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Vancouver in One Day – The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary

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Visiting Vancouver in one day  was the best start we could have to what has been the best trip of our life so far. Vancouver is one of the top cities in western Canada, and with its eclectic blend of urbanity and natural beauty, it’s not hard to see why.

We took a  15-day Canadian Rockies road trip , but first, we spent  one perfect day in Vancouver, British Columbia . There are so many things to do here, so deciding how to spend 24 hours in this city is no easy feat.

In this guide, I’ll share some ideas for  what to do for 1 day in Vancouver . Whether you choose to stay downtown or want to check out the natural surroundings, there is something for you.

And if you have more time, don’t miss out our post with the 25 best things to do in Vancouver.

Vancouver in one day – morning itinerary

Have breakfast at The Templeton, the best way to start your day in Vancouver

We started our  perfect day in Vancouver  with a hearty breakfast at  The Templeton , and I highly recommend it. This popular diner is close to several main attractions in the city center, so it’s the best place to fuel up for a big day.

The restaurant has an extensive breakfast and lunch menu with vegetarian options. Some of the highlights include the  Farmers Breakfast  and the  Big Ass Breakfast , but everything is delicious, and the portions are enough for two or more people! It’s a popular hangout spot thanks to its classic 1950s style, complete with jukeboxes and huge milkshakes.

The Templeton is known for friendly service, good food, and a pleasant atmosphere, which we can attest to. Plus, it’s open daily, so you’ll be able to visit no matter when you plan your  Vancouver 1-day itinerary .

Walk through Stanley Park

After a delicious brunch, enjoy a stroll around  Stanley Park . Walking through this huge urban park will take a couple of hours, but you could also rent a bicycle to get around.

Follow the Seawall Path, which does a 5.5-mile loop around the park. You’ll pass by some interesting sites, including the  Girl in a Wetsuit  statue and Prospect Point, which provides awesome views of the lighthouse and harbor.

Continue to Siwash Rock, then check out Second Beach. This dog-friendly beach has beach volleyball, a heated pool, and if you’re lucky, a chance to see some wild orcas. English Bay (First Beach) is a 15-minute walk south and offers a family-friendly atmosphere and kayak rentals.

Finally, the First Nations totem poles are a must-see in Vancouver in one day . These colorful monuments reflect the history and culture of the indigenous Salish people, who have lived on the land for hundreds of years.

Take a panorama tour by seaplane

After walking through Stanley Park, get a totally different perspective of the city. This  seaplane tour  departs from a marina next to the park and does a 20-minute loop over Vancouver.

Marvel at the giant splash of the plane as you take off from the harbor. You’ll get a breathtaking view of the city, including the unmistakable Canada Place, as well as the North Shore Mountains. If you’re wondering  how to spend a day in Vancouver , this is it!

Have lunch at Granville Island Brewing

Next, head to  Granville Island , which has a more laid-back vibe. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re  in Vancouver for one day without a car  since you can take the footbridge or a ferry.

Granville Island is full of bars, restaurants, and specialty shops. I recommend stopping by the Granville Island Public Market, a shopping haven full of craft stalls, fresh produce, and any souvenir imaginable.

When you get hungry, grab a table at  Granville Island Brewing Co.  for some munchies and a beer or two. They also serve beer flights so you can sample 3, 6 or 10 different brews.

24 hours in Vancouver, Canada – afternoon itinerary

Take a waterfront sightseeing cruise

While you’re already in Granville, hop on a zodiac boat for a sightseeing tour. This 1.5-hour  waterfront cruise   is one of the best  one-day tours in Vancouver, BC,  and sails along the English Bay and North Shore.

Take in the beautiful views of the Vancouver cityscape and see Coal Harbour, False Creek, and other iconic sights. Keep your eyes peeled for seals and dolphins near the coast!

Visit Chinatown, a must-see in Vancouver in one day

Back on the mainland, a visit to  Chinatown  is something you must add to your  Vancouver one-day itinerary . The city has a large Asian population, so its Chinatown is a bustling place of different cultures and cuisines.

One of the first things you’ll see is the Millennium Gate. Flanked by a stone lion on either side, the gate is three stories high and has a colorful terra cotta roof.

As you walk through the neighborhood, you’ll pass by various restaurants and shops, several with vintage neon signs. Stop in for a snack or trinket, then check out the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. There is an entrance fee but it’s worth it because the grounds are filled with peaceful koi ponds, plants and shrubs, and a pagoda.

See the sunset from Vancouver Lookout

Not far from Chinatown is the  Vancouver Lookout , a 553-foot-tall observatory. Take a 40-second ride to the top in a glass elevator, then look out over the city and enjoy 360º views.

From up there, you’ll be able to see Metro Vancouver, the beautiful North Shore Mountains, and on clear days even Vancouver Island just off the Pacific Coast. Plan your  1-day Vancouver itinerary  so you get to the lookout just in time to see the sunset, then, climb back down and enjoy some evening fun in Gastown.

And don’t forget to visit the Gastown’s iconic Steam Clock. It’s just a 2-minute walk from the Lookout.

End your day in Vancouver, BC – evening itinerary

Have dinner at guilt & co., what to do in vancouver in 1 day.

You’ve had a  perfect day in Vancouver , but it’s not over yet! After visiting the lookout, head to  Guilt & Co.  for dinner, cocktails, and live music. It’s in the Gastown neighborhood, so you’ll be in the ideal spot to wrap up your night.

Enjoy the nightlife in Gastown

Gastown  is a lively area of alternative shops, cafes, and clubs, so it’s a ton of fun at night. Go bar-hopping and stop by the Royal Dinette  to get a drink from the award-winning best bartender in the world, Kaitlyn Stewart.

The town’s cobblestone streets and jazz influence add to its appeal, and the neighborhood overlaps with Chinatown, so it’s always an active place. You can browse the shops, mingle with the locals, or listen to a live band. Whatever you do, if you’re only  in Vancouver for a day , Gastown is a must-see.

End your perfect day in Vancouver at Fairmont Hotel

By the end of the night, you need somewhere to lay your head. If you’re looking for the best luxury hotels in town, I recommend the  Fairmont Hotel Vancouver , which is conveniently located in the city center. Plus, it’s just five minutes from the SkyTrain, so you can easily get out of Vancouver without a car.

If you’re traveling on a budget, the Blue Horizon Hotel is also a great alternative and is not far from there.

Alternative things to do in Vancouver for a day

If you can only spend one day in Vancouver but prefer to enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, we have a few ideas.

Above, you have seen what to do in Vancouver in a day to see the most important landmarks in the metro area. However, as you’ll learn in our guide on the  best things to do in Vancouver ,  there are other tours and activities that can help our more outdoorsy readers create the perfect one day Vancouver itinerary.

Whale watching, a perfect morning alternative in Vancouver

Without a doubt, the highlight of our trip was  whale-watching in Vancouver , so I must recommend it.

The tour we took lasted 5 hours and started in Granville Island at 8:30 am, making it the perfect alternative for the morning itinerary. If you’re looking for a different thing to do in one day in Vancouver, BC, or have some extra time before catching your flight, I can’t recommend this enough.

The surrounding waters of Vancouver are full of orcas and humpback whales, and you’ll probably see sea lions and bald eagles, too. The best thing is that if you’re not lucky and don’t see any whales, you can take another tour for free. However, you will need more than one day in Vancouver (or another upcoming trip) to take another tour.

Capilano Bridge, an alternative afternoon in Vancouver

For an adrenaline-filled afternoon, check out the  Capilano suspension bridge . You can book this  self-guided tour  and spend a couple of hours taking in the gorgeous view.

The 450-foot-long hanging bridge is one of the city’s most exciting attractions, so it makes for a  perfect day in Vancouver  if you love extreme adventures. Suspended 230 feet above the ground, the bridge is the only way to get an above-canopy perspective of the forest.

You may also want to check out the Story Centre, an educational exhibition where you can learn about the First Nations people at Kai’palano and their traditional totem poles.

Grouse Mountain, the perfect winter day in Vancouver

If you love snow sports and have  one winter day in Vancouver , consider a visit to  Grouse Mountain .

Located in the North Shore Mountains of the Pacific Range, Grouse Mountain is just a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver and is the best winter destination for ice skating, skiing, and snowboarding.

During the warmer months it’s also quite popular with mountain bikers and hikers. There is also a popular hiking trail, the  Grouse Grind , known as “Mother Nature’s Staircase.” The two-mile trek rises 2,800 feet in elevation, so it’s quite the hike.

Of course, you could also take the Super Skyride cable car to the top of the mountain. A two-way ticket is included with  general admission  to Grouse Mountain (it also includes a shuttle from/to downtown Vancouver from mid-May to September). However, if you visit in summer, I would opt for this combo tour that also takes you to the Capilano Suspension Bridge.

For outdoor enthusiasts and snow sports lovers, Grouse Mountain is the ideal way to spend a day in Vancouver.

Sea to Sky Gondola, an alternative day in Vancouver

The  Sea to Sky Gondola  is perfect if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown (it’s a one-hour drive from the city center).

Open year-round, the gondola ascends over Howe Sound and the coastal forests of British Columbia. Not only are the views amazing, but there are several outdoor activities at the summit, so you can enjoy a  perfect day in Vancouver’s  natural beauty.

You’ll catch the gondola from Shannon Falls Provincial Park, named for British Columbia’s third-tallest waterfall, at nearly 2,000 feet. The gondola takes you up to the Summit Lodge 9,000 feet above sea level, where you can find the 330-foot-long Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge that grants you panoramic views over the forest.

To make the most out of your day in Vancouver, you can take this tour, which not only includes the shuttle there, but also a guided tour around the most popular downtown attractions, such as Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park, and Granville Island.

Now you should have plenty of ideas for your next  24 hours in Vancouver ! This city has so much to offer, so if you can spend more time here, be sure to take advantage of your visit.

If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to help. Safe travels!

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Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ Vancouver in One Day – The Perfect 24-Hour Itinerary ”

Don’t bother with ChinaTown, the area is gross and pretty unsafe in 2023. It was dirty, smelly, hardly any open shops and there were so many drug addicts and people acting quite volatile with very little police presence. Definitely do not go after dark, it was bad enough mid afternoon. We are from Hamilton/Toronto and even we found it shocking. Toronto Chinatown is much bigger, better and safer. Don’t waste your time in Vancouver. In fact, any further up or over than the gastown steam clock in that direction from the waterfront is pretty dodgy.

Hi Jackie, Yes, someone recently told us about the bad situation in Chinatown. However, that wasn’t the situation when we visited a couple of years ago. I hope it can recover and become what it once was!

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Itinerary: Three Days in Vancouver

Day Trips From Vancouver

The Best Vancouver Day Trips

Vancouver day trips range from adventurous to purely scenic and relaxing. If you have some extra time, why not explore the Vancouver region by taking one of these 12 Vancouver day trips.

Part of the beauty of this Vancouver day trip is getting there. The Sea to Sky Highway that connects Vancouver and Whistler is one of Canada's most beautiful drives . This stunning piece of highway offers views of lakes, mountains, fjords, inlets, a waterfall, all in under two hours by car or try the day-long Rocky Mountaineer train trip.

Once in the year-round resort of Whistler, enjoy skiing, hiking, ​zip lining or wandering the shops and boutiques of Whistler Village.

Personalized, private tours of Whistler from Vancouver are available and last about 8 hrs.

Harrison Hot Springs

Located among southwestern BC's magnificent mountains and the sandy beaches of Harrison Lake, the village of Harrison Hot Springs draws visitors not only for its warm natural spring waters but also for golf, water sports and more.

There are several places to stay in town, but the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa has the sole water rights to the hot springs, piping them to its five mineral pools directly from ​the source almost a quarter of a mile away.

This quaint fishing village sits at the mouth of the South Arm of the Fraser River in Richmond - still officially part of greater Vancouver. Since the 1870s, Steveston has been home to salmon canneries, attracting Japanese, Chinese and European immigrant workers there. Today, the town retains a heritage charm due to the preservation of many historic buildings but has also grown to accommodate an increasing population and tourism industry.

Steveston is also known for its annual Canada Day Salmon Festival and as a whale watching destination.

Bowen Island

Bowen Island is the most accessible island getaway from Vancouver. Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver or half an hour by water taxi, Bowen Island offers respite from the big city of Vancouver by way of kayaking, sandy beaches, inlets, hiking and mountain biking. The 52sq km/20sq mi island, like many of BC's island communities, is residence to many painters, jewelers and other artisans willing to sell their wares.

Sunshine Coast

TripSavvy / Alisha McDarris

The Sunshine Coast comprises a number of communities along a 180 km stretch of land north of Vancouver. Though not an island, the Sunshine Coast has no road access, so visitors need either take the 40 min BC Ferries ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, a sea taxi from Granville Island or seaplane. En route, enjoy views of the Vancouver skyline and surrounding mountains. Once on the coast, you'll notice the temperate climate and laid-back feel. Activities include browsing artists shops and boutiques, fine-dining, hiking, kayaking.

Cypress Mountain

For skiers, Cypress Mountain is one of the most accessible mountains to get to from downtown Vancouver, only 30 minutes away. Aside from downhill skiing, Cypress offers a snow tube park, snowshoe tours, and cross-country trails.

The stunning views atop Cypress Mountain are available year-round. In summer, hike or cycle the trails of the three mountains that comprise Cypress Provincial Park .

It's almost a shame to list this capital of BC city as a mere day trip. Victoria and Vancouver Island have so much to offer that several days or more is ideal. Something else to consider when planning a Victoria day trip is that the BC Ferries ride alone is just over an hour and a half, not including the travel time to and from the ferry terminals. Another option is to travel by helicopter , a quick, comfortable, convenient but more expensive way to go.

Some ideas for visiting Victoria include

• Victoria by Seaplane and Ferry (Book this tour with Viator)
• Seaplane Flight to Victoria & Whale-Watching Cruise (Book this tour with Viator)
• Vancouver to Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour by Bus (Book this tour with Viator)

Like Victoria, Nanaimo is located on Vancouver Island  and is a ferry ride away from Vancouver - possibly stretching the definition of a "day trip" as you're looking at four hours travel time. More time on the island is ideal, nevertheless, the ferry ride itself is scenic and comfortable, so it's not wasted time. Nanaimo offers plenty in the way of swimming, scuba diving, hiking and more. Be sure to try the Nanaimo bars, for which the town is famous!

Golden Ears Provincial Park

This year-round park - one of the largest in the province - offers many recreational activities, typical of a provincial park: hiking, camping, horseback riding. The freshwater lake is popular for canoeing, fishing, windsurfing, etc.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

The Capilano Suspension Bridge is more than just a bridge; there's actually a whole park with activities, history, and culture. The park is a 20-minute drive outside of downtown Vancouver.

Built in 1889, the Capilano Suspension Bridge stretches 450 feet (137m) across and 230 feet (70m) above Capilano River. The park offers guided nature tours, the Kids' Rainforest Explorer program, and Living Forest exhibit.

Combine a day trip to Capilano Suspension Bridge with a visit to Grouse Mountain; they are close to one another in North Vancouver.

An organized tour may be a good way to go if you don't want to figure out public transit or rent a car.

Grouse Mountain

Though Grouse doesn't measure up to Cypress in terms of a ski experience (Cypress has more lifts and slopes), it is still a popular spot for reasonably priced skiing. Many people visit Grouse Mountain just to go up the gondola and get the best view of Vancouver. Grouse Mountain is also famous for the Grouse Grind, a 2.9-kilometre trail up the mountain face. Other activities include zip-lining, a visit to the Grizzly bear refuge and dining.

Cross-Border Shopping

Canadians love their cross-border shopping, and between Vancouver and Seattle off of Highway 5, you'll find plenty of it. The closest spot to hit is Bellingham - about a half hour south of the Canada/U.S. border - where Bellis Fair Mall features Target, Kohl's, Abercrombie & Fitch and more. Continue south another half hour and you come to Burlington/Mt. Vernon, where outlet stores include GAP, Coach, and J.Crew among others.

Be sure to consult the allowances for cross-border shopping .

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25 Awesome Day Trips from Vancouver, Canada

01/04/2023 By Traveling Canucks 7 Comments Categories: Adventures Beautiful BC Series British Columbia Canada Family Travel Tips Sightseeing Travel Stories Travel Tips Trip Ideas Vancouver

The best day trips from Vancouver, British Columbia

If you’ve visited Vancouver, chances are you’ve walked around Stanley Park’s iconic seawall , visited Granville Island , snapped a photo of the old Steam Clock in Gastown , shopped on Robson Street and raised a glass in Granville’s entertainment district . In this post, we want to get outside the city and share our favourite day trips from Vancouver.

While there are countless  things to see and do in Vancouver , there’s even more adventure waiting for you just outside the city limits (there’s good reason why Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities).

As residents of North Vancouver, we’ve spent the past few years exploring our big, beautiful backyard. It’s been fun doing the research for this long overdue blog post about the best day trips from Vancouver .

25 Awesome Day trips from Vancouver

Table of Contents

Today, we’d like to share OUR favourite day trips from Vancouver.

It should be noted that you can easily convert some of these day trips into an overnight trip or weekend getaway. Read this post for the best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors.

We highly recommend going slow and spending quality time at each spot, but we’d completely understand if you wanted to see it all.

Let’s get started, shall we?

1. Whistler

We’re going to kick things off with our top day trips from Vancouver, rather than saving the best for last. Located 125 km north of Vancouver (about 1.5 hour drive), Whistler is a four season resort town with more than 8,000 acres of terrain spread across multiple mountain peaks.

Simply put – if you like adventure, Whistler is built for you!

Whistler gained world fame in 2010 when it co-hosted the Winter Olympics with the city of Vancouver. Whistler consistently ranks as the top ski resort in North America. In 2008, it introduced the world record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola, completing the longest continuous lift system in the world.

Over the past decade, Whistler has evolved to become a top summer destination in Canada . 

Whistler boasts over 50 km of high alpine hiking trails, multiple golf courses, zip-line courses , ATV off road tours, Jeep 4×4 tours to view glaciers , bungee jumping, helicopter tours , bear viewing tours, white water rafting, and several fresh water lakes for SUP, kayaking and canoeing .

The Whistler Bike Park has quickly become one of the best mountain bike parks in North America. Whistler hosts several festivals and events each year, including the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April and Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival in August.

Some of the fun things to do in Whistler:

• Take the Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola – learn more here . 
• Try the Whistler Sasquatch Zipline , the longest zipline in Canada and the US.
• Rejuvenate and relax at the traditional  Scandinave Spa
• Golf at 3 different courses, including the impressive Nicklaus North Golf Course
• SUP or kayaking at Lost Lake, Alta Lake or Green Lake
• Downhill mountain biking and/or cross-country trail riding
• Zip-line courses, ATV off road tours, white water rafting or bungee jumping
• Whistler Jeep Tour to see glaciers and snow-capped mountain vistas
• Helicopter excursion or float plane sightseeing tour
• Bear viewing tour and/or nature safari
• Hike to stunning alpine lakes at Garibali Lake, Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Chekamus Lake, Elfin Lakes and/or Wedgemount Lake
• Visit the unique Whistler train wreck
• Search for Whistler hotel deals here

Related – 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer

2. Victoria

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island , Victoria is one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest . People often mistake Vancouver as the capital city of British Columbia, when in fact it’s Victoria.

Victoria is approximately 100 kilometres from both Vancouver and Seattle, making it the perfect day trip or weekend getaway for tourists (and mainland residents). We try to visit Victoria at least once every year.

If you’re short on time, we recommend you check out this Guided Food and History Tour of Victoria. 

While you technically can visit Victoria in one day, we recommend you give it at least one night. Ideally, two or three nights, if you can.

Most people will catch the ferry that departs from Tsawwassen BC Ferries Terminal , but you can take a bus from downtown Vancouver that will drop you off in downtown Victoria (ticket includes the ferry crossing).

If you’re a first time visitor to Vancouver and you don’t have a vehicle, we’d recommend the bus option over renting a car and driving on the ferry.

You can also take a float plane from downtown Vancouver, which is a lot of fun. If you’ve only got one day to spend in Victoria, the float plane is the fastest and most convenient option. The ferry option will take you at least 4 hours in each direction.

If you decide to stay overnight, here’s where to stay in Victoria:

We have stayed at the Magnolia Hotel ,  Victoria Ocean Pointe Resort and Fairmont Empress and would recommend them all. They are centrally located and family friendly. Search for more Victoria hotels here .

Related – 20 Things to do in Victoria, British Columbia

3. Visit Bowen Island

Located approximately 25 km’s northwest of Vancouver, Bowen Island is a laid-back island that feels miles away from the hustle of the big city. The island is only 6 km wide and 12 km long, so you can easily explore the island in one day. Popular activities are kayaking, mountain biking, hiking and boating.

The  Snug Cove ferry terminal has a marina with small shops and restaurants. The most popular beaches on Bowen Island are Tunstall Bay, Bowen Bay and Sandy Beach.

An easy scenic hike is the  Killarney Lake trail . It takes about 2 hours round trip, covering 9 km’s. A more challenging hike is the summit of  Mount Gardner . It takes about 7 hours, covering 17 km’s round trip.

To get to Bowen Island, you take a 20 minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Or you can take a 45 minute water taxi from Granville Island. Check with BC Ferries for sailing times.

If you do wish to spend the night, the best accommodations on Bowen Island are vacation properties. Search for vacation properties to stay here .

Related – 25 Things to do in Vancouver

4. Explore the Sunshine Coast

Although the Sunshine Coast may not always live up to its name (it’s located in the Pacific Northwest, after all), it’s a beautiful coastal area that stretches from Langdale to Lund, with many quaint communities in between. 

If you’ve got the time, this is a great place for a coastal road trip.

Part of the fun is the actual journey to the Sunshine Coast. Most visitors will access the Sunshine Coast by ferry from Horseshoe Bay. However, you can also take a float plane, depending on the time of year. The ferry ride and marinas are quintessentially West Coast.

If you only have one day, you’ll want to focus your time on Langdale and Hopkins Landing .

Hopkins Landing is a short walk from the Langdale ferry terminal and there’s a beach that overlooks the North Shore mountains. It’s a great spot for kayaking, swimming and beachcombing. 

If you are traveling in a small group, you might consider booking a guided tour to explore a few of the hidden gems on the Sunshine Coast.

5. Rent a boat and cruise around Howe Sound

Howe Sound is network of fjords situated between West Vancouver and the Sunshine Coast, about 30 minutes northwest of Vancouver. This is one of the most beautiful areas in the Lower Mainland.

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience British Columbia’s natural beauty, driving a small speed boat around Howe Sound should be on your list.

One of the things we like to do in Vancouver during the summer is to visit the lazy seals that hang out on Pam Rocks , a cluster of tiny islands located in the center of Howe Sound. The only way to see these rock islands is by boat. 

The best place to rent boats is Sewell’s Marina , located in Horseshoe Bay.

Renting a boat is relatively inexpensive and you don’t need to have a special boat license. A standard driver’s license is sufficient. For two hours of personal boat time (usually enough to get to the seal colony and back) it’s about $180 (check rates here ). The boat can take between 4 to 6 people.

To visit marine parks and secluded coves that can only be reached by water, it’s wise to do the 4-hour rate and head to Gambier or Anvil Island.

Related – Top Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

6. horseshoe bay.

Another great day trip from Vancouver is the village of Horseshoe Bay , the gateway to Howe Sound and the Sunshine Coast , located on the western tip of West Vancouver .

Horseshoe Bay is also the location of the third busiest BC Ferries terminal . If you plan to visit Vancouver Island, Bowen Island or the Sunshine Coast, you will board your ferry at Horseshoe Bay.

Even if you don’t plan to take a ferry, Horseshoe Bay is a fun place to have lunch and spend the afternoon. There are a few restaurants in the village, including the legendary Trolls Restaurant (get the Oyster Burger or Clam Chowder), and it has a rocky beach with a playground that faces the marina.

After you visit Horseshoe Bay, check out nearby Whytecliff Park , one of the first Marine Protected Areas in Canada and a popular cold water scuba diving spot.

If you have time on your drive back to Vancouver, visit nearby Lighthouse Park , located in a residential area in West Vancouver. It is a popular attraction and a National Historic Site of Canada .

Related – 25 FREE Things to do in Vancouver

7. Squamish

Located about halfway between Vancouver and Whistler, the town of Squamish is one of the best day trips from Vancouver. It continues to build its brand as an outdoor adventure destination. It’s an easy drive from Vancouver and the scenery is everything you’d expect from a town in the mountains.

We could dedicate an entire blog post about things to do in Squamish. You can make several day trips from Vancouver to Squamish and still only scratch the surface.

For the thrill-seeker, rock climbing at the Stawamus Chief   is world class and the Via Ferrata from the Summit Lodge is fun change of pace.

If you prefer to get in the water, the Squamish Spit hosts some of the best windsurfing and kite surfing in the Pacific Northwest. There area also dozens of hiking trails and parks, including the family-friendly Four Lakes Trail  and the full day  Elfin Lakes hike .

