Ultimate Vancouver Island Bucket List (Local’s Guide)

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Ready for a fun family adventure to Vancouver Island? In this local guide, we’ll provide you with everything you need know to plan a fun vacation to check off your Vancouver Island bucket list.

As someone who grew up on the Island, and has spent decades exploring it from coast to coast, I know how special it is.

Vancouver Island is the largest island on the west coast of Canada and is rich in scenery, gardens, and wildlife. From snow capped mountains, to lush rainforests and wild beaches, and ancient trees.

I’ve put together our list of the top Vancouver Island things to do, the best places to visit, hike, and spend time by the ocean.

You’ll find quaint towns with murals, kilometres of beaches to wander, tidepools to peer in, and attractions you won’t want to miss. All family friendly, but equally fun for those traveling without kids as well.

WHERE SHOULD YOU GO ON VANCOUVER ISLAND?

🐳 This whale watching tour is our top bucket list pick (and one we’ve done ourselves)

Southern Vancouver Island Bucket List

Southern Vancouver Island runs from Victoria on up to just before Nanaimo, and encompasses towns such as Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Ladysmith, Chemainus on the east / Strait of Georgia Side.

On the west / Juan de Fuca Strait side you’ll find smaller towns like Sooke, and Port Renfrew. We’ve included some of our favorite places to visit and things to do on a Southern Vancouver Island Bucket List.

Greater Victoria, BC Area

Victoria is known as the “City of Gardens,” and home to the world famous Butchart Gardens. The temperate weather all year round, provides a long growing season and lush greenery.

The Greater Victora area has a rich history, and has been inhabited by Coast Salish peoples for thousands of years. Victoria is worth visiting for it’s colonial architecture, accessible beaches, temperate weather, and kid friendly parks & activities.

Growing up in Victoria, I was lucky enough to have visited many of these favorite places many times. These are still some of the places I visit every time I am back home.

1. Take a Victoria Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching tours are a popular not to miss Bucket List activity in Victoria. These tours offer a chance to see killer whales, humpback whales and bald eagles up close while sailing the Pacific Ocean.

While you can see whales any time of year off the coast as there’s a local resident orca pod, the best time to go is from late April to October.

If you are looking for an adventure then we recommend a zodiac whale watching tour out onto the Strait of Juan de Fuca.  For the thrilling ride, and sea level experience.

With younger families we find a larger covered boat whale watching adventure is easier, as there’s inside spaces to warm up, washrooms, and room to move around.

🐳 Check out our local picks & review of the 10 best whale watching tours in Victoria, BC.

2. Wander The Paths Of Butchart Gardens

Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned botanical garden located in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

The gardens are open year-round, rain or shine and contain more than 1000 plant species on 50 acres of land. They have umbrellas you can borrow when it rains. Super handy!

⭐️ If you’re coming from Vancouver, BC & short on time, this day tour from Vancouver will give you a fun ferry ride with scenic views, a tour of downtown Victoria, Butchart Gardens and a memorable experience.

One thing you won’t want to miss are their fireworks.

Luckily the fireworks happen every Saturday night in the summer. Make sure to arrive early to get your spot, as it’s very popular in the summer months. 

My youngest Miss S had a blast last time we went to Butchart Gardens, and she still asks me to go back all the time. Her favourites were the rose carousel rides, gelato in the Italian Garden, and exploring all the nooks and crannies of the garden.

If you are bringing the kids here are some other fun activities for them too:

• Rose Carousel (It’s $2 / ride – they take cards too)
• Concerts in the amphitheatre in July and August
• Checking out the gift & garden shop for fun kid friendly souvenirs
• Seasonal events

🚙 Traveling from Vancouver? There are many ways to get to Butchart Gardens from Vancouver.

3. Enjoy High Tea at the Empress

Pinkies up! High tea at the Empress is a delightful experience  for those who love a little British tradition. Fancy tea cups, flaky scones and other delicacies. 

While I personally think it’s overrated and expensive, many people have it as a bucket list item. They even have kids Prince & Princess tea that are less expensive for the 12 and under crowd. I can see it being a fun dress up activity with the littles.

