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16 Mar 2025Updated last time
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Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Vancouver Island with this comprehensive road trip itinerary. Start your adventure in Victoria, the picturesque capital city of British Columbia. Here, you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history, explore its beautiful gardens, and enjoy scenic harbor views. Next, head north to Nanaimo, a vibrant waterfront city known for its delicious food scene and outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.

Continue your trip west to Tofino, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Tofino offers breathtaking coastal landscapes, world-class surfing spots, and opportunities for whale watching. Afterward, make your way down to Ucluelet, a charming village where you can experience rugged natural beauty and scenic hiking trails, particularly in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Conclude your road trip in Parksville, a family-friendly destination famous for its sandy beaches and the annual Parksville Beach Festival, which features impressive sand sculptures. This diverse itinerary ensures that you'll experience the best of Vancouver Island's natural wonders, cultural riches, and outdoor adventures.


Recommended Activities

  • Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, offers a rich blend of historic architecture, scenic harbors, and vibrant cultural experiences.
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  • Nanaimo is known for its beautiful waterfront, delicious food scene, and outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring local parks.
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  • Tofino is renowned for its stunning coastal landscapes, excellent surfing spots, and opportunities for whale watching and other wildlife encounters.
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  • Ucluelet is a charming coastal village offering rugged natural beauty, scenic hiking trails, and access to the stunning Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
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  • Parksville is known for its sandy beaches, family-friendly atmosphere, and the annual Parksville Beach Festival featuring impressive sand sculptures.
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Tasty Picks

  • Restaurant Icon

    The Butchart Gardens - The Dining Room

    4.7
    $$$$

    The Butchart Gardens - The Dining Room

    Located within the famous Butchart Gardens, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience surrounded by breathtaking floral displays and serene landscapes.
    4.7
    $$$$
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    Deep Cove Chalet

    4.4
    $$$$

    Deep Cove Chalet

    Set in a beautiful oceanside location, this restaurant combines fine dining with stunning views of the Saanich Inlet, making it an unforgettable experience.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Tacofino

    4.5
    $$$$

    Tacofino

    Originating from a food truck, this Tofino staple offers a vibrant menu of Mexican-inspired cuisine, with unique dishes and a laid-back beach vibe.
    4.5
    $$$$
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    The Wolf in the Fog

    4.4
    $$$$

    The Wolf in the Fog

    Located in Tofino, this restaurant offers creative, locally-sourced dishes with an innovative twist, all while enjoying a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.
    4.4
    $$$$
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    Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse

    4.4
    $$$$

    Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse

    Nestled in the Saanich Peninsula, this cider house offers delicious farm-to-table food paired with house-made ciders, set in an idyllic orchard setting.
    4.4
    $$$$
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Stay Recommendations

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    Fairmont Empress - Victoria, BC

    Fairmont Empress - Victoria, BC

    A historic hotel in Victoria known for its luxurious accommodations and iconic afternoon tea service, offering a blend of heritage and modern amenities.
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    Inn at Laurel Point

    8.3

    Inn at Laurel Point

    This waterfront hotel in Victoria offers contemporary design, exceptional views, and serene Japanese gardens, creating a peaceful retreat in the city.
    8.3
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    Free Spirit Spheres, Canada

    4.9

    Free Spirit Spheres, Canada

    Located in Qualicum Beach, these unique spherical treehouses offer a one-of-a-kind glamping experience, suspended among the trees in a magical forest setting.
    4.9
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    Tofino Resort + Marina

    4.3

    Tofino Resort + Marina

    A modern resort in Tofino with waterfront views, unique adventure experiences like whale watching and fishing, and a stylish, relaxed atmosphere.
    4.3
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    Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

    4.4

    Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

    Situated in Ucluelet, this resort offers dramatic ocean views, luxurious accommodations, and access to the Wild Pacific Trail, creating a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
    4.4
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Sunfest Country Music Festival

    Sunfest Country Music Festival

    The event will take place at Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan.
    Map IconLaketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park in Lake Cowichan (26.54 mi)
    Calendar IconN/A
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    2025 PFC Flex Voucher

    2025 PFC Flex Voucher

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (63.12 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
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    2025 PFC 6 Ticket Flex Pack

    2025 PFC 6 Ticket Flex Pack

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (63.12 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
    Picture for 2025 PFC 6 Ticket Flex Pack
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    2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack

    2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack

    The event will take place at Starlight Stadium in Victoria.
    Map IconStarlight Stadium in Victoria (63.12 mi)
    Calendar Icon1 Dec 2025
    Picture for 2025 PFC 10 Ticket Flex Pack
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    keshi: REQUIEM TOUR

    keshi: REQUIEM TOUR

    The event will take place at UBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver.
    Map IconUBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver (64.38 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Aug 2025
    Picture for keshi: REQUIEM TOUR
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    Teddy Swims - I've Tried Everything But Therapy Tour

    Teddy Swims - I've Tried Everything But Therapy Tour

    The event will take place at UBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver.
    Map IconUBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver (64.38 mi)
    Calendar Icon31 Aug 2025
    Picture for Teddy Swims - I've Tried Everything But Therapy Tour
  • Event Icon

    Megan Moroney - Am I Okay? Tour

    Megan Moroney - Am I Okay? Tour

    The event will take place at UBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver.
    Map IconUBC - Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre in Vancouver (64.38 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Sep 2025
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Music for Your Journey