oceanfront Resort

          8969 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 1E7, Canada

          4.8
          3-star hotel
          Situated on the rugged coastline of Sooke, this resort offers luxurious oceanfront accommodations with panoramic views, making it ideal for a tranquil and scenic getaway.

        • Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa

          134 Madrona Dr, Galiano Island, BC V0N 1P0, Canada

          4.3
          Nestled on Galiano Island, this boutique hotel provides a serene escape with elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and easy access to beautiful natural surroundings.

        • The Free Spirit Spheres, Canada

          420 Horne Lake Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1Z7, Canada

          4.9
          Located near Qualicum Beach, this unique lodging experience offers guests the chance to stay in suspended, spherical treehouses. It's a truly one-of-a-kind stay immersed in nature.

          Local Events & Happenings

          • Picture for Sunfest Country Music Festival

            Sunfest Country Music Festival

            Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan (8.44 mi)31 Jul 2026
            The event will take place at Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan.
            Visit Website
          • Picture for Raffi

            Raffi

            Port Theatre in Nanaimo (23.91 mi)27 Mar 2027
            The event will take place at Port Theatre in Nanaimo.
            Visit Website
          • Picture for The Great Canadian Bash featuring Our Lady Peace + the Tea Party

            The Great Canadian Bash featuring Our Lady Peace + the Tea Party

            Starlight Stadium in Victoria (31.41 mi)27 Jun 2026
            The evening begins with a pre-party BBQ, the Great Canadian Cookout, beginning at 3:30 pm, with DJ Devlin setting the stage for the evening. Guests can sample a variety of BBQ offerings made with Canadian-raised ingredients, including hearty meats, t...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for The Flatliners with Special Guests

            The Flatliners with Special Guests

            Wheelies Motorcycles in Victoria (36 mi)4 Sep 2026
            Legal Age 19+ (Valid Photo I.D. Required)MODO-LIVE, The Plant & Wheelies Motorcycles present...THE FLATLINERSwith Special Guests Thursday Septemebr 3rd, 2026Wheelies Motorcycles Victoria, BC
            Visit Website
          • Picture for John Muirhead: The Never Ending Road Tour

            John Muirhead: The Never Ending Road Tour

            Lucky Bar in Victoria (36.54 mi)23 Nov 2026
            Legal Age 19+ (Valid Photo I.D. Required)MODO-LIVE PresentsJohn Muirhead: The Never Ending Road Tourw/ Special Guests Sunday, November 22nd 2026Lucky BarVictoria, BC
            Visit Website
          • Picture for The Guess Who: Takin' It Back Tour

            The Guess Who: Takin' It Back Tour

            Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria (36.57 mi)26 Aug 2026
            The event will take place at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria.
            Visit Website
          • Picture for Amistat

            Amistat

            Upstairs in Victoria (36.6 mi)22 Jul 2026
            Timbre Concerts presents Amistat With Guests.For more info on Timbre Concerts and their upcoming concerts visit www.timbreconcerts.com.
            Visit Website
          • Picture for Vieux Farka Touré with Special Guests

            Vieux Farka Touré with Special Guests

            Upstairs in Victoria (36.6 mi)12 Sep 2026
            Legal Age 19+ (Valid Photo I.D. Required)MODO-LIVE, The Plant & Caravan World Rythms PresentVIEUX FARKA TOURw/ Special Guests Friday, September 11th, 2026UpstairsVictoria, BC
            Visit Website
          • Picture for DUBWISE & DANCEHALL feat. Nico Supreme, Marcus Visionary, Skystar, Miss Diva, DJ Real West @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Fest

            DUBWISE & DANCEHALL feat. Nico Supreme, Marcus Visionary, Skystar, Miss Diva, DJ Real West @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Fest

