Vancouver Island Four-Day Itinerary
As the world yearns for experiences that connect them to expansive spaces and places, we’ve come together with 10 other Vancouver Island brands to share our West Coast backyard with one lucky winner.
From cobblestone streets to expansive shores, cooking your catch to soaking in mineral pools overlooking the Pacific ocean, experience an adventure of a lifetime from Greater Victoria to Tofino. Take in the magic of the coast with this suggested four-day Pacific Northwest itinerary.
Day 1 - Jordan River → Greater Victoria
Your journey starts along the true West Coast of the Island as you sport your Blundstone’s, merino wool and Goretex for your intertidal seaweed tour with Marine Biologist, Amanda Swinimer of Dakini Tidal Wilds. Identify local seaweed with a local legend and immerse yourself in the beauty of the coast and its rich biodiversity.
Image courtesy of Dakini Tidal Wilds
On your way back into the city, stop for a bite at Stick in the Mud Coffee for a little afternoon pick me up. Then continue on to Sheringham Distillery, where your private tasting and tour await. Sip and savour the flavours of the coast as you sample their world-renowned, award-winning Seaside Gin.
Image courtesy of Sheringham Distillery
In the Capital City, dive into B.C.’s history at the Royal BC Museum and be mesmerized by the spirit of British Columbia’s wild coast at the Orcas: Our Shared Future exhibit. Take a deep dive into the stories and science surrounding these apex predators.
Image courtesy of the Royal BC Museum
Make your way over to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, a tranquil oasis overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Take a quick dip in their acclaimed heated mineral pools before indulging in a bite at FARO, where their wood stone pizza and seasonal menu will delight.
Image courtesy of Oak Bay Beach Hotel
After dinner, meander over to the colourful community of floating houses at Fisherman’s Wharf to check in for your sunset whale watching tour with Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours.
Image courtesy of Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
Take part in a vibrant and transformative evening experiencing the spirit of the coast. Seeing whales in the wild is a quintessential West Coast experience and we promise you’ll be left with a deep connection to Island and its residents.
Tuck yourself into luxury at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and dream of orcas, otters and seals galore.
Day 2 Greater Victoria → Tofino
Enjoy a slow morning and perhaps another dip in the mineral pools before checking out. Explore Oak Bay Village and grab a coffee from Hide + Seek and a bite from Vis a Vis. Then start your ~ five-hour journey up to Tofino.
When you arrive in Tofino, check into your oceanview studio suite at Ocean Village Resort. You’ll be staying here for two nights.
Image courtesy of Ocean Village Resort
Grab a burrito from Tacofino and some firewood from the front desk at Ocean Village and then wander out onto Mackenzie Beach for a beach fire as you watch the sunset.
Day 3 - Tofino
In the morning, spritz your hair with some Goldilocks sea salt spray for an effortless beachy look before grabbing a donut and coffee from Rhino Coffee House. Take your morning walk to Chesterman Beach today and soak in the fresh air and expansive shores. There’s truly nothing like Tofino’s long sandy beaches and West Coast energy.
Image by Rachael Alexandra Photography
To truly experience Canada’s surf capital, head over to Pacific Surf Co to get suited up for your surf lesson! In this introductory lesson, you’ll learn how to surf in a fun and safe environment, with some of the best instructors in Tofino. Feel the rush as you catch your first wave and hear cheers from your peers.
Image courtesy of Pacific Surf Co
Post-surf lesson, refuel at Shelter Restaurant with some tide-to-table fare. Retire back to Ocean Village Resort for an evening hot tub session. Enjoy a cozy evening in your suite with a Laykhaus candle burning and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure.
Day 4 - Tofino → Home
Wake up and start your day with a coffee and stroll along Mackenzie Beach, a West Coast ritual at this point. Pack up your Arct’eryx Victoria Mantis backpack with extra layers and snacks because today your ultimate adventure awaits with Tofino Marina. Choose between whale watching, bear watching a wildlife tour or paddle boarding and then set out for a west coast adventure with a guide in your own private boat.
Image courtesy of Tofino Marina
Drop some crab traps on the way out, and depart on the quest for an intimate experience of your choice. This trip will not only take you on a journey to find whales, bears and marine life but also is one of the best ways to see the Clayoquot sound. Miraculous coastlines, rugged points and exciting weather make this a trip that you will not forget. Once you have experienced the coastline, retrieve your crab traps on the way back to the dock and enjoy fresh crab cooked at the 1909 Restaurant for dinner.
Image courtesy of Tofino Marina
Your West Coast adventure is coming to a close, imparted on you is a deep respect for the coast, its history and its residents. You’re refreshed and ready to return home with memories of the ultimate PNW getaway.
This is a suggested itinerary for inspiration only. Find the full terms & conditions here.