Other activities include a visit the West Coast Rail Heritage Park (home to the annual Polar Express  experience), eagle viewing in Brackendale , golfing at Furry Creek , paddling and fishing on Alice Lake , shopping at the Squamish Farmers’ Market and brewery tours at Howe Sound Brewing .

Related – The best road trip from Vancouver for first time visitors

8. Sea to Sky Gondola

Another favourite day trips from Vancouver is the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish. It’s a 10-minute gondola ride that transports guests up the side of the mountain to a lodge that overlooks Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains.

There are plenty of things to do once you reach the summit. The Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge is a big hit and will surely give you butterflies in your stomach as it sways from side to side.

There are multiple viewing platforms and several hiking trails for all skill levels. The Summit Lodge has an amazing patio, so if you’re not up for adventure, you can enjoy a relaxing lunch with outstanding mountain views.

If you plan to visit on a weekend in the summer, make sure you arrive early because it’s a popular attraction and the Sea to Sky Gondola parking is limited. And if you already know your date of arrival, we suggest you reserve your spot here .

There’s overflow parking available across the highway from Shannon Falls Provincial Park (check out the waterfalls if you visit the gondola) . We’re told that there’s a free shuttle service on the weekends.

Or, you can walk 15 minutes to the Sea to Sky Gondola via the connector hiking trail.

Related – Winter fun at Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish

9. Britannia Mine Museum

The  Britannia Mine Museum , formerly British Columbia Museum of Mining, is located in Britannia Beach . It’s about 55 km north of Vancouver on the Sea-to-Sky Highway on Howe Sound.

The Museum site itself is an exhibit – from historical machinery to heritage buildings and the massive yellow dump truck that lives within the facility.

We recommend you take the underground tour on the old mine train.

The 45 minute guided tour gives you an understanding of what life was like as a miner back in the early 1900s. It’s fascinating to learn how the mines were operated back then. I’m not sure I could do what they did. 

You only need about 2 hours to explore the museum and take the mine train tour, so this is a good activity to bundle with a visit to the Sea to Sky Gondola or Porteau Cove Provincial Park . Book your admission tickets easily here . 

If you like this attraction, visit the train museum in Squamish .

Rail track inside the old mine tunnel at Britannia Mine Museum.

10. Porteau Cove Provincial Park

Porteau Cove is a small provincial park in British Columbia (about 50 hectares in size), situated on the most southerly fjord in North America. The park stretches between the shoreline of Howe Sound and the Sea to Sky Highway , about 20 minutes south of Squamish .

Aside from its rocky beaches and breathtaking mountain vistas, Porteau Cove’s star attraction the old ferry terminal that’s been converted into a pedestrian pier. 

It’s also a popular cold water scuba dive spot because it has a series of artificial reefs and two sunken ships.

Related – An oceanfront cabin retreat at Porteau Cove

Above – the beach at Porteau Cove Provincial Park .

11. Hiking at Garibaldi Provincial Park

Garibaldi Provincial Park is a massive wilderness park located between Squamish and Whistler, about a 1.5 hour drive from Vancouver. This beautiful park is best visited during the summer months, when you can hike the popular Garibaldi Lake trail .

The park covers an area of over 1,950 square kilometers (753 sq mi) and is home to some of British Columbia’s most impressive hiking trails. There are five entrance points located along the Sea to Sky Highway. There are also several camp sites that are first come, first served.

The most popular trails in Garibaldi Provincial Park are Diamond Head, Black Tusk , Garibaldi Lake,  Wedgemount Lake ,  Cheakamus Lake and Singing Pass.

If you’re looking for a full day leg burner, the Garibaldi Lake hike will do the trick (pictured above).

Related – The Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

12. Whale watching in the Southern Gulf Islands

The Southern Gulf Islands , an archipelago of small islands located between Vancouver Island the Lower Mainland, is one of the best places to witness orca whales in their natural habitat. This is one of the best day trips from Vancouver for first time visitors, in our opinion.

The best time to go whale watching is during the salmon migration in the summer months between May to October. Whales, sea birds and other marine animals are attracted to the area to feed, resulting in very strong success rate on many whale watching tours.

There are plenty of whale watching operators based out of Vancouver that offer a variety of options, from 2 hour tours to full day excursions.

Related –  Surrounded by Killer Whales in the Salish Sea

13. Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cliffwalk

Located in the District of North Vancouver , near the base of Grouse Mountain , the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a fun and easy day trip from Vancouver.

Over the years, the park has added several features to compliment its famous bouncing suspension bridge, including the recently added  Cliffwalk experience.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a great family friendly attraction for both tourists and locals. Aside from the bridge and Cliffwalk , the park also offers the Treetops adventure , a series of seven suspension bridges attached to eight 30 ton, 250 year old Douglas-firs, and several boardwalks with viewpoints that overlook the canyon.

Skip the lines and book your tickets easily here . 

If you have time, try to squeeze in a visit to nearby Cleveland Dam .

Related –  Cliffwalk at the Capilano Suspension Bridge

14. Play in the North Shore Mountains

No trip to Vancouver is complete without a visit to the North Shore Mountains . The most popular and accessible mountains are Grouse Mountain, Mount Seymour and Cypress Mountain. All three mountains have ski operations in the winter, extensive hiking trails in the summer and facilities with restaurants.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain , the self-described Peak of Vancouver, is the most popular mountain for tourists. To reach the peak, guests take the Skyride tram to the top of the mountain. This is always fun for first timers, regardless of the season.

For the more adventurous type, you can hike to the summit via the Grouse Grind , also known as Mother Nature’s Staircase (it’s a 2.9 km trail that climbs 2,800 feet). Novice hikers should plan for roughly two hours to ascend the trail. The record is 25 minutes.

There are restaurants and cafes at the summit of Grouse Mountain, so if you’re not up for a strenuous afternoon you can simply enjoy the views with a cold beverage in hand.

During the summer you can witness the Grizzly Bear habitat.

Reserve your Grouse Mountain ticket here .

Cypress Mountain / Cypress Provincial Park

Cypress Mountain is located in the southern section of Cypress Provincial Park. With over 240 hectares of skiable terrain and 53 runs, Cypress Mountain has the largest ski area out of the three mountains.

Cypress hosted the Freestyle Skiing and Snowboarding events during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics .

Mount Seymour Provincial Park 

Mount Seymour is often overlooked by first time visitors to Vancouver because it’s the furthest away from the downtown. It’s also the smallest of the three local mountains. It’s more of a family mountain and has some of the best snowshoeing and nordic skiing trails on the North Shore.

15. Hiking or Kayaking in Deep Cove

An easy day trips from Vancouver is a visit to Deep Cove . It’s a quaint community in the easternmost North Vancouver, located at the entrance of Indian Arm It’s about a 25 minute drive from Vancouver. There’s a little village with a restaurants, shops and the infamous Honey’s Doughnuts (Vancouverites love these donuts!).

Deep Cove is known for its marina and kayaking.

You can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and surfskis from Deep Cove Kayak . This shop gets busy in the summer months, especially on the weekends. You’re best to make a reservation for equipment.

Parking in Deep Cove can be challenging, so it’s wise to arrive early (before 9:00 AM).

Another popular activity in Deep Cove is hiking to Quarry Rock.

Quarry Rock is an easy hike that takes about 1.5 hours round trip, so it’s an ideal day trip from Vancouver. The views from the top of Quarry Rock are fantastic.

If you’ve got the stamina and the time, you could hike the trail in the morning, have lunch at Arms Reach Bistro in the village, then go for a paddle in the afternoon.

Now that’s a perfect day in the Pacific Northwest!

16. Steveston Fisherman’s Wharf

Richmond’s Steveston Village is a charming fishing village located 20 minutes south of Vancouver. It sits at the mouth of the Fraser River and was once the largest fishing port and cannery centre on the West Coast.

Steveson is also the departure point for many whale watching tours that explore the nearby Gulf Islands and the San Juan islands (in Washington State).

On a sunny afternoon we like to visit the village and indulge in fish and chips and cold beer. Then we like to walk along the pier to burn off lunch.

The Gulf of Georgia Cannery (also known as the Monster Cannery) is now a National Historic Site . It offers a glimpse into the history of the multicultural workers who kept the salmon canning lines moving in the early 1900’s.

Steveston is still an active fishing harbour, so you can walk along the docks and purchase fresh seafood directly from the fishing boats. This is where you’ll find the best prices on fresh seafood!

17. River Rock Casino, Richmond

The River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond is the largest casino in British Columbia, generating an average of 10,000 visitors per day. 

With the addition of the Canada Line SkyTrain, the rapid transit that connects Richmond to Vancouver, there’s now a train station located directly across from the casino, making it easily accessible from virtually anywhere in the city.

The River Rock has a large theater that hosts a variety of entertainment acts throughout the year. If you like Vegas style entertainment you’ll enjoy an evening at the River Rock.

Here’s the upcoming schedule at the River Rock Theatre .

In the summer, the Richmond Night Market runs on weekends and close to the River Rock Casino. The Night Market features live performances, carnival games and over 200 retail stalls with over 500 food choices from around the world.

18. Langley Wine Tours 

Did you know the Lower Mainland is home to several award winning wineries? You don’t have to drive all the way to the Okanagan Valley to enjoy wine tasting in British Columbia. 

Chaberton Estate Winery is the oldest and largest winery in the Fraser Valley and the 5th largest in British Columbia. Other popular wineries are Township 7 Winery ,  Neck of the Woods Winery ,  Backyard Vineyards and the Fort Wine Co.

Langley is about a 45 minute drive from Vancouver, depending on traffic (afternoon rush hour can add 1-2 hours). If you plan to sample a lot of wine and don’t want to drive, you can organize wine tasting tours that depart from Vancouver and visit 3-4 wineries. It’s a fun day trip in the summer months.

Related – Wine tasting and Glamping in Kelowna

19. Cultus Lake Waterpark & Adventure Park

Located two hours east of Vancouver, just south of Chilliwack, sits Cultus Lake Provincial Park and its many family friendly attractions. The lake, beaches and surrounding forests are fantastic, but what lures families to this area is the Cultus Lake Waterpark and Cultus Lake Adventure Park .

The Adventure Park is British Columbia’s newest family theme park and home to the Fraser Valley’s only roller coaster. It’s also home to Giggle Ridge Adventure Golf (18 holes of mini-golf), Bumper Boats, Prospector’s Peak and the Runaway Mine Train.

Cultus Lake Waterpark has all kinds of water slides, wading pools and themed attractions. You could spend the entire day at this park alone.

Related –  A look back on an epic summer in British Columbia

20. Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park

Chilliwack Lake Provincial Park is located 150 km east of Vancouver and 64 km southeast of Chilliwack (40km in from the Vedder Crossing).

It’s a beautiful park surrounded by jagged mountain peaks and dense forest. There are several hiking trails, beaches, boat launches, parks and recreational facilities. This is a great spot to go boating, kayaking and canoeing.

To get to Chilliwack Lake, take Exit 104 from Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Hwy) and follow the signs for Cultus Lake until you reach Cultus Lake Road. Instead of turning, follow Vedder Road across the bridge and turn right onto Chilliwack Lake Road.

Follow this road for 40 km to the lake and campground – visit BC Parks website for more info.

Related –  Why We Love Living in British Columbia

21. Sturgeon Fishing on the Fraser River (Chilliwack)

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, you should try sturgeon fishing on the North Fraser River . Sturgeons date back to the Triassic period, some 245 to 208 million years ago.

So, basically, these are underwater dinosaurs! Okay, not really . But some of these fish are over 150 years old and grow as long as 10 feet.

You can take a guided tour that departs from Chilliwack and goes up the North Fraser River. The river is loaded with sturgeon and salmon. While you’re on the boat waiting for a fish to bite, it’s common to see sturgeon breach along the river. On our trip, we witnessed about a dozen sturgeons jumping out of the water. It’s quite the sight.

Chilliwack is about a 2 hour drive from Vancouver, depending on traffic. The fishing tours take between 6 to 8 hours, so this is a full day excursion. Here’s the company we went with .

Watch – Video of us catching a MASSIVE sturgeon fish

22. Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a resort community known for its hot springs and picturesque lake and mountain landscapes. It’s located about 2.5 hours east of Vancouver. It’s another one of our favourite day trips from Vancouver.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort is the main attraction, with its 5 hot spring pools and restaurants. However, you can only access these pools if you are a guest staying at Harrison Hot Springs Resort. Consider spending the night here, it’s a nice escape from the city.

There’s more to Harrison Hot Springs than its hot spring pools.

Harrison lake offers every kind of water sport you can imagine, from kayaking to boating to its massive floating waterpark. It has a beach, waterfront parks, golf courses and several hiking trails.

While you’re in the area, check out Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park and its beautiful cascading waterfalls. The park entrance is located just off the Trans-Canada Highway and it’s only a 10 minute hike to the waterfalls, so this is an easy pit-stop that will only take about an hour.

During the summer, you can also visit Bridal Falls Water Park . It’s a smaller water park (when compared to the Cultus Lake Water Park ), but it boasts heated water and plenty of kiddie slides and water play areas.

Related – Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs

23. Float plane to the Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands are located in the Strait of Georgia (also known as Salish Sea ), between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. The most popular islands are Salt Spring Island, Galiano Island and Pender Island .

The Gulf Islands are so peaceful and relaxing. You feel like you’re a world away from Vancouver, yet they’re less than 100 kilometres away. 

The Gulf Islands can be reached by ferry. It will end up being a very long day if you plan to return to Vancouver the same day. You are better off spending a night or two if you plan to travel to the islands by ferry.

Alternatively, you can take a short float plane ride from Vancouver to the Gulf Islands.

Weather does impact flights. You will need to have a Plan B if your flight is canceled or delayed due to fog or rain. You should be fine in the summer months, but winter can be hit and miss.

The float plane to the islands is half the fun, as you can see in this short video captured while flying over Howe Sound and the Gulf Islands. 

24. Sasquatch Mountain Resort

Located about 2 hours east of Vancouver, Sasquatch Mountain Resort is a lesser known ski resort in the Lower Mainland. It’s a small, laidback mountain with 4 lifts and 36+ runs. If you like skiing and snowboarding, this is a fun mountain that’s known for having no lift lines. 

Aside from skiing, this family friendly mountain offers one of the biggest snow tubing parks in the Lower Mainland, along with several snowshoe trails and a day lodge with multiple restaurants.

In the summer, the mountain offers hiking trails and disc golf. The region is also home to several ATV trails, mountains lakes (some with stocked fish) and campgrounds. It’s located less than 45 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs. 

We like that Sasquatch offers accommodations on the mountain, should you choose to extend your day trip to an overnight trip . 

Related post – Everything you need to know about Sasquatch Mountain

25. Point Roberts in Washington State

Point Roberts is close in proximity to the skyscrapers of Vancouver, however, its chilled out vibe makes you feel as if you’re hundreds of miles away from the city lights. In fact, I don’t even remember seeing a traffic light in Point Roberts?

Yes, Point Roberts  that kind of place. Small, friendly, safe and quiet.

There are lots of things to do in Point Roberts , like biking, hiking and beach combing, but the most common activity is doing nothing . By that, I mean waking up in the morning with no agenda and letting the mood dictate your day.

There are only a few restaurants in Point Roberts and some are seasonal, so it’s wise to check hours of operation ahead of time.

The beaches in the Pacific Northwest are different from those found in tropical climates. They are not made of soft white sand that feels silky smooth on your feet. In fact, they are quite the opposite. The beaches in this part of the world are rocky and filled with driftwood, sea shells and coarse sand. At low tide, the ocean floor is exposed and a world of sea treasures is revealed.

Note: Point Roberts is located in the United States, so you need a passport to cross the border.

Related – Photos from our trip to Point Roberts

Where to stay in Vancouver

There are plenty of  hotels in Vancouver  to choose from, ranging from upscale five star hotels to backpacker hostels and everything in between.

• Search for Vancouver hotels  here .
• Most of the popular Vancouver tourist attractions are located in the downtown area. Consider this when selecting where to stay in Vancouver.
• Downtown hotels often require additional fees for overnight parking – sometimes as high as $40 per night. Consider this when booking hotels and car rentals.
• If you prefer to stay closer to the mountains, consider staying at the  Lonsdale Quay Hotel  or the  Holiday Inn North Vancouver . Staying outside the downtown area will make it easier for you to take these day trips from Vancouver.

Vancouver travel tips and things to know:

• Pick up & return your vehicle at the Vancouver airport. Check out Expedia.com for affordable options.
• If you visit during winter, make sure you have snow tires for the mountain drives.
• It’s wise to book reservations for the ferry to and from Vancouver Island, especially over a holiday weekend. Here’s the list of holidays in BC . Check ferry schedule  here .
• Check the Vancouver weather forecast before your day trip from Vancouver. The weather in British Columbia can be unpredictable.

Read more blog posts from British Columbia:

• Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs this summer
• The Best Road Trip from Vancouver for first time visitors
• The best things to do in Victoria right now
• 20 Things to do in Whistler this Summer
• The Best Things to do Along the Sea to Sky Highway

What day trips from Vancouver will you do?

Share your feedback and recommendations in the comments section below. Our readers thank you!

Related posts:

08/06/2017 at 1:31 am

Weekends are made for day trips! Loved the long list of places to add to my bucket list 🙂

02/23/2018 at 1:51 am

What a great list And perfect timing to, stumbling over your blog… as we’ll be traveling to Vancouver in a few months…

Definitely will be looking at your list of suggestions now that we are sitting down to plan our Seattle/Vancouver trip

04/27/2018 at 11:05 am

Thanks so much for all of the detailed info! We’re headed there this summer!

05/26/2018 at 1:47 pm

Lots of great information thanks for sharing . I’m think of going in September for 6 nights in Vancouver so hopefully can see quite a bit. Is there a local bus to Squamish to see sea to gondola. How faar are the other mountain points from grouse mountain. Can you get to chillwick by local transport.

09/20/2018 at 5:01 pm

This is a fantastic list and one that finally has me sorted for the itinerary for our upcoming Canada trip! Thanks for the effort in putting this together and some great photos.

04/09/2019 at 12:34 am

Your explanation of the sight seeings near Vancouver is so detailed with beautiful photos. Thanks a lot. It helps me to make a five-day tour plan in the summer.

08/25/2021 at 6:50 am

I’ve only looked closely at item 12 because I am fully informed on the topic of BC whales and whale tours.

The information here became outdated six years ago (2015) when the salmon eating southern resident killer whales last appeared for their annual May-Oct foraging for Chinook salmon, in the Gulf Islands.

Since that time the population of transient killer whales and humpback whales has exploded, they are present year round and can be seen anywhere from Sooke to Port hardy.

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16 Best Day Trips From Vancouver Canada

Residents proudly boast about our city, but I can’t not mention the best day trips from Vancouver.

Whether you label it a weekend retreat, a Vancouver escape, or a departure from city life, we have access to some of the most picturesque locations in the country, just a few hours away.

So, here’s to my Vancouver day trip guide for those seeking adventures in British Columbia.

Best Day Trips from Vancouver: Great 1 Day Trips for 2024

Victoria: Best Vancouver Island Day Trip from Vancouver

The capital city of British Columbia holds the distinction of being Canada’s warmest city, and it has also been voted the Best City for Women, Canada’s Most Bikeable City, and the 2nd Best Small City in the World.s

Also, with just one day below zero yearly, a trip to “the Garden City” is one of the best things to do in Vancouver in winter .

Over 3 billion flowers bloom here every year, making it a great stop to take in colonial architecture, have tea at the legendary Empress Hotel, and eat gourmet foods sourced from the area’s 1700+ farms.

It’s no wonder this is one of the top weekend getaways from Vancouver.

Getting to Victoria from Vancouver involves a 90-minute ferry ride to Vancouver Island.

Wanting a full tour package? Check the best Vancouver tours to Victoria .

Whistler: Top Village Day Trip from Vancouver

How many major cities have a world-class ski resort just 90 minutes from Vancouver city center?

If you want an upgrade on Vancouver’s top ski mountains , this is one of those good day trips from Vancouver you’ll never forget.

Yes, Whistler has been voted Top Ski Resort in the World by various publications, and the 200+ marked runs famous for champagne powder make it a no-brainer for winter fun. But there are tons of things to do in Whistler besides skiing.

There are loads of great restaurants in Whistler , making it a gourmet foodie escape. It also offers great summer lake activities at Lost Lake, includes BC’s most beautiful hike at nearby Joffre Lakes, and is a top spa and mountain biking destination.

Looking for some culture? The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre is the best window into local First Nations culture.

Fraser Valley Winery Tour: Best Wine Day Trip from Vancouver

Did you think we’re just a one-trick pony of snowy mountains and water activities? Well, think again. To the east of Vancouver, you’ll find temperate Langley and the prime wine-making region of the Fraser Valley.

Renting a car and taking a DIY drive is a great day trip escape from Vancouver. Vista D’oro is a great place to see old-school wine-making perfected, while Backyard Vineyards is a small-volume producer that makes some of the best BC VQA sparkling whites around.

Want to take the guesswork out of it? A winery tour can even pick you up at downtown  Vancouver hotels and take you straight to the action in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter van.

The small group tours include stops at up to five wineries over 6 hours.

Howe Sound: Best Vancouver Boat Day Trip

This picturesque body of water between Vancouver and the outdoor playground of Squamish is surrounded by a network of towering fjords. This makes it a great place to explore by boat. Renting one at Granville Island or Sewell’s Marina in Horseshoe Bay is a good start.

Expect to pay about $117.60 for 4 hours, so this day trip is best done in company.

Bombing around Vancouver’s waters is fun just for the ride, but strapping up with fishing gear and trying to land a big spring salmon (they can reach over 80 pounds) is one way to experience the Sound.

Looking to explore as part of a package? Then click the link below:

Grouse Mountain: Best Mountain Day Trip from Vancouver

Those towering North Shore Mountains that frame our city skyline aren’t just for show.

In fact, a 2800 metre gondola ride up from North Vancouver will transport you to a mountain paradise – complete with lumberjacks, bears, and beaver tails – but enough of the Canadian stereotypes.

Of course, the Wildlife Refuge and its star grizzlies, 30-minute lumberjack shows, and massive tail-shaped donuts are just the beginning. Some of my favourite things to do at Grouse Mountain are:

• Having a cold beer at Altitudes Bistro overlooking the city
• Going up to the highest point of the city at the Eye of the Wind
• Swinging through the Mountain Ropes Adventure

In winter, this is the area’s most accessible ski mountain, and in Vancouver in summer , you can hike up the mountain on the legendary Grouse Grind.

Squamish: Best of the Day Road Trips from Vancouver

When thinking of cool day trips from Vancouver, a trip up the legendary Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler (one of the world’s top-rated road trips) is in order.

About halfway up, you’ll come across this picturesque, sporty mountain town just 70 minutes from downtown Vancouver .

The name of the game here is outdoor adventure. Just look up at the imposing granite monolith that dwarfs the city. The Stawamus Chief offers a 4-hour intermediate hike with one of the best panoramic view rewards in the entire province.

Some other top things to do in Squamish include Via Ferrata climbing adventures (optimal for first-timers), some of the greatest white water rafting in the Lower Mainland, and a 2-hour Ropes Course Adventure .

You’ll also find Shannon Falls, British Columbia’s third-highest waterfall. Don’t forget too that there’s some amazing craft beer made in the area, the optimal nightcap for all that adventure.

Salt Spring Island: Top Island Day Trip from Vancouver

This tiny island in the Salish Sea, which is just 80 minutes by ferry from Vancouver, has a huge amount of character. This is one of the best places to visit from Vancouver if you’re seeking peace and quiet.

‘Canada’s Island of the Arts’ is a place to buy things that are fresh or made by hand. There are over 200 organic farms here, forming the base of British Columbia’s best little Artisan Market – some local farmers even provide their grass-fed lamb to the Queen.

Other highlights include small-batch smoked salmon, artisan gin, and apple pie moonshine. The 120 artisans here also sell jewellery, woodwork, pottery, fine art, body care, clothing, and more.

Don’t forget camping at Ruckle Park , tastings at Salt Spring Wild Cider , and visiting Salt Spring Island Cheese Company . Grabbing an Airbnb overnight and coming back with the trunk full of goodies is a Vancouver tradition.

Steveston Village: Best of the Cheap Day trips from Vancouver

This is one of the best day trips from Vancouver without a car. Yes, in just 40 minutes by Vancouver public transit , you can be whisked away to this tiny fishing village along the Fraser River.

On the fringes of the suburb of Richmond, this place has yet to be corrupted by big chain shops and six-lane highways.

Visiting Steveston gives great insight into the early economies of the area, in particular through the Gulf of Georgia Cannery Museum – a retrospect on the salmon industry of British Columbia and the many immigrant communities (primarily Japanese) that helped build the province.

Beyond this, a trip through Steveston is about artisan gift shops, fresh-off-the-boat seafood stands, and the obligatory load-up of fish and chips at the legendary Pajo’s . Not to mention, it’s a great place to take a Steveston whale-watching tour .

Seattle: Best City Day Trip from Vancouver

It’s hard to put this American supercity on the list because, let’s face it, you need way more than just a day.

