Vancouver Island is located in British Columbia on Canada’s Pacific coast. Known for its diverse landscapes, from charming coastal towns to lush forests and incredible mountains, Vancouver Island is a dream for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone seeking a serene escape.
We spent three weeks in April exploring the island, however, you could easily spend over a month here. To help you plan your Vancouver Island road trip, I’ve put together a relaxed two week itinerary that highlights all the must see spots and hidden gems.
When to visit
This guide is based on our spring road trip; however, Vancouver Island enjoys a mild climate year round, making it a great destination in any season. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities, with pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours. May through September is best for hiking and days at the beach. Fall brings stunning foliage and fewer crowds, while winter is perfect for snow sports and cozy retreats. The island has no shortage of cosy cabins that make a perfect winter getaway.
How to get there
Getting to Vancouver Island is part of the adventure! As it is an island, you’ll need to either take a ferry or catch a flight. The scenic ferry ride offers stunning views of the coastline and ocean, setting the tone for your island getaway. Most trips to Vancouver Island start in Vancouver, so if you’re spending a few days there first, this 3 day Vancouver itinerary is a great place to start.
If you’re coming from Canada, depart from Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay terminals in Vancouver and arrive in Victoria or Nanaimo. The ferry ride takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. I recommend reserving your ferry spots ahead of time on the BC Ferries website, especially during the peak travel season from May to September. If you’re travelling from the US, you can catch a ferry from Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria.
If you are travelling by plane, you can fly to Victoria International Airport or Nanaimo Airport from several major cities in Canada and the US. Check out Omio for options and deals on flights.
How to get around
As this is a road trip itinerary, having your own vehicle is essential to reach all the highlights of Vancouver Island. While some bus services are available, they won’t cover all the destinations in this itinerary.
In my opinion, the best way to explore Vancouver Island is by camper van or RV. Having the freedom to cook lunch and dinner after a big day of exploring or crawl into bed after watching the sunset on the beach is my favourite part of van life.
Taking a van or car on the ferry
If you have your own van or car, you can bring it on the ferry from Vancouver. The cost is around $70 for standard sized cars and more for RVs or larger vehicles (over 20 feet in length and 7 feet high). We paid $130 one way for two people and our oversized vehicle. Buying a return ticket when booking is usually cheaper, though we didn’t have a return date when we originally booked.
Renting a van or car when you arrive
If you’re flying in or prefer not to bring your own vehicle, you can rent a van or car upon arrival. Several rental agencies offer a range of vehicles to fit your travel needs.
Where to stay
As this is a road trip, we stayed in various places throughout the island. I’ll detail each stop and recommend some campsites and accommodation in the itinerary below.
Things to note
Seasonal Closures: Some places in this guide may close during the winter months.
Phone Service: Coverage can be limited in certain areas around the island.
Wildlife: Black bears, wolves, and cougars live on the island. Be aware of wildlife safety and carry bear spray.
Trail Conditions: Many trails can be muddy, so make sure to pack good hiking shoes.
Bookings: If visiting during summer, book your tours and campsites in advance to secure your spot.
Road Conditions: Some roads, including paved ones, can be pretty rough and have potholes. Drive cautiously.
Snow at Higher Elevations: Even in the summer time, snow can be present at higher elevations. When we visited in April we free camped up an old logging road and it snowed!
2 Week VANCOUVER ISLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERAry
Day One: Victoria
Catch an early ferry to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. We caught the 8.25 am ferry from Horseshoe Bay and arrived in Nanaimo at 10.05 am. However, to avoid too much backtracking and to make the most of your time here, I recommend heading to Victoria first.
Once you arrive in Victoria, drive into town and find a parking spot. If you didn’t eat on the ferry, head to The Farmhouse for breakfast, before you spend the morning exploring. After eating, make your way to Chinatown and walk through Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest street in Canada. Spend time wandering the streets, admiring the colourful buildings and unique shops. If you are still hungry stop at Fat Dumpling for some delicious dumplings.
If you prefer a more structured experience, consider taking a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of Chinatown.
