With its natural beauty and vibrant communities, Vancouver Island is a gem waiting to be explored. From Comox to Victoria, each city and in between offers unique attractions that create an unforgettable travel experience. Here, we highlight some of the must-visit places in Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, the Courtenay & Comox areas, and Victoria.
Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is brimming with heritage architecture, beautiful gardens, and diverse cultural attractions. Stroll the inner harbour and explore the rich history of the oldest China Town in Canada, including the narrow Fan Tan Alley. Discover the city’s heritage at the Royal BC Museum, and enjoy the natural beauty of Beacon Hill Park. The city’s waterfront paths offer a relaxing way to explore the coastline. Don’t miss the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, with stunning floral displays across 55 acres.
Nanaimo is home to a variety of adventures for thrill-seekers, including the WildPlay Element Parks. Here, you can experience an exhilarating bungee jump or navigate through the treetops on a zipline. When it comes to local flavours, Nanaimo offers a diverse culinary scene. Sample local craft beers at White Sails Brewing or Cliffside Brewing. Enjoy a unique dining experience at Dinghy Dock Floating Pub, Canada’s only registered floating pub. Treat yourself to a Greek feast at Asteras Greek Taverna or indulge in authentic Italian cuisine at La Stella Trattoria.
Parksville is renowned for its pristine beaches and outdoor activities. Don’t miss a visit to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, a local favourite for picnicking, hiking, and bald eagle watching. Indulge in some local flavours by touring the local wineries and breweries, such as the Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Company.
Qualicum Beach offers a quaint charm with its unique boutiques, eateries, and galleries. The Heritage Forest and Milner Gardens & Woodland are perfect for leisurely strolls amidst lush greenery. For wildlife enthusiasts, the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre is a must-visit, offering a chance to see a diverse range of native animal species up close. A trip to Qualicum wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fern & Cedar, a local brewery known for their unique craft beers.
In the Courtenay and Comox region, you can embark on an unforgettable whale-watching tour, where you may spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat. For winter sports enthusiasts, the Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers excellent skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country trails. Beer enthusiasts should not miss a visit to the Gladstone Brewing Co., offering a unique selection of craft beers that are a true testament to the local brewing tradition.
A short ferry ride from Buckley Bay will take you to the picturesque Hornby Island, known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and vibrant arts community. Don’t forget to visit the unique sandstone formations at Helliwell Provincial Park.
Lastly, experience the remarkable Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park, home to some of the oldest and largest Douglas fir trees in the country. Another must-visit is Coombs Old Country Market, where you can shop for local goods and produce and yes, see goats grazing on the roof!
Each of these destinations on Vancouver Island offers a distinct flavour of the island’s culture and natural beauty, ensuring a memorable vacation for all types of travellers. To make the most of your stay, consider booking your accommodation with Sunset Groupe Property Management. We offer a range of exceptional vacation rentals across Vancouver Island, providing the perfect base for your island exploration.
For more information on attractions and sights on Vancouver Island, stay tuned to our blog, where we share local insights and travel tips to enhance your stay on this beautiful island.
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