That said, I’ve probably done this day trip from Vancouver 20+ times in my life. You can take the Vancouver to Seattle Bus , the Amtrack Cascades Train , or even a Vancouver to Seattle Seaplane flight .

It’s a little cumbersome, but it’s one of the best places to visit from Vancouver for locals due to:

• Major league American sports like the NFL, NHL and MLB
• A much more diverse concert and live music scene
• American brand-name shopping and discount outlet centres
• Unique tourist attractions like the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture
• Pike Place Market

Driving from Vancouver to Seattle for day trips takes just over two hours, more than doable with an early start.  If you’ve got a bit of extra time on your Vancouver itinerary and want a little piece of Americana, this is the best cultural day trip you can make.

Harrison Hot Springs: Best Winter Day Trip from Vancouver BC

This small Fraser Valley resort community is just 90 minutes from Vancouver. It has been one of the most fun day trips near Vancouver since 1886 when the Canadian Pacific Railway brought its lakeside springs within reach.

The two relaxing, rejuvenating springs heat up to 65 °C (149 °F). Harrison Hot Springs Resort is the star of the show here, creating five different pools of different temperatures for the ultimate spa getaway experience. With two restaurants on-site, this is the ultimate ‘not lift a finger’ Vancouver day trip.

You can rent a cottage out here to soak in the hot springs. But you can also take a lovely forest hike alongside numerous waterfalls along the Miami Bridges Walk. And, of course, taking part in any number of fishing or boating activities on Harrison Lake is also a fine option.

If you’re looking to avoid the crowds of Vancouver’s best beaches in the summer, taking day trips to the lakeside beach here is a much better swimming option.

Sea to Sky Gondola: Top Day Trip for Views

An hour from Vancouver, this Swiss-style ski gondola whisks passengers 885 meters up Mount Habrich, providing amazing views of crystal blue Howe Sound and our Coast Mountain paradise.

The Sea to Sky Gondola is a mountain adventure wonderland that can be as hardcore as you want. Taking in the three panoramic view platforms and walking the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge is included in every ticket.

Of course, if you’re willing to get a little more advanced on your day trips from Vancouver, you can go off on backcountry hiking tours, snowshoeing and tubing (winter), and even rock climbing (summer).

Throw in interpretive tours on the ecology of the area and the rich history of the local Skwxwu7mesh Nation, and this outdoor escape gets educational.

There’s also a licensed bar, and the Sky Pilot Restaurant offers live music, wine tastings, and all sorts of events. So, this Vancouver day tour has it all.

Sunshine Coast: Best Coastal Day Trip from Vancouver

A quick hour ferry hop across Howe Sound from Horseshoe Bay brings Vancouverites to the Sunshine Coast, famous for low annual rainfall and long, sunny summers. If you need a beach here, then Savary Island is Canada’s answer to Bermuda (don’t laugh).

This 180 km stretch of coast is famous for its laid-back attitude, unspoiled beaches, arts and crafts, and sneaky good culinary scene that rivals some of Vancouver’s best restaurants .

Most folks head to Sechelt for the galleries and boutiques along Cowrie Street, which also offers all sorts of vintage shops, tap houses, and gourmet restaurants.

Lovers of paddle sports also find plenty to do here. The Powell River Canoe Route is a solid way to spend a day on the water, but kayaking along the fjords of Desolation Sound is probably the best bet.

Britannia Mining Museum: Best Day Trip with Kids from Vancouver

This historic mine near Squamish makes for a fun day trip from Vancouver for those visiting town with children. The Britannia Mining Museum was once one of the largest copper ore mines in the British Empire.

Since closing up shop, this imposing 20-storey building has transformed into a fully interactive museum that’ll put you in the boots of a turn-of-the-century miner.

The train ride through the historic haulage tunnel is the highlight. But any of the over 7000 artifacts (some brought to life by in-person demonstrations) really kick things up a notch.

This is one of the best things to do in Vancouver with kids .

Visiting here also puts you on the Sea to Sky Highway, a scenic attraction in itself.

Garibaldi Provincial Park: Best of the Hiking Day Trips from Vancouver

The enormous Garibaldi Park is situated about halfway between Squamish and Whistler along the Sea to Sky Highway. While it takes about an hour to reach, it’ll feel like you’re days from civilization.

The area’s rugged mountains are covered in over 150 glaciers, contrasting with the dense Douglas fir and red cedar forests. It’s simply a paradise for those seeking a quick Vancouver hiking tour.

Some must-do hikes include Garibaldi Lake Trail (18 km, about 5 hours) and Black Tusk Trail (28 km, about 10 hours). Both are packed full of full of strata volcanos, turquoise blue lakes, and viewpoints galore.

Other local highlights include nearby Elfin Lakes, Cheakamus Lake, and Wedgemount Lake.

Vancouver Behind-the-Scenes Brewery Tour : Best Day Trip from Vancouver BC for Beer Lovers

Indulge in Vancouver’s vibrant craft brewery culture with visits to three top-rated breweries .

This brewery tour provides sample an array of locally brewed beers while leaving the driving to someone else.

Gather downtown at the Waterfront Station for an intimate group excursion , featuring exclusive tours at each brewery and priority seating for swift access to the brews.

The meeting point is at 901 W Cordova St. which is just across from Lions Pub . Simply look for the van.

Bowen Island Dinner and Zodiac Boat Tour: Most Peaceful Day Trip from Vancouver

Experience the excitement of a 3-hour zodiac tour departing from Vancouver and heading to Bowen Island , located at the mouth of Howe Sound.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner and a refreshing drink at Doc Morgan’s , a popular spot on the island.

During the tour, you’ll also get to enjoy the thrill of a high-speed boat ride , ensuring an adventure-filled journey. Plus, we provide all the necessary ocean-ready gear for your comfort and safety.

Along the way, take in the stunning sights along the Vancouver waterfront , adding an extra layer of enjoyment to your memorable outing.

Great day Trips from Vancouver FAQs

Where can i go for a day trip near vancouver.

You can do a day trip near Vancouver to places like Whistler or Bowen Island. Here, you’ll enjoy beautiful scenery and fun outdoor activities.

Where do locals go for a weekend getaway from Vancouver?

Locals go for a weekend getaway from Vancouver to places like Whistler, the Sunshine Coast, or Vancouver Island.

These destinations offer diverse activities and scenic retreats within a short drive or ferry ride.

What are the best day trips from Vancouver?

The best day trips from Vancouver are discovering Whistler’s mountains, the charm of Victoria, or the tranquillity of Bowen Island. Each offers a unique escape, just a short journey from the city.

What are some day trips from Vancouver by car?

Day trips from Vancouver by car include Whistler, Victoria (via ferry), Squamish, the Fraser Valley wineries, and Harrison Hot Springs.

What are some day trips from Vancouver by bus?

Day trips from Vancouver by bus include Whistler, Victoria, Seattle, and local sightseeing tours.

Can you do a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver?

Yes, you can do a day trip to Whistler from Vancouver. The average drive from Vancouver to Whistler is 90 minutes, which is more than doable.

Can you do day trips from Vancouver to Seattle?

Yes, you can do day trips from Vancouver to Seattle, which is extremely common. The average drive time (not considering border waits) to Seattle from downtown Vancouver is 2.5 hours.

What is the best way to take a day trip to Victoria from Vancouver?

The best way to take a day trip to Victoria from Vancouver is via BC Ferries. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride through the picturesque Strait of Georgia, then explore Victoria’s charm, from the historic Inner Harbour to the Royal BC Museum.

Are there day trips from Vancouver to Vancouver Island?

Yes, there are day trips from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. Hop on a ferry to explore the island’s beauty, from Butchart Gardens to the charming city of Victoria, offering a perfect blend of nature and history.

Any Questions on a 1 day trip from Vancouver?

I’ve highlighted a few of my favourite places to visit from Vancouver, but perhaps you’re looking for something more tailored.

Feel free to drop your questions in the comments section below; I’m here to provide answers about exploring our stunning city or planning on a day trip from Vancouver.

Enjoy your one day trips from Vancouver! 🙂

Related posts

Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Areas to Stay

3 Days in Vancouver: Plan the Perfect 3 Day Itinerary

2 Days in Vancouver: Plan a Perfect Weekend Itinerary

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Home » North America » Canada » 13 AMAZING Day Trips to Take in Vancouver | 2024 Guide

13 AMAZING Day Trips to Take in Vancouver | 2024 Guide

Vancouver the biggest city in British Colombia, and packed with exciting things to do. It’s also a great spot to base yourself for taking some day trips around the province.

The landscape is so diverse you could find yourself exploring wineries, hot springs, snowcapped mountains, and dynamic cities all within a short drive from one another. Half-day tours and full-day tours are an epic way to see more, without having switch from accommodation to accommodation.

Let’s take a look at the top day trips in Vancouver . From hiking adventures to winery tours and so much more, there is something for everyone. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to see some of the best scenery and hotspots around Vancouver.

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Getting around Vancouver, and Beyond

Half-day trips in vancouver, full-day trips in vancouver, final thoughts on day trips from vancouver.

Vancouver is a must-see when visiting Canada . As popular as it is, it’s no surprise Vancouver has a safe, reliable, and efficient public transport system.

Downtown Vancouver is known for being super walkable. When you want to explore the outskirts, taxis are in abundance, and super easy to hail. There are designated taxi stands where you can find drivers ready and waiting. 

If you fancy driving yourself, there are car rental companies in abundance. Parking downtown can get busy – check out the EasyPark app to locate available parking in advance. Cycling is super common around the city almost year-round. There are loads of dedicated cycling lanes and paths that make it a very safe way to get around.

TransLink operates the bus, SkyTrain, and SeaBus networks, as well as the West Coast Express train. All of these public transports are wheelchair accessible, and can be used to enjoy day trips from Vancouver to the outlying districts surrounding the city.

Buses in Vancouver run from 5am to 1am, and are convenient, efficient, and affordable. The SkyTrain light rail system has three different lines that operate between downtown and the city’s suburban areas. You can stay anywhere in Vancouver and still find it easy to get from hotspot to hotspot. This train also connects the city to Vancouver International Airport. The SeaBus is a ferry service that connects the Vancouver Waterfront to Lonsdale Quay on the North Shore.

Fares for TransLink depend on the zone in which you are traveling. If you’re visiting Vancouver for a while, purchasing a Compass Card will be in your favor. Alternatively, you could pay with contactless payment, cash, or card.

The prices for one-way tickets on public transportation are:

• Zone 1: $3.05
• Zone 2: $4.35
• Zone 3: $5.90

When you’re running short on time, there are tons of amazing half-day tours that you can take around Vancouver. You can explore hot springs, vineyards, and exquisite mountain views all in a short hour’s drive away from the city.

Stawamus Chief Mountain

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If it’s an adventure that you’re after, ditch the city life and head straight for the mountains. Stawamus Chief Provincial Park is just a 45-minute drive from Vancouver and boasts some of the most beautiful hiking trails.

Rising over 2000 feet above the Squamish region, Stawamus Chief Peak is one of America’s largest granite monoliths. It’s also one of the most famous rock climbing monoliths in the world. The granite climbing walls – The Apron and The Grand Wall – should only be attempted by seasoned climbers. 

A gentle family hike to the top of the peak will certainly impress, boasting some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever set your eyes on. There are three different peaks to hike with different elevation gains. When it’s your first time visiting, we recommend going with a guide who knows the ins and outs of the mountain for a true adventure.

Although a visit to Stawamus Chief Mountain can be done as a half-day trip, these guided full-day tours could convince you to extend your visit.

Suggested trips: Stawamus Chief Hike and Photography and Stawamus Chief Hike and Local Brewery Tasting

The Gulf Islands

One of the biggest draws to the region are the beautiful islands and bays that surround the city. Just two hours from the city center, a visit to the Gulf Islands is one of the best day trips to take in Vancouver. 

You’ll need to hop on a ferry for this one, or you could book a private tour.

The Gulf Islands are the Canadian siblings of the USA’s San Juan Islands, which are just across the bay from one another, and all a quick ferry ride away.

If you’re into kayaking, I’d recommend a visit to Pender Island. The waters are calm and clear, so this trip will be more a relaxing adventure than an adrenaline-pumping one. When you get peckish, the Saturday farmers market on Spring Salt Island is a great spot for a lunch stop.

There’s so much to explore you could extend your trip with a stay at this cute cottage with beautiful ocean views on Galiano Island. Galiano has a beautiful mountain you can hike up for exquisite bay views. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Olympic Mountain Range in Washington, USA.

Suggested trips: Whale Watching Adventure

Whether you visit in the midst of winter or during the warmer summer months, there are countless day trips in Vancouver. Struggling to choose from the countless options on the internet? We picked out the very best tours from the city to make your life a bit easier.

Fraser Valley

Just two hours east of Vancouver, Fraser Valley is a beautiful farmland area where you can find much more than just beautiful landscapes and views. 

The small villages in the valley are overflowing with local produce and home-cooked menus waiting for you to try out. Many of the local private farms are open to the public, where kids can play on the lush lawns, explore the grounds, and get up close and personal with farm animals.

You’ll also find the Chilliwack River in this area, which is a hotspot for white water rafting – talk about an adrenaline kick. There are lots of cultural sites to visit, including an indigenous site of the Stó:lo people and a 9000-year-old archeological dig.

Throw in some local breweries and incredible river fishing opportunities, and you have one of the best day trips in Vancouver for the whole family!

Suggested trips: Fraser Valley Winery Tour and Fraser Valley Day Tour

Langdale and The Sunshine Coast 

Vancouver is a top destination for culture seekers and artists. The Sunshine Coast, located just two and a half hours from Vancouver, is as lovely as its name. It’s a stretch of coastline tucked away in the SouthWest corner of mainland British Colombia, and is locally known as the region’s hidden gem.

You can enjoy whale watching from the bay, forest adventures, hikes, white water rafting, waterfall hunting, and shipwreck exploring. There’s so much more to see than just the great outdoors. Be sure to check out the quaint harbors, local breweries, and trendy eateries, too.

An indigenous homeland of the la’amin, Klahoose, shíshálh, Skwxwú7mesh, and Homalco Nations, remember to be respectful of their beautiful land when you visit. 

Suggested trips: Sunshine Coast Art Tour and Tour of The Sunshine Coast

Whistler 

If there’s anywhere in British Colombia you’ve heard about, it’s likely to be the ski resort town of Whistler. This world-class destination is only an hour and a half out of the city, making it one of the easiest day trips from Vancouver.

The town has a super laid-back and down-to-earth vibe that will keep you entertained for days, even if you don’t like to ski or snowboard. The famous attraction in Whistler is the world-record-breaking Peak 2 Peak gondola which boasts some of the most beautiful views of Whistler Village, the mountain peaks, glaciers, forests, and lakes.

Not only is this legendary spot an amazing ski resort in Northern America, it’s also a hiker’s paradise year-round. When you visit during fall, you’ll be treated to a kaleidoscope of colors across the forest landscape. 

This is one of those trips that is super easy to do without following an official tour. You can rent a car or hop on a two-hour train ride from the city. If only a day in the snow isn’t enough for you, why not extend your trip and spend some time in this creekside studio that’s just a short walk from the ski lifts?

Suggested trips: Sea to Sky Gondola and Whistler Trip , Whistler Tour: Horseshoe Bay and Shannon Falls and Tour to Discover Whistler

Victoria and the Butchart Gardens 

The Butchard Gardens are a coveted attraction, located less than three hour’s drive from Vancouver with a ferry ride. The gardens are just north of the capital of British Colombia, Victoria, which has a unique colonial British history. In fact, this lush city is pretty much made up of beautiful gardens; the Butchart Gardens is just one of them.

Naturally, the best time to visit is during spring, but these gardens will exceed your expectations year-round. You’ll be able to explore 26 greenhouses and 900 different varieties of plants in this colorful and historic garden which has been blooming for over 100 years.

If you don’t feel like visiting with an organized tour, you can buy your day pass online and explore the gardens alone.

Suggested trips: Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain has a 4100-foot elevation in the North Shore Mountains. During the winter months, it gets tons of snow and is one of the best (and closest) alpine ski areas to the city of Vancouver. It’s a quick 20 minutes from the city on Route 99, making it easy to visit from the city and get some powder laps in.

You could go with a tour, rent a car, or use the train to get to the resort and get your own private ski passes. If skiing and snowboarding aren’t for you, take advantage of the kids ‘Sliding Zone’, ice skating, or snowshoeing adventures offered at the base of the mountain.

Like any ski resort, there are a bunch of shops to explore and restaurants to try out in the village.

Suggested trips: North Shore Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain

The North Shore Mountains

The North Shore Mountains are located, you guessed it, on the north shore of Vancouver, boasting spectacular views of the city. 

All three of the mountain peaks – Grouse, Seymour, Cypress – offer skiing and snowboarding activities as well as tons of summer hiking trails and ziplining adventures. 

These mountains have been attracting hikers and climbers for years because of their conveniently close proximity to Vancouver. While much of the area is family-friendly, a lot of the trails get steep very quickly and are only recommended for advanced backcountry hikers.

Suggested trips: North Shore Mountains, Grouse, Seymour, Cypress

Horseshoe Bay

Horseshoe Bay is a seaside town west of Vancouver that is home to a major ferry port, connecting the mainland with Vancouver Island. While most tourists just pass through this village to catch a ferry, the town itself is definitely worth a visit if you have the time.

It’s under an hour’s drive from the center of the city. There’s even a bus that departs every 30 minutes that can take you directly to the bay. The town is designed for pedestrians, where most streets are safe to walk around without having to worry about cars. There’s a variety of restaurants to choose from when you get peckish, too. Our favorites are Olive and Anchor, and the Boathouse Restaurant. 

If you get around quicker than expected, hop on the Bowen Island ferry. This short 20-minute ferry ride will take you to a nearby island with an artisan square, museum, golf course, and (surprise, surprise) more breathtaking views.

Suggested trips: British Colombia Coastline Day Trip

Vancouver Island

You didn’t think we’d leave out a Vancouver Island day trip, did you? If you’ve never visited before, you might think Vancouver Island and the city of Vancouver are the same place. However, while they share the same bay, Vancouver Island is a two and a half hour trip from the city of Vancouver.

You’ll need to catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to get there, but once you arrive, you’ll see what the hype is about. This huge island combines everything from cultured cuisine to raw nature. Most people visit for the majestic nature reserves and parks, which are home to exciting wildlife, including black bears and orcas. 

Among other activities, you can spend your day whale watching, hiking, and kayaking around the island.

The land is a traditional ancestral home to the Kwakwaka’wakw, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Coast Salish peoples. Visitors are urged to respect the land and its people.

Suggested trips: Vancouver Island Cycling Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting

Squamish is a municipality and close-knit community just north of the Howe Sound. It’s a quick one-hour drive from the city, and a convenient location for a day trip from Vancouver.

The main attraction is the Stawamus Chief hike, which we covered above. However, there’s a lot more to this area than its beautiful granite cliff faces and hiking trails. Shannon Falls is an exquisite wild waterfall just a mile south of Squamish. There’s also the Elaho River and Squamish River where you can try out river-rafting activities. 

Squamish also has a world-class golf course, and when the weather is cold, it’s great for experienced backcountry skiers and snowmobilers.

Suggested trips: Squamish with Porteau Cove and Britannia and The Great Squamish Day Trip

Fort Langley

Fort Langley is a quaint town located about 45 minutes east of Vancouver on the Fraser River. The town has a long colonial history which can be seen in the beautiful old buildings and architectural styles.

The town itself is home to a bunch of museums, shops, galleries, parks, and restaurants to explore. But it’s the surrounding vineyards that we’re most interested in! You can find some of Canada’s best wineries in this region.

It is a great place for history buffs and wine fanatics alike, and you’ll learn more about cultivation and winemaking from both grapes and berries.

Suggested trips: Fort Langley Magical Mystery and Vineyard Explorer

Harrison Hot Springs 

Sometimes, all we feel like is a bit of relaxation and rejuvenation at a spa. A trip to the Harrison Hot Springs might just be the best Vancouver day trip for the job. Located on the northern shore of Harrison Lake, surrounded by towering mountains, the Harrison Springs Resort and Spa is a luxurious place to spend a day.

It’s more than just a fancy hotel. It has five healing hot mineral spring pools and a therapeutic spa.

You’ll be able to spend the day soaking in the relaxing springs, which are said to have healing properties. Make sure you also visit the village or walk along Harrison Lake before you head home.

Suggested trips: Harrison Hot Springs Private Tour

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The city of Vancouver is conveniently located between oceans, mountains, and forests and is only a short distance from British Columbia’s capital city of Victoria. It’s also has a unique and interesting indigenous history to share. 

Depending on your preference for natural beauty or culture (and the time of year you visit), my two favorite tours would have to be the Victoria and Butchart Gardens tour, and the Whistler Ski Resort tour. There’s not much better than driving a quick hour and arriving in a powder draped ski resort.

You’ll be able to take some of the best day trips from Vancouver without having to travel more than a couple of hours at most.

Sheridan Cahoon

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Day Trips from Vancouver

15 Best Day Trips from Vancouver

The ever serene and equally gorgeous British Columbia is home to some of the most stunning natural locations in Canada, favoured by many for its excellent alpine conditions and skiing destinations.

Many of these are easily reachable from Vancouver, making it an ideal base from which to take day trips to either the mountains, or the pristine coastline where you can find endless islands and archipelagos to explore.

From hot springs to small, quaint towns and towering mountainscapes, the area around Vancouver is so diverse that it’s a pleasure to travel around in both winter and summer.

Let’s now check out some of these best day trips from Vancouver :

1. Whistler

The journey up to the world-renowned ski resort is actually one of the highlights of the trip, as it takes you along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, a stretch of alpine roads with some of the most astonishing views in the world, full of pine trees and shocking ice-blue lakes.

Once you pass through the beautiful Howe Sound, you’ll arrive at the world famous ski resort town of Whistler, which attracts visitors to stay for months at a time, let alone a single day.

If you do spend a day here however, winter is the perfect time to go skiing as the snow is ideal and the town is full of energy and skiers from all over the world.

During the summer, Whistler is a gorgeous place to explore, with hiking, mountain biking, dining and golfing all on offer.

2. Vancouver Coast

A mere 30 minutes from the confines of the city, you’ll find Vancouver’s wonderfully pristine coastline that has an abundance of diverse places to discover and explore.

Known as one of the best kept coasts in the country, you’ll find quaint little beach towns like Deep Cove, which is snugly nestled between gorgeous pine forests and the charming beach itself.

All along the coast you can find places like this where you can indulge in hiking, kayaking, sailing or simply just unwinding on the beach and relaxing.

3. Victoria

You can get to the province’s capital city of Victoria by taking a picturesque ferry ride from Vancouver that takes less than two hours and feels like its a whole world away.

The charming waterside city is an ideal place to travel on foot as you soak in the sights and sounds of the Inner Harbour, famous for its street performers or marvel at the city’s parliament buildings.

If you’re looking to learn a little more about the capital, then you can’t miss the Royal British Columbia Museum, one of the most impressive and fascinating in the country.

4. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

A day trip that combines breathtaking rainforest scenery with a rare insight into the culture of the First Nations People, the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is the ideal destination for either keen hikers or cultural buffs who want to learn about the indigenous population.

Home to some beautiful forest trails and river walks, there are endless photo opportunities before even arriving to the impressive suspension bridge.

The First Nations Cultural Center is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to their history and you’ll also have the chance to view the world’s largest totem collection built within the forest itself.

5. Harrison Hot Springs

Less than two hours away from Vancouver, you’ll find the tranquil village of Harrison Hot Springs built on the shores of the beautiful Harrison Lake.

Wildly popular with health enthusiasts and intrepid travellers alike, the hot springs here are amongst the most mineral-rich in the world due to their heat and particularly high sulphur concentrations.

If you don’t want to spend the entire day here, you can also explore the picturesque marina, catch an art festival or take a stroll through Sasquatch Provincial Park.

• 6. Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Park

Though it’s a bit of a trek through some pretty rugged country, for lovers of majestic natural scenery, the 90-mile drive from Vancouver to Stein Valley Nlaka’pamux Heritage Park is nothing short of breathtaking.

The park consists of more than 250,000 acres of undisturbed watershed in British Columbia and features a variety of natural and historical attractions along the Stein River.

The park’s amenities are on the sparse side, so those who plan on spending a day hiking or a night or two at a rustic wilderness campsite will have to bring in all the food and gear they’ll need.

Highlights include amazing mountain views, archaeological sites, and a number of pictographs created by the Nlaka’pamux people generations ago.

• 7. Visit Abbotsford

For its relative proximity, abundant activity options, and all-around charm, there’s really no better day trip destination than Abbotsford.

Though Abbotsford is BC’s 5th largest municipality, it has a decidedly small-town feel compared to its big-city cousin to the west.

Fishing is one of the town’s most popular outdoor recreation options; its rivers and streams are teeming with hearty game fish like trout, salmon, and massive sturgeon.

There’s also an amusement park nearby that’s a big hit with traveling families, and an ever-popular flea market that has been an iconic weekly social event for more than four decades.