After filling your belly with goodies, head down to the harbour front walkway. In summer months the walkway is alive with street performers and tourists enjoying the views.

🚙 You may also like these 20 Day Trips to Take from Victoria, BC

4. Visit the Oldest Chinatown in Canada

Historic buildings, the oldest Chinatown in Canada and winding waterfront streets, highlight some of what makes downtown Victoria so charming and beautiful. 

Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown is the narrowest alley in Canada, and is filled with quaint shops; ice cream, metaphysical, home decor, and spots to pick up unusual souvenirs.

For me it’s such a nostalgic spot to wander into as many of the stores like Whirled Arts and Triple Spiral and have been there since my youth.

As well, my partner often tells me stories of his family’s history as Chinese Canadians, and all the spots & friends they visited when he was young. While it has changed a lot, you can still see some of the old business, historic buildings and temples.

Take a wander through Chinatown and visit the Gate of Harmonious Interest. 

⭐️ Check out our top picks for the Best places to stay with family in Victoria here.

5. Learn BC’s History at the Royal BC Museum

To learn about the rich natural and First Nations history of BC, head down to the Royal BC Museum.

You’ll want to plan at least an afternoon here if all the exhibits are open, as there is so much to see and do. Plus it makes a great rainy day activity.

Our favourite spots are the newly reopened Old Town on the third floor, which is a replica town you can wander through actual buildings. And of course the “pirate” ship as my kids called it. Complete with salty air scents, and the sounds of seagulls.

LOCAL TIP: If you don’t want to pay to go through the museum, at least check out the free Thunderbird Park outside. There are some wonderful totem poles and the Mungo Martin House, Wawadiťła.

6. Explore Downtown Victoria Waterfront

Downtown Victoria is the tourist epicentre, so it can get very busy in warmer months. But that also means there’s lots going on, from buskers & vendors along the Inner Harbour, to whale watching & Seaplane Tours, shopping, and the Empress & Parliament Buildings to visit.

Plus we think taking the Victoria Harbour Water Taxis is a fun way to get around and see different areas of downtown, especially with kids. They have 12 spots to choose from.

We also recommend heading down to Fisherman’s Wharf to check out the neighbourhood seals, grab fish and chips at Barb’s, and sit on the oceanside picnic tables.

Or take your meal to go to the park just beside the wharf. There’s a playground, and a few areas for the kids to run off some energy.

7. Bike Victoria’s Trails & The Galloping Goose Trail

There are plenty of bike trails to tour around Victoria. You can head out on the Lochside Trail to Sidney, bike part (or all) of the 55km Galloping Goose trail which runs from downtown Victoria to Thetis Lake, and all the way to Sooke, BC and back. Or just commute around town.

The Galloping Goose trail is an old railway route is a multipurpose trail that will take you through urban, rural and wilderness scenery. It’s rated easy, and is paved in the majority of sections.

9. Explore the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

Victoria Butterfly Gardens is an attraction for kids, adults and families alike.

My daughter loves walking through the gardens with butterflies flying over head, and nooks and crannies to explore. We somehow end up visiting at least once every time we’re back in Victoria, which is usually 1-3 times a year.

It’s perfect for the younger crowd too, especially on rainy days.

See if you can spot the iguanas, flamingos, red footed tortoise and parrots amongst the tropical jungle foliage. It’s a perfect place to stop if you are heading to or from the ferry, or out to Sidney.

It does get busy on weekends, and holidays especially so go early and bring water. It’s a humid, hot environment. We usually just leave our coats in our car in the parking lot.

LOCAL TIP: Stop for lunch at our family favourite Prairie Inn Neighbourhood Pub or the Roost Farm Bakery (check out the seating in the bus).

🌷 Looking for more Victoria fun? Try these free and cheap things to do in Victoria, BC Canada.

 10. Walk the Sandbar at Sidney Spit Marine Park

Sidney Spit Marine Park is an ecological reserve on the west coast of Sidney Island, British Columbia, Canada. To get there you must travel by boat. You can dock your boat at the Spit, or take the seasonal foot-passenger ferry.