Next, wander down to the harbour and take a stroll along the waterfront pathway. Here you’ll get to see the iconic Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the historic Empress Hotel. These spots really highlight Victoria’s British colonial charm with their stunning Victorian architecture. It’s a great way to soak up some local history while enjoying the picturesque views.
If you’re interested in a more detailed exploration, there are also plenty of tours in Victoria that provide insights into the city’s landmarks and hidden gems.
In the afternoon, make your way to Fisherman’s Wharf. This charming spot is a bit of a hidden gem, with food kiosks, quirky shops, and eco tour adventures. Check out the unique floating homes and explore the colourful shops. You can grab some fresh seafood or enjoy a slice of pizza and a cold beer while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Fort Victoria RV Park, Salish Seaside Resort and Marina
Accommodation: The Garden Room at Waddington Flats, Zen Retreat on the Laneway, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Victoria, Fairmont Empress Hotel
Day Two: Jordan River
In the morning, drive into town and grab a coffee and some breakfast before departing Victoria and heading towards Jordan River. Along the way, stop at French Beach Provincial Park. We made another coffee in the van and went for a walk down to the beach to enjoy it while admiring the beautiful coastal scenery. It was still a bit too cold in April to swim, but I imagine this would be the perfect spot for a dip and picnic by the beach in the summer.
Next, head to Sombrio Beach. You’ll need to park at the trailhead and hike down the trail towards the beach. This is a popular spot for beach camping; however, a backcountry permit is required. This permit can be purchased in advance or paid for in cash on site.
There is also a hidden waterfall tucked away in the forest. We followed a stream coming out of the forest to the beach and ended up in an area where there had been a massive landslide. We thought the waterfall might be gone, but now we think we might have just gone the wrong way. If you find it, let me know!
In the afternoon, head to Jordan River. We stayed at Jordan River Campground, which is right on the ocean, making it the perfect spot to relax and watch the sunset in the evening. The campground operates on a first come, first served basis with only 15 drive in sites and 7 walk in sites, so I recommend arriving early to secure a spot. If you don’t manage to get a site, the area is still a great spot to spend the afternoon, with a couple of day use areas where you can park and enjoy the beach.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Jordan River Campground, China Beach Campground
Accommodation: West Coast Trail Lodge, Jordan River Cedar House, The Surf, Green Room Guesthouse, Jordan River Rainforest Cabin & Spa, Jordan River Cabin
Day Three: Jordan River to Sooke
Start your morning with a coffee by the ocean before heading out to hike part of the Juan de Fuca Trail. This 47 km wilderness trail along the coastline is perfect for backpacking and multiple day trips. We initially planned to hike down to Mystic Beach, but halfway there, another group of hikers let us know they were turned around because the trail was closed for repairs. We decided to head back to the car park and visit China Beach instead. Both trails start from the same parking lot, making it easy to explore both if you’re up for it.
After your hike, make your way back to Sooke and stop by Shirley Delicious, a charming A frame café, for a bite to eat. It’s the perfect spot to refuel before more exploring. From there, continue on to the Sheringham Point Lighthouse. This National Heritage Lighthouse is a great spot for photos and a peaceful walk. It’s a quick detour from the main road and provides a chance to enjoy the coastal scenery and learn a bit about the area’s maritime history.
In the afternoon, make your way to East Sooke Regional Park. One of my favourite trails here was Creyke Point. Park at Aylard Farm and follow the trail out to the point. The loop trail is only 1.6 km and takes you through the forest and along the rugged coastline, offering stunning views throughout. The trail is mostly flat and easy, but you’ll need to do a bit of scrambling to reach the point itself.
We spent the night at Goldstream Campground, a beautiful forest campground conveniently located near Goldstream Provincial Park. With many trails starting from this area, it’s a great base for spending the following morning exploring the park.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Goldstream Campground, Sooke River Campground
Accommodation: Prestige Oceanfront Resort, East Sooke Tree House, The Owls Perch Treehouse
Day Four: Sooke to Campbell River
Spend your morning exploring Goldstream Provincial Park. Start with a hike to Upper Goldstream Falls. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and begins near the campgrounds, following a lush forest trail along the Goldstream River to the waterfall.
