Vancouver Island Adventures
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for Vancouver Island, British Columbia.
Best characterized by its vast and diverse ecosystem, Vancouver Island is a destination of unmatched beauty. Located off the mainland of British Columbia, the island's impressive physical landscapes include expansive coastlines, lush rainforests, mountains, fertile valleys, towering, ancient forests, lakes and rivers. Boundless tours and activities to match the limitless settings are available to island visitors year round, ranging from leisurely sightseeing tours and intimate encounters with nature to high-adrenaline zip lining and bungee jumping adventures and intriguing cultural experiences.
AIR & LAND ACTIVITIES
Recreational opportunities on land and in the air are abundant on Vancouver Island; world-class golfing, cycling, horseback adventures, caving tours and rock climbing is just a small sample of what's available to visitors. Due to its varied landscapes, the island is a top destination for hikers of all abilities. Hiking enthusiasts will delight in the range of trails, which include coastline hikes, alpine trail systems and remote, multi-day expeditions.
Providing a bird's-eye view of rugged coastlines, forests, mountain ranges and island-dotted inlets, airplane tours are a unique way to explore the island. Available from departure points at essentially every corner of the island, these tours, offered via traditional seaplane, Cessna aircraft or helicopter, can vary from one- to multiple-hour trips and can provide access to some of the region's most remote areas. Adventurers can take to the skies in a more intimate and adrenaline-filled way by partaking in a tandem hang-gliding trip or through instruction in parasailing, available in Duncan and Victoria, respectively.
WATER ADVENTURES
Bordered by the majestic Pacific Ocean to the west, the Strait of Georgia to the east and intersected by a vast system of freshwater rivers and lakes, it is no surprise that water activities are a top visitor attraction on Vancouver Island. Ocean and river sport fishing, guided boat tours, canoe trips and kayaking excursions are available across the island and cater to all ages and skill levels. The Pacific Rim region is a particularly popular destination for water sports. Ocean surfing instruction is available here in coastal hotspots like Ucluelet and Tofino.
Underwater adventures are made a reality at dive sites off the island's shores. Tour experiences include sub-marine exploration of shipwrecks, fascinating natural and artificial reefs and marine diversity. Brentwood Bay offers opportunities to uncover ancient glass sponge gardens, which inhabit massive undersea mountains and are abundant with colourful sea life. In the remote northern region, Port Hardy is a definite haven for divers and offers one of the best diving sites in the province. Excursions in God's Pocket Marine Park provide long-range underwater visibility and opportunities to view anemones, sponges and the famed Pacific octopus.
Marine observation continues on the surface of the water, where interpreted whale-watching trips escort visitors to orca, minke whale, grey whale, dolphin and sea lion habitats. Excursions via converted fishing boats, high-speed zodiacs or self-navigated kayaks are available during the May-to-October migratory season. Guided hot spring tours to the natural thermal pools at Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Marine Park are provided year round by the Whale Centre, which offers a six-hour tour combining whale watching and hot spring exploration.
CULTURAL EXPLORATION
A strong First Nations cultural and historical legacy is evident throughout the island, whether through art, cultural performances, culinary experiences or guided tours of centuries-old hunting and trekking routes. First Nations history and culture is easily accessible through an array of adventure centres and tours around the island, including Tla-ook Cultural Adventures in Tofino, where visitors can partake in interpreted hiking expeditions and navigate ocean waters aboard a traditional, hand-carved dug-out canoe. Duncan, home to the Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre, is renowned as the city of totems and boasts an impressive collection of 40 iconic, monumental hand-carved sculptures. Vibrant artistic communities are scattered across the island and provide a glimpse into the unique, creative vibe of the region. Hands-on and intimate art experiences are available island-wide through artisan tours or artist-run photography and painting excursions.
WINTER FUN
The island's unique winter climate allows visitors to experience two distinct seasons in one day; mild temperatures at lower elevations allow for year-round golf, scuba diving and sailing while wintery conditions on mountaintops provide ideal alpine sport opportunities. The popular Mt. Washington and Mt. Cain ski resorts and recreational areas are characterized by deep powder, awe-inspiring panoramic vistas, professional terrain parks and an extensive operating season, which typically runs from mid-December to April. At both hills, downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and snowshoeing are the activities of choice. Nordic skiers will delight in the facilities available at Strathcona Provincial Park, located in the central part of the island west of Courtenay, where the extensive cross-country trail system served as training grounds for athletes competing in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
LEISURE & RELAXATION
Those seeking a more subdued and relaxed holiday will delight in the low-key activities available on the island. The decidedly laid-back tone of the region lends itself to leisure, pampering and wellness, evident in the numerous yoga studios and retreats found in urban centres and quaint villages. A mild climate and extended growing season results in a diverse and varied plant life, best exemplified in the island's south, where impressively manicured gardens are sure to amaze. Interpreted garden tours, available year round in Victoria, offer a true feast for the senses. The lush, fertile lands and mild climates of the southern region have also spawned a sustainable food culture that draws visitors for its earth-friendly practices, artisan-style production and authentic gastronomic experiences, accessible through guided culinary, farm and vineyard tours. A leisurely and romantic horse-drawn carriage ride is a novel and relaxing method of exploring, with tours available year round in Sidney, Chemainus and Victoria. A day of touring or recreational activity is made complete with a relaxing visit to a full-service spa, where soul-soothing treatments and therapies promote wellness and complement any island journey.
AIR & LAND ACTIVITIES
Recreational opportunities on land and in the air are abundant on Vancouver Island; world-class golfing, cycling, horseback adventures, caving tours and rock climbing is just a small sample of what's available to visitors. Due to its varied landscapes, the island is a top destination for hikers of all abilities. Hiking enthusiasts will delight in the range of trails, which include coastline hikes, alpine trail systems and remote, multi-day expeditions.
Providing a bird's-eye view of rugged coastlines, forests, mountain ranges and island-dotted inlets, airplane tours are a unique way to explore the island. Available from departure points at essentially every corner of the island, these tours, offered via traditional seaplane, Cessna aircraft or helicopter, can vary from one- to multiple-hour trips and can provide access to some of the region's most remote areas. Adventurers can take to the skies in a more intimate and adrenaline-filled way by partaking in a tandem hang-gliding trip or through instruction in parasailing, available in Duncan and Victoria, respectively.
WATER ADVENTURES
Bordered by the majestic Pacific Ocean to the west, the Strait of Georgia to the east and intersected by a vast system of freshwater rivers and lakes, it is no surprise that water activities are a top visitor attraction on Vancouver Island. Ocean and river sport fishing, guided boat tours, canoe trips and kayaking excursions are available across the island and cater to all ages and skill levels. The Pacific Rim region is a particularly popular destination for water sports. Ocean surfing instruction is available here in coastal hotspots like Ucluelet and Tofino.
Underwater adventures are made a reality at dive sites off the island's shores. Tour experiences include sub-marine exploration of shipwrecks, fascinating natural and artificial reefs and marine diversity. Brentwood Bay offers opportunities to uncover ancient glass sponge gardens, which inhabit massive undersea mountains and are abundant with colourful sea life. In the remote northern region, Port Hardy is a definite haven for divers and offers one of the best diving sites in the province. Excursions in God's Pocket Marine Park provide long-range underwater visibility and opportunities to view anemones, sponges and the famed Pacific octopus.
