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I have a few questions regarding a road trip from Vancouver to LA (3 weeks long) hoping anyone who has done this trip or has knowledge of it can answer.

I am going to fly into Vancouver from London either this September or April 2021 (If the Covid situation prolongs).

My plan is:

Vancouver 3 Nights

Train to Seattle

Seattle 3 Nights

Portland, San Fran, Santa Barbara etc 8 nights

LA 7 nights

Back to London out of LA

-Am I best renting a car at Seattle or should I do this in Vancouver or later on in my trip? I’ve heard having a car in San Fran is risky. I won’t be driving it about there but would be parked up.

-What’s the going rate of a rental car ? I am 23 so appreciate there may be a under 25 charge.

-I like LA so have laid down a lot of my time there. However, is it worth venturing down to San Diego? Haven’t heard much about there but always willing to have a look at new places.

-Are there any months that this trip wouldn’t be good. I have planned September or April as they are the start/end of season respectively. I know ‘season’ is a loose term over there but I want to make sure I don’t go in a bad month in case my circumstances change.

Sorry if there’s not enough information on here. Please pester me if you need more to answer my questions. And if there’s anything else you can add to the equation to make my trip better would be appreciated. Thanks a lot.

Spring can be a bit damp, well just wet in the Pacific North West, a September trip would be better IMO.

Is Yosemite in the plan?

As long as you don’t leave anything in the car it will be ok in SF, but hotel parking fees can be steep.

3 weeks is short for that trip spending a week in LA, possible but short.

I’d suggest you spend more time on the West Coast drive to LA, Oregon Coast, Redwoods, Hwy 1, maybe Yosemite, less time in LA and leave SD for another trip, maybe starting in Seattle and dropping Vancouver.

That’s a much better road trip plan IMO.

Lots of 3 week trip plans here if you search.

But are you really only interested in cities ( looking at your list) or natural attractions?

Saving Yosemite for another trip that’s why I am not going there this time around.

I’m desperate to go to Vancouver on this trip so that would stay as well. I could add a few more days on my trip and focus more time on that west coast or maybe take 2 nights off LA and contribute that to the west coast to keep it at 3 weeks.

3 nights Vancouver.

3 nights Seattle.

2 nights Portland/ Columbia River Gorge.

2 nights Oregon Coast.

2 nights Redwoods.

3 nights SF.

2 nights Hwy 1Coast.

3 nights LA.

That looks like a healthy plan. Thanks for your help.

Did any of the ideas in that Top Question topic help you to create your draft itinerary? Do you need more sample itineraries?

I still think 8 days from Seattle to L.A. is not enough time to really enjoy the drive. Portland can fill 3 days, the Oregon Coast can be two or three (or four) days, the Redwood National & State Park region should get at least a full day, San Francisco would be nice to have three full days / four nights, and the Hwy 1 drive from SF to L.A. is about three days / two overnights. Add more time for the drives between some of the destinations, and this "West Coast" itinerary could easily be two or three weeks.

But this is your trip, so you get to decide how much time to spend in each destination and how much time on the road.

I’m open to seeing more itinerary ideas.

As long as I start in Vancouver and end in LA within a 3-4 week period I’m happy. I’m not planning on Yosemite, Grand Canyon or anything too far in land on this trip. I like cities and I like the coast so want to stay relatively close to the coast where possible.

FYI ~ the drive from SF to Monterey is about 2.5 hours. The drive from SF to Yosemite Valley is about 4 hours. Then it's an hour to Mariposa Grove and 4 hours to Monterey. You have to determine if it's "too far inland." South Rim Grand Canyon National Park is in another state and is far far from your chosen route.

More ideas: www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g28926-c224772

While I agree September is better than April for weather, I really do not think you should get your hopes up that you can do this sort of trip this September. Of course I know no more than you do, but I just think a trip that is likely to be expensive would be better arranged when you are in a position to know a bit more about how things (as in the infrastructure and whole hospitality industry) are working, and I just happen to think this September would be too soon for that.

Plus there's the not insignificant matter of getting travel insurance cover and the removal of the current ESTA suspension. (And for Canada, you will need an eTA>)

You've said you like cities and the coast, so the route seems a great fit. What you've not said is whether you like long days of a lot of driving or prefer to spend as much or more of your time sightseeing, hiking or whatever rather than sitting in your rental car passing the scenery. That, for example, would help determine whether Valiant's suggestion of post 4 would work for you - it would be too fast for my own preferences, but slow in his terms.

I suggest one to two nights in Monterey, CA and one night in Santa Barbara.

I like San Diego. I spent three nights in SD years ago.

Cabrillo National Monument is beautiful.

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This Road Trip From Vancouver To LA Takes You Along The Coast & You'll Stop In 3 States

You'll get the most incredible views. ⛰️🌊

People sat by a lake in Oregon. Right: Venice Beach in California

Canada is famous for having so many incredible road trips but if you fancy travelling further afield, you can go on an epic road trip from Vancouver to Los Angeles that takes you down the coast and through three stunning states.

The drive from Vancouver to Los Angeles is just over 21 hours and 2,058 kilometres long but there are tons of incredible places to stop off as you drive so you can break the road trip up into more manageable chunks.

The best thing about taking a long road trip like this is that you can really make it a choose-your-own-adventure scenario, stopping off in a ton of different cities and towns and scenic points along the way to make the most of the drive.

See on Instagram

From Vancouver, you can start with an easy three-hour drive on the BC-99 and once you cross the border, you'll join Interstate 5 which will take you to Seattle, Washington, a stunning city known for its coffee culture grunge music. While you're there, you can check out the iconic Space Needle and Pike Place market.

You can also take a detour out to the gorgeous Olympic National Park.

From Seattle, you can make your way through the gorgeous Pacific Northwest scenery to Oregon. In another three hours, you'll reach Portland, which is known as the "best foodie city" in America so it's well worth planning at least a night stop there to make the most of all of those delicious eats.

Once you leave Portland, there are several places to stop en route including the city of Eugene, which is around two hours away before continuing on to Medford, a city close to the border with California.

In another five hour's drive, you'll reach the Californian city of Sacramento, where you can spend some time checking out one of the city's many museums or the Old Sacramento Waterfront.

If San Francisco is on your travel bucket list, you can get there from Sacramento in around a two-hour drive west so you can head out and see the Golden Gate Bridge with your own eyes.

You could also travel two hours east out to the stunning Lake Tahoe or in three hours, you'll reach Yosemite National Park so it's well worth spending a few days in the area to check out the sights.