8. Squamish

Less than an hour from Vancouver but a world away in terms of atmosphere, Squamish is a small town on the Sea-to-Sky Highway on the way to Whistler, but is sometimes overlooked as a place to spend the day.

However, its idyllic location at Howe Sound at the base of a breathtaking mountain range makes it an unmissable place to visit if you’re in Vancouver.

Popular among rock climbers looking for dramatic rock faces to climb and other adrenaline seekers indulging in biking and hiking routes, Squamish is an incredibly convenient trip for a few hours of fun.

9. Salt Spring Island

A wonderfully homely island, Salt Spring is teeming with farms, homesteads and even a number of artist’s studios who have moved to the green and hilly haven.

On a sunny day it really is a pleasant escape from Vancouver’s city life and you can reach it by catching a non-stop ferry from Tsawwassen.

Activities on Salt Spring Island range from sampling local produce at family-owned farms, to visiting walk-in art studios and seeing some artists at work.

For some city comforts, should you miss them, head to the main town of Ganges where you can explore the waterfront community and check out the shops, restaurants and galleries there.

10. Mount Baker, Washington

With a peak visible from Vancouver itself, Mount Baker isn’t always the first on the list of day trip ideas – but at just over two hours away it’s one of the most worthwhile excursions to take if you’re looking for incredible mountain scenery.

Offering hiking in the summer and some world-class skiing in the winter on account of the amount of snow that falls here, Mount Baker has something for everyone.

One of the highlights is during late summer, when the wildflower displays are in full bloom and for a few weeks, are incomparably beautiful.

11. Fort Langley

Popular among families on account of panning for gold and re-enactments from the 1800’s, Fort Langley is a former fur trading post that’s steeped in history and only an hour from Vancouver.

A true gold rush outpost, you can lose yourself in the wild stories of the first British Columbia colonies as you walk around the old fort that’s open all year round.

12. Bridal Falls

Less than two hours from Vancouver, you’ll find the town of Bridal Falls that proudly caters for visitors looking to explore the base of the famous Bridal Veil Falls.

A wonderful place to have a picnic in the summer, the 60m high falls are beloved by locals and travellers alike on account of the serene setting tucked away in the forest.

The highlight however is during winter when the temperature plummets and the falls themselves freeze, causing an icy dreamscape that attracts just as many fascinated visitors as in summer.

13. Britannia Mining Museum

An ideal day trip for those looking to learn more about British Columbia’s rich, industrious past, the Britannia Mining Museum is a fascinating insight into the 19th Century gold rush and more.

Asides from this, the building itself has long been an unmissable landmark on the Sea-to-Sky Highway, with over twenty-tiered storeys towering over surrounding pine forests.

From the location of the former Britannia Mine, you can do everything from going on a guided underground tour, to panning for gold, or seeing some original 20th Century equipment.

14. Hell’s Gate Airtram

Take a scenic drive up to Hells Gate which lies around 2 hours away from Vancouver and is home to one of the area’s most impressive spectacles.

The iconic Fraser River narrows to a point where the water is forced through a small, rocky section and the resulting flow of raging white-water is truly a sight to behold.

Taking you even closer to the action is the Hell’s Gate Airtram, that between spring and fall will take visitors on a hair-raising ride directly over the churning water and safely to the other side.

Complete with a gift-shop, restaurant and information center, Hell’s Gate is a great day out for families who want to see something a little different and want an exciting way to see it.

15. Lighthouse Park

Conveniently located in a residential area a mere 40 minutes from the center of Vancouver, Lighthouse Park is a wonderfully picturesque spot at the base of a classically designed lighthouse overlooking the water.

Popular amongst couples on account of its romantic settings, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic at sunset and close enough to town that you won’t need to hurry back.

For those looking to do something more active, there are also numerous hiking trails in the area, as well as a number of rock climbing sites.

15 Best Day Trips from Vancouver:

• Vancouver Coast
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Harrison Hot Springs
• Salt Spring Island
• Mount Baker, Washington
• Fort Langley
• Bridal Falls
• Britannia Mining Museum
• Hell’s Gate Airtram
• Lighthouse Park

14 Top-Rated Day Trips from Vancouver

Written by Lana Law Updated Oct 14, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Within easy reach of Vancouver are some of British Columbia's most interesting and beautiful destinations .

Quaint island towns and the provincial capital of Victoria are just a ferry ride away.

A drive up the famous Sea-to-Sky-Highway leads past Squamish and up to the renowned ski resort of Whistler , one of the venues of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

Inland, towards the Fraser Valley , are Bridal Veil Falls; Fort Langley National Historic Site; and Harrison Hot Springs, known for its hot pools, beach, and small-town atmosphere.

For those who want to venture over the border to the USA, Mount Baker is a short drive away, with hiking in summer and skiing in winter.

For ideas on how to plan your day of adventure, see our list of the best day trips from Vancouver.

1. Whistler

2. victoria, 3. squamish, 4. harrison hot springs, 5. salt spring island, 6. mount baker, washington, 7. fort langley national historic site, 8. bridal falls and bridal veil falls provincial park, 9. britannia mining museum, 10. hell's gate airtram, 11. capilano suspension bridge park, 12. shannon falls provincial park, 13. cultus lake, 14. steveston village, map of day trips from vancouver.

The scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99) is enough to make a day trip to Whistler worthwhile. The views out over Howe Sound and the mountain scenery all along this stretch of highway are outstanding. Be sure to stop in at the stunning 355-meter-high Shannon Falls along the way.

At the end of the drive is the famous ski resort town of Whistler; a year-round destination with golf, skiing, hiking, shopping, and dining. In the summer, this is a wonderful place to wander the streets, go for a hike, mountain bike, or play a round of golf. Take a trip up to the top of the mountains and ride across the Peak-2-Peak gondola for incredible views. If you are lucky, you'll be able to ride in the glass-bottomed car.

In winter, the town has a completely different feel, snow-covered streets are full of skiers looking to hit the slopes of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains . This is one of Canada's top ski resorts .

Without traffic, the drive time to Whistler is about an hour and a half, but heavy traffic, particularly around the bridges in Vancouver, can add time to the trip. For an easy and relaxing day, take the Whistler Small-Group Day Trip from Vancouver tour. You'll see all the highlights along the way and have the afternoon (four hours) to entertain yourself in Whistler.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Whistler

The ferry ride to Victoria passes by some of British Columbia's most spectacular coastal scenery. This quaint seaside city, with its compact city center, is the perfect place to explore on foot.

The waterfront, graced by the historic Empress Hotel , famous for its afternoon tea service. You can stroll along the Inner Harbour to see street performers, relax on a park bench, or admire the city's parliament buildings.

One of the top things to do just outside the city, is the stunning Butchart Gardens . Set in what was once an old quarry, this is a year-round attraction, with particularly fabulous displays from early spring until late fall. Victoria is also home to the Royal British Columbia Museum , one of Canada's finest museums of natural and cultural history.

You can walk on or take your car on the ferry to Victoria. During peak times, and particularly around holidays, the ferries fill up. Plan ahead and book your sailing online.

Cascading waterfalls, spectacular views, and historical sites greet you on the hiking trails around Victoria . Most are within 30 minutes of downtown Victoria.

A tour from Vancouver takes all the guesswork out of a trip to Victoria, you'll get all the highlights without the hassle. A lower cost bus option is the Small-Group Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver . This full day tour travels both ways by ferry.

For a more spectacular trip, consider Vancouver to Victoria by Seaplane and Ferry tour. You'll get both a bird's-eye view of the incredible Gulf Islands and also the sea level experience on the ferry on the way back.

• From Vancouver to Victoria: Best Ways to Get There
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia

On the drive from Vancouver to Whistler, along the Sea-to-Sky Highway , Squamish is an easy and fun day trip from Vancouver that is often overlooked by travelers.

About a one-hour drive from Vancouver, this town is picturesquely set at the far end of Howe Sound. While it was once a forestry and mining town, it has gradually developed into a popular tourist destination.

One of the area's most popular new additions is the scenic Sea-to-Sky Gondola . The views from the beautiful Summit Lodge down Howe Sound and up towards Mount Habrich, Sky Pilot, and Goat Ridge are jaw dropping. At the top of the ride, don't miss the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge .

Outdoor recreation rules the day in this town, and rock climbers flock here to climb the sheer cliff walls. The giant granite monolith known as Stawamus Chief mountain is an incredible site and one of the main climbing areas in this region. Great hiking trails , mountain biking trails, and campgrounds, provide endless opportunities to get out into nature. Squamish has eight provincial parks within easy driving distance.

Shannon Falls , just two kilometers south of Squamish, is also worth a stop. This is the third highest waterfall in BC, dropping 335 meters, and the easy access makes it very popular. Short hiking trails in the area run through the forest right to the base of the falls. Bring a rain jacket; this is a wet spot due to the spray. You'll also be able to see the falls from the Sea-to-Sky Gondola.

• Read More: Things to Do in Squamish

Just over 90 minutes from Vancouver, the small town of Harrison Hot Springs is a great escape from the city. Nestled between forest-covered mountains on the shores of beautiful Harrison Lake, this resort town, known for its hot springs, has much to offer day trippers. Activities available including golf, hiking, mountain biking, boat tours, fishing, and more.

Plan your visit for the summer months. The beautiful beach that runs all along the town's waterfront has a spectacular view out to the islands and mountains across Harrison Lake.

For a soak in the soothing spring-fed water, you'll have to check into the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa ; the public pools are currently closed.

A trip to Salt Spring Island on a sunny day is a perfect getaway from Vancouver. Ferries leave Vancouver from Tsawwassen and land at Long Harbour on Salt Spring Island about 1.5 hours later.

The ride across the Straight of Georgia and through Active Pass is truly spectacular. The best option for day trips is to catch a non-stop ferry if possible, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Salt Spring is a quirky island, with small farms and artists' studios spread around the island. You can stop in at some of these family-run farms to sample and buy cheese and other specialty items, or pop into a studio to see an artist at work.

A popular way to get around the island is to rent a bicycle. Splurge on an e-bike – Salt Spring Island is hilly!

The main town is Ganges , a pleasant waterfront community, with restaurants, shops, and galleries. On Saturdays, during the summer months, Ganges hosts a popular market, where locals sell their crafts and other goods.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do on Salt Spring Island

On clear days in Vancouver, you can see the glimmering snowcapped peak of Washington State's Mount Baker off in the distance. Despite its obvious presence, few people think to make the day trip to explore the mountain up close. Those who do will find quaint towns on the approach, nearby hiking trails in the summer, and great skiing in the winter.

Numerous hikes in the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest surrounding Mt. Baker offer access to gorgeous mountain scenery. Well-maintained hiking trails generally follow the ridge lines below the slumbering volcano. The views up towards the peak and the glaciers are stunning.

In winter, Mt. Baker receives incredible amounts of snow, typically ranging from 50 to 65 feet. In 1998/99 the mountain set the record for the most snowfall in a single season in the USA with a total of 1,140 inches, almost 95 feet. It's one of the best ski resorts in Washington .

The drive from Vancouver takes under 2.5 hours. However, drive times can vary depending on wait times at the Canada-US border, check the border wait times online before setting out.

About an hour's drive east of Vancouver is the old Hudson's Bay Company fur trading post of Fort Langley, established in 1827. The fort was the site of much activity in the 1800s, from the fur traders to the Fraser River gold rush in 1857, and the establishment of the colony of British Columbia.

Today at the site, you'll be able to explore the history of the fort, see the 1800's come to life with interpreters and demonstrations, and try their luck panning for gold. The fort is open year-round and is a popular family attraction.

After visiting the fort, pop into Langley for a bite to eat, to do some shopping, or to check out a few local museums.

The town of Bridal Falls lies east of Chilliwack, about an-hour-and-a-half drive from Vancouver. The most famous site in the area is the 60-meter-high Bridal Veil Falls, in the provincial park of the same name.

This is a day-use area, where you can enjoy a picnic and walk to the base of the falls. In winter, if the temperature plunges, the falls turn to ice and take on a completely different appearance.

Also worth checking out, depending on the time of year, are the 32-acre Minter Gardens , the Bridal Falls Waterpark . More trails and bird watching opportunities found in the Cheam Lake Wetlands Regional Park .

Just off the Sea-to-Sky-Highway, about 45 minutes from Vancouver, is the Britannia Mining Museum, a National Historic Site of Canada .

This tiered, 20-story building has been an impossible-to-miss landmark along the highway for decades, but between 2005 and 2010, the building underwent massive restoration work and changed its name from the BC Museum of Mining to the Britannia Mining Museum.

The museum is the site of the former Britannia Mine. You can see some of the original equipment from the early 20th century, pan for gold, or take an underground tour. The museum has recently added what they describe as an "immersive live-action experience." The movie along with the sound track played over 30 speakers is full of fun special effects.

From spring until fall, the Hell's Gate Airtram takes you out over the raging waters of the Fraser River in a tram connecting both sides of the canyon.

Hell's Gate is uniquely located at a narrowing in the Fraser River, where the fast-flowing water is forced through a section only 33 meters wide, creating a churning spectacle of white water. The aerial tram covers a distance of 152 meters, dropping you on the opposite side of the river. On this side there is a restaurant, gift shop, an area for gold panning, and an information center.

If you are brave enough, walk across the swaying suspension bridge that crosses the roaring river below. The drive to Hell's Gate from Vancouver is very scenic and part of the attraction of this day trip, which takes between 2.5 and three hours each way.

The Capilano Suspension Bridge was first built in 1889 and over the years has evolved into the exhilarating tourist attraction it is today. You can walk 137 meters on a swaying platform, 70 meters above the river below.

Millions have made the somewhat scary crossing to the other side, with a steady pace and a tight grip on the rope. The park also has a tree top walk among 1,300-year-old trees, a cliff walk with a glass floor, and an extensive collection of totem poles.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is an easy trip from downtown Vancouver if you have your own car. If not, or if you don't want to deal with traffic, a tour is a good option. Tours take in other sights along Vancouver's North Shore, including a ride up the gondola at Grouse Mountain. Consider the 6.5-hour North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mtn .

Almost halfway between Vancouver and Whistler lies Shannon Falls Provincial Park. Be sure to pull off the highway and stretch your legs with a short stroll to the base of these 335-meter falls.

Plunging off a near vertical cliff, these scenic falls are a result of meltwater from Mount Habrich and Mount Sky Pilot. An easy 350-meter long, fairly level walking trail winds its way through towering old-growth pine trees and emerges at the base of the falls. You'll hear the roar of the falls before you see them.

Picnic tables are available along with restrooms; a small concessionaire sells drinks and snacks.

Cultus Lake, one of the best lakes in British Columbia , is the perfect place to take the family for a day on the water. The lake is only 1.5 hours from Vancouver, making it an easy place to visit before the familiar refrain from the backseat of "Are we there yet?" kicks into full gear.

Wide beaches with shallow water and designated swimming areas make cooling off an easy task. If you'd like to get out on the water, be sure to bring your stand up paddleboard, canoe, or kayak. Or, if you prefer something a bit more action packed, trailer the boat or Jet Ski, and launch at one of the public boat ramps. You'll find lots of room to race around on this large lake.

An alternative to the beach is the Cultus Lake Adventure Park , an action-packed place full of waterslides and thrill rides.

After your day at the lake, swing by the delightful city of Chilliwack for a bite to eat on the way home.

This small village is an ideal place to see the mighty Fraser River and the Pacific Ocean. Steveston is a top destination in Richmond and an easy day trip from Vancouver if you don't have a car. The prime waterfront location is perfect for strolling, shopping, and catching up with friends.

Foodies come here to feast on the fresh seafood served up at the local restaurants, many of which have lovely patios, ensuring you'll get your fair share of people watching.

Planning a dinner party? Steveston has a lively commercial dock area where you can purchase fresh seafood right off the boats that will be sure to impress.

The area is very picturesque, with old buildings painted in lively colors, and makes for wonderful photos, especially when the sun shines.

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14 Best Day Trips from Vancouver, BC: Complete Planning Guide

Vancouver, BC is ideally situated close to jaw-dropping mountains, beautiful stretches of coastline, and a myriad of quirky towns and cities to suit all interests. There are many places you can scramble up a peak in the morning then beachcomb and kayak all afternoon before treating yourself to a well-deserved dinner and drinks in the evening.

You don’t have to drive far to have some seriously epic day trips from Vancouver – in fact, all of the locations listed in this guide involve under three hours driving, round-trip.

I’ve spent the last few years exploring the west coast of Canada, largely in search of great trails and tasty ales (I’m European so we take beer very, very seriously) and I have found some absolute gems that I’m excited to share with you!

Disclaimer: Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click on one and purchase something, we make a small portion of the sale at no additional cost to you. It goes without saying that we would never recommend something we wouldn’t use or do ourselves.

The 14 Best Day Trips from Vancouver, B.C. (Outdoor Adventures + Charming Towns)

Here are 14 day trips to help you discover and plan your next day out from Vancouver.

Day Trips for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re looking to escape the city for a day and get into the beautiful mountains in British Columbia, here are a couple of options for you to choose from .

Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour / 40 miles

Getting There: From Downtown Vancouver : head north on Highway 99 to Squamish, following the Sea-to-Sky Highway up to Squamish.

In all honesty, I could write this entire article about Squamish – there is so much to do. It is a historic First Nations town laden with history, and is the staging-post for the best outdoor adventures close to Vancouver.

Hiking, skiing, biking, boating: you won’t be disappointed with a day trip here! The drive is also breathtaking, as the Coast Mountains loom over the highway with their snowy peaks and sheer cliff faces.

Hiking in Shannon Falls Provincial Park

Shannon Falls is BC’s third highest waterfall and tumbles an impressive 1,000 feet down the cliff-side. This is a great place to stop en route to Squamish, just one mile south of the town. Get there early to avoid the masses!

The hike to the base of the waterfall is an easy half-mile out-and-back just off the highway, if you just want to see the falls and surrounding forest. For the more adventurous folk who want a full day’s hiking, then test your strength with the Upper Shannon Falls Trail .

A challenging 10-mile out-and-back with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain is not everyone’s cup of tea; but the views of the mountains and ocean around you are so worth the effort!

Psst: Read the next section about Garibaldi Provincial Park for some more great hikes super close to Squamish!

Rock Climbing

Squamish is a world-renowned hub for climbing, attracting thousands of would-be Alex Honnolds to the slabs, cracks and crevices which surround the town. The Chief is probably the most popular spot, offering a myriad of routes for every level of climber.

The Smoke Bluffs are another favorite, and a great way to test your skills on some fearsome granite walls.

If you’ve never climbed before, check out the Via Ferrata which is a guided tour up one of Squamish’s impressive slabs via a series of iron rungs (with a special harness, don’t worry!). This is great for kids and adults alike who want to experience the thrill of climbing in a world-class location.

Mountain Biking

Rent a bike in town and head out to some of the area’s legendary cross-country and downhill trails. Brackendale is well-suited to beginners with a variety of relatively flat trails; Diamond Head is the best place to find a variety of trails for those wanting to test their skills, and is located just north of Quest University outside of Squamish.

You’ve possibly even heard of the area’s Half Nelson which attracts novice and expert alike, surrounded by some pretty insane views of the mountains and Howe Sound !

Eating and Drinking in Squamish

Downtown Squamish has a host of excellent places to eat and hangout after a full day adventuring. With the town’s outdoorsy demographic, it is perfectly acceptable to turn up for dinner in your Arcteryx and hiking boots!

Howe Sound Brew Pub – This local gem has been around since the 90s, and offers a delicious affair of appies, good ole’ pub grub, and even handmade pizza with their signature beer-infused dough. Oh, and a whole bunch of on-site beers, naturally.

Zephyr Cafe – I came here on a roadtrip with a vegan friend, and was sincerely impressed with their range of healthy vegan foods (quinoa cereal, anyone!?) and the most vibrant green smoothie I’d ever laid eyes on. The space is cozy and funky – perfect for fueling up before the afternoon ahead.

The Salted Vine – Amidst a sea of brewpubs and cafes, this upscale addition to the Squamish food scene has not gone unnoticed. They serve regional, seasonal foods and a range of wines for pairing. Try the twice-baked cheese soufflé. I insist.

Garibaldi Provincial Park

Distance from Vancouver: 90 minutes / 60 miles

Getting There : Take Highway 99 north from Vancouver. There are several access points to the park along the highway which are linked in each section below.

Garibaldi Provincial Park is a huge swath of alpine wonderland between Squamish and Pemberton . Impressive volcanic peaks tower 8,000 feet over the trails, and the park plays host to over 150 glaciers and a myriad of azure lakes. This place is truly a mountain-lover’s paradise, and is popular with hikers, trail-runners, and snow-shoers all year round. 

Tip : July to September are the best months for hiking near Vancouver , as the higher latitudes are prone to a lot of snow. I use Mountain Forecast for hiking in this region between October to June because it offers real-time weather updates at several elevations – it’s highly accurate and so useful for planning!

Top Trails Near Garibaldi Provincial Park

Hiking is a big draw for Garibaldi Provincial Park – here are three great hikes to add to your day trip.

Garibaldi Lake Trail

Trailhead: Rubble Creek

Parking: Small parking lot at trailhead.

This iconic trail is one of the best day trips from Vancouver for hikers. It is rated as a moderate out-and-back, but with 3,000 feet of elevation gain it will still get your heart pumping! We did it in just over six hours and clocked 11.2 miles.

The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and glaciers, most notably the Black Tusk which looks like it might crumble under its own weight at any moment. Well worth the effort!

Note: If you start to tire then skip the extra few miles to the main lake, and turn back at Barrier Lake or Lesser Garibaldi Lake, which both offer some stunning views.

Elfin Lakes

Trailhead: Elfin Lake / Diamond Head

Parking: Parking lot at trailhead.

This is another great out-and-back which is totally doable in a day at 12.5 miles, with 2700ft of elevation gain. After the first few miles uphill, the trail opens out onto a spectacular ridge, with open views of the park’s namesake and highest peak: Mount Garibaldi at 8700ft.

The rest of the trail to Elfin Lakes is fairly steady, although there can still be snow into early July so do check local weather conditions before hiking.

Brandywine Falls and Cal-Cheak Suspension Bridge

Trailhead: Brandywine Falls Provincial Park

Parking: Parking lot at the trailhead.

This more modest hike is a great choice if you want to keep the stress off your knees, or just fancy a shorter hike.

At just over five miles and under 500 feet elevation gain, this loop will lead you to the iconic Brandywine Falls , which tumbles 230 feet to the river below; over the Cal-Cheak Suspension Bridge; and through some beautiful forested trails. 

Eating and Drinking Near Garibaldi Provincial Park

There are no places to eat in the park itself so I’d definitely recommend packing your own food if hitting the trails. Stop off in Squamish on the way home for a well-deserved pub dinner – see above section for tasty recommendations.

Want to explore Vancouver? We’ve got plenty of detailed Vancouver travel guides to help you explore!

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Bowen Island

Distance from Vancouver: 70 minutes / 18.5 miles

Getting There: Take Highway 99 north to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal, then ride the 30-minute ferry from Horseshoe Bay – Bowen Island.

Despite its proximity to Vancouver, Bowen Island is a haven of calm. This small island is totally doable in a day, and has a wonderful community feel in its many boutiques and locally-owned eateries. It is the perfect place to lie on a beach all day, explore the waters of Howe Sound via kayak, or meander through one of the many forested trails.

Explore the Coastline By Kayak

Wave hello to the seals and seabirds of the coast! Bowen Island Sea Kayaking offers single and double kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards to rent.

They are located just a hop away from the ferry, and even offer guided tours if you want to explore the area with a knowledgeable naturalist. Head north along the shoreline to have incredible views of the Coast Mountains as you paddle!

Climb Mount Gardner

Mount Gardner is the highest point on Bowen Island and is a respectable 2,400 feet above sea-level! There are several routes to the top where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the Coast Mountains, Sunshine Coast , and wave hello to your hotel back in downtown Vancouver!

There are actually over 13 miles of trails for you to choose from to get to the top, and I wholeheartedly recommend downloading the very thorough and free Complete Guide to Hiking Mount Gardner .

Go Beach-Hopping

There are a number of beautiful beaches on Bowen Island. They are mostly pebbly rather than sandy, but the smooth stones are very pleasant to take a snooze on.

My favorite beach for swimming is Tunstall Bay on the west side of the island. It’s small, sloped, and is famous for great sunsets! Cates Bay Beach on the north side of the island has the most dramatic views down Howe Sound and to the Coast Mountains beyond.

The beaches around Cape Roger Curtis on the west side are the best for walking, as there’s a network of trails between the beaches and out to the lighthouse on the Cape.

Eating and Drinking on Bowen Island

Snug Cove is the best spot to grab something to eat and is right off the ferry terminal. The Snug Cafe is a favorite of mine and indeed many others for its quaint, charming atmosphere and selection  of delicious bites – scones with cream and jam, anyone?!