Next, check out Vancouver Island’s own Niagara Falls. It’s a relatively quick and easy walk to this beautiful spot. Park at the Goldstream Welcome Centre or Freeman King Visitor Centre, then follow the trail to the falls. You will walk through the forest and then pass through a tunnel under the road, which leads to the other side where Niagara Falls are located. Originally, we had also planned to visit the historic Niagara Trestle Bridge; however, it is located on private property and is now closed to the public due to safety concerns.
After a morning in Goldstream Provincial Park, continue your drive towards Campbell River. On the way, make a stop at Oyster River Potholes. This hidden gem, located under the Oyster River Bridge features a series of deep pools with some of the clearest water you’ll ever see. It’s a popular spot for a swim in the summer, but when we visited, it was too cold and the current too strong, making it unsafe to swim. There’s no designated parking, so you’ll need to park on the side of the road near the bridge and follow the path down to the water. If you miss it, turning around can be a bit of a trek.
Continue driving to Campbell River. In the evening, take a stroll down Discovery Pier. This historic pier stretches 180 meters out over the water, offering fantastic views of the surrounding landscape and nearby mountains. It’s the perfect spot for a walk as the sun sets. We even saw a couple of otters hanging out on the rocks by the water.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Thunderbird RV Park & Cottage Resort, Quinsam Campground (Elk Falls)
Accommodation: Comfort Inn & Suites, Chateau Riverside, Naturally Pacific Resort
Day Five: Campbell River
Start your day with breakfast at a local favourite, Mimi Cafe and Sushi. Then spend your day exploring Strathcona Provincial Park, home to some of Vancouver Island’s most stunning waterfalls and lush forests. Start with Lower Myra Falls, a picturesque spot where the trail leads you through the forest to a dramatic waterfall. We parked at the Lower Myra Falls parking lot and then followed the trail to the falls.
Next up, head to Lupin Falls, another hidden gem in Strathcona. This short, easy trail winds through the forest to a lovely cascading waterfall that’s well worth the visit.
In the afternoon, make your way to Elk Falls Provincial Park. There was a lot of construction work happening when we visited, with major upgrades taking place on the BC Hydro Dam. However, access to the park remains open. The park has a few different hiking trails; we chose to hike the Millennium Trail, which takes you through the forest and over the famous Elk Falls Suspension Bridge. The views of the powerful falls from the bridge are incredible.
Where to stay
Spend the night in Campbell River at one of the options listed above
Day Six: Mount Washington
Spend your day at Mount Washington. As we were there in spring, there was still plenty of snow around, so we spent the day snowboarding. We were lucky enough to catch the annual Slush Cup, a wild event where people dress up and attempt to board or ski up a huge ramp and over a giant slush pit! The challenge is to make it to the other side without getting wet, though most end up in the icy water.
If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you could spend the day hiking and exploring the beautiful alpine scenery or take the scenic chairlift up the mountain and wander through meadows full of wildflowers. You can find more information on summer activities here.
After a full day of activities, end your day with dinner and drinks at Session Taproom and Kitchen. We shared the chorizo meatballs and a pizza and tried a few of the local beers.
Where to stay
Spend the night in Campbell River at one of the options listed above
Day Seven: Telegraph Cove
Start your morning with breakfast at Ideal Cafe, a charming retro diner. We had the hash browns and eggs, and it was hands down the best breakfast we’ve had yet. After enjoying your meal, head towards Telegraph Cove. On the way, make a stop at Nimpkish Lake, on a warmer day, this would be the perfect spot for a swim and picnic by the water.
Once you arrive in Telegraph Cove, hike the Blinkhorn Dave Farrant Trail. It begins at the Forest Campground and winds through the mountains above Telegraph Cove. The trail takes you up through the rainforest, across log bridges, and offers a stunning viewpoint overlooking Johnstone Strait and the surrounding islands.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: The Forest RV Campground, Telegraph Cove Marina & RV Park
Accommodation: Telegraph Cove Resort
Alternative Option: Backpacking 5040 Peak
If backpacking interests you and you’re here in the summer, consider spending a night backpacking 5040 Peak. This hike offers incredible alpine views and the chance to camp under the stars at higher elevations. It’s conveniently located on the way to Tofino, so if you’re up for this adventure, you’d need to leave for Tofino the day before. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to do this on my trip, but it’s high on my bucket list for next summer!