From Sacramento, it's another six-hour drive to Los Angeles or you could break up the trip even more with a trip to the coast which is just over a three-hour drive to Monterey before heading down to L.A.

While the stops will definitely use up a chunk of your vacation time, it's well worth it to see all the incredible places this road trip has to offer.

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.

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Road Trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver

For a journey that takes you through the finest landmarks and cities along the West Coast before concluding in beautiful Canada, consider doing the legendary road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver - very few road trips in or out of The States can match it.

The 1,550 mile road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver takes 32 hours of driving. Notable attractions along the way include Morro Bay, Big Sur, and the Redwood National Park, as well as the cities of San Luis Obispo, Portland, and Seattle.

With so many stop-off options available, be sure to read until the end to learn about all the cool places you can go.

How far is Los Angeles to Vancouver and how long will the road trip take?

Along the best route, the road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver covers about 1,550 miles of highway. In theory, you could do the entire drive in about 4 days, but a much better idea would be to take your time to explore everything the route has to offer.

The amazing thing about this drive is that you can hug the coast for the majority of the trip - this will take you past many of America's finest oceanside cities and plenty of charming attractions in the Great White North.

With a route so long and popular, you're practically guaranteed to run into some traffic along the way, especially around places like San Francisco and Portland. Keep a close eye on the congestion near the major cities so you can do some detours if there's traffic ahead.

On that note, you can add plenty of mileage to your trip by driving inland to do some extra sightseeing. There's plenty to see even if you just stick to the coast, but if you have the time, you could visit some additional cities and forests in California, Oregon, or Washington.

Best road trip route from Los Angeles to Vancouver

There are a number of ways to do the road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver, but sticking to the coast is by far the most scenic option if you have a few weeks to spare.

Whether you're flying into Los Angeles or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Road trip route from Los Angeles to Vancouver

Take Interstate 10 west to Santa Monica, then cruise along Route 1, passing Topanga State Park and taking a break in Malibu or at Point Dume. From Oxnard, hop onto Route 101 and drive through Ventura and Santa Barbara, then visit Cachuma Lake and Los Padres National Forest.

Past Gaviota State Park, get back onto Route 1 and follow it to Pismo Beach , then briefly return to Route 101 until you reach San Luis Obispo. From there, get onto Route 1 and follow it past Pfeiffer State Park and Big Sur.

Further north, stop at Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, then spend some time in Santa Cruz before pulling into San Francisco. Rest up here before crossing The Golden Gate Bridge, then follow Route 1 between Point Reyes National Seashore and Samuel P Taylor State Park.

Drive through Salt Point State Park and pay a visit to Jackson Demonstration State Forest, then briefly separate from the ocean and pass Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Then, follow Route 101 back to the coastline and stop at Redwood National and State Parks.

Past Rogue-Siskiyou National Forest and Siuslaw National Forest, take Route 6 through Tillamook State Forest, then follow Route 26 to Portland. From there, take Interstate 5 past Mt Rainier National Park and through Seattle.

Once you cross over into Canada, hop onto Highway 99 and follow it over The Fraser River. Not long after that, you'll reach Richmond, closely followed by Vancouver.

Best places to stop between Los Angeles and Vancouver

There are so many great cities and fascinating places of interest to visit on your road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver. If you want to take a few weeks to explore everything the route has to offer, these are some of your best stopover options:

Roam the streets of San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most progressive, diverse and culturally significant cities in the whole of the USA, so you should consider visiting on your road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver. If you do stop here, the Hotel Nikko San Francisco has the fanciest pool and lobby in town .

Boasting some of the fanciest rooms on the West Coast, this hotel is a prime example of California's iconic, extravagant resorts. The rest of the hotel is no slouch either, with the lobby being especially breathtaking.

If an afternoon in the swimming pool area doesn't relax you after a morning of exploration, nothing will. Topping things off are the incredible restaurant and the beautiful terrace, which has one of the best views of San Francisco you could ask for.

The place is on the expensive side, but that's understandable considering what you're getting out of the deal. Everything you could hope to see in San Fran, from Union Square to Moscone Center, is only a short distance away too.

READ MORE - Click here for more great hotel options

Enjoy the spectacular view in Portland

A weekend in Portland is one you won't soon forget , and there are no shortage of amazing hotels to call home here. One of the places you might want to stay at is The Hyatt Regency at the Oregon Convention Center , whose view of the city will take your breath away.

Aside from the spectacular rooms, the hotel distinguishes itself with some amazing service and one of the most gorgeous interiors in all of Portland. If you have some time to kill, the hours will feel like minutes as you mingle with your fellow travelers in the amazing lobby.

The restaurant is one of the best the city has to offer, and once you're full, you'll have a top-of-the-line fitness area to help you burn off those calories.

Conveniently located near most of the city's main attractions, the hotel is perfect for explorers - the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, Lan Su Chinese Garden and Governor Tom McCall Waterfront Park are all a short drive away.

The hotel is admittedly pricy, even by Portland standards, which makes sense given everything it has to offer. If you want a cheaper stay, you can always book a room out of season - the route has plenty to offer year-round, so you definitely won't regret it.

Things to see on a road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver

The road trip from Angeles and Vancouver covers a lot of ground, so there are many points of interest between the two metropolises. These are only some of the places you won't want to miss out on