The Rustique Bistro and bar serves primarily French cuisine and the seafood is to die for; they also have several vegan options. It’s an ideal place for a waterfront dinner before the ferry back to the big city.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Distance from Vancouver : 80 minutes / 37 miles

Getting There: Ride Highway 1 east out of Vancouver for about 23 miles, until you see signs for Maple Ridge. Turn left down 192 Street/ Golden Ears Way, across the Fraser River and past Maple Ridge until you reach the park. I would recommend driving further into the park and parking at either West Canyon or Gold Creek , for access to the best trails and amenities.

Golden Ears Provincial Park is one of the lower mainland’s best and most accessible parks. The peaks here are lower than the alpine range of the Coast Mountains, making it much easier to summit and return in just a day. Giant Douglas Firs, Hemlocks and Western Red Cedars adorn the valleys and rivers, giving that quintessential BC hiking experience.

Bring a picnic or stop in nearby Maple Ridge for food. The park has several toilets along popular trails and the campsites.

Top Hiking Trails in Golden Ears Provincial Park

There are so many great trails in the park to suit all abilities. Here are my favorite two:

Trailhead and Parking: West Canyon Parking

Not for the faint-hearted! Evans Peak really put me through my paces but I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who loves a challenge. It’s only five miles of out-and-back, but the 3,000 foot ascent and descent is a real leg-burner.

Steep, muddy, and scramble-y with a few rope-assisted sections – come prepared! The view from the peak is astounding, even better if you catch it on a clear day. I would recommend this only in summer when all of the snow has melted, but if you’re hardcore then bring crampons. Good luck!

East Canyon Trail

Trailhead and Parking: Gold Creek Parking

Follow the meandering Gold Creek for as long as you like, on the gentle but beautiful East Canyon Trail . The trail stretches over nine miles up to Hector Ferguson Lake, but you can choose your own adventure , as they say.

Don’t miss Viewpoint Beach and the Gold Creek Falls for some of the park’s most charming views!

Enjoy the Water at Alouette Lake

Alouette Lake is the perfect spot to take a refreshing dip, laze on the beach, or hop into a canoe and explore. North Beach is my favorite for a swim, as the mountain backdrop is really quite spectacular (Yes, it’s cold. You’re in Canada.)!

Alouette Lake Canoe Rentals operate daily throughout summer and you can hire per hour or for a full day.

If you’re angling towards a fishing trip (get it?), then stop at the Hatch Match’r in Maple Ridge and pick up fishing supplies – this lake is hugely popular among angling enthusiasts – just make sure you get the necessary permit in advance.

Day Trips to Charming Cities and Towns Nearby

If you’re looking for a more laid back day trip, look at these charming cities and towns near Vancouver.

Gibsons, Sunshine Coast

Distance from Vancouver: 110 minutes / 28.5 miles

Getting There: Take Highway 99 north to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal, then board the ferry to Langdale . Drive southwest on Marine Drive for another few miles until you reach Gibsons.

Gibsons Landing is a historic marine town in Squamish First Nations Territory, and was a hub of logging, fishing, and agricultural activity in the late 1800s.

Today, it still retains its small-town charm despite being one of the most popular spots on BC’s famous Sunshine Coast. Beautiful waterfront, cafes and local markets, museums, galleries and many more treasures are tucked into this small corner of the coast.

Sample the Local Art and History

Gibsons Public Art Gallery is a small but vibrant gallery in the heart of the community. With a different feature each month, it plays host to Indigenous Arts, youth-led projects, environmental and abstract pieces – among many others.

The town is also home to the Sunshine Coast Museum & Archives , which is a fantastic resource for diving into the rich and diverse history of the area, from First Nations to the early settlers, and up to the present day.

Peruse the Public Market

Gibsons Public Market is a phenomenal community project, bringing together food-makers, artists, craftspeople, and educators under one roof. It has a farm-to-table grocery and bulk store, butchers, burger stalls, bakeries, and a fishmongers – to name but a few.

Naturally, my favorite stall is Fromagerie De Baie who serve some incredible cheeses and charcuterie from around the world.

There are regular yoga classes and pop-up art galleries; and the market is home to the Nicholas Sontag Marine Education Center , which features incredible aquariums and marine displays – the fish of BC are way more colorful than most people imagine!

Stroll Along the Seafront

The impressive waterfront in Gibsons is well worth a wander. The public wharf and attached boardwalks are lined with boats of all sizes, float planes, kayaks and more.

There are remnants of the town’s commercial past with old logging barges and fishing boats tied up to the docks. The impressive mountain backdrop lights up in red with the sunset, and the many beaches are perfect for a romantic evening stroll. 

Eating and Drinking in Gibsons

Molly’s Reach – Arguably the most famous restaurant on this stretch of the coast. If you remember the 70s hit show The Beachcombers , then you’ll enjoy a jaunt around Gibsons and a seat at Molly’s Reach – the center point of the show! The restaurant is packed full of tasty treats (I recommend the fish n’ chips), delicious drinks, and is plastered with Beachcombers memorabilia.

101 Brewhouse and Distillery – This fairly new addition to Gibsons has become a firm favorite. They serve their own beers, vodka, and gin and have a fantastic selection of edible accompaniments. Tuck in to some tacos or zingy burgers in this refreshingly trendy spot. 

Smitty’s Oyster House – if you want a real coastal dining experience, then head to Smitty’s. Located right on the waterfront boardwalk, this modern, stylish restaurant serves fresh seafood in all sorts of creative ways. They have a fresh selection of oysters daily, and I can’t recommend the chili lime prawns enough!

Note: The last ferry back to Vancouver is at 8.55pm, giving you plenty of time for dinner in Gibsons. Just don’t miss it!

Salt Spring Island

Distance from Vancouver : 130 minutes / 46 miles

Getting There: Take Highway 99 south out of the city, then follow Highway 17 to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. Board the ferry to Long Harbor , Salt Spring Island and enjoy the beautiful views and wildlife on this 80-minute ride.

Salt Spring Island is the largest of the Gulf Islands off eastern Vancouver Island , the traditional territory of the Coast Salish Peoples.

It is jam-packed with local artistry, wellness outfits, and quirky cafes. You can drive across the island in just 40 minutes and it has such a community atmosphere that it feels like one big town, which is why I’ve included it here!

With a direct ferry from Vancouver, this relaxing slice of the coast is easily accessible and is consistently one of my favorite Vancouver day trips. Plus, the ferry ride is beautiful!

Explore Local Galleries and Studios

Salt Spring Island is famous for its many artists. There are more galleries and studios than you can count, and there is something for all tastes: pottery and ceramics, glass-blowing, ciders and wines, sculpture parks, farm shops, wood-working studios… the list really is endless.

Check out the amazing, interactive list by Salt Spring Studio Tour to help guide your visit. I particularly loved the Seven Ravens Farm Shop for their gorgeous live-edge cutting boards and organic produce, and Quail Run Pottery and Glass for some of the most intricate glass jewelry I’ve ever seen – they offer workshops, too!

Take a Little “You Time”

This is an unofficial statistic, but I’m pretty sure that Salt Spring has the highest density of spas, wellness centers, and spiritual retreats in North America. Head to Solace Organic Spa for a few hours of hydrotherapy, acupressure, or massages – surrounded by a peaceful forest and natural pools.

If you need to persuade your other half then send them straight to the photo gallery – it will 100% work.

The Salt Spring Center of Yoga is a non-profit community and is dedicated to true yoga practice, as opposed to just tight leggings and gratuitous down-dog.

If you’re looking to deepen your connection with the self and attain a little more peace, their knowledgeable yoga leaders offer several different classes and workshops throughout the week which are open to the general public.

Explore the Island

Like most places in BC, Salt Spring has a great expanse of outdoors to explore!

There are a huge number of beautiful beaches and connected trails, and several lakes dotted around which are great for swimming. They actually get quite warm in summer, too! I loved small Cusheon Lake for swimming because it has a great dock for diving off and it’s not too busy.

There are also a good number of trails for you to check out whether you want an easy stroll or something a little more strenuous. For the latter, check out Mount Erskine – Salt Spring’s highest peak – for incredible views of the Gulf Islands, their connected waterways, and the Olympic Mountains in the distance!

Eating and Drinking on Salt Spring Island

The island is a hub of artisan cafes, local breweries, and fine sea-front dining.

Beachside Cafe – Hands down the best place to sit by the ocean! I loved tucking into a smoothie bowl on a covered picnic bench, watching the boats roll by. You can also rent kayaks here if you want to work up an appetite beforehand!

Salt Spring Island Cheese – If you love cheese, look no further. Their farm store offers an incredible selection of crafted goat cheeses, and the on-site cafe serves delicious pizzas, soups and salads topped with – you guessed it – cheese.

Salt Spring Island Ales – I had such a great afternoon sampling these locally-brewed ales. The outdoor patio is gorgeous and the staff are super friendly and knowledgeable. Definitely head here for a drink or two!

Distance from Vancouver : 70 minutes / 63 miles

Getting There: Take Highway 1 east all the way to Chilliwack.

Chilliwack attracts thousands of visitors each year for its idyllic surroundings, agricultural farmsteads, and multitude of cultural activities. It has all of the benefits of a big city yet is seated in the beautiful wetlands of the Fraser River Valley. It is so accessible from Vancouver and has something to suit outdoor enthusiasts, families, and culture-lovers alike.

Farms and Flowers, Everywhere!

There are a huge number of farms offering tours, stores, tasting sessions, on-site breweries… this region is quite famous for farm-hopping! I’d recommend reading up on the self-guided Circle Farm Tour in advance of your trip. 

If you travel in spring or summer, you must stop in at the world-famous flower festivals. In spring, the Chilliwack Tulip Festival lines over 6.5 million tulip bulbs in the most ornate, colorful rows you’ve likely ever laid eyes on.

In late summer, the same farm hosts the Chilliwack Sunflower Festival where fields of golden sunflowers dance in the summer breeze. The festivals promote harmonious living with the natural world and have welcomed thousands of visitors from all around the globe. 

Discover First Nations Art and Culture

Chilliwack lies on the historic territory of the Stó:lō First Nation, and there are so many places in the city to explore this timeless past. There are a number of guided tours via bus, water, and on foot offered by Stó:lō Cultural Tours , and countless murals around the city depicting Stó:lō stories and artwork.

In fact, the city’s tourism board has put together this neat interactive map , showing the locations of the many downtown murals, for a self-guided walking tour.

Cultus Lake Provincial Park

The large district of Chilliwack encompasses many awesome outdoor spots. The Cultus Lake area is a fantastic day out, with many opportunities for awesome hikes, relaxing rambles, and plenty of activities for kids.

The Cultus Lake Water Park & Theme Park is a must-do for families (and for big kids, too) with state-of-the-art attractions, a huge splash zone, and loads of great places to eat. Teapot Hill is a fantastic, short hike and is famous for the various teapots that people leave at different parts of the trail – bizarre, but it has become a real hit, especially with the little ones. 

Stop off at Beethoven’s Pizza or Frosty’s Ice Cream before you head back – you’ve earned an indulgence!

Eating and Drinking in Chilliwack

Downtown Chilliwack is home to so many great places to grab some food and drink. I can’t possibly list them all but here are some personal favorites:

Bricklayer Brewing – One of the many excellent breweries in Chilliwack. I loved this place for its friendly hosts, Kris and Megan, who love what they do, and the great selection of refreshing IPAs, sours, and lagers. I also opted for a soft-baked pretzel as an accompaniment and oh my, it did not disappoint.

Anita’s Bread and Coffee – I came back to Anita’s twice more after my first visit, her fresh bread is so freaking delicious! She uses organic grains and has recently opened up the space as a little cafe, with excellent coffee and pastries to sample.

Pho Galaxy – Some of the best Vietnamese food I’ve ever had! This is a cozy, humble spot for lunch or dinner and, in my opinion, is one of Chilliwack’s best-kept secrets. The menu is surprisingly affordable given how delicious the food is.

Bellingham, WA

Distance from Vancouver : 90 minutes (depending on border crossing times) / 55 miles

Getting There : Take Highway 99 all the way south to the CAN – US border at the Peace Arch. From there, take the I5 south until you reach Bellingham. Don’t forget your passports!

Bellingham, Washington is a beautiful city and rated as one of the best places to live on the west coast. There are hundreds of cafes, restaurants, bars, bookstores, and shopping streets to service its student and young adult population.

It is also nestled in between the coast and North Cascades National Park , meaning that the great outdoors is never far away! It’s a fun day trip from Vancouver and easily accessible by car.

Explore Historic Fairhaven

Fairhaven is my favorite place in Bellingham, right on the southern limits of the city. It borders the ocean and is home to many Victorian Era red-brick houses, old phone booths, vintage lamp posts, and cobbled streets.

It’s a joy to wander around, perusing the local art galleries and chintzy cafes. Don’t miss the independent Eclipse Bookstore for shelves (and stairs) lined with an insurmountable selection of books. You could spend all day perusing in there!

Visit Whatcom Falls Park and Lake

Just east of downtown lies a gorgeous 240-acre stretch of green: Whatcom Falls Park . There is a network of easy trails which lead you past the park’s four waterfalls over five miles, and a 100-year old railway trestle bridge deep in the park. The iconic stone bridge over the main falls is a must-see: a fairytale sandstone bridge draped in moss and ferns, as the waters of Whatcom Creek rush beneath your feet.

Road Trip Down Chuckanut Drive

Wind down the windows, crank up the tunes and head south out of Bellingham down famous Chuckanut Drive (Highway 11). This stretch of the coast is often referred to as Washington State’s Big Sur , and makes for a truly stunning and scenic drive. Look out over the San Juan Islands or stop in for a walk at Larrabee State Park .

Eating and Drinking in Bellingham

Woods Coffee – I love this particular coffee shop mainly for its location. It sits in the heart of Boulevard Park, which spans the length of downtown Bellingham along the waterfront. A mid-morning hit of caffeine from Woods is the perfect accompaniment to a delightful stroll by the ocean!

Bellingham Farmers Market – If you’re in town on a Saturday, then don’t miss the Farmers Market at Depot Market Square for a chance to sample some of the best organic produce and ready-to-go meals, while supporting local agriculture and artists.

The Black Cat – Located in Fairhaven District on the third floor of a beautiful old building, this is a light, modern American bistro with a mouth-watering range of food and a full bar. Best crab cakes I’ve ever eaten!

Other Great Day Trips in British Columbia

As if that’s not enough, here are six other day trips that would make for an exceptional day outside of the city. 

Lynn Canyon Park

Lynn Canyon Park is a great day trip for outdoor lovers, with many forested trails and a teetering suspension bridge which hangs 160 feet over the river below. There is an on-site ecology center which is a great learning resource for kids and adults alike.

The trails and bridge are typically less busier than the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (info here ), and is still only nine miles / 25 minutes from Vancouver.

Victoria is BC’s capital city and my personal favorite city in Canada. Home to the world-famous Butchart Gardens ; countless city parks and waterfront walkways; and a host of boutiques, cafes and restaurants along its charming streets.

It is a little far for a day trip by car and ferry , but why not take a floatplane and travel in style, for something a little different? See the impressive coastline and mountains from the air! Harbor Air offers special day-trip prices and you can be in Victoria in just over 30 minutes.

Point Roberts

If you take a look at the western 49 th parallel you’ll notice something a little odd just south of Vancouver.

Point Roberts – affectionately named “Point Bob” – is a little chunk of land belonging to Washington State, US, but it can only be accessed through Canada – oops! It’s a hugely popular spot for boating and fishing in the summertime, and the Lighthouse Marine Park is a gorgeous spot for a stroll or bike along the seafront, looking out to the Gulf Islands and San Juan Islands beyond.

If nothing else, it’s fun to be able to point at a map and say “I’ve been there!”. It is a short 60 minutes /  23 miles from Vancouver.

Grouse Mountain

Grouse Mountain is Vancouver’s neighborhood mountaintop and is a great destination for skiing in the wintertime or hiking in the summer and shoulder seasons. It is only 30 minutes / eight miles from downtown Vancouver and has all the amenities you need for a day out.

The famous Grouse Grind trail leads you 2,800 feet up 2,830 stairs to the peak – phew! Or you can take the Skyride to the top if you don’t feel like attempting the grind. There is also a wildlife sanctuary and the knowledgeable park rangers give regular talks, and you’ll have the chance to meet the resident grizzly bears and other rescued wildlife.

Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Bridal Veil Falls is another of BC’s stunning waterfalls and the park offers some beautiful forested trails and babbling creeks. The trails are flat, smooth, and gently sloping – perfect for an easy afternoon stroll.

The walk to the falls is only 15 minutes, and the sound of the water cascading down the rock-face is spectacular! This makes an excellent stopping point if you are already out east visiting Chilliwack or Cultus Lake, and is only 80 minutes / 72 miles from downtown Vancouver.

Harrison Hot Springs

This resort town is famous for its natural hot springs, and the whole of the Harrison Valley is an outdoor paradise to explore. Take a dip at the lakeside Harrison Lagoon, or stroll along the sandy shores of Harrison Lake.

Golf, hiking, fishing, boating – this little town is the gateway to it all! At a little over 90 minutes / 81 miles from downtown Vancouver, it is perfectly doable from the big city in a day.

More to Explore in British Columbia

Want to explore the best that British Columbia has to offer? We’ve got plenty of detailed travel guides to help you explore!

Vancouver BC Travel Guides:

• 14 Incredible Day Trips from Vancouver, B.C.
• 15 Unbelievable Hikes near Vancouver, B.C. (Hiking Guide)

Vancouver Island Travel Guides

• Exactly How to Plan an Incredible Vancouver Island Road Trip

Suzie is an avid hiker, backpacker, and self-confessed outdoor nerd. Her love of whales and trails brought her to BC four years ago and, since then, she's been exploring the wild west coast for all the splendor it has to offer.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Vancouver

Day trips from vancouver.

• Vancouver to North Vancouver
• Vancouver to Whistler
• Vancouver to Victoria
• Vancouver to Squamish
• Up to 1 hour
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• 4 hours to 1 day
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

2. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

3. Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

4. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

5. Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

6. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

7. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

8. Full Day Guided Tour in Victoria with Butchart Gardens

9. Day Trip to Victoria and Butchart Gardens from Vancouver

10. Small Group Tour: Vancouver Sightseeing and Capilano Suspension Bridge

11. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

12. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

13. Whistler Sightseeing Tour from Vancouver: See Horseshoe Bay and Shannon Falls

14. Seaplane Tour with Admission to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

15. Vancouver to Victoria Seaplane Day Trip with Butchart Gardens

16. Whistler & Sea to Sky Gondola Small-Group Day Trip from Vancouver

17. Small Group Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain from Vancouver

18. Victoria BC Ferry Mile Zero 1 Day City Tour from Vancouver

19. Vancouver to Whistler Day Trip by Seaplane

20. Stanley Park, Shannon Falls, Sea to sky Gondola & Whistler Tour.

21. North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mtn

22. Whistler, Shannon Falls, Sea to Sky Day Trip from Vancouver

23. Five waterfalls, Forest, Ocean, Mountains and Lighthouse

24. Vancouver Biking and Hiking Tour including Lunch

25. Discover Whistler & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour from Vancouver

26. Best Of Vancouver Small-Group Tour w/Capilano + Grouse Mtn Lunch

27. Vancouver to Victoria by Seaplane with Bus and Ferry Return

28. Taste of the Valley Private Wine Tour

29. Whistler & Squamish Photography

30. Private Tesla EV Friendly -Wine Tour & Charcuterie

What travellers are saying.

• Pepe M 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent BC island day trip! The day was fully packed and well organised. Victoria is a quaint island town with a variety of interesting shops, restaurants and water activity options. Butchart gardens a must see with specific focus on the sunken and Japanese gardens. The traveling coordination (road & ferry) which makes up ~ 6 hrs of the tour was well planned. René our guide was pleasantly excellent with great subject and general information knowledge adding an element of fun Read more Review of: Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver Written May 7, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver
• Lawrence Tours
• Dominion Tours
• Pearl Limousine
• Globalduniya
• Jericho Beach Kayak
• West Trek Tours
• Prince of Whales Whale Watching
• Wild Root Journeys
• Wild BC Tours and Guiding
• Sjef Camping Adventures
• Key West Travel & Tours
• Fresh Adventures

The 21 Best Day Trips From Vancouver (In 2023)

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2023

Categories Canada

British Columbia is a beautiful part of Canada with green forests, impressive mountains , and a long and rugged coastline.

While you should definitely spend a couple of days in Vancouver , there are lots of great day trips around Vancouver.

It doesn't matter if you are looking to spend some time at a lovely lake , overcome your fears while walking a 70-meter (230 ft) high suspension bridge, or hop on a short ferry ride to explore quaint little Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast, this post with the best day trips from Vancouver has got you covered!

The best day trips from Vancouver

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Vancouver best day trips

In this article, you'll find a list of the best day trips to take from Vancouver, British Columbia. These day trips are all within driving distance and can be comfortably visited in one day.

This post has been created in collaboration with several other travel bloggers, who have kindly shared their expert advice about their favorite Vancouver day trips.

Each of the Vancouver tours mentioned in this post can be visited independently (by car, ferry, coach, or public transport).

However, if you prefer, there are also some really great guided tours. Here is my top 5:

• North Shore day trip from Vancouver (Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain)
• Sunshine Coast Escape (small group tour)
• The Great Squamish day trip from Vancouver
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip from Vancouver
• Whistler small-group day trip from Vancouver

Day trips from Vancouver: map

On the map above you can find all the day trips included in this post.

Click here for the interactive map .

21 best Vancouver day trips

• Abbotsford ( 1 hour, 70 km)
• Alouette Lake ( 1 hour 15 minutes, 65 km)
• Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park ( 1 hour 20 minutes, 120 km)
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park ( 10 minutes, 9 km)
• Garibaldi Lake ( 1 hour and 30 minutes, 100 km)
• George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary (45 minutes, 35 km)
• Gibsons ( 30 minutes by car + 40-minute by ferry, 46 km)
• Grouse Mountain ( 30 minutes, 12 km)
• Harrison Hot Springs ( 1 hour and 30 minutes, 132 km)
• Horseshoe Bay ( 30 minutes, 21 km)
• Ladner Creek Trestle ( 2 hours, 180 km)
• Lynn Canyon Park ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Nanaimo (25 minutes by car + 1 hour and 40 minutes by ferry, 81 km)
• Pemberton ( 2 hours, 154 km)
• Porteau Cove ( 30 minutes, 45 km)
• Richmond ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Salt Spring Island ( 45 minutes by car + 1 hour and 25 minutes by ferry , 85 km)
• Squamish (60 minutes, 65 km)
• Steveston ( 30 minutes, 16 km)
• Victoria ( 45 minutes by car + 1 hour and 30 minutes by ferry + plus 45-60 minutes by bus, 116 km)
• Whistler ( 1 hour and 40 minutes, 120 km)

1. Abbotsford

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour (70 km)

Why you should visit Abbotsford

Claudia from The Travelling Mom : situated in the agricultural heart of the Fraser Valley is the sprawling community of Abbotsford.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia, Abbotsford proudly maintains its farming roots with orchards and U-Pick blueberry fields lining the back roads and highways.

Abbotsford's small and walkable downtown has seen an influx of millennial entrepreneurs opening up coffee shops, bakeries, chic boutiques, and excellent farm-to-table restaurants that are still, for now, local secrets. 

Spend a day trip sipping high tea at Tracycakes or nourish the body with fresh juice from the Habit Project.

Linger over a leisurely brunch of creamed mushrooms on toast and fluffy pancakes at Little Brother, where everything from the butter to the yogurt is made from scratch.

Wander the curated aisles of Spruce Collective, a treasure-trove of housewares and gifts, cruise the stacks at Hemingway’s Books or find your next favorite outfit at Montrose & George General Store.

Walk off the day’s feasting with a stroll around the lake at Willband Creek Park. Keep an eye out for the more than 230 species of birds that frequent this wild space, including blue herons, ducks, finches, and bald eagles!

Where to stay in Abbotsford

If you decide to spend more than one day in Abbotsford, the Brookside Inn is a lovely boutique hotel just out of town.

Alternatively, the Sandman Hotel and Suites is located in the city center of Abbotsford and rooms have a fully equipped kitchen, washer, and dryer.

2. Alouette Lake

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour 15 minutes (65 km)

Why you should visit Alouette Lake

Bailey from Destinationless Travel : one of the best short road trips from Vancouver is Alouette Lake.

You see, contrary to popular belief, swimming in a beautiful lake surrounded by mountain peaks isn’t just an activity done in Whistler . Alouette Lake is actually located right in Maple Ridge!

From Vancouver city center it takes a little over an hour (by car) to get to Alouette Lake, making it an ideal day trip without having to do too much driving.

In fact, Vancouver’s Park Bus operates from downtown Vancouver to Alouette Lake so you don’t even need a car!

Alouette Lake is a pristine freshwater lake, a perfect place for swimming, picnics, fishing, or even boating. There is actually a designated swimming area near a beach with both a grass and sand area.

There are picnic tables and bathroom facilities and it is common to see many families hanging out for the day with BBQs set up.

Alouette Lake is located within Golden Ears Provincial Park. Within the park, there are many hiking trails and even campgrounds. So, if you want to turn your day trip into a weekend trip, you can!

Important note: during the summer months the park can get very busy and the parking lot fills up quickly. So it’s best to head to there in the morning to beat the crowds!