• It’s famous for it’s long walkable sandbar at low tide, the Sidney Spit.

It’s an important nesting ground for seabirds and has a diverse ecosystem that includes kelp forests, rocky reefs, sandy beaches, and clubs of wrasses. A bird lovers delight.

There are also areas of land with a variety of plant life as well as the remains of shipwrecks on the rocks off the coast.

Bucket List Ideas for Southern Vancouver Island Area

These bucket list ideas for southern Vancouver Island are fun for when you want to get out of Victoria and explore a little nature.

11. Hike in East Sooke Park

East Sooke Park is the place to visit for unspoiled wilderness and , and is the perfect place to escape and explore nature.

It has been a family favorite since I was a kid. I still vividly remember my grade 5 trip to explore the tidepools here.

You will find gorgeous coastline, sandy beaches and the Strait of Juan de Fuca off into the distance.

The ten-kilometre rugged takes hikers through lush rain forest, windswept bluffs and past snarled arbutus trees. We usually just walk a part of it out and back.

Aylard Farm is my favourite jumping off point for families. As there’s easy to access to the sandy beach with summer swimming, park facilities, picnic sites, and large meadows to run around in.

It’s a bit out of the way, as you’re driving the back roads of Sooke.

12. Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Swim, cliff jump, and sun bathe at the unique swimming holes at Sooke Potholes. The best & easiest pools to access are at the bottom, by the first parking lot.

There’s also a series of trails alongside a series of deep, naturally carved and polished rock pools.

13. Beach Comb at Botanical Beach 

Botanical Beach is is located on the western side of Vancouver Island and is well known for its beach and tide pools teeming with marine life. Visit at low tide to take advantage of all the amazing tide pools.

Botanical Beach marks the end (or start) of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, which runs 47 kms to China Beach.

I helped build the trail, back when I was much much younger. You can hike the whole thing in 3-4 days, or you can enter it for a day hike at points a long the way.

Port Renfrew is nearby, located on the pretty little inlet of Port San Juan.

Visit Avatar Grove, a  50-hectare section of old-growth forests full of moss-covered trees, meandering creeks, and small waterfalls. It’s also the start of the West Coast Trail. My most memorable memory of Port Renfrew was when I was 9 years old and got on a small boat to be taken to the trailhead of the West Coast Trail.

14. Visit Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is one of the most scenic beaches along the Juan de Fuca Trail. About an hour from Victoria, it’s a scenic hike down to a lovely beach, with a small waterfall cascading down the cliff’s edge.

Camping here is a bucket list activity itself.

15. Camp & Kayak from Gordan Bay Provincial Park, Cowichan

Gordan Bay Provincial Park, Cowichan is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia.

It’s a popular place to enjoy a kayaking trip, and explore the surrounding scenery. Visitors can choose from a variety of routes, all of which offer spectacular scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Gordan Bay is also a great family camping spot. In fact it was the first place we camped with our youngest when she was 18 months.

On Cowichan Lake activities include canoeing, fishing, hiking, swimming, windsurfing, and waterskiing.

LOCAL TIP: While in the Cowichan area are be sure to also check out:

• Cowichan Estuary Centre – A place kids can learn about the estuary with hands on fun activities

• Cowichan Bay Village itself is a sweet ocean town right in the Bay. Do a little shopping, visit the art gallery of prominent First Nations artist Arthur Vickers, and eat some halibut and chips at the Cowichan Bay Pub.

• Go tubing, and float down the Cowichan River in the summer months.

16. Take Cowichan Bay Whale & Wildlife Adventure

Cowichan Bay is another fabulous place to start your Vancouver Island Whale Watching Adventure.

Look for whales, bald eagles, and other wildlife along the dramatic west coast.

This whale & wildlife tour consistently gets rave reviews for knowledgeable & interesting guides, and orca & whale sightings.

17. Walk or Ride the Kinsol Trestle

Near Shawnigan Lake, the historic Kinsol Trestle is an old train trestle that has been converted into a gorgeous walkway. As part of the Cowichan Valley Trail, this pathway is open to hikers, horseback riders, and cyclists.