• Santa Barbara – Well known for its pristine beaches, excellent seafood and most famous landmark, the Mission Santa Barbara.
• San Luis Obispo – ‘The happiest city in America'. Home to Pismo Beach, gorgeous Spanish-style architecture and the infamous Bubblegum Alley.
• Morro Bay – Beautiful coastal city best known for Morro Rock, a 575-foot tall volcanic mound at the end of Morro Rock Beach. Nearby Morro Bay State Park is home to lagoons, trails and a saltwater marsh that is full of birds.
• Hearst Castle – Opulent estate of William Randolph Hearst overlooking San Simeon. Features more than 100 rooms, a gorgeous swimming pool, theater and stunning selection of antiquities, artwork and sculptures.
• Big Sur – One of the state's best-loved stretch of coastline. Where the Santa Lucia mountains and the Pacific Ocean spectacularly meet. Also home to the Slates Hot Springs.
• Carmel By-The-Sea – Artistic beach city best known for its beautiful architecture, sensational coastline and famous former mayor, Clint Eastwood.
• Monterey – Home to Monterey State Beach and Cannery Row, which was immortalized by John Steinbeck. Boasts a beautiful beach and famous aquarium. Good spot for whale watching too.
• Santa Cruz – Famous for its great beaches, iconic boardwalk, surfing museum and dolphin and whale watching cruises.
• San Francisco – Home of the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, Lombard Street, cable cars, Ghirardelli Chocolate and the historic district of Haight-Ashbury.
• Bodega Bay – Known as the setting for the Alfred Hitchcock film ‘The Birds', this charming fishing community features quaint oceanside shops, impressive art galleries and top-notch seafood restaurants.
• Sonoma and Napa Valleys – Take a beautiful drive through the heart of California's wine country.
• Fort Bragg - A city on the Mendocino Coast. Known for Glass Beach , which sparkles with colorful glass stones.
• Redwood National & State Park – Home to some of the world's tallest trees including the Hyperion which measures over 115 meters.
• Siuslaw National Forest – Popular hiking destination in Oregon. Features large meadows and fabulous 360-degree views of the Coast Range and the Willamette Valley.
• Eugene – Charming college town and the birthplace of Nike. Full of quaint boutique shops and cool cafes.
• Portland – Vibrant, progressive city. A foodie paradise. Home to awesome coffee, a fabulous art scene and the iconic Saturday Market.
• Mt Rainier National Park - Arguably Washington's star attraction, this park offers every type of scenic landscape you could possibly imagine.
• Cannon Beach – Charming coastal city which showcases breathtaking views of the rampaging Pacific Ocean. Featured in movies like The Goonies, Point Break and Twilight. Home to lots of adorable Puffins.
• Mt Hood - Dormant volcano with plenty of hiking trails, camping spots, fishing and skiing. Visit Trillium Lake for a truly sensational view.
• Seattle – Home of Starbucks, Microsoft, grunge music, Pike Place, The Space Needle and for being a gateway to Canada.
• Puget Sound – Bordering 4 major cities, this vibrant college town is known for its culture, culinary scene and for being the second largest estuary in the USA.

Best time to go on a road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver

A road trip from Los Angeles to Vancouver is one that can be done at any time throughout the year. With that said, there's plenty to see along the way, so you may want to plan your drive around the places you intend on visiting.

For the best views of the Pacific Coast Highway, the optimum time to undertake this trip would be between late spring and early fall. On the other hand, you will get the best weather in July and August. But also you are likely to get heavy traffic and sky high hotel prices too.

During the winter, especially up near Washington State, some sections of road can become treacherous or even unpassable due to snow. So if you are planning to drive there at this time be mindful to pack the snow chains for your tires.

As a general rule, you are likely to hit more traffic at weekends and during the holidays. So try and avoid going during these periods if you can, or at least download a traffic app to stay ahead of the game and anticipate all the congestion.

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It's better to fly from Vancouver to Los Angeles

The fly or drive score is:, 446   /   1013, what is the fly or drive score.

The fly or drive score is an estimate of the true cost of travel. A lower score is better . Our score includes factors like airline prices and fuel costs, but it also takes into account the value of your time spent traveling. If you're taking time off work because you have to drive an extra day, it might be better to fly even if driving is technically cheaper. Tap on a blue or green value to customize it.

Enter the total number of travelers. This will be used to calculate the sum of plane tickets for everyone, as well as the number of cars you need if you're planning a road trip. We assume a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can change the number of cars if your situation is different. Number of travelers:  

We estimated the cheapest price for a round trip plane ticket from YVR to LAX at $405. To change the price for your flight, enter it here: Airfare price: $

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for local transportation at your destination. This might include a car rental to drive around the area, or the cost of a cab or airport shuttle to get to your hotel. You could also include an extra cost for food at the airport, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the total number of cars you'll be taking on the road trip. This will be used to calculate the total cost of driving for everyone. The default is a max of 4 passengers per car , but you can adjust the number of cars to fit your situation. Number of cars:

Enter the fuel efficiency of your vehicle in miles per gallon (mpg). If you're unsure of the exact number, you can look it up on the fueleconomy.gov site. Vehicle fuel efficiency: mpg

Enter the average fuel price for your trip in U.S. dollars. If you're taking a long road trip, the gas price in each state may vary. Remember to adjust for premium or diesel fuel prices. Average gas price: $

We chose Vancouver International Airport (YVR) as your departure airport. You can change it to another nearby airport by selecting one below. If the airport you want isn't listed, change your locations. Departure airport: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Victoria International Airport (YYJ) Bellingham International Airport (BLI) Orcas Island Airport (ESD) Westsound/WSX Seaplane Base (WSX) Vancouver Harbour Water Airport (CXH) Nanaimo Airport (YCD) Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) Roche Harbor Seaplane Base (RCE)

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to the departure airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive your own car. Make sure you include extra time for parking if you are driving yourself. Time to get to the airport: minutes

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for check-in at the airport. Some airlines require you to check-in by a certain time if you haven't done it online beforehand. Remember to leave enough time to get through security lines. Check-in and wait time: minutes

Enter the amount of time it takes you to get to your destination after you've landed at the arrival airport. This can vary depending on whether you take a cab, get a ride from a friend, or drive a rental car. Make sure you include extra time to get to the rental agency and pick up the rental car if you are choosing that option. Time to get to your destination: minutes

We chose Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as your arrival airport. You can change it to another nearby airport by selecting one below. If the airport you want isn't listed, try changing your destination. Arrival airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) John Wayne Airport (SNA) Bob Hope Airport (BUR) Long Beach Airport (LGB) LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT)

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on hotel nights. We estimate you'll need to stay at a hotel for every 12 hours of driving, and the average cost of a hotel will be around $75. It doesn't really matter how many times you stay overnight, the important thing is the total sum of all of your hotel costs. Enter that number below. Total hotel costs: $

Enter the amount of time you plan to allow for pit stops, rest stops, gas, naps, or detours along the way. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra time: minutes

Enter the total amount you're planning to spend on extra costs for the road trip. Think about the cost of tolls, food or snacks if you're bringing groceries or stopping at restaurants, and any other miscellaneous spending along the way. You can also include the cost of a car rental here. Enter your total estimate below. Total extra costs: $

Enter the amount per mile you want to use to estimate the wear and tear on your car. This can vary depending on your preference. Some companies might pay 50 cents per mile for business travel, and the IRS has various rules for standard mileage rates. On the other hand, you may want to focus more on typical maintenance costs and depreciation, which might be closer to 10 cents per mile. Set this to zero if you're renting a car. Enter your wear and tear cost per mile below. Wear and tear: cents per mile

Driving is usually cheaper, but it takes a lot longer. So in order to get a better comparison, we include a special "value of time factor" that estimates how much your time is worth. If you take a day off work for a long road trip instead of a quick flight, you might add up your lost earnings. The default we use is $10/hr but you can enter any value you want below. If there are multiple travelers, you can enter the sum of everyone's value. Value of time factor: $ per hour

Cost to fly or drive

You can adjust any of the settings above to customize the calculation for your exact trip. We assume some simple default values to get a quick answer to start.