Where to stay around Alouette Lake

If you are planning to spend more than a day around Alouette Lake, check out this lovely villa located near Maple Ridge.

3. Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour 20 minutes (120 km)

Why you should visit Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Shev from Shev Strolls : Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park is a popular pit stop for road-trippers heading to and from the West Coast.

The easy access point from Highway 1 is halfway between Hope and Abbotsford (see #1) making it a great place to get out, stretch your legs, and enjoy a waterfall!

The provincial accessible site consists of a parking area with washrooms, picnic tables, and plenty of shade from the ancient trees. Once parked, you embark on the short, 10-15 minute hike through the trees to the base of the falls.

The walk itself is gorgeous as it weaves back and forth over Bridal Falls creek up to the base of the falls.

While it's only a short walk, you can easily make an event of it by taking photos with the mossy, fallen logs, and little babbling trickles of water down the creek.

To top it off, the walk to Bridal Falls is also totally wheelchair accessible!

If you are looking for another gorgeous stroll through the woods, The Othello Tunnels in Hope are also worth the visit, though they have been closed the last year or so because of weather damage.

Where to stay near the Bridal Veil Falls

Camperland Bridal Falls RV Resort & Cabins is the closest accommodation near the park (just 1km from the entrance).

Alternatively, take a 15-minute drive to the comfortable and well-reviewed Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Chilliwack. Both are nice places to stay if you plan to explore more sights in the area.

4. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 10 minutes (9 km)

Why you should visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Carol from Wandering Carol: the Capilano Suspension Bridge (pictured above) is much more than a bridge, it’s a step into a West Coast rainforest of towering evergreens, fragrant cedars, boardwalks, canyons, and ponds.

In addition to crossing the dramatic suspension bridge, which is 137 meters (450 feet) long and hovers 70 meters (230 feet) over the Capilano River, you can catch your breath from the panoramic views on the Cliffwalk.

This cantilevered walkway curls around a granite cliff high over the Capilano Canyon. Or try the Treetops Adventure, which will give you a bird’s eye view of the forest floor.

The easiest way to get here is with the free shuttle that leaves from specific downtown pickup points including Canada Place and runs year-round.

One of  Vancouver's top attractions , the suspension bridge is only 20 minutes away from downtown, but it feels like a dreamy world away!

Purchase your online ticket here.

5. Garibaldi Lake

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes (100 km)

Why you should visit Garibaldi Provincial Park

Erika from Erika’s Travels : Garibaldi Provincial Park lies an hour and a half north of the city of Vancouver, along British Columbia’s Sea to Sky Highway .

Featuring turquoise lakes, alpine meadows, and evergreen forests, the park is a popular refuge for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

Garibaldi Provincial Park contains over 90km of hiking trails, the area’s most popular hikes begin at the Rubble Creek trailhead. 

Mountain-ringed Garibaldi Lake is undoubtedly the most popular attraction in the provincial park. For stellar views of the blue-green water, many day-trippers choose to hike to the top of Panorama Ridge .

The hike to Panorama Ridge is a 34-kilometer (21 miles) round-trip haul that affords stunning views of Garibaldi Lake and Black Tusk Mountain. 

Due to the hike’s length and moderate level of difficulty, day-trippers from Vancouver should arrive at the trailhead by sunrise. Alternatively, campsites along the route cater to hikers who wish to spend multiple days in the area.

Though the hike to Panorama Ridge is a challenging climb to accomplish in a day, Garibaldi Lake’s jaw-dropping scenery has made the park an increasingly popular day trip from Vancouver. 

Where to stay near Garibaldi Lake

If you want to spend more than a day exploring Garibaldi Lake (and you really should!), my recommendation is to make a reservation at one of the campgrounds .

Alternatively, you can book a hotel in Whistler or stay in Squamish .

6. George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Driving distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes (35 km)

Why you should visit the Bird Sanctuary

Susanna from Curiosity Saves Travel : the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary is a great day trip from Vancouver, whether you are an avid birder or just someone who enjoys a relaxing nature walk.

The sanctuary is an hour south of downtown Vancouver and accessible by car ( click here for the best car rental deals ). Your experience will very much depend on the time of year you visit. In spring, millions of migratory birds pass through.

Early summer is the best time to see baby ducklings. Late summer and autumn are ideal for shorebirds like sandpipers and yellowlegs.

The Snow Goose is present for most of the winter months. You can easily spend about 2 hours walking the accessible winding gravel trails through forests where little songbirds flit about or along the river delta for chances to see soaring birds of prey.

Due to capacity limitations, you must reserve a parking spot online for either morning or afternoon. Once you park, you purchase an entrance ticket from the visitor center, learn about what birds are in the area, and get a map.

Don’t forget your binoculars and camera .

7. Gibsons (Sunshine Coast)

Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal (by car) followed by a 40-minute ferry ride to Gibsons (46 km).

Why you should visit Gibsons (and the Sunshine Coast in general!)

Gemma from Two Scots Abroad : the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia is a delightful all-season escape from the city. In fact, locals will joke that once you visit, you won't want to go back to Vancouver. 

Your coastal day trip starts with a forty-minute ferry ride from Vancouver to Gibsons. The ride is stunning in summer and in winter. You can choose a top deck seat to watch the scenery.

Gibsons is quite a big town in comparison to others on the coast. There are plenty of restaurants to dine at, some shops, and a handful of craft breweries. 

Sechelt, BC is another big town. One of my favorite things to do here is to watch the seaplanes arrive and depart while drinking a cold beverage. There is also a great paddleboard area just out of town. 

You can get around all the little towns and villages on the coast but you have to rely on public transport timing unless you rent a bike or travel by car. If you have a car, you can head far north, making pitstops at the many lakes. 

Where to stay in Gibsons

If you decide to spend more than a day on the Sunshine Coast (and once again I recommend that you do;-), the lovely Bonniebrook Lodge is a great place to stay.

Located just 5 km from downtown Gibsons, this historic lodge offers comfortable suites with a balcony and whirlpool tub. 

8. Grouse Mountain

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (12 km)

Why you should visit Grouse Mountain

Priya Vin from Outside Suburbia : take a leisurely Skyride to Grouse Mountain and you will be rewarded with a spectacular view of Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean.

If are up for the challenge you can hike the grueling and challenging Grouse Grind mountain. 

Once on top of the mountains, you can see of grizzly bears at the Refuge for Endangered Wildlife, ravens, and eagles.

Don’t miss the lumberjack show where they compete against each other and showcase their skills in log rolling, a 60-foot tree climb, and axe throwing among others. 

There is plenty to do on the mountain, from ziplines to guided nature walks and hikes. Our favorite was the open chairlifts to the summit, soaring to an altitude of 1250 meter high (4100 feet) above sea level.

The scenic Peak Chairlift will transport you to the apex of Grouse Mountain. At the summit, the panorama is just a spectacular panorama.

You can easily spend half a day at Grouse Mountain, or more. Drive here from downtown Vancouver or take the free shuttle (only in summer) from Canada Place. Read more about the shuttle here .

Click here to book your tickets to Grouse Mountain

9. Harrison Hot Springs

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes (132 km)

Why you should visit Harrison Hot Springs

Lesley from Freedom56travel : Harrison Hot Springs is a fun day trip from Vancouver! An easy 90-minute drive from Vancouver, this little community is perched on the edge of beautiful Harrison Lake in the picturesque Fraser Valley. 

I suggest taking Highway 7 out to Harrison Hot Springs instead of Highway 1, this scenic drive is much nicer and less busy too!

A day trip in the summer is always a treat because you can swim in Harrison Lake.  There’s also great paddling via kayak and canoe in the lake and you can rent your watercraft at the Harrison Resort dock. 

One of the biggest attractions in Harrison Hot Springs is their Sasquatch, of course.

Described as ‘a bi-pedal mammal of exceptional size', this hairy beast is known to roam the Harrison Hot Springs area, with many reported sightings.

The Sasquatch is a beloved fixture in the oral tradition of the local First Nations people.

There are lots of great places to eat in Harrison Hot Springs, especially along Esplanade Ave in front of the lagoon. Try the Muddy Waters Café , near the Sasquatch statue.

10. Horseshoe Bay

Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes by car or 44 minutes from Waterfront station by train/bus (21 km).

Why you should visit Horseshoe Bay

Alex from The Swedish Nomad : Horseshoe Bay is a lovely town and an easy day trip from Vancouver. There are many quaint little shops and restaurants, where you can pick up a souvenir or two.

The Butter Lane Bake Shop and Tea House are some of the best places to buy mouthwateringly freshly baked goods. They also serve some of the finest teas.

If you are looking for a nice restaurant, I suggest eating at the Boathouse restaurant or Troll's. 

One of the most popular things to do in Horseshoe Bay is to explore the network of fjords by boat, either on your own or on a small cruise.

Furthermore, you can go scuba diving, kayaking, and animal spotting, or simply enjoy the beautiful views. From Horseshoe Bay, you can also visit lovely Bowen Island and Howe Sound. 

11. Ladner Creek Trestle

Driving distance from Vancouver: 2 hours (180 km)

Why you should visit the Ladner Creek Trestle

Roxy from The Coastal Campaign : the Ladner Creek Trestle near Hope is an epic little hike that makes for a great day trip from Vancouver!

The hike itself is relatively easy and it takes around 30 minutes to reach the old trestle bridge that used to form part of the Kettle Valley Railway. The trestle is a beautiful old bridge tucked away in the mountains, curving high over Ladner Creek and surrounded by pine trees.

The journey to the pullout on the Coquihalla Highway takes just over two hours from Vancouver.

To hike to the Ladner Creek Trestle, hang out and enjoy the view and make the return journey to the car park, which should take 1.5 – 2 hours.

Important note: while the trail is relatively easy, it is best done in summer to avoid snow on the ground or slippery terrain.

This hike is one of British Columbia's best-kept secrets, meaning you shouldn’t have to share the trail with too many other people. The view of this beautiful bridge is well worth the journey from Vancouver!

12. Lynn Canyon Park

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (16 km)

Why you should visit the Lynn Canyon Park

Claire from Backpacking Bella: the best day trip from Vancouver on our  cross-Canada adventure  was to the beautiful Lynn Canyon Park.

While you should also visit the famous Capilano Suspension bridge (mentioned earlier in this post), you can also find a suspension bridge in Lynn Canyon Park. This one is less crowded and (as an added bonus) totally free!

Lynn Canyon Park is located in North Vancouver, about half an hour’s drive from downtown Vancouver. Don't worry if you don't have a car, you can also get there by public transport (a journey by bus takes just over an hour).

Sure enough, Lynn Canyon Park has a suspended walkway where you can cross 50 meters above a scenic, tree-covered canyon, as a waterfall crashes far beneath you. But there is much more to this park besides the bridge!

Boulders and tree stumps are ready to be jumped on, serene swimming holes beg to be dived into and you can hike one of the many winding trails in this century-old forest.

Lynn Canyon Park is open daily all year round, except for Christmas and New Year. It has some great picnic spots and a cafe, though this is closed during the winter.

The park also has an ecology center which is great for kids. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes so you can properly explore this naturally stunning place!

If you're a photographer, grab your camera and book this excellent small-group photography tour of Lynn Canyon (led by a professional photographer guide).

13. Nanaimo

Distance from Vancouver: 25 minutes by car plus 1 hour and 40 minutes by ferry (81 km) .

Why you should visit Nanaimo

While most people head to Victoria (see #14), another great place to visit on Vancouver Island is Nanaimo.

As the second largest city on the island and the landing place for most people traveling to Vancouver Island by boat, Nanaimo is a great place to spend a day .

Stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway, admire the views over Protection Island, hike up to Mount Benson, and sample some tasty Nanaimo bars.

Have a drink at the Dinghy Dock Pub, visit the Nanaimo Museum and enjoy everything this lovely city on Vancouver Island has to offer.

Where to stay in Nanaimo

The Coast Bastion Hotel and AnnArthur Guest House are great places to spend the night if you decide to stay longer (and believe me, you'll want to stay much longer).

14. Pemberton

Driving distance from Vancouver: 2 hours (154 km)

Why you should visit Pemberton

Rachael from A City Girl Outside : Pemberton is one of the best day trips from Vancouver and a lesser-visited destination.

Pemberton is often overshadowed by nearby Whistler but there is plenty to do here and many hidden gems.

The town of Pemberton itself is a small quaint town a short 30 minutes north of Whistler, with a wonderful small-town vibe. It's surrounded by picturesque mountains and local farms.

Some of the best farms to visit in the Pemberton area are North Arm Farm and Laughing Crow Organics. North Arm Farm is the closest to the main Downtown area and is great for blueberry and strawberry picking, it also has amazing views of Mount Currie which towers over Pemberton.  

Laughing Crow Organics Farm can be found on Pemberton Meadows Road. The farm has an onsite craft brewery called the “Beer Farmers”.

Laughing Crow Organics offers seasonal events such as the tulip fields in the spring, the sunflower fields in late summer, and a pumpkin patch in the fall. 

Pemberton is also a hiker's paradise. One of the most famous hikes in British Columbia, Joffre Lakes, is just a 20-minute drive from the town of Pemberton. This popular hike leads to three stunning glacial blue lakes. 

Where to stay in Pemberton

The Pemberton Valley Lodge is the best place to stay in Pemberton. This centrally located hotel not only offers spacious and clean rooms but some of the best views in the Sea to Sky. 

15. Porteau Cove

Driving distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes (45 km)

Why you should visit Porteau Cove

Riana of Teaspoon of Adventure : one of the best day trips from Vancouver is Porteau Cove. Porteau Cove Provincial Park is a beautiful campground and beach area between Vancouver and Whistler.

I love Porteau Cove because it’s super close to the city (only a 30-minute drive!) and has some of the most incredible views over Howe Sound and to the mountains. It’s an ideal campground because of its location and beauty. 

There’s a ton to do (when you’re done taking in the beautiful views). You can swim on the beach, go kayaking or canoeing, or even go scuba diving, as there is a man-made reef and sunken ships to explore.

There are trails and a small hill to hike. And at night, this place has the most stunning and bright view of the stars, completely unobstructed by the city lights. 

What's more: visiting the park for the day is free of charge!

Where to stay in Porteau Cove

If you have more time available, I would suggest booking a campsite for a couple of nights at Porteau Cove. Many of the sites are right on the water!

16. Richmond

Why you should visit Richmond

Kenny from Knycx Journeying : Richmond is a coastal city in the south of Vancouver and a member municipality of Metro Vancouver.

The city is close to the Vancouver International Airport, as well as the BC Ferries terminal that connects to Vancouver Island. 

The development of Richmond started with the influx of foreign immigrants decades ago, it is a wonderful location to add to a tourist’s Vancouver itinerary as it has an interesting and vibrant mix of cultures and heritages from all around the world.   

Visit the Britannia Shipyards, ride the Steveston Interurban Tram, explore the Richmond Museum, check out the Richmond Art Gallery, and go on a shopping spree at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet.

Don’t forget to sample all the authentic Asian cuisines or enjoy an afternoon tea at London Heritage Farm.

End your day trip and enjoy the view of sunset at Steveston Heritage Fishing Village (see #19). 

17. Salt Spring Island

Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes by car plus 1 hour and 25 minutes by ferry (85 km)

Why you should visit Salt Spring Island

Lina from Bucket List Places: the Vancouver area has hundreds of islands and coves that can be explored by boat or ferry but Salt Spring Island is one that will stick in your memory for years to come.

The eclectic town of Ganges, a popular stop on any Gulf Islands and  San Juan Islands boating itinerary , features dozens of art galleries, shops, and delicious restaurants which is worth the day trip just to explore the town itself. 

A drive and ferry take approximately 2.5 hours from Vancouver but there are also sea planes that have regular flights that can get you there even quicker.

Of course, if you want the ability to explore beyond the Ganges, bringing your own car is a must to see all the great things Salt Spring Island has to offer. 

Salt Spring Island has so many different activities to offer, anyone can find something that fits their wants.

From beach combing to hiking, and visiting art galleries to fine dining, Salt Spring is one of those places that you could really explore for days.

Where to stay on Salt Spring Island

If you find that one day is just not enough, make sure to spend the night at The Sanctuary Retreat and soak in the views in their bathtub. 

18. Squamish

Driving distance from Vancouver: 60 minutes (65 km)

Why you should visit Squamish

Lori from the Voyage Writers : one of the best day tours from Vancouver is Squamish! Located an hour from Vancouver, Squamish B.C. is often referred to as ‘the outdoor recreation capital of Canada'.

There are outdoor activities for every season and whether on the water or on land, there is something for everyone!

A popular activity is the Sea to Sky Gondola . Open all year round, the 10-minute gondola ride to the summit will take your breath away. Click here to book your tickets.

Through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the gondola, you’ll have sweeping views of the waters of Howe Sound, the coastal forest, and surrounding mountains. Furthermore, there are hiking trails, the Sky Pilot suspension bridge, and viewing platforms.

Or visit Shannon Falls Provincial Park for an easy stroll and to admire the third-highest waterfall in BC (335 meters).

Feeling hungry? There is a cafe at the Summit Lodge. Alternatively, head into town and check out the Squamish Tasting Trail for samples of cider beer, coffee, food, and dessert.

If you are driving, take the Sea to Sky Highway/Highway 99. Alternatively, there are shuttles and tours leaving from Vancouver.

Whatever you choose to do while in Squamish, you will surely appreciate the beautiful nature British Columbia has to offer!

Where to stay in Squamish

If you want to spend more time in Squamish, there are several hotels, motels, cabins, hostels, or campgrounds for overnight stays.

The Mountain Retreat is a good and affordable hotel, campsites can be found on this site or via the free  iOverlander app .

19. Steveston

Why you should visit Steveston

Toni from Enchanted Serendipity : Steveston, a seaside town just south of Vancouver, should be at the top of your list for any day trip out of Vancouver. 

Steveston is easily accessible from Vancouver by car and public transport. From Waterfront Station (which operates a Skyrail), you need to take the Canada Line (light blue) to Richmond – Brighouse Station. Then, catch a bus (#402) to Steveston Village.

There are other buses that get you to this area besides the #402 so I always use Google Maps for up-to-date transport information.

One way, it is a minimum journey of 45 minutes, but it can sometimes take just under an hour. 

So why do people make the effort to get down to Steveston? The entire town of Steveston is just quaint and charming and historic, but it’s not the only reason…

For some, it is the awesome marina views the harbor offers, I don’t think I have ever seen a more pretty seaside setting. Or the fish market which allows customers to purchase fresh fish right off the fishing boats themselves.

But for me and many like me, it is the filming locations that can be found here. Steveston features as the charming town Storybrooke in the ABC drama ‘ Once Upon A Time ‘.

In fact, 90% of exterior shots from the show were filmed here! The shooting locations can be found along Moncton Street if you are a fan of the series you will immediately recognize it the minute you arrive.

Fans of the series Supernatural will also recognize Steveston from key episodes. Other productions from ‘X-Files' to ‘Sliders' have used cute little Steveston as a filming location too.

When you’re walking around the town it's easy to see why. Filming locations aside, Steveston is just a beautiful place.

It holds so much history within it, given it was founded in the 1880s. History buffs will get a lot out of a visit here. No matter what you decide to do there, an afternoon or full day here is a real highlight.

I lived in Vancouver and Steveston was one of my best memories from all of the explorings I did, as well as that of my friends!

20. Victoria

Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes by car plus 90 minutes by ferry plus another 45-60 minutes by bus (116 km).

Why you should visit Victoria

One of the prettiest cities in Canada as well as the capital city of British Columbia is Victoria.

While Victoria it's quite a journey for one day (why not spend a weekend in Victoria ), it is doable, though not recommended with young kids.

From Vancouver, it takes approximately 45 minutes by car to drive to Tsawassen where the ferry departs to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island.

The ferry takes 1 hour and 30 minutes, however, it's an activity in itself as the scenery is stunning. If you are very lucky you may even spot a killer whale!

From Swartz Bay, it's another 45-60 minutes to downtown Victoria by bus (bus 70 or 72). Altogether, expect the journey to take at least 4 hours.

Once you have arrived in Victoria, visit the beautiful British Columbia Parliament Building. You can do a free tour or visit independently.

Across the Parliament Building is the Fairmont Empress Hotel , where you can enjoy the hugely popular  Tea at the Empress .

Walk along the Inner Harbor and soon you will arrive in the historic center of Victoria, with beautiful old buildings, colorful street art (especially in Chinatown), and lots of cute shops and cafes.

Families with kids should visit the petting zoo and playgrounds in Beacon Hill Park, while nature lovers can join a whale-watching tour .

Take a stroll around Fisherman's Wharf or visit Craigdarroch Castle, an impressive mansion built by Robert Dunsmuir, a Scottish-Canadian coal mine developer.

Before you head back to Vancouver, eat some tacos at Tacofino or grab a beer at one of the many breweries .

Where to stay in Victoria

If you decide to spend more than a day in Victoria (which is highly recommended because Victoria is such a fun and friendly city) there are lots of accommodation options, suitable for any budget.

Luxury travelers will want to stay at the aforementioned 5-star Fairmont Empress Hotel . The  Helms Inn  and the Oswego Hotel are excellent options if you're looking to spend a bit less on accommodation. Be sure to check out my Victoria hotel guide for more details.

Camping on Vancouver Island is another good option, there are many beautiful sites, both official campgrounds as well as free sites.

21. Whistler

Driving distance from Vancouver: 1 hour and 40 minutes (120 km)

Why you should visit Whistler

Whistler is also called British Columbia's best outdoor escape and with reason. No matter the season of your visit, there are always lots of things to do in Whistler!

From hiking one of the many trails in summer to riding the snowy slopes from the end of November until late April.

From fun festivals in autumn, such as the Whistler Village Beer Festival and Whistler Writers Festival, to the annual World Ski & Snowboard Festival in April, Whistler is fun all year!

An absolutely spectacular activity is a glacier tour by floatplane . On this 30-minute flight, you can admire green alpine meadows, rugged snow-capped peaks, and the blue waters of Garibaldi Lake from the sky.

Or take the Guinness World Record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola to the top of Blackcomb Mountain.

The views from the longest and highest Gondola in the world are breathtaking and there are more excellent hiking trails at the top. Click here to book your Peak 2 Peak Gondola ticket.

Whistler's center is a pedestrian-only area with colorful houses, restaurants, and shops. Go for a stroll, take your picture at the Olympic Rings (see above) or get an ice cream at Cows .

A great (and very affordable) place to grab some lunch is Purebread , a family bakery with an extensive selection of freshly baked goodies.

Where to stay in Whistler

If you want to spend more time in and around Whistler, the Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel is a great option right in the village center.

Plan your Canada trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals with Kiwi.com . ? Rent a campervan for your Canada road trip (or a car via Rentalcars.com ). ? Arrange your Canada working holiday with Global Work & Travel . ? Plan your journey with the Canada Lonely Planet . ?️ Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com . ? Join the best tours in Canada via Get Your Guide or Viator . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Vancouver day trips: in conclusion

I hope this post has given you lots of inspiration to spend a bit more time in Vancouver and the surrounding area. As you have read, there are many worthwhile Vancouver day tours, suitable for all types of travelers.

If you plan to travel more in Canada , also read these posts:

• 25 most charming small towns in Canada
• 40 things to do on Vancouver Island
• Canada travel budget
• Buy a car or camper van in Canada as a tourist
• A guide to the cute town of Nelson BC

15 Best Day trips from Vancouver BC

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

Vancouver, British Columbia is one of the most beautiful and fun cities to visit in the world. In addition to the delights of the city just outside the city and endless adventures to experience and explore. As a near neighbor to the south in Seattle, I’ve had the opportunity to spend lots of time in Vancouver and all over British Columbia. These are my absolute favorite day trips from Vancouver , almost all of them are great year round options.

This list is organized by day trips from Vancouver that you can easily get to on public transit and ones that are better with a car. There are plenty of options for both!

I’ve only included places that are within two hours of Vancouver, although depending on the ferry schedule it may take a bit longer to get to Victoria from Vancouver. I haven’t included Salt Spring Island here, while it is a wonderful place to go near Vancouver, I think it’s better for a weekend getaway .

• North Vancouver (Public Transit or Drive)
• West Vancouver (Public Transit or Drive)
• Bowen Island (Public Transit or Drive)
• Victoria on Vancouver Island (Public Transit or Drive)
• Whistler (Public Transit or Drive)
• Richmond (Public Transit or Drive)
• Steveston (Drive)
• Boundary Bay (Drive)
• Squamish (Drive)
• Fort Langley National Historic Site (Drive)
• Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park (Drive)
• Golden Ears Provincial Park (Drive)
• Harrison Hot Springs (Drive)
• Bellingham, WA (Drive)

Best Day trips from Vancouver in Winter

Best day trips from vancouver on public transport, north vancouver.

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : North Vancouver has wonderful shops and restaurants for an urban experience as well as more nature and outdoors attractions such as Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park . Mt Seymour Provincial Park and Lynn Canyon are excellent options for hiking in summer, though you need a car for those. You can get to North Vancouver, Grouse Mountain and Capilano Bridge Park on public transit.