It’s one of the tallest free-standing wooden trestles in the world. There’s a kiosk with information & history on it’s origin and restoration efforts.

We last walked the trail in summer and it was super hot, as there is little shade in most areas. Bring water and a hat. The Cowichan Valley Trail from the parking lot at the end of Glen Eagles Road to the trestle is pretty flat, and easy packed dirt pathway.

18. View the Famous Murals of Chemainus 

Chemainus is well known for its 63 murals of the areas fishing, mining and forestry history. Wander the town to see if you can find them all. 

Then take in the excellent local theatre shows at the Chemainus Theatre.

They offer year round professional productions of popular musicals, dramas, comedies and mysteries. We always enjoy their brunch and show option, every time we visited VIctoria, as a mini get away for ourselves. 

LOCAL TIP: You must, must, must take the 15 minute drive to Ladysmith to buy a cinnamon bun at the Old Town Bakery. It’s Island famous! Expect to wait in line, but it’s worth it. 

Where to stay: Last time we visited Chemainus we had a lovely stay at the Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn and a delicious meal at the Sawmill Taphouse and Grill.

Pacific Rim, Vancouver Island Bucket List Ideas

Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island runs the west central coast of the island including Port Alberni, Bamfield, Tofino and Ucluelet. It’s home to waterways, surfing, trails, lakes and salmon. 

There are many amazing things to do on Vancouver Island.

19. Hike & Camp in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is an ecological wonderland. Spanning over 6,000 kilometers in length, the reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife including the rare marbled murrelet.

The reserve protects a variety of ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, rocky beaches, and temperate coastal forests.

• It’s home to the infamous West Coast Trail and the Nuu-chah-nulth people, and sits on the edge of Long Beach between Tofino and Ucuelet.

• Close to Pacific Rim is another amazing place to hike and camp in the rugged and remote  Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park.

Visit diverse forests, and some of the last remaining  old growth Sitka spruce forests in BC. Access to the park is via private logging road, and is remote, so be prepared.

19. Visit the Beaches of Tofino & Ucluelet

The Tofino and Ucluelet area is a well-known surfers paradise and is popular for both tourists and locals.

In winter, surfers are given the opportunity to ride some of the biggest waves in North America as a result of storms coming in from Hawaii. Check out Long Beach, Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay.

If you are not into surfing there is plenty to do, from beach combing to hiking, kayaking, whale watching, visiting the shops & cafes and more. 

I find this area great for elementary school aged kids, up to teens.

While there are things for toddlers and under 5 crowd to see & do, it really is geared for older kids. It’s a wilder side of the island, and waves at most beaches are too strong. I’d choose Parksville if you have really young kids.

However young kids would like looking in the tidepools at Chesterman Beach or MacKenzie Beach, a visit to the Ucluelet Aquarium, the playground at the Village Green in Tofino, & exploring the Children’s Gardens to name a few things.

🏖️ Be beach ready with your family beach vacation packing list essentials.

20. Explore Tofino’s Sites

Tofino sits in the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, and the area is surrounded by the gorgeous expanse of the UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region.

Enjoy rolling waves, old growth forests and hidden lakes. 

Over 22,000 grey whales migrate through the waters between February and October. Take a whale-watching tour from Tofino to see whales, playful sea otters, huge sea lions and squawking sea birds. 

Visit the Kwisitis Visitor Centre to learn all about local First Nations history, marine mammals and nature. 

🌮 Don’t leave without tasting fish tacos – the towns “signature dish”

For a magical day trip take a 20-minute floatplane ride or 75-minute boat to Hot Springs Cove.  Hike the easy and beautiful boardwalk hike through Maquinna Provincial Park to a series of geothermal pools and a waterfall. 

Where to Stay: Dunes Cabin on Chesterman Beach or Long Beach Lodge for a more resort experience. For a more upscale camping experience try Wildpod Glamping.

21. See Ucluelet’s Sites

Affectionately known as “Ukee” it sits at the tip of Pacific Rim National Park. 

Take the kids to the interactive and fun Ucluelet Aquarium, a large catch-and-release aquarium.  Then hike part of the Wild Pacific Trail for fantastic views of Barkley Sound.