The Fly Score is an estimate of how much it would cost you to take a flight, including factors to account for the value of your time getting to the airport, checking in, and waiting for the plane to take off and land. The default fly score is 446 from Vancouver to Los Angeles.

The Drive Score is a comparable calculation that estimates the total cost of doing a road trip. You might spend less on gas than the price of airfare, but it could take you longer to get there if you're driving. So we include the value of your time spent in the car, as well as additional costs for things like hotel, tolls, food, and whatever else you want to include. The default drive score from Vancouver to Los Angeles is 1013 .

So in this case, it's better to fly from Vancouver to Los Angeles. It's significantly cheaper to fly on this trip, unless you made adjustments to the numbers above to alter the calculation.

These results are based on the actual driving distance from Vancouver to Los Angeles , which is 1,275 miles or 2 052 kilometers . You can also check the cost of driving from Vancouver to Los Angeles .

 Vancouver, British Columbia

Is it better to fly or drive to Vancouver, Canada from where I am now?

 Los Angeles, California

Should I fly or drive to Los Angeles, CA?

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I have a few questions regarding a road trip from Vancouver to LA (3 weeks long) hoping anyone who has done this trip or has knowledge of it can answer.

I am going to fly into Vancouver from London either this September or April 2021 (If the Covid situation prolongs).

My plan is:

Vancouver 3 Nights

Train to Seattle

Seattle 3 Nights

Portland, San Fran, Santa Barbara etc 8 nights

LA 7 nights

Back to London out of LA

-Am I best renting a car at Seattle or should I do this in Vancouver or later on in my trip? I’ve heard having a car in San Fran is risky. I won’t be driving it about there but would be parked up.

-What’s the going rate of a rental car ? I am 23 so appreciate there may be a under 25 charge.

-I like LA so have laid down a lot of my time there. However, is it worth venturing down to San Diego? Haven’t heard much about there but always willing to have a look at new places.

-Are there any months that this trip wouldn’t be good. I have planned September or April as they are the start/end of season respectively. I know ‘season’ is a loose term over there but I want to make sure I don’t go in a bad month in case my circumstances change.

Sorry if there’s not enough information on here. Please pester me if you need more to answer my questions. And if there’s anything else you can add to the equation to make my trip better would be appreciated. Thanks a lot.

Spring can be a bit damp, well just wet in the Pacific North West, a September trip would be better IMO.

Is Yosemite in the plan?

As long as you don’t leave anything in the car it will be ok in SF, but hotel parking fees can be steep.

3 weeks is short for that trip spending a week in LA, possible but short.

I’d suggest you spend more time on the West Coast drive to LA, Oregon Coast, Redwoods, Hwy 1, maybe Yosemite, less time in LA and leave SD for another trip, maybe starting in Seattle and dropping Vancouver.

That’s a much better road trip plan IMO.

Lots of 3 week trip plans here if you search.

But are you really only interested in cities ( looking at your list) or natural attractions?

Saving Yosemite for another trip that’s why I am not going there this time around.

I’m desperate to go to Vancouver on this trip so that would stay as well. I could add a few more days on my trip and focus more time on that west coast or maybe take 2 nights off LA and contribute that to the west coast to keep it at 3 weeks.

3 nights Vancouver.

3 nights Seattle.

2 nights Portland/ Columbia River Gorge.

2 nights Oregon Coast.

2 nights Redwoods.

3 nights SF.

2 nights Hwy 1Coast.

3 nights LA.

That looks like a healthy plan. Thanks for your help.

Did any of the ideas in that Top Question topic help you to create your draft itinerary? Do you need more sample itineraries?

I still think 8 days from Seattle to L.A. is not enough time to really enjoy the drive. Portland can fill 3 days, the Oregon Coast can be two or three (or four) days, the Redwood National & State Park region should get at least a full day, San Francisco would be nice to have three full days / four nights, and the Hwy 1 drive from SF to L.A. is about three days / two overnights. Add more time for the drives between some of the destinations, and this "West Coast" itinerary could easily be two or three weeks.

But this is your trip, so you get to decide how much time to spend in each destination and how much time on the road.

I’m open to seeing more itinerary ideas.

As long as I start in Vancouver and end in LA within a 3-4 week period I’m happy. I’m not planning on Yosemite, Grand Canyon or anything too far in land on this trip. I like cities and I like the coast so want to stay relatively close to the coast where possible.

FYI ~ the drive from SF to Monterey is about 2.5 hours. The drive from SF to Yosemite Valley is about 4 hours. Then it's an hour to Mariposa Grove and 4 hours to Monterey. You have to determine if it's "too far inland." South Rim Grand Canyon National Park is in another state and is far far from your chosen route.

More ideas: www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g28926-c224772

While I agree September is better than April for weather, I really do not think you should get your hopes up that you can do this sort of trip this September. Of course I know no more than you do, but I just think a trip that is likely to be expensive would be better arranged when you are in a position to know a bit more about how things (as in the infrastructure and whole hospitality industry) are working, and I just happen to think this September would be too soon for that.

Plus there's the not insignificant matter of getting travel insurance cover and the removal of the current ESTA suspension. (And for Canada, you will need an eTA>)

You've said you like cities and the coast, so the route seems a great fit. What you've not said is whether you like long days of a lot of driving or prefer to spend as much or more of your time sightseeing, hiking or whatever rather than sitting in your rental car passing the scenery. That, for example, would help determine whether Valiant's suggestion of post 4 would work for you - it would be too fast for my own preferences, but slow in his terms.

I suggest one to two nights in Monterey, CA and one night in Santa Barbara.

I like San Diego. I spent three nights in SD years ago.

Cabrillo National Monument is beautiful.

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The Complete Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary (The Best Stops in 1 Week!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate 1-Week Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary 

Looking for your next big road trip in the Pacific Northwest?

Maybe you’ve driven the entire Pacific Coast Highway , seen all the sights along an Oregon Coast road trip , or even discovered all the hidden gems along an Olympic Peninsula trip itinerary .

If you’re looking for even more  things to do in the Pacific Northwest , you’ve got to plan a Vancouver Island road trip! Full of lush green forests, secret beaches, and lots of adventure, we’re here to share everything we know about this amazing location.