Day Eight: Telegraph Cove to Tofino
Today is a travel day, with the drive from Telegraph Cove to Tofino taking around 5.5 hours. Along the way, take a break at Cameron Lake, a picturesque spot nestled between mountains and forests. It’s a great place for a quick photo stop and a chance to stretch your legs.
After Cameron Lake, make a short detour to explore Hole In The Wall near Port Alberni. This unique natural rock formation was created by an old pipeline project, where a small waterfall now flows through a hole in the rock. It’s a quick and easy walk, making it a perfect addition to your journey to Tofino.
As you continue driving, make another stop at the Taylor River rest stop. The river runs alongside the highway, and its incredibly clear blue water makes it a popular spot for paddle boarding. We unfortunately missed this stop due to construction work at the time, but it’s a great spot to consider if you’re passing through.
Arrive in Tofino and check into your accommodation. I highly suggest booking your campsite ahead of time, as Tofino is a popular destination and books up quickly. We stayed at Surf Grove Campground, and while it wasn’t cheap, the location and amenities made it worthwhile. It was one of the best campgrounds we’ve stayed at during our travels, with our luxury, full-service site even including Wi-Fi!
In the evening, head to Wickaninnish Beach. It’s the perfect spot to end the day and enjoy a stunning sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Surf Grove, Crystal Cove Beach Resort, West Coast Campground, Surf Junction Campground
Accommodation: The Shoreline Tofino, Tofino Resort & Marina, Pacific Sands Beach Resort, Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort, Cox Bay Beach Resort
Day Nine: Tofino
Start your day with breakfast at the Beach Shack. We enjoyed coffee and a breakfast wrap, soaking up the sunshine from the outdoor chairs. After breakfast, head to the Pittinger Point Trail. This is a beautiful and relatively easy trail with breathtaking coastal views.
For lunch, make your way to Toki Doki for Japanese street food and a beer. It’s a fantastic spot to enjoy delicious dishes and relax before your afternoon hike.
In the late afternoon, hike to the Cox Bay Lookout. This hike provides one of the best views in Tofino, with panoramic views of the coastline and surrounding mountains. The hike is relatively short taking us just under 30 minutes, but involves muddy trails and some scrambling.
To reach the lookout, turn left once you hit the beach and walk all the way to the end. You’ll find some rocks with a muddy trail above them. The trail is unmaintained, and by the looks, many people have forged different routes to the lookout. From there, the lookout is essentially straight up; we did our best to follow a trail that led this way.
Where to stay
Spend the night in Tofino at one of the options listed above
Day Ten: Tofino
Begin your day with a hike to the Canso Plane Crash Site. The crash occurred on February 12, 1945, when a small plane carrying 12 members of the Royal Canadian Air Force suffered an engine failure, forcing the pilot to crash land in the forest.
The Canso Plane Crash site is located in Pacific Rim National Park, so you’ll need a parks pass to visit. Park in the lower Radar Hill parking lot and follow the trail until you reach a junction. Turn right and continue through the forest. This unique trail crosses boardwalks over swampy areas and passes (or through, if you’re feeling adventurous) a spooky abandoned building. The trail involves some scrambling before reaching the crash site.
After returning to your car, drive up Radar Hill Road to the top parking area. From there, a short trail leads to a viewpoint offering stunning views over Clayoquot Sound. Radar Hill was used during WWII as one of the radar stations for detecting potential air strikes on North America.
For lunch, grab a bite at the Tacofino food truck, famous for its mouth-watering tacos. It’s a must-visit spot in Tofino, and you can’t come here without stopping by.
In the afternoon, explore the town of Tofino. Visit the eclectic shops, soak up the local atmosphere, and enjoy the town’s laid-back coastal charm. Wrap up your day with dinner at The Shed, a popular spot for burgers and drinks.