We loved the Wild Pacific Trail, but even in May there were parts that were quite busy. Luckily there are little trails off the main trail that take you to look out points along the shore.

Try a little SUP (Stand-Up Paddle) boarding at Wickaninnish Beach and Long Beach, perfect for all levels. 

Or of course there’s surfing. Rent your board from the Relic Surf Shop for great quality and price-point. They also rent skim boards and boogie boards if surfing is not your thing.

Central Vancouver Island Things to Do

 Central Vancouver Island is haven of sandy beaches with warm ocean water, mountain-ringed valleys, agricultural and enticing coastal communities like Parksville and Courtenay/Comox.

22. Enjoy A Beach Stay in Parksville, BC

Parksville is one of my favourite places to visit with my kids, and it was always our summer vacation destination growing up. It’s a fun coastal resort town that balances beaches, with trails, a small town vibe, and enough kid friendly activities to intersperse between lazy beach days.

There are many family friendly things to do in Parksville; 

• Play 36 Holes of Mini Golf – You can’t go wrong with Two mini golf courses and 36 holes in the same park…..you can’t go wrong. Parksville is a quaint sea side village, popular with locals and tourists alike. 
• Parksville Community Park
• Walk Rathtrevor Beach
• Visit the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

Be sure to stock up on beach vacation supplies before you go.

23. Visit Goats on the Roof at Coombs, BC

Coombs is known for its goats on the roof.

Once only a short photo op, it’s now turned into a tourist destination with eclectic stores, lunch spots, ice cream and donuts.

I have to stop every time we’re in the area, with or without kids. I love wandering around their Coombs Country Market looking at all the interesting goods, gifts, toys, souvenirs and food.

Be sure to take photos next door at all the weird statues. We have years of family photos around these strange creatures.

Add Coombs to your Vancouver Island bucket list.

24. Hug Ancient Trees in Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove is one of the most magical and a favorite spot for our family on Vancouver Island.

It’s a forest of giant Douglas Firs and Royal Cypresses, the tallest trees in Canada. There’s a two-mile trail that winds below and through the trees, providing visitors with an opportunity to catch a glimpse of this majestic cathedral.

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is really something you do not want to miss on your Vancouver Island bucketlist. We usually leave at least 2 hours to explore the trails and take our time.

Parking can be an issue during peak times, so we recommend going earlier in the day and not on weekends or holidays.

25. Travel the Oceanside Route

Take a road trip along  the scenic Oceanside Route (Old Island Highway) from Parksville to Campbell River.  This winding seaside route also passes through Qualicum, Courtney, and Comox. Some highlights:

• Horne Lake Caves are perfect for the adventurous who want to do a little guided spelunking. 

• Stretch your legs, and let the kids run around Milner Gardens in Qualicum Beach, 70 acres of winding forest paths. Save time for tea at historic Milner House. 

• Visit Qualicum Falls

• Hike along the Rosewall Creek Falls and the Lighthouse Trail.

• Take a guided tour at Deep Bay Marine Field Centre, a research facility

• Dinosaur lovers will enjoy the fossil tours at  Courtney and District Museum and Palaeontology Centre.

26. Markets on Vancouver Island

Did you know that there are a number of farmers markets on Vancouver Island that you cannot miss?

If you are looking for a market with an abundance of local vendors, then head to Duncan Farmers Market, every Saturday year round. It’s one of our favorites.

Expect to find abundant produce, in-season fruit, honey, eggs, cheese, meat, seafood, wines and spirits, baked goods, plants and flowers, amazing local artisan creations and more. Or try:

• Moss Street Market (Victoria, BC) – Saturdays 10am-2pm in summer, 10-1pm in winter
• James Bay Community Market (downtown Victoria, BC) – Saturdays 9am-3pm seasonal
• Peninsula Country Market (at the Saanich Fairgrounds) – Saturdays 9am-1pm seasonal

Final Thoughts: Vancouver Island Bucket List

Now you have a good many excellent family friendly things to do to add to your Vancouver Island Bucket List. This is just a starting point of the highlights, as there is so much more to explore and places to visit Vancouver Island.

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