In this post, we’re putting together an epic 1-week Vancouver Island itinerary for you , including ways to extend your trip for even more adventure!

Are you ready?

Because this island is going to blow your mind!

No Time To Read?

That’s okay! Pin this to reference later!

Vancouver Island Road Trip: PRE-TRIP PLANNING

This post may contain affiliate links, vetted and chosen by yours truly!

Wait, Where is Vancouver Island?

Vancouver Island is located in British Columbia, Canada . British Columbia sits on the west coast of Canada, and Vancouver Island is the largest island in that province. With 12,079 square miles to explore, it would take you 7 hours in the car to drive from end to end.

Planning our Vancouver Island road trip, we naively thought we could see the entire thing in a mere two weeks. Oh, how wrong we were!

To give Vancouver Island the time and exploration it deserves, one would need to spend at least a month on BC or come back for repeat trips to see different parts of the island.

Now, we totally get that most people don’t have that kind of free time. Therefore, this post is going to be the ideal itinerary to see the highlights of visiting Vancouver Island in ONE WEEK , and hopefully, it will light that spark to make a return trip ASAP!

The Best Way To Travel Around Vancouver Island

The best way to travel around Vancouver Island is by car . However, in order to bring a car to the island, you’ll need to travel by ferry (more on that below).

Since this post is a road trip itinerary, we recommend bringing (or renting!) a vehicle that has everything you need. Here are a few of our favorite options for getting around Vancouver Island:

Renting a Camper Van

If you are traveling to Vancouver Island in the summer, we can’t emphasize how much we recommend camping! There are so many amazing campsites on Vancouver Island, some even right next to the ocean! Our favorite way to rent recreational vehicles is from Outdoorsy .

Renting a converted van would mean you have the freeing mobility to be cooking breakfast under a forested canopy in the morning, and watching the sunset through your open doors after a long surf session by evening!

Bringing a Regular Car

Another really great option for traveling around Vancouver Island would be with a regular-sized car . One large enough to carry your gear, of course, but this gives you options to easily fit in hotel parking lots, down small roads, and still have the option of car camping, too!

Read More: 20 Genius Car Camping Hacks To Try On Your Next Road Trip

How To Get To Vancouver Island

Since this IS an island, you’ll need to take a ferry to reach Vancouver Island.

If you haven’t been on a ferry before, it’s basically a really large boat that you can drive your car onto, like a water taxi that takes you across the water. Depending on the route you choose, you will sail through the Howe Sound, the Salish Sea, or the Strait of Juan de Fuca and pass spots like Bowen Island and Newcastle Island Park. There are multiple routes to take – here’s a breakdown below:

• Horseshoe Bay (North Vancouver) to Nanaimo : This is the best route to take if you are hoping to explore places like Campbell River or Tofino.
• Port Angeles, WA to Victoria: This is convenient for people who live in Washington and Oregon, and it drops you off right in the middle of Victoria!
• Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay:  This is the most direct ferry route for people who live in Vancouver and want to reach the metro areas of Vancouver Island.

Expect the ferry costs to be around $90 total for two people. Bringing a car onto the ferry costs around $50 for normal cars (less than 20 feet in length and 7 feet high) and a little bit more in price for RVs and larger vehicles, and each person will be around $15-$20.

If you are traveling to Vancouver Island during the busy season (May – September) we recommend reserving your ferry spots at the  BC ferries website . If you are traveling to Vancouver Island in the off-season, there is likely to be a spot on the ferry, and you can pay for your ticket upon arrival.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Vancouver Island?

Honestly, there isn’t a bad time to visit Vancouver Island . The changing seasons bring a variety of awesome activities, and it all depends on what you want to include in your one-week Vancouver Island itinerary.

Here’s a breakdown of the seasons and their highlights to help you make your decision:

• Winter in Vancouver Island: Fewest crowds, storm watching in Tofino, and opportunities to do snow sports in Strathcona Provincial Park.
• Spring in Vancouver Island: Gorgeous blooming cherry blossoms in Victoria, waterfalls at their fullest, many hiking opportunities.
• Summer in Vancouver Island: Sunny days, Butchart Gardens (Victoria) in full bloom, lots of camping opportunities.
• Autumn in Vancouver Island: Witness the salmon run, visit island wineries, enjoy the many harvest festivals on the island.

Vancouver Island Road Trip: DAY BY DAY BREAKDOWN

So how should you break down the days on your 1-week Vancouver road trip itinerary? Below, we’re giving you our recommendations, as well as extra places to consider exploring if you have a bit of extra time!

Day 1: Explore Victoria, BC

Your Vancouver Island Road Trip route is going to begin on a ferry. As explained above, there are several ways to get here, but Berty and I chose to take the Black Ball Ferry Line from Port Angeles, Washington, which docks you right in the heart of downtown Victoria.

The ferry ride was an adventure all its own! We got some major Wes Anderson vibes with the boat’s accidentally retro color palette and frozen-in-time furniture.

Royal British Columbia Museum

The Royal British Columbia Museum in Victoria is a perfect place to learn about BC’s natural and human history. Berty and I wanted to make this one of the first stops on our Vancouver Island road trip because we wanted to gain a deeper appreciation for the land before we discovered any further.

The museum is separated into three parts – The Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First People’s Gallery. Each one shares a unique story about British Columbia and what makes this area special. We especially loved learning about the First Nations’ languages, the temperate rainforest, and different natural conservative efforts going on in BC today!

We only had 24 hours in Victoria, so we weren’t able to explore it as much as we would have liked. Keep returning to this post, because when we make a return trip to Vancouver Island (and we want to very soon!) we’ll update this post with more things to do in Victoria, BC!

Day 2: Victoria To Port Renfrew

Driving Distance: 2-hours, 110 kilometers

To continue your Vancouver Island road trip, grab some coffee at a local roaster in Victoria and hit the road driving to the west coast of the island. Today will include places like Sooke (with amazing cliffside views and trails), Jordan River (lush rainforest hikes), and delicious small town treats!

Sooke is an adventurous town, just 30 minutes west of Victoria, BC. Many come here to enjoy the surrounding nature, which includes the popular Whiffin Spit Park (popular for bird watching) and the Sooke Potholes .

Looking to try a multi-day backpacking trip on the Juan de Fuca Trail or the West Coast Trail? Sooke is the perfect base to get prepped before your big backpacking trip . You can find tons of resources, as well as many delicious restaurants to prep you for the big trail ahead.