            ENCORE in Victoria (36.62 mi)27 Jun 2026
            NOTE - This special presentation is NOT included with either Full Fest or VIP Full Fest passes and tickets must be purchased separately. Join us on Friday, June 26 after Ship Point comes to a close and Victoria Ska & Reggae Fest transforms ENCORE for...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for LAGWAGON, AGAINST ALL AUTHORITY, BAD COP BAD COP, MEAN BIKINI, VCS SOUND SYSTEM @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            LAGWAGON, AGAINST ALL AUTHORITY, BAD COP BAD COP, MEAN BIKINI, VCS SOUND SYSTEM @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            Victoria Curling Club in Victoria (36.64 mi)27 Jun 2026
            Victoria Ska and Reggae Fest marches on with an anarchic celebration of punk, ska, and beyond. For the second consecutive year, the festivals main headliner is a punk rock legend, further celebrating the genres influence on ska and reggae culture. La...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for THE BLACK SEEDS, FIVE ALARM FUNK, TANIKA CHARLES, LOS FURIOS, DJ KEMO @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            THE BLACK SEEDS, FIVE ALARM FUNK, TANIKA CHARLES, LOS FURIOS, DJ KEMO @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            Victoria Curling Club in Victoria (36.64 mi)28 Jun 2026
            Here at the Victoria Ska PARTYING. And with that in mind were going all out for a soulful, punky, dubby Saturday night Funk party. Coming all the way from the land of the long white cloud, New Zealand reggae-funk-rockers Getting things rowdy-rowdy wi...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for VICTORIA'S 27TH ANNUAL SKA & REGGAE FESTIVAL VIP & GENERAL ADMISSION FULL FEST EARLY BIRD PASSES

            VICTORIA'S 27TH ANNUAL SKA & REGGAE FESTIVAL VIP & GENERAL ADMISSION FULL FEST EARLY BIRD PASSES

            Ship Point (Inner Harbour) in Victoria (36.77 mi)24 Jun 2026
            Victorias 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival will run Wednesday, June 24 to Sunday, June 28, 2026. After celebrating the best attended year in our history in 2025, were ready for more in 2026! This will be our 27th straight edition and we are happy to...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH, CLINTON FEARON & THE BOOGIE BROWN BAND, MELAFRIQUE, MARCUS VISIONARY @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH, CLINTON FEARON & THE BOOGIE BROWN BAND, MELAFRIQUE, MARCUS VISIONARY @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            Ship Point (Inner Harbour) in Victoria (36.77 mi)26 Jun 2026
            We thought wed do something extra cool for Friday of Ska s beloved reggae troubadours BEDOUIN SOUNDCLASH return to the festival for the first time since their unforgettable appearance in 2022. Its been over 25 years since the release of their debut a...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for SOULS OF MISCHIEF, CHARLY BLACK, EVA LAZARUS, NICO SUPREME, SONIC ALLEY, TANK GYAL

            SOULS OF MISCHIEF, CHARLY BLACK, EVA LAZARUS, NICO SUPREME, SONIC ALLEY, TANK GYAL

            Ship Point (Inner Harbour) in Victoria (36.77 mi)27 Jun 2026
            Saturday in the Inner Harbour at Ship Point is always a special day during Ska Del the Funky Homosapien, Casual, Pep Love and the Souls of Mischief Opio, Tajai, Phesto and A-Plus. The quartets landmark album 93 Til Infinity remains one of the touchst...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for Jessi Cruickshank DJ's: Evening Club - A Dance Party

            Jessi Cruickshank DJ's: Evening Club - A Dance Party

            Studio 919 (Previously known as Wicket Hall) in Victoria (36.85 mi)6 Jun 2026
            Legal Age 19+ (Valid Photo I.D. Required)After three sold-out comedy tours, Jessi Cruickshank is launching Evening Club: a 710pm dance party for women, busy moms and queer folks who want a safe space to show up exactly as they are, dance to nostalgic...
            Visit Website
          • Picture for MINDIL BEACH, APEX BREAKS, THE NEW GROOVEMENT, DJ SUAR3Z @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            MINDIL BEACH, APEX BREAKS, THE NEW GROOVEMENT, DJ SUAR3Z @ Victoria's 27th Annual Ska & Reggae Festival

            Studio 919 (Previously known as Wicket Hall) in Victoria (36.85 mi)26 Jun 2026
            Three of our communitys grooviest groups, and some of our best friends, are coming together for a Thursday night party celebrating the diverse array of influences and talents that make our city so colourful. After a triumphant return at a jam-packed ...
            Visit Website

          Travel Gems from Reddit

          • No results found