Travel time from Vancouver : The Seabus from Canada Place to Lonsdale Quay takes less than 15 minutes, add about 45 minutes for the bus ride to Grouse Mountain and about 30 minutes to bus to Capilano Bridge Park. If you’re driving, plan on a 30-60 minute drive depending on traffic.

Highlights:

• Food in North Vancouver – from Gastropubs to breweries to many other options, this is a great place to eat!
• Riding the Seabus is an excellent very short tour of the Vancouver Harbour
• Grouse Mountain – if it’s a clear day, don’t miss this amazing view of the entire area from above
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a highlight of any trip to Vancouver.
• To get the fun bridge feel and the epic forests, rivers and waterfalls without the crowds, try one of the many other trails in Lynn Canyon .

Best time of year : All year is good for this trip. A clear day is good for Grouse Mountain any time of year. If it’s raining enjoy the forests and suspension bridges in Capilano or Lynn Canyon instead.

West Vancouver

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : Very close to downtown Vancouver, Dundarave has cute shops and places to eat (as seen on the Netflix series Virgin River ) and beautiful trails, including Point Atkinson Lighthouse.

Travel time from Vancouver : 40-45 minutes on bus or driving.

• Point Atkinson Lighthouse – short trail to a beautiful lighthouse and view of the Salish Sea.
• Ambleside Park – beautiful walk along the water looking back towards downtown Vancouver
• Check out a few shops in Dundarave , grab a meal with a view and explore Dundarave Beach.
• Cypress Mountain Provincial Park – great place for a hike or for skiing in winter with amazing views

Best time of year : Excellent year round

Bowen Island

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : A peaceful getaway a world away from the bustle of Vancouver and yet so close to it, let Bowen Island transport you to relaxation, from the ferry ride to the shops and restaurants to the hiking trails.

Travel time from Vancouver : About two hours, depends slightly on ferry times. You can explore the island by bus, or you can bring a car on the ferry (if you bring a car you need a reservation).

• The ferry ride – getting there is seriously one of the best parts
• Exploring tiny Snug Cove near the ferry landing – Doc Morgan’s Pub has a super cozy vibe
• Hike to Mt Gardner for amazing views
• Take a mellow walk to Killarney Lake
• Have a picnic at Sandy Beach Park near the ferry landing

Best time of year : Excellent year round, summer is ideal for outdoor activities, though winter is much less crowded.

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver :  Victoria is a wonderful town and an excellent getaway from Vancouver. A smaller city with excellent food, beautiful parks and home to the British Columbia parliament, Victoria is unforgettable. This definitely makes a better weekend getaway, but if all you have is a day it’s still worth it! Read more here about all your day trip options for Victoria .

Travel time from Vancouver : 3-4 hours depending on traffic, ferry timing, etc.

• The ferry ride to Vancouver Island
• Exploring the Inner Harbour on foot
• Butchart Gardens – one of the most beautiful gardens in North America
• Afternoon Tea – a Victoria tradition!
• Shopping on Government Street
• Royal BC Museum
• Beacon Hill Park or walking along Dallas Road by the Strait of Juan de Fuca

Best time of year : Excellent all year. Summer is very crowded in Victoria, spring has a nice combination of less crowds and beautiful spring flowers.

Electric Vehicle Charging : Plenty of EV charging in Victoria as well as in Sidney near the ferry terminal.

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : Whistler’s epic mountain views, wonderful hiking and lake beaches in summer and skiing in winter make it a year round playground and ideal getaway from Vancouver any time of year.

Travel time from Vancouver : An hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions in winter.

• The drive on the Sea to Sky Highway along Howe Sound
• The unique Whistler Train Wreck – a short hike you can get to year round
• Peak 2 Peak Whistler Gondola – amazing views year round (even if you’re not skiing!)
• Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre – beautiful art and exhibits about Squamish and Lil’wat Culture as well as a delicious cafe and wonderful gift shop
• Hikes like the Half Note trail in summer
• Beautiful alpine lakes like Alta Lake for summer beach days
• Skiing in winter
• The food and drink scene in Whistler Village

Best time of year : Excellent all year. Ski season is the busiest and most expensive (late November through late March or early April). The snow free summer season is July through September. Much less crowds (but also more limited hours for businesses) in the spring and fall.

Electric Vehicle Charging : There is fast charging available in Squamish and Whistler.

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver :  Richmond is a suburb of Vancouver and deserves it’s own outing! The food here from all over Asia is incredible, along with the Fraser River. You can combine this with a visit to Steveston right next door, though it’s a bit easier to get to Steveston with a car (see below).

Travel time from Vancouver : About 30 minutes on the SkyTrain Canada Line.

• Walk along the Fraser River from the Olympic Riverside Plaza
• Eating is the primary highlight here! You’ll find food from all over Asia from the food court at the Aberdeen Mall to the many fine dining and hole in the wall restaurants all over town.

Best time of year : Eating is an excellent year round activity! The Richmond Night Market is an especially epic eating experience on weekend nights from spring through fall.

Best Day trips from Vancouver with a car

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : Located right next to Richmond, a visit to the waterfront in Steveston pairs great with eating in Richmond before or after.

Travel time from Vancouver : 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.

• Brittania Shipyards Historic Site – explore the historic shipyard buildings and learn about boat building and fishing in the 19th century in British Columbia.
• Gulf of Georgia Cannery Historic site – learn about the history of commercial fishing in British Columbia
• Enjoy a walk along the mouth of the Fraser River

Best time of year : Excellent all year.

Boundary Bay

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : This is the ideal place for those who like mellow walks with water views and especially for birdwatchers. The bird watching along the trail at Boundary Bay is excellent.

Travel time from Vancouver : 30 minutes to an hour depending on traffic

Highlights: The highlight here is to walk along the dyke path and check out the scenery while looking for birds. You can park at many places along the trail, I like to park at the Delta Heritage Airpark or just beyond it where the road ends.

Best time of year : The bird watching is excellent here all year.

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : Squamish is a fun town with a great brewery, lots of amazing hiking trails, views and a gorgeous waterfall a beautiful drive from Vancouver. This is an ideal day trip for outdoor adventurers.

Travel time from Vancouver : About an hour

• The drive on the Sea to Sky highway along Howe Sound
• Try one of Squamish’s several excellent breweries
• Feel the mist of Shannon Falls
• Ride the Sea to Sky gondola for incredible views of the mountains and Howe Sound with plenty of hiking opportunities
• Walk along the Squamish River and look for Eagles

Best time of year : This is a great year round destination and ideal on a sunny day when you can see the incredible views.

Electric Vehicle Charging : There are several fast chargers in Squamish.

Fort Langley National Historic Site

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : A must do for history buffs, Fort Langley brings visitors to the life of a 19th century Hudson’s Bay Company fort. This fort was one of a network of many around the Pacific Northwest during colonial times.

Travel time from Vancouver : 45 minutes -1 hour

• Explore the historic buildings of an early 18th century trading fort
• See the Métis canoe exhibit
• Check out the view from the fort’s towers
• Learn about crafts and trade in Canadian history

Best time of year : Excellent all year

Electric Vehicle Charging : Plenty of chargers in Langley and Surrey nearby.

Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : A great stop on the way to Harrison Lake near Harrison Hot Springs,

Travel time from Vancouver : 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours

Highlights: The highlight here is gorgeous Bridal Veil Falls, which crashes down 60 metres (200 feet) on a sheer rock face. Get to the viewing platform on a loop trail that is just under 1km (half a mile) from the parking area. There are also picnic tables near the parking area.

Best time of year : The park is closed in winter and opens sometime in April, closing in late October or early November. This is an ideal place to go in spring (April through June) when the water in the waterfall is especially impressive.

Electric Vehicle Charging : Plenty of fast charging in Abbotsford and Chilliwack.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : An excellent location for hiking, picnics and swimming near the city.

Travel time from Vancouver : 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on exactly where you go and traffic

• Go for a hike – there are plenty of amazing hikes in Golden Ears Provincial Park
• Go swimming at Alouette Lake
• Rent a canoe or kayak at South Beach on Alouette Lake for even more summer fun

Best time of year : Summer – especially July and August for hiking and lake fun

Electric Vehicle Charging : Plenty of fast chargers in Langley and Surrey.

Harrison Hot Springs

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : This is a wonderful summer lake getaway from Vancouver. An important note is that you can only access the hot spring pools if you’re staying at Harrison Hot Springs Resort. If you want to experience them, you’ll need to stay the night here.

Travel time from Vancouver : 2 hours

• All kinds of summer lake fun – swimming, kayaking, etc
• Hiking is excellent near Harrison Hot Springs
• Take a boat tour of the lake

Best time of year : Summer – especially July and August

Electric Vehicle Charging : Multiple fast chargers in Abbotsford and Chilliwack

Bellingham, WA

Why it’s a great day trip from Vancouver : If you’re ready to head to a fun, outdoorsy town beside the bay in the US with great food, shopping, hikes, walks and breweries, Bellingham is for you!

Travel time from Vancouver : 1-2 hours depending on traffic and the border wait.

• Drive Chuckanut Drive – this drive south of Bellingham to Mt Vernon has stunning island and water views on sunny days. Excellent sunset location
• Food and drink – Bellingham has amazing restaurants of every kind and a vibrant craft beer scene
• Walk the walkway between Fairhaven and downtown over Bellingham Bay
• Explore historic Fairhaven – shops and food when you need to rest your feet. Don’t miss the epic Village Books. A must do for bookstore fans!
• Whatcom Falls Park – a beautiful waterfall in a forested city park with many miles of trails and a dog park
• Sehome Arborteum – forested trails on the campus of Western Washington University
• There are lots of wonderful hikes near Bellingham, including Oyster Dome off Chuckanut Drive and lots of hikes near Mt Baker.

Electric Vehicle Charging : There is fast charging for EVs in Surrey near the US border and several options in Bellingham.

All of the day trips from Vancouver on this list are excellent year round destinations, with the exception of Golden Ears Provincial Park and Harrison Hot Springs. In my opinion these are better places to go during the summer (or late spring or early fall).

Whistler is of course an epic winter destination for skiing, but if you’re not a skier don’t let that stop you from going to check out delightful Whistler Village. Grouse Mountain is a great place for snowshoeing or checking out the view, not just for downhill skiing either!

Victoria and Bowen Island are both wonderful winter destinations if you like to stay away from crowds. Fort Langley National Historic Site is also a good option for winter.

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by John Lee

10 best day trips from Vancouver

Vancouver is the perfect jumping-off point for day trips to the rest of British Columbia. Here's our top 10.

1. North Vancouver

Hop on the 12-minute SeaBus transit ferry from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay and you’ll step off on in North Van, home to Lonsdale Quay Public Market, boardwalks, restaurants and boutiques.

2. Watery escapes

Harbour Cruises’ one-hour tour meanders languidly alongside the city’s waterfront. But its half-day Indian Arm option is a much deeper excursion.

Look out for the community of Deep Cove on your cruise and consider returning to kayak or SUP there.

3. Bowen Island

Catch the 20-minute ferry from West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay to Bowen Island to explore wooden boardwalks, bright-painted storefronts and forest-lined trails.

4. Squamish

The dramatic cliffside road to Squamish is one of BC’s most spectacular driving routes, but it’s also home to several great attractions.

Enjoy the Sea to Sky Gondola, the family friendly Britannia Mine Museum and the West Coast Railway Heritage Park. Also save time for Shannon Falls, one of BC’s highest waterfalls.

5. Whistler

A winter playground loved by local and visiting ski and snowboard fans, the icicle-draped alpine village is beautiful year round.

There are hikes and bike routes for all abilities and activities from ziplining to river rafting.

Don’t miss a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola and then inch across the lofty Cloudraker Skybridge.

6. Port Moody

The heart of historic Port Moody is home to several intriguing breweries, each with their own inviting tasting rooms and friendly bars. 45 minutes on the SkyTrain

7. Steveston

An hour by transit from Vancouver, this charming fishing village fringes the giant Fraser River.

Shipbuilding and fish processing made this a busy community in the 1800s, and two historic sites evoke the story perfectly; the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and the Britannia Heritage Shipyard.

8. Richmond

Home to North America’s most authentic Asian dining scene, start with lunch at the food court at Parker Place, then explore nearby Aberdeen Centre.

Richmond Night Market is lined with more than 100 food stands; get ready for stinky tofu, dragon’s beard candy, nori-topped Japanese fries and much more.

9. New Westminster

It’s a 25-minute SkyTrain ride to the “Royal City”, full of cultural venues, museums and galleries. Westminster Pier Park has great shoreline views and public art.

10. Iona Beach birding

Iona Beach Regional Park stretches along the Fraser River shoreline and is home home to a huge diversity of local and visiting birds.

Read more about our top 10 day trips from Vancouver.

Hit the button below to learn more.

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3 Best Day Trips From Vancouver

By Liz Humphreys

Vancouver tops many a list of the world's most livable cities —but it might owe its popularity, at least in part, to what's around it. There are plenty of worthy destinations that are just within striking distance of the city, either by car or, because it’s surrounded by water to the west, by ferry or seaplane. These three day trips will take you to explore one of North America’s top mountain resort towns, Whistler; to the lovely, laid-back provincial capital of Victoria ; and to the home of many artists and producers of organic goods, fun and funky Salt Spring Island . Each has its own charms—and may have you pondering a move to the West Coast city so you can experience them again and again.

Click the link to read our complete Vancouver guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

WHISTLER, B.C.

Just a two-hour drive north of Vancouver, the stunning mountain scenery of Whistler won’t disappoint. Of course, you can’t come without trying your hand at outdoor activities, from hiking in the warmer months to skiing or snowboarding (or snowshoeing or tobogganing) in the colder ones. But there are also fantastic places to eat, drink, and stay, and even a fascinating museum of Northwest Canadian art where you can slip in some culture. Still, the vistas are the thing, and no one should miss the amazing Peak 2 Peak gondola ride—though if you don't have a head for heights, you may think twice about crossing the new 360-degree-view suspension bridge. (We think the thrill is well worth it.)

Peak 2 Peak Gondola Arrow

Riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, the cable car linking Whistler and Blackcomb mountains (the highest lift in the world, at an elevation of 1,430 feet), is a can’t-miss experience with phenomenal views. In the warmer months, there are plenty of stops for hiking. New for 2018, the Peak 2 Peak includes the Cloudraker Skybridge, a 427-foot suspension bridge with heart-pounding 360-degree views. When you reach Whistler Peak, you can stop on the Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk viewing platform for even more amazing (and terrifying) vistas.

Il Caminetto Arrow

After coming under new ownership, Il Caminetto, a classic Italian restaurant, underwent a renovation and reopened in December 2017. Not only is the look airier and more contemporary than it was before, but the new celebrity chef James Walt, formerly of Whistler’s Araxi, the renowned Sooke Harbour House, and Vancouver’s Blue Water Café, has shifted the focus to a lighter-style cuisine. Standouts include warm olives served with almonds, citrus, chilies, and herbs, and wild mushroom risotto with parm and truffle. You can’t go wrong with any of the pastas, which are made in-house every day. Desserts tend toward the unfussy.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler Arrow

When in Whistler, you either stay in the hubbub of the village itself or a bit away, where it’s more peaceful and quieter. The Four Seasons, firmly in the second camp, is slightly removed from the action—and proud of it. This is a classic Whistler hotel: sophisticated yet also rooted in the outdoors, with lots of wood and stone, and cozy chairs where you can laze in front of the fireplace. This is Whistler’s top luxury property, and it's worth the splurge whether it’s your first stay or your fortieth.

Mark Ellwood

Tom Vanderbilt

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Audain Art Museum Arrow

Whistler’s not just about the outdoors. The Audain, which opened in March 2016, has one of the best collections of Northwest Canadian art in the country, all housed in a stunning, dark, metal-and-wood building. The permanent collection offers a fascinating look at British Columbian art from the 18th century through the present day. You’ll find a stunning collection of Northwest Coast First Nations masks, and one of the country’s largest collections of work from renowned Canadian painter Emily Carr. There’s also a fine selection of post-war and contemporary art, including photographs from Vancouver-based artist Jeff Wall.

Araxi Restaurant + Oyster Bar Arrow

Yes, Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar is hard to get into, the tables are too close together, and the service can be hit-or-miss. But this long-time farm-to-table favorite (with a brand-new executive chef, Quang Dang, since October 2017) sources ingredients from local farmers, fisheries, and ranchers—including, naturally, a wonderful selection of West Coast oysters—and features one of the best wine selections in British Columbia. Come for splurge-worthy seafood and drinks in a lively locale.

VICTORIA, B.C.

British Columbia’s capital city sits pretty on the southern end of Vancouver Island—and getting there from Vancouver is half the fun. Though you could hop on a seaplane to save time, the 90-minute ferry ride from Tsawwassen (about a 45-minute drive from downtown Vancouver) to Vancouver Island’s Swartz Bay is one of the world’s most scenic ferry rides. After that, it’s another 45-minute drive or bus ride into Victoria itself. All the travel is worth it when you sample Victoria’s wonderful wealth of organic, local cuisine; take tea at one of Canada’s most iconic hotels; and explore all the outdoorsy activities this lovely harborside city has to offer, from a leisurely scenic stroll to a more adventurous whale-watching excursion.

Fairmont Empress Arrow

Victoria’s tastefully renovated grand dame offers a truly majestic feel with glamorous yet understated rooms, top-notch service, unbeatable harbor views, and the most iconic afternoon tea in all of Canada. As befitting the city’s showpiece, the Empress occupies what’s arguably the best spot in Victoria, overlooking the Inner Harbor and kitty-corner to the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. This so-named Castle on the Coast attracts well-heeled tourists drawn to its history and position. The Eastern Canadian couple over there have had the Fairmont Empress on their bucket list for years. The European gentleman in the well-tailored suit is staying for a few nights for a conference. And the 40-something daughter has brought along her mother for a weekend of spa time, tea time, and bonding.

Red Fish Blue Fish Arrow

Red Fish Blue Fish, a casual harborside institution built out of shipping containers, serves up superlative fish and chips, chowder, and fish tacos using only sustainable seafood. It’s always busy, always noisy, and always worth the (always lengthy) wait. Though there are three kinds of fish and chips (plus tempura-battered oysters and chips), go for the classic halibut—you won’t regret it. The wild salmon tacone, stuffed inside a flour tortilla with coleslaw, pea shoots, and lemon-pickled onions, is also fabulous. And the chowder, chock full of Pacific white fish, comes with a chipotle-coconut kick.

Agrius Arrow

Agrius' menu of seasonal small plates, all made with local, organic ingredients, attracts a young and buzzy crowd that also comes for the unique cocktails and natural wines, the latter sourced from both British Columbia and Europe. Since the restaurant is attached to a bakery (Fol Epi), the entire place smells like freshly baked bread—and eating said bread is also a delight. Meat-eaters should start with the daily selection of house-made charcuterie. The wild lingcod with mussels, and the duck breast with cilantro and ginger also garner rave reviews, though vegetarians will also find a few tempting options to keep them satisfied—we're partial to the chickpea tempeh dish, served with mushroom and potato.

Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours - Whale Watching Arrow

Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours last several hours—a worthy commitment in the quest to spot all types of whales (orca, humpback, grey, and minke), with near-guaranteed whale sightings in season and plenty of other wildlife to behold in winter. Boats hold between 12 people (on the smallest vessels) and 50 people (on the largest catamaran), and reservations are required, either by phone or online. Guides are extremely knowledgeable—some staff members are marine biologists and/or naturalists—and they love offering up stories about the abundant marine life.

Beacon Hill Park Arrow

Beacon Hill Park is a lovely park that leads down to a beach. Pretty gardens and well-maintained footpaths are perfect for a stroll (or a horse-and-buggy ride) to see the roaming peacocks. How long you’ll want to spend here depends upon the season: Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and roses, while summer is the perfect time to enjoy the water parks, especially if you have kids in tow, and concerts on the bandshell. Any time of year, wander the footpaths to enjoy the lovely and peaceful vistas.

SALT SPRING ISLAND, B.C.

To reach Salt Spring, take a ferry from Tsawwassen (about a 90-minute ride, though sometimes longer if the ferry makes other island stops along the way), or hop on a 35-minute seaplane from Vancouver Harbour. The largest of the Southern Gulf Islands, Salt Spring is best known for its artsy inhabitants, gorgeous nature, and earthy charm. To see the best of it all, come on a Saturday between April and October for the famous Salt Spring Saturday Market , followed by an invigorating hike and a stop to taste some of its renowned foodstuffs, from mussels to cheese and wine.

Mount Maxwell Provincial Park Arrow

At Mount Maxwell Provincial Park, you can drive—or, if you’re uber-fit, walk—up a rustic, potholed road and twisty hills for stupendous views of Vancouver Island and the start of some wonderful hiking trails. If you’re driving up and down the mountain, allow about 20 minutes each way. Then, depending on how much hiking you want to do at the top, budget another one to three hours. Don't miss the viewpoint at the top of Mount Maxwell—Baynes Peak, Salt Spring's highest point—for amazing vistas, not only of Vancouver Island, but also south to the San Juan Islands.

Harbour House Hotel Arrow

Located less than a ten-minute walk from Main Street, the wood-shingled Harbour House feels like a cozy coastal home, inside and out. The hotel is decorated in a tastefully modern, unpretentious residential style—think, a modern take on coastal chic—and guests will feel perfectly at home borrowing a board game from the front desk or playing in front of the fire in the lounge. While the atmosphere is decidedly relaxed, it’s still an upscale hotel, and the real treat is the service. Don’t miss the free wine-and-cheese hour each evening.

Twig & Buoy Arrow

Located across from the pier in Fernwood, about a five-minute drive north of Salt Spring’s main town of Ganges, Twig & Buoy has pared-down, rustic décor that belies its seriously good food. Many diners are here for the thin-crust wood-fired pizza—a classic Margherita, maybe, or one topped with local ingredients like lamb and figs. But the grilled Caesar salad, served warm, is a more-than-worthy way to start, and the signature crème brûlée, finished tableside, a fabulous way to end. Oh, and never say no to a side—or a main, for that matter—of tender Salt Spring mussels.

Salt Spring Island Saturday Market Arrow

One of the most popular outdoor markets in Canada, held in Ganges every Saturday from April through October, Salt Spring Saturday Market features all things homespun. All vendors must “make it, bake it, or grow it” themselves, so you won't find any mass-produced tchotchkes here. Instead, you’ll find goods from more than 140 artisans, including pottery, jewelry, woodwork, fine art, and skincare products. The market started out as a showcase for organic produce, and you’ll still see fruits and veggies, as well as local cheese, chocolate, kombucha—but of course—and prepared foods like tarts, falafel, and potstickers.

Salt Spring Island Cheese Company Arrow

Come to Salt Spring Island Cheese Company, an artisanal producer of goat (and a bit of sheep's) cheese, to see the product being made, meet some adorable goats, and—most importantly—sample the addictive fresh chèvre, which comes with a variety of toppings: basil, chili, flowers (which impart good looks but no flavor), lemon, pepper, olives, truffle, and garlic. And don't miss the delightful goat's milk ice cream, especially when the weather calls for a refreshing treat.

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Princess Anne takes part in ceremony for new Pacific fleet ship

The princess and her husband are in b.c. for 3-day trip.

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The first Arctic patrol vessel for Canada's Pacific fleet has officially been commissioned in a ceremony featuring Princess Anne, the sister of King Charles. 

She attended the event Friday in North Vancouver in her role as commodore-in-chief for the Canadian Fleet Pacific. The ceremony was limited to one media photographer and one video camera.

The Department of National Defence said in a statement Friday that the official introduction of HMCS Max Bernays into the fleet included a "symbolic presentation of the keys to the ship" to the commanding officer, Commander Collin Forsberg, "along with the breaking of the ship's commissioning pennant, and three cheers by the ship's company."

Forsberg told reporters ahead of the ceremony that the patrol vessel arrived in its new home port in Esquimalt, B.C., last month. He said the ship was "designed for, principally, exercising Canadian sovereignty in northern waters."

He said the introduction of the ship, which was named after a Canadian naval hero in the Second World War, will allow the navy to better meet future defence challenges in the North.

"Just being here and doing our commissioning is amazing. It's been 2.5 years of very hard work for the crew of HMCS Max Bernays," he said.

Forsberg said the vessel has not yet conducted missions for government, but the new ship will likely start by doing three to-four-month missions. The ship, he said, was designed to travel through waters with ice that is about a metre thick. 

"Having done the ice trials in the two predecessor ships to this, I know it can successfully do that and that's what makes us unique having the haul strength to go through Arctic ice."

HMCS Max Bernays was built by Irving Shipbuilding Inc. and launched in Atlantic waters on Oct. 23, 2021.

• Princess Anne to visit British Columbia, sail to Esquimalt

Forsberg said the ship is fully staffed with 65 people, having spent the last nine months transitioning control of the ship to its West Coast staff.

"It's a very happy day for us but sort of a sad day as well because this is where, today, we say goodbye to our East Coast sailors," he said. 