One of our favorite stops in Sooke was East Sooke Regional Park . Here, you can take their many coastal trails to discover secret coves (perfect for a picnic!) and incredible views of the Salish Sea. Our favorite trail was to Creyke Point (pictured above!) for its scenic cliffs and great sunset spots.

Jordan River

Known for its epic surfing locations, Jordan River is smack in the middle of Port Renfrew and Sooke, making it a great stop during your Vancouver Island Road Trip.

Here, you have quick access to famous beaches like China Beach and Mystic Beach , and the town also serves as the beginning of the Juan de Fuca Trail . This is also where we stayed at this gorgeous rainforest cabin , and listened to the rain as we drifted to sleep.

For even more surfing opportunities, rainforest trails, and even a secret waterfall, consider hiking to Sombrio Beach . This trail will bring you to a slot canyon covered in bright green moss, perfect for those Indiana Jones discovery moments on Vancouver Island!

Read More: 10 Epic Adventures To Take In Port Renfrew, British Columbia

Shirley, Vancouver Island

Shirley is a small community  nestled between Sooke and Jordan River, along Highway 14 (The Pacific Marine Circle Route).

Here you can stop in to grab a bite to eat at the exceptional Shirley Delicious restaurant and maybe even time your visit for the annual craft fairs around Christmas and springtime. Outdoor attractions nearby Shirley include the Sheringham Point Lighthouse Park , and French Beach , where we saw plenty of winter surfers catching waves!

A little bit more about Sheringham Point Lighthouse – established in 1912, it saved numerous lives on the dangerous waves offshore (this area is known a the Graveyard of the Pacific) and was designated a historic site for visitors to enjoy year-round!

Read More: Incredible Pacific Northwest Cabins To Rent

Day 3: Exploring Port Renfrew

Driving Distance: Around Port Renfrew (<50 miles)

Port Renfrew is the farthest west location on the Pacific Marine Circle Route, and also at the end of Highway 14.

This town is wildly popular for hiking , whether it be along the sea’s edge, or deep in the rainforests of Vancouver Island. From the glassy tide pools of Botanical Beach to the gnarly giants of the Avatar Grove , Port Renfrew is the perfect location to stay if you’re seeking outdoor adventure.

Here are some attractions to consider along this part of your Vancouver Island Road Trip:

Big Lonely Doug

Standing in the middle of a clear cut forest towers Big Lonely Doug, a 70 meter tall Douglas fir tree . No one knows why this tree was spared and the others not, but it is a beautiful sight to come and see with your own eyes. We were surprised at how truly huge this tree was, we definitely felt like tiny ants at its base!

Driving Note: To reach Big Lonely Doug, you’ll need to take a gravel/dirt logging road for about a 45-minute drive. We recommend having a 4-wheel drive vehicle and/or a skilled driver to navigate those giant potholes and steep stretches!

Avatar Grove

Looking to explore deep in the rainforest on Vancouver Island? Avatar Grove is located just a short drive north of Port Renfrew, and it boasts some of the largest trees in the county ! Carefully cared for by the Ancient Forest Alliance , there are two sections to Avatar Grove – the Upper Grove and Lower Grove.

Each has a series of boardwalks to weave you through the forest to explore the numerous attractions along the way. One of the highlights of the trail is seeing Canada’s Gnarliest Tree (located at the end of the Upper Grove), which is a giant tree with huge burl growths attached to it.

Avatar Grove is easy to reach from Port Renfrew, and along the same route as Big Lonely Doug . Plan to see them together to save time!

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is one of the most popular beaches to visit in this part of Vancouver Island. Serving as one terminus of the Juan de Fuca Trail, you will see backpackers enter here for their long 47-kilometer journey as well as day hikers coming to watch the sunset.

The journey is just as fun as the destination! Along the way, you will find yourself walking across a suspension bridge , crossing streams, and climbing over tree roots to reach the beach. Once you arrive, turn to your left to discover the waterfall cascading over the sandstone cliffs into the ocean!

Botanical Beach

If you love the sea, Botanical Beach is an essential stop on your Vancouver Island Road Trip! This beach in British Columbia has some of the richest and most diverse tide pools in the area. Most of them are so clear and so deep that it looks like you are peeking into a mini aquarium at your feet!

We highly recommend visiting during low tide so you can experience the tide pools in their entirety.

Tide pool etiquette rules are required to keep this place alive and thriving, so do your part by stepping only on bare rocks and putting things back where you found them. Finally, never turn your back to the ocean (even at low tide!) and stay safe out there!

Day 4: Driving From Port Renfrew To Tofino

Driving Distance: 5 hours, 340 kilometers

To continue your Vancouver Island Road Trip, you’ll have to begin the journey from Port Renfrew to Tofino . There are many stops along the way  so we’ll briefly touch on those below, but we also wanted to mention some of our favorite road trip posts to keep you busy on the drive!

Our Favorite Road Trip Podcasts + Audiobooks

We’ve compiled a list of our all-time favorite podcasts for a road trip , including some Bachelor gossip pods, some about viral internet memes, and so much more. Click to read the full list here!

15+ Incredible Road Trip Planner Apps

These road trip planner apps help us find everything from the fastest routes to the cheapest gas stations. We use these road trip apps all the time to make our lives a little bit easier during long road trips, and we hope you find your new favorites, too!

101 Road Trip Questions

Want to get to know your group better? We’ve compiled the perfect mix of serious and funny road trip questions , perfect for long drives and great conversations . You can even download the list for offline use here!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Stops From Port Renfrew to Tofino

• Bonsai Fir Tree – A little fir tree is determined to grow in the middle of Fairy Lake atop a log sticking out of the water. It’s a cool sight!
• Lizard Lake – Take a late breakfast or lunch break on Lizard Lake’s huge dock.
• Cathedral Grove – Similar to Avatar Grove, this protected area of Macmillan Provincial Park has short boardwalk trails on either side of Highway 4 to walk among the giants and stretch your legs.

Day 5-6: Explore Around Tofino

Driving Distance: Around Tofino

Tofino is a west coast town on Vancouver Island, known for its surf culture and relaxing ocean vibe . Many people come here for long weekend getaways, so you’ll find plenty of gorgeous Tofino resorts and cabins dotting the ocean’s shore.

There are a lot of seriously amazing things to do in Tofino , but we’re sharing the highlights of our Vancouver Island Road Trip below, perfect for 2-3 days in Tofino . We think that if you spend a few days here, you can achieve everything on this list below!