Where to stay
Spend the night in Tofino at one of the options listed above
Day Eleven: Tofino to Ucluelet
Start your day with breakfast at Rhino Cafe, a fantastic spot for coffee and a breakfast bagel. They’re also known for their delicious doughnuts, so consider grabbing one for a treat later (or as part of your breakfast—no judgment here).
After breakfast, head out to explore the Rainforest Loop Trail. Both sections, A and B, are relatively short and easy, so we decided to do them both. The trails feature wooden boardwalks that weave through the lush, mossy rainforest.
Next, make your way to Ucluelet. The drive from the Rainforest trails to Ucluelet is only about 17 minutes. We stopped at Jiggers Fish and Chips for a burger and chips before checking into our accommodation.
For our last couple of nights on the island, we stayed at The Nami Project, an incredible oceanfront accommodation along the rocky shores of Ucluelet, right next to Pacific Rim National Park. We spent the afternoon soaking in ocean views from the beautiful cedar hot tub, then enjoyed the sunset from our private sauna.
If you’d prefer an alternative to this accommodation or are sticking to van life, consider spending your afternoon walking the Lighthouse Loop Trail, one of the three sections of the Wild Pacific Trail. You can then head to Terrace Beach or Little Beach to watch the sunset.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Surf Junction Campground, West Coast Campground, Ucluelet Campground
Accommodation: The Nami Project, The Cabins at Terrace Beach, Le Chalet Waterfront Retreat, 378 Marine Drive, Reef Point Oceanfront Bed and Breakfast
Day Twelve: Ucluelet
For breakfast, head to the Barkley Cafe for a delicious breakfast burritos and coffee. Afterward, spend the day exploring more of Pacific Rim National Park. The Artist Loop Trail, conveniently located next to the Nami Project, runs along the west coast and ends at the Ancient Cedars Loop and Rocky Bluffs. If you didn’t have the chance to do the Lighthouse Loop Trail yesterday, today’s the perfect time.
In the evening, we planned to walk to the nearby Big Beach for a sunset picnic, but unfortunately, it was closed off due to filming. Normally, this spot would be ideal for a relaxing dinner by the beach while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Spend the night in Ucluelet at one of the options listed above
Day Thirteen: Ucluelet to Nanaimo
We decided to spend our last morning in Ucluelet making the most of our accommodation. If staying at the Nami Project, I highly recommend starting the day with a sunrise soak in the hot tub, followed by a relaxing session in the sauna. Enjoy a final coffee while taking in the breathtaking view before checking out.
After checking out, take some time to explore Ucluelet. Stroll through the town and grab lunch and a brew at Ucluelet Brewing Company, a fantastic spot to sample local craft beer and delicious bites.
In the afternoon, drive to Nanaimo, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. If you have time, consider stopping at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. The Little Qualicum Falls Trail is relatively short but offers several vantage points for viewing the picturesque river and cascading falls.
End your day with dinner at Lighthouse Bistro & Pub, followed by a walk along the harbour front walkway.
Where to stay
Campgrounds: Living Forest Oceanside Campground, Westwood Lake Campground Resort
Accommodation: The Waterfront Suites and Marina, Coast Bastion Hotel
Day Fourteen: Nanaimo & Home time
Sadly, your Vancouver Island road trip has come to an end. Depending on the time of your ferry, you might have a chance to explore more of Nanaimo before departing. If so, start your day with breakfast at The Vault Cafe, then wander through downtown and visit the Nanaimo Museum. Another fun option is to take the Nanaimo Bar Trail, a self-guided tour through the heart of the town, with plenty of stops to sample the rich, chocolatey treats known as Nanaimo bars.
We opted for the earliest ferry so we could watch the sunrise from the water as we headed back to Vancouver, this truly is a magical experience itself.
Final Thoughts:
Vancouver Island offers an incredible mix of nature, small towns, and coastal beauty. A two week road trip gives you the time to really soak in all that the island has to offer. It’s a perfect destination for those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor activities, and discovering hidden gems along the way.
If you’re looking for more adventures before or after your trip, there are also plenty of hikes near Vancouver worth adding to your itinerary.
planning to EXPLORE MORE OF CANADA?
check out my other travel guides for more travel inspiration.
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