Visit 'a huge honour': Commander

Forsberg said it was "extremely special" to welcome Princess Anne to the ship for the ceremony. 

"It's a huge honour to be welcomed into the fleet by Her Royal Highness," he said. "It really hits home for the history of our ship."

• Photos From Haida dancers to a Canucks puck drop: Photos and video of Queen Elizabeth II in B.C.

It is the first ship in the Harry DeWolf-class attached to the Pacific Fleet, although HMCS Robert Hampton Gray is expected to become the second such vessel to make the transfer between coasts, the Defence Department said in a statement issued last month.

During a media tour of the ship Friday, the ship's staff was seen preparing for Princess Anne's arrival. Among them was Lt. Cmdr. Clayton Erickson, who jumped in to help Lt. Alex Tremblay tie his tie ahead of the ceremony. 

• In 1959, Queen Elizabeth took in a night of Vancouver theatre — a night a teenage ballerina would never forget

The tour also included a look into dining and living quarters, control rooms, sick bay, as well as the wardroom, or mess cabin, where the princess was scheduled to have dinner alongside the commander and others during her sail to Vancouver Island. 

Visit to B.C.

The office of B.C.'s lieutenant-governor said last week that the princess and her husband, Vice-Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, would attend the commissioning, which would then be followed by an overnight sail to Esquimalt.

It is among a series of events for the princess during her three-day trip to B.C., that started with the commissioning ceremony in North Vancouver.

• Camilla won't be wearing the Koh-i-Noor diamond. This Vancouver artist wants the royals to give it back

The princess's itinerary includes a visit to the archives and collections space of the Maritime Museum of B.C. in Victoria, which was founded with an initial donation by the princess's late father, Prince Philip.

She is scheduled to attend a commemorative service marking the Battle of the Atlantic at the British Columbia legislature and lay a wreath, as well as visit the Military Family Resource Centre.

Princess Anne is also slated to meet with Janet Austin, B.C.'s lieutenant-governor, and various community leaders from the province.

• The Queen's face is retiring from our coins. The B.C. artist behind the portrait isn't going anywhere
• New Westminster to phase out Royal City moniker as it looks to rebrand

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10 Things to Do on Victoria Day Long Weekend 2024

by Taryn Eyton in Events , Town on May 1, 2024

Cliffwalk at Capilano Suspension Bridge. Photo: Destination Vancouver/Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

For many Vancouverites, Victoria Day Weekend is the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time to get excited about the warmer weather and get outside to visit gardens, hiking trails, seasonal events, and more. In 2024, the Victoria Day long weekend is from May 18 to 20. Here are 10 ideas to help you plan your weekend adventures.

Visit Stanley Park

Couple cycling in Stanley Park. Photo: Destination Vancouver/Rishad Daroowala

Stanley Park is the green heart at Vancouver’s core. Spring is the start of seawall season, when locals and visitors alike take to bikes, rollerblades, and sneakers for a trip around the Stanley Park Seawall . Build some extra time into your day to explore the rest of the park. You can delve into the forested interior, learn about Indigenous culture and connect with nature. Our Stanley Park visitor guide has all the details.

Vancouver Comic Arts Festival – May 18 and 19

Photo: Vancouver Comic Arts Festival/Facebook

Head to the Roundhouse Community Centre on May 18 and 19 to enjoy the Vancouver Comic Arts Festival . This free two-day event celebrates comics and graphic novels. Visit the vendor fair and exhibition to see creators and artists from around the world. You can also attend readings, panels, and workshops.

Go on a Bike Ride

Biking on the seawall at English Bay. Photo: Tourism Vancouver / Cycle City Tours

With separated bike paths and designated bike lanes crisscrossing the city, Vancouver is a bike-friendly city. You can rent a bike from local shops, or book a guided bike tour . If you’re making a short trip, try the Mobi bike share program which has bikes at hundreds of docking stations around the city. Use our guide to Vancouver’s car-free bike paths to find ten scenic bike ride suggestions.

Shop at an Outdoor Market

West End Farmers’ Market. Photo: Destination Vancouver/Vision Event Photography Inc.

It’s outdoor market season in Vancouver. On Victoria Day long weekend you have lots of markets to choose from. Kick off the weekend at the Shipyards Night Market in North Vancouver on Friday night.

On Saturday, shop for fresh veggies at the Trout Lake or Riley Park Farmers’ Markets. Or head to the West End Farmers’ Market to celebrate their first market of 2024. On Sunday you can visit the Kitsilano Farmer’s Market or the Mount Pleasant Farmer’s Market , which opens for the season on May 19.

If you’re looking for something unique, visit the Eastside Flea , open on both Saturday and Sunday. They have an eclectic mix of local vendors selling handmade, vintage, and artisanal goods. Or take the Skytrain south to the Richmond Night Market on Friday, Saturday and Sunday to wander through stalls selling fashion, electronics, and delicious Asian street food.

Take a Hike

View from the top of The Stawamus Chief. Photo: Destination BC/Ben Girardi

While there is still snow in the mountains, spring hiking is in full swing closer to sea level. It’s a great time to follow trails to waterfalls, through the forest, or to lakes. Our list of the best spring hikes in Vancouver has lots of ideas to get you started. Read our tips for safe spring hiking before you go.

Fort Langley May Day Parade and Celebration – May 20

Photo: Fort Langley May Day

The historic Fort Langley neighbourhood holds Vancouver’s largest Victoria Day celebration each year. The May Day event takes place on May 20th this year. This is the festival’s 102nd year and it includes a pancake breakfast at the Lions Hall in the morning, a parade starting at 11 am, and a community celebration at Fort Langley Community Park in the afternoon.

While you are in Fort Langley, take some time to browse the boutiques on Glover Road or visit Fort Langley National Historic Site . Take a stroll through the surrounding streets and see if you recognize any of the buildings. This area is a popular filming location and has been the backdrop to numerous TV shows and films, including over 20 Hallmark movies!

Go Whale Watching

Humpback whale. Photo: Sierra Hamilton/Eagle Wing Tours

May is a great time to go whale watching in Vancouver. You can spot humpback whales on their annual migration along with orcas, porpoises, seals, sea lions, eagles and lots more. Boats leave from both downtown Vancouver and Richmond. Our guide to whale watching in Vancouver has all the info you need to help you pick a tour.

Enjoy Spring Flowers

Laburnum Walk. Photo: Destination Vancouver/VanDusen Botancial Garden

Victoria Day weekend coincides with peak spring bloom in Vancouver, so it’s the perfect time to visit a garden. VanDusen Botanical Garden explodes with colour at this time of year. Walk the paths through the rhododendrons and rose garden. Don’t miss the spectacular laburnum walk. As a bonus for vintage car buffs, the Vancouver All British Field Meet Classic Car Show takes place at the garden on May 18.

Other gorgeous gardens in Vancouver include the Quarry Gardens at Queen Elizabeth Park, UBC Botanical Garden , Nitobe Memorial Garden , and the Rose Garden at Stanley Park. You can see several gardens in one day on our self-guided garden bike tour .

Take a Car-Free Day Trip

Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge at the Sea to Sky Gondola. Photo: Destination BC/@entre2escales

Get out of town for the day this long weekend. It’s easy to explore the forests, mountains, beaches, and islands outside Vancouver without a car thanks to public transit, shuttle buses, and ferries. Our guide to car-free day trips has six scenic options.

Bicycle Film Festival – May 18

Photo: Bicycle Film Festival

Vancouver is a bike-friendly city, so come celebrate life on two wheels at the Bicycle Film Festival . Presented by HUB Cycling, the Bicycle Film Festival includes two back-to-back programs of short films at the Rio Theatre on May 18. The early show highlights bike adventures while the late show focuses on urban cycling.

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I took a 30-minute BC Ferries ride to spend the day exploring this stunning tiny island

Here's your Salt Spring Island itinerary! 🏝️

A person walking in a lavender feild. Right: Two people on a boat.

This Opinion article is part of a Narcity content series. The views expressed are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.

Booking little getaways on BC Ferries is one of my favourite things about summer in the province. You get to sail across the ocean to one of the tiny islands off the coast, retreating into nature and exploring a new community.

Salt Spring Island topped my list for the best trips yet and it also happened to be one of the quickest. Leaving from Victoria, on Vancouver Island, the BC Ferries ride only took 30 minutes and it dropped me at the biggest of the Gulf Islands.

I booked the trip with the promise of adorable farmstands, a quaint town, and idyllic wineries. After a day spent exploring though, I saw that these attractions were just the cherry on top of a visit to Salt Spring.

The welcoming people, fresh salty air and quiet scenery all work together to make you feel a peaceful distance from your daily life — which we could all use once in a while.

Getting there

Salt Spring Island is just 30 minutes away from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal near Victoria. You can't book this sailing ahead of time so you should arrive early — which was a lesson me and my friends learned the hard way. On the morning of our little day trip I assured my friends time and time again not to worry. "It's a Tuesday, it won't be busy," I promised them throughout our leisurely morning.

I was eating my own words just an hour later when we pulled up to a long line and only 15 minutes to spare before the ferry departed.

Fingers crossed, we waited to see if we would make it on the 9 a.m. ferry.

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Let's just say I was stuck in a car with two angry friends for the next two hours while we awaited the 11 a.m. departure. Nevertheless, we persisted!

Eventually, we made it onto the ferry and sailed over to Salt Spring Island. The ferry drops you off about 15 minutes from the main community on the island, Ganges, so you'll probably want to have a car if you visit.

Walking around Ganges

First on the to-do list for the day? Get my then-grumpy friends fed.

We headed to the main town and I was surprised to find it chock-full of cute cafes, food trucks and shops.

If you're making the trip, I'd definitely recommend the food truck called Seaside On Wheels which serves up a mean fish taco, and Harlan's Chocolates and Gelato for dessert.

The town also has some adorable boutiques to check out right on the water, so just strolling around is fun.

Getting tipsy at the cidery

The big stress of the day (aside from missing the 9:00 a.m. ferry, which I had erased from my mind by this point), was choosing between the cidery and the wine vineyard.

I don't think you can really go wrong, but the Salt Spring Wild Cider House was what my friends and I landed on.

Unfortunately, we were stuffed full of fish tacos by the time we pulled up there, but they had a tasty-looking food menu that I'm still regretting not ordering from.

@vanessaortynsky the perfect evening at salt spring wild cider 🍎! @Salt Spring Island #saltspring #vancouvervlogger #cidery #autumnfun #autumnactivities

We all got a flight of cider, and it was one of the few times that I've liked every single one of the samplers. The setting was also stunning, with picnic tables outside to sit on and views of rolling hills.

To top it off, there was an adorable dog who rolled over for a belly rub at the first sign of a human.

Strolling through lavender fields

After some drinks, we headed out to a lavender farm on the island, called Lavender & Black . Where the cidery was lively and fun, the farm gave us some much-needed serenity.

The drive there alone is peaceful. The roads are lined with fields and trees on one side and the ocean playing peek-a-boo on the other.

The smell of lavender hits you as soon as you get out of the car, right before the friendly faces of the staff greet you. We arrived right before they closed but the staff was extremely friendly, showing us all of the products they had in their shop.

I ended up buying a delicious-smelling lavender soap and some yummy lavender honey.

We also got to scroll through the field here, which has picturesque rows of lavender next to towering trees.

Neighbouring the lavender is a farm with horses, which just adds to the entire vibe of this place. Also, like most places on the little island, you can see the ocean from here.

If you're anything like us you won't want to leave this spot, but we had an island to see and didn't want to test our luck with the closing time.

Take a dip in crystal-clear water

The ocean here isn't exactly warm at any time of the year, but still, we had our mind set on a dip. My one requirement was no seaweed though, so we drove back to the other side of the island to Beddis Beach.

The somewhat rocky beach has clear blue water that you can dive into (without any seaweed touching your legs) and little white shells all around. As expected, the swim was cold AF. On a hot day though, this is the perfect place to cool off.

Just driving around

Some of my favourite moments of the day were just times spent looking out the window as we drove around the island. It's pretty small so you can see all of the coastline in a day — and you'll want to do just that.

Alongside the road are farmstands, which the island is famous for.

You can stop at any of them and buy what you need -- even if there's no one working there.

Vendors simply trust that you'll leave the amount of cash needed to cover whatever you take, whether it be colourful flowers, coffee, or farm-fresh eggs.

@vanessaortynsky I just found out that Mt Maxwell is officially closing up shop! 💔🥺 #saltspring #explorebclocal #explorebcwithme #vancouvervlogger #saltspringisland

You'll also see farm animals grazing in fields, kayakers along the shoreline, and some of the prettiest flowers that will have you stopping the car for photos.

Of course, big trees aren't uncommon on Canada's West Coast, but Salt Spring Island is the perfect place to see them. The massive trees just alongside the road were unbelievable, and you can hike to see old-growth trees on the island too.

Leaving the island

You'll want to arrive at the ferry terminal early enough to secure your place in line, and you can park your car and grab a bite to eat while you wait for the ferry.

We had some dinner at a restaurant called Rock Salt — which is right next to the ferry terminal — before heading out.

The ferry ride back was the perfect cap on the day. You can walk out onto the deck and watch other boats pass by, along with the little islands and mountains off in the distance.

It's safe to say that the day ended exponentially better than it started, and I have the beauty of Salt Spring to thank for that.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

• BC Ferries Will Not Mandate Vaccines For Travel & Here's Their Response To Those Asking ›
• This 40-Minute BC Ferries Ride From Vancouver Takes You To A Quaint Small Town In BC ›
• 6 Breathtaking Tiny Islands To Visit Around BC In 2023 That Have Bright Blue Water ›

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7 best islands to visit in canada in 2024, according to local experts, 5 things i never got the chance to do while living in bc that are on my bucket list now, i've lived in bc for 8 years & these 7 places in the province are on my bucket list (photos), i moved from ontario to bc 8 years ago & these 7 places wowed me the most (photos), 6 magical winter day trips from vancouver to get you out this season (photos), 8 incredible summer destinations to visit around vancouver, according to a travel writer, i took a 40-minute bc ferries ride & spent the weekend on a dreamy island with hidden wonders, 7 natural wonders on canada's east coast that will have you booking a trip asap, the best bc ferries trips i took while living on the west coast for two years (photos), 8 beautiful islands to visit around ontario in 2024 that feel like a mini slice of paradise, 11 charming small towns near vancouver for a romantic weekend getaway, 8 places in canada that will transport you to the tropics to add to your 2024 bucket list.

Plan your summer: Here are 20 fun B.C. festivals to catch this season

There are a lot of festivals to choose from this summer that cover an extremely wide range of tastes

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Winter ended on March 20. Summer starts on June 20. But summer festival season is already kicking off across B.C.

Plan your summer: Here are 20 fun B.C. festivals to catch this season Back to video

Such major draws as the Shambhala Music Festival in July have been sold out since mid-September of last year.

The days of rolling into town, booking a last-minute camping spot and scoring some tickets are over. Anyone planning on attending one of the province’s many fine arts and cultural events without a working plan had better get on it.

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Fortunately, there are a lot of festivals to choose from covering an extremely wide range of tastes. That’s where this list comes in — by month in order by date, here are 20 festivals to check out this season. Unless otherwise noted, events are in Vancouver.

• May 9-12: Verboden Festival , various venues: What could be more appropriate to bid winter adieu and wait for brighter days than this annual celebration of all things darkwave and brooding? With headline gigs by such luminaries as the Mission U.K., locals Actors and legendary Suicide co-founder Martin Rev.

• May 23-26: The 6th Annual Sound of Dragon Festival , various venues : May is Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month across Canada. For the past six years, the Sound of Dragon Festival has both wound down the month’s festivities and launched summer season early.

• May 24-26: White Rock Jazz & Blues Festival , various venues, White Rock : Three days of jazz stylings with over 15 free performances in the Uptown and Five Corners ‘hoods of White Rock. Highlights include celebrated bluesman Brandon Isaak, who can really wail on acoustic guitar.

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• June 13-16: 5X Fest , Surrey, various venues : It’s the seventh annual go-round for this showcase of some of the biggest names in South Asian music and art with such signature events as the 5X Blockparty. Where you want to be to get to see the rising stars of the Surrey Indian arts and cultural scene and much more.

• June 14-15: ScotFestBC , Town Centre Park, Coquitlam, : Year 92 for the B.C. Highland Games features the world music festival including the mighty award-winning Simon Fraser University Pipe Band, captivating Celtic vocalist Robyn Carrigan, Mariachi Los Dorados and much more.

• June 22-23: Concord Pacific Dragon Boat Festival , Concord Pacific Place and False Creek : The boat races are a rush. But so is the daylong lineup of talent on the TD Main Stage all weekend. Highlights this year include Juno winning pop crew Dear Rouge and Filipinx rapper Kimmortal, among others.

• June 21-30: Vancouver International Jazz Festival , various venues : The biggest event on the annual arts calendar is back with an exciting roster that boasts Grammy-winning acts a rapper Killer Mike to festival regulars Moor Mother and Irreversible Entanglements. Be sure to catch the free Downtown Jazz opening weekend.

• June 28-30: Laketown Shakedown , Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park, Lake Cowichan, Vancouver Island : No less a star than Gwen Stefani headlines the 2024 lineup at this multi-day showcase for all things upbeat and funky. Other headliners include hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes.

• July 4-14: Indian Summer Festival , various venues : Featuring headlining shows from multidisciplinary artist ALOK and more TBA.

• July 5-7, Aug. 9-11: Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. Backyard Music Festival , Victoria, Vancouver Island : The answer to the question of what craft beer goes best with music by Orville Peck, Black Pumas, Earl Sweatshirt, Jungle and others will be found at the two weekends of this star-studded concert series.

• July 6, Khatsahlano Street Party , various 4th Ave. locations : The predominant street party in the province, this multistage affair on 4th Avenue features entertainment all day from a who’s who of the local music scene. From legends to brand newcomers, it’s all free.

• July 12-14: Vancouver Island MusicFest , Comox Valley, Vancouver Island : The 30 anniversary features headliners such as As We Speak, featuring several Grammy award-winners Béla Fleck, Zakir Hussain, Edgar Meyer with Rakesh Chaurasia, mega-producer Daniel Lanois, roots rocker Lucinda Williams and more.

• July 19-21: Vancouver International Folk Music Festival , Jericho Beach : Year 47 features 40-plus national, North American and international acts. Among the names, acclaimed comic folk duo the Milk Carton Kids, the Wood Brothers and South Africa’s amazing BCUC.

• July 26-28: Mission Folk Music Festival , Fraser River Heritage Park, Mission : With its beautiful mountainside location, this signature Fraser Valley gathering has always presented an eclectic and tasty talent roster. The Devin Cuddy Band and Indigenous vocal duo Piqsiq will be there.

• July 27-28: Fort Langley Jazz & Arts Festival , various venues, Fort Langley : From singer-songwriter Norine Braun’s rocking tunes to the swinging Razzmajazz Ensemble and soul belter Hayley Wallis, there are loads free events and family-friendly fun to be had.

• Aug. 1-4: Sunfest Country Music Festival , Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park, Lake Cowichan, Vancouver Island : Yet another big event at the very busy Laketown Ranch HQ. This one features a megastar-loaded weekend with Keith Urban, Lee Brice and the Washboard Union in the prime setting.

• Aug. 2-4: Kaslo Jazz Etc. Summer Music Festival , Kaslo Bay Park, Kaslo : Float on the lake while the performers float on the barge-stage. The selection is always varied with features such as Australia’s the Cat Empire, bass superman Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers and locals.

• Aug. 17-20: Salmon Arm Roots & Blues , Salmon Arm Fairgrounds, Salmon Arm : Last year’s fires led to cancellation. Back again this year, this roots-heavy hoedown is headlined by Sarah McLachlan with party makers Five Alarm Funk and Amanda Marshall.

• Sept. 13-15: Barnside Harvest Festival , Paterson Park, Ladner : Back for another year is this party in the park headlined by classic rockers Loverboy, journeyman crew Sam Roberts Band, The Glorious Sons and a whole lot of great local groups.

• Sept. 13-15: Rifflandia , Matullia Lands at Rock Bay, Victoria : Coming at you with a mix of classic ’90s hip hop à la Ja Rule, dance happy pop from C&C Music Factory and all manner of other genres. This is another sure sellout every year.

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2024 Cruises from Vancouver: Visit Alaska, California & Hawaii

Whether you want to sail to Alaska, cruise the Hawaiian islands, or explore California's wine country, you can plan your ideal cruise vacation from Vancouver, British Columbia. This diverse city in western Canada is a gateway to some of the world's top destinations, which you can experience on a five-day trip along the Pacific Coast, an 18-day adventure to Alaska and Japan, and various other cruises in between.

Discover all the places you can go on a Vancouver cruise in 2024 and start planning your trip with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Vancouver cruises .

2024 Vancouver Cruise Ports of Call

When you book a cruise from Vancouver , you can plan the perfect vacation to match your interests. Do you want to go whale watching while cruising past the beautiful glaciers of Alaska? Do you want to sample new wine varietals all the way down the Pacific Coast? Do you want to immerse yourself in the history and culture of Japan? You can do it all (and then some) when you take a Norwegian cruise from Vancouver.

Depending on the itinerary you choose, your 2024 Vancouver cruise may take you to these ports of call:

• Ketchikan (Ward Cove), Alaska.
• Juneau, Alaska.
• Hubbard Glacier, Alaska.
• Icy Strait Point, Alaska.
• Astoria, Oregon.
• San Francisco, California.
• San Diego, California.
• Ensenada, Mexico.
• Hakodate, Japan.
• Sendai (Ishinomaki), Japan.
• Tokyo, Japan.
• Kahului, Maui.
• Hilo, Hawaii.
• Nāwiliwili, Kaua`i.
• Honolulu, Oahu.

Shore Excursions on Cruises From Vancouver

When you cruise from Vancouver in 2024, you'll have the opportunity to visit new places and choose the experiences you want to have. Here are just a few popular shore excursions on cruises from Vancouver.

Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise

If you're cruising to Alaska in 2024, make sure you include whale watching on your trip itinerary. When you dock at Icy Strait Point, you can take a cruise to watch humpback whales and other mammals in this unique part of the Alaskan panhandle. Other animals you may see on your whale-watching cruise include porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals, and orcas. If you're lucky, you may also see some of Alaska's other natural wildlife, including bears, deer, and bald eagles.

Glacier Hike and Packraft

Does your Vancouver cruise include a stop in Juneau? Book a once-in-a-lifetime experience with the Fly-in Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft excursion . Your adventure will start with a flight over the Alaskan wilderness, providing spectacular views of the glaciers below. When you land, you'll transfer to a packraft (similar to a kayak) that you'll paddle through a glacial lake, giving you an up-close view of the breathtaking natural scenery around you. Finally, you'll hike across Norris Glacier before ending your day — one you're sure to remember for the rest of your life.

RELATED CRUISES: 7-Day Alaska: Vancouver to Seward: Glacier Bay, Skagway & Juneau 7-Day Alaska From Vancouver to Seward: Hubbard Glacier & Skagway 18-Day from Vancouver to Tokyo: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau

For those who prefer a relaxing journey through California's wine country, a wine tour in Santa Barbara should not be missed. The Santa Ynez Valley wine tour will delight your palate with tastings at two well-known wineries. You'll take a scenic drive through the valley as you travel to each winery, where you'll have the opportunity to sample some award-winning vintages. It's a great choice for anyone who loves wine or simply enjoys the finer things in life.

Hakodate History and Culture

The longest Norwegian cruise from Vancouver in 2024 — an 18-day trip to Alaska and Japan — includes a stop in Hakodate. If you want to learn more about the history and customs of this Japanese city, book the Hakodate cultural tour . You'll visit the city's top landmarks, including the Motomachi district located at the base of the mountains. From there, you'll drive to Goryokaku, an urban park with gorgeous views of the city. You'll end your tour by visiting a historic magistrate's office, which was carefully reconstructed to represent the original.

Things To Do & See in Vancouver

By booking a cruise from Vancouver, you can spend time exploring the city. Start your trip early with a few days in Vancouver before the ship departs, or extend your vacation in this Canadian city once you're back on land. There are many things to do in Vancouver. Stroll through stunning Stanley Park for some ocean views, or visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden to learn more about the region's natural flora. If you want to explore Vancouver's history and its significance in the Pacific Northwest, make a stop at the Museum of Anthropology.

Not sure where to start your tour of Vancouver? Norwegian offers a comprehensive city tour that marks the perfect way to end your cruise vacation. After getting off the ship, your tour will take you to the city's top neighborhoods, including the Gastown District and Vancouver's Chinatown, the second largest in North America. Your tour will end with some free time in Stanley Park, where you can take in some final spectacular sights before heading home. This tour includes transportation to Vancouver International Airport, so you don't have to worry about missing your flight.

With beautiful natural scenery, fun shore excursions, and historical and cultural insights, a cruise from Vancouver, British Columbia, has something to offer everyone. Cruising from Vancouver truly allows you to see the world. Take a look at all the itineraries we offer from Vancouver in 2024, and find the one that best aligns with your travel bucket list. Before you book, make sure you're signed up to receive our cruise deals to stay updated on our top cruises from Vancouver.

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