Don’t forget to check out our Tofino packing list! It has a lot of specific items you should consider, especially if you’re new to the Pacific Northwest climate!

Read More: The Best Resorts In The Pacific Northwest

Walk The Beaches In Tofino

Some of our favorite times of the day were spent wandering the shores of beautiful beaches in Tofino . Depending on the time of year you take your road trip on Vancouver Island, the beaches can look very different, each season with its own unique vibe!

Come to Cox Bay to watch experienced surfers catch the waves. If it’s raining, hideaway in Long Beach Resort ‘s window-filled lounge and watch them from the sofa!

Chesterman Beach is perfect for beginning surfers and Mackenzie Beach is great for people who want to try Stand Up Paddle Boarding. Don’t forget to check out Tonquin Beach for some quick and easy beach trails in town, too!

There are so many beaches in Tofino to explore – we recommend stopping by the Tofino Visitor Centre to ask for suggestions. They can let you know which beach is best for you and your desired activities.

Visit Hot Springs Cove

Hot Springs Cove is a once in a lifetime adventure to a geothermal pool tucked away on the rocky shores of Vancouver Island! To reach these PNW hot springs , you’ll need to book a boat tour or floatplane departing from Tofino.

Plan for a full-day trip to these hot springs in BC. Regular tours leave around 9:00 am and return around 4:00 pm. For more information (and tricks to potentially get it all to yourself!) click here for all our best tips on visiting Hot Springs Cove .

Read More: Book This Epic Trip to Hot Springs Cove, Tofino

Hike To Cox Bay Lookout

Cox Bay Lookout is arguably home to some of the best views in Tofino !

This short but steep hike is located at the southernmost point of Cox Bay . Find the inconspicuous trailhead along a creek’s end, and climb up the root-entangled trail for about 20 minutes.

It’s a steep climb, so leave your pups at home and prepare to get your hands dirty! There are hot pink trail markers wrapped around tree trunks to help guide your way if you get lost.

Once at the top, enjoy expansive views of the Clayoquot Sound and the town of Tofino in the distance. On a clear day, this is an incredible spot to watch the sunset!

Read More: 13 Epic Hikes in Tofino Plucked Right From The Rainforest

Eat At Delicious Restaurants in Tofino

Tofino is one of the best places to visit on Vancouver Island and to top it all off, they have some of the best restaurants,  too!

Some of our personal favorites included Tacofino (an iconic taco food truck with outdoor seating) and Rhino Coffee and Donuts. However, there are so many more restaurants in Tofino that we loved, here are just some of them below…

• Tacofino – Outdoor seating with huge burritos and local ingredients.
• Tofitian – Convenient coffeehouse next to several beaches.
• Rhino Coffee and Donuts – Great coffee, but even better donuts and breakfast sandwiches.
• Kuma – Amazing Japanese comfort food like hearty ramen with vegan options as well.
• Shelter Restaurant – Excellent date night option with amazing moody ambiance and fresh local eats.

Want to Stay Longer In The Tofino Area? Discover the best places to stay in Tofino, BC! (camping, budget + luxury!)

Day 6: Tofino To Campbell River

Driving Distance: 3.5 hours, 270 kilometers

Campbell River is located on the north-eastern side of Vancouver Island ,  along the edge of the Discovery Passage waterway. Known for its iconic Tyee fishing spots and  abundant outdoor activities this is a great spot for nature lovers of all ages.

Stay awhile in Campbell River for their unique local eateries like Beach Fire Brewing (with crazy Tuesday experimental brews!) and carefully sourced Pacific Northwest ingredients at the famous Anglers Restaurant .

They are also known for being close to nature, which means you can grab brunch in town and be out on the trails just a half-hour later!

No matter how many days you choose to stay, Campbell River is a must-stop destination on your Vancouver Island trip! Here’s what we suggest doing while you’re here…

Elk Falls Provincial Park

Visiting Elk Falls is one of the most popular activities in Campbell River, BC. Located just a quick drive from town (we’re talking only 10 minutes!) Elk Falls provides a fun opportunity for the whole family to get outside.

With just a 2-kilometer trail you can experience epic views of Elk Falls from the platforms, as well as walk across the suspension bridge to view the powerful 25-meter drop .

Come for the short trail to the falls, or stick around longer to take an extended hike (6 kilometers) farther down the river for more magical river views.

Read More: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary in Campbell River, British Columbia

Take The Trail To Myra Falls (+ Other Waterfalls Near Campbell River)

Another amazing activity to do along your Vancouver Island Road Trip is to discover the many nearby waterfalls in Strathcona Provincial Park . One of the easiest waterfalls to reach is Myra Falls, a 1-kilometer out-and-back trail with a killer view of this multi-tiered falls.

Come to the two viewpoints (upper and lower) and explore around the rocks to discover even more places to view the falls from up close! Don’t forget to pack a picnic to share along the shores of Buttle Lake , the endpoint of Myra Falls .

Love chasing waterfalls? Here are some other waterfalls on Vancouver Island to explore!

• Lupin Falls: A tall 30-meter drop viewable from a short forest trail.
• Lady Falls:  Old-growth trail leads to a viewing platform to feel the mist from this powerful Vancouver Island waterfall.
• Niagara Falls: Near Victoria, BC, this waterfall requires just a quick walk from the parking lot. Continue farther up the trail to visit Niagara Trestle, too (scroll down for more info on that!).

Relax At Dolphins Resort

After a long day of driving and exploring along your Vancouver Island Road Trip, it’s time for the ultimate evening of relaxation at Dolphins Resort ! This unique resort in Campbell River offers the luxury of oceanside views combined with the feeling of being tucked away in the woods.

Berty and I stayed at their room called the Beach House , which is a converted studio with unobstructed views of the water, specifically over Discovery Passage. It was an incredible place to watch the sunrise , as well as feel rejuvenated and restored for a new day of adventure ahead!

Day 7: End Your Vancouver Island Road Trip From Campbell River To Victoria

Driving Distance: 3 hours, 265 kilometers

Your Vancouver Island Road Trip has come to an end, but that doesn’t mean the adventure stops on your way back! Driving from Campbell River back to Victoria, BC, here are some stops you should check out on your drive…

Sunrise at the Discovery Pier

Before leaving Campbell River, make sure to watch the sunrise from Discovery Pier. This historic pier is 180-meters long, with plenty of unobstructed views of Discovery Passage and Quadra Island across the water.

Grab some coffee at the Java Shack beforehand, and take a walking tour of the pier before you start your trip south to Victoria.

Niagara Trestle

The Niagara Trestle (also referred to as the Goldstream Trestle) is located in Goldstream Provincial Park , just 30 minutes north of Victoria. The hike to the trestle is short but extremely steep , so be prepared to take plenty of breaks on the way up.

The actual trestle itself is on private property , so respect the area and please do not walk along/across the top that’s suspended above the river. Feel free to take photos from the sides, though! On the way back to the car, make sure to stop by Niagara Falls – it’s the most powerful in the springtime!

Here are some other similar attractions to check out along the way:

The Kinsol Trestle: The Kinsol Trestle, located in Cowichan Valley, has been converted into a walking bridge towering 44 meters above the Koksilah River below. Come to stretch your legs during your Vancouver Island Road Trip!

Todd Creek Trestle: Located in the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, this wooden trestle in Vancouver Island is a fun stop along your route.

Want To Extend Your Vancouver Island Road Trip?

Not ready to leave Vancouver Island? There are so many places to explore on the island that you won’t be able to see everything in just one trip (which is fine because we’re already itching to come back!)!

If you want to even further customize your trip or take some side trips along the way, here are more suggestions for making your Vancouver Island Road Trip unique to you!

Port Hardy and San Josef

Ready to explore the northern Vancouver Island ? Cape Scott Provincial Park  and Port Hardy are some of the most remote communities and parks you can visit on the Island, which brings a lot more opportunity to see wildlife and more space to yourself.

Don’t forget to check out Telegraph Cove near Port McNeill , a picturesque village on the edge of the water.

West Coast Trail

The backpacking trip of all backpacking trips is hands down on The West Coast Trail .  This 5-7 day backpacking trip is 75-kilometers along the coast in the Pacific Rim National Park . Permits are required, children are not allowed, and you are strongly encouraged to be an experienced backpacker.

From hand-carts across raging rivers, root-crossed trails, several ladders, and more, this is one of the most exciting and daunting backpacking trips out there.

Thirty minutes south of Tofino is the opposite side of the peninsula – a small town called Ucluelet . It’s worth an extended visit all its own! You’ll get the same climate and vibe as in Tofino, however, it’s home to the Wild Pacific Trail , awesome camping opportunities, and dramatic swells along the rocky ocean shores.

Ucluelet is more affordable than Tofino, but you’ll have that extra 30-minute drive into town . Expect amazing views of craggy shores and views of the Broken Group Islands to the south, and one of the longest beaches in the area, aptly named Long Beach for lots of different activity choices.

Sooke is a town on the southern coast of Vancouver Island, just 40 minutes from Victoria, BC. Here, you can experience unspoiled beaches , several hiking trails , East Sooke Provincial Park, The Sooke Potholes , and Roche Cove Park (to name a few favorites!).

This is a great stop along the Pacific Marine Circle Route if you’re looking to make Victoria a home base with smaller day trips around the area.

Pacific Marine Circle Route (Condensed Vancouver Island Road Trip)

Don’t have an entire week for your Vancouver Island road trip? Or maybe you don’t want to spend long hours in the car? Try taking the Pacific Marine Circle Route, which connects Victoria, Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan and then back to Victoria.

This condensed version of a Vancouver Island Road Trip can be accomplished in 2-3 days, or you can spend an entire week just on this route, spending a lot of time in each area!

Vancouver Island Road Trip Itinerary Examples (5 Days, 1 Week, 2 Weeks)

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in just a one week Vancouver Island Road Trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re  sharing some more example itineraries  for a shorter 5 days in Vancouver Island and longer 2 weeks in Vancouver. Read below to find your perfect itinerary!

Note:  For the sake of convenience, we’re starting these Vancouver Island itineraries in Victoria, BC. If you’d like to start in Nanaimo or another place, just accommodate for your starting location!

Five Day Vancouver Island Itinerary (Pacific Marine Circle Route)

Highlights:  Quick access beaches, short hikes, easy-to-reach locations just off the highway.

Five days in Vancouver Island is a  perfect way to see all the highlights  on a quick Vancouver Island road trip. With a five day Vancouver Island itinerary, you will have lots of time to explore the island’s most easily accessible beaches and attractions.

Prepare either for  lots of time spent in the car , OR prioritizing a few places and saving some Vancouver Island destinations for another trip. Five days is a perfect amount of time to explore a smaller section of the island like the Pacific Marine Circle Route. This means saving the rest of the island for another trip, which isn’t a bad idea!

No matter what you choose, there are tons of beautiful places to visit on Vancouver Island and you won’t be disappointed!

• Day 1:  Victoria, BC to Port Renfrew, BC
• Day 2:  Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan, BC
• Day 3:  Lake Cowichan to Duncan, BC
• Day 4:  Duncan, BC to Victoria, BC
• Day 5:  Overnight in Victoria and spend the day exploring downtown!

Two-Week Vancouver Island Itinerary

Highlights:  More time in each destination, longer hikes, less-visited destinations.

We think two weeks is the ideal amount of time to spend on a Vancouver Island Road Trip.  During this time, you can do everything a 5-day trip would experience and MORE. You will have more time to take longer hikes and reach farther places, exploring more parts of the island!

This will give you a  deeper look into the hidden gems of Vancouver Island,  and allow you to see places not many others get to experience!

Here’s how we suggest you break down your days on a two-week Vancouver Island Road Trip:

• Day 1:  Victoria, BC to Port Renfrew (see Sooke along the way)
• Day 2:  Explore Port Renfrew (Big Lonely Doug, Avatar Grove, Botanical Beach, etc)
• Day 3:  Drive from Port Renfrew to Tofino
• Day 4:  Explore Tofino Beaches
• Day 5:  Visit Hot Springs Cove, Tofino
• Day 6:  Explore Tofino and Ucluelet (Pacific Rim National Park)
• Day 7:  Drive from Tofino to Campbell River
• Day 8: Explore Campbell River Area
• Day 9: Explore Campbell River
• Day 10: Drive to Port Hardy
• Day 11: Camp in Cape Scott Provincial Park Day 12: Drive back down to Campbell River (stop at Telegraph Cove)
• Day 13: Campbell River to Victoria, BC
• Day 14: Explore Downtown Victoria, BC and return home!

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Vancouver Island Road Trip Map (Downloadable!)

Below, you can find a map of Vancouver Island, the best spots to visit, and our favorite stops on a road trip itinerary! Save this map by clicking the top left corner to refer back to it later!

What stop are you most looking forward to on a Vancouver Island Road Trip? Any stops you would add to our Vancouver Island itinerary? Let us know in the comments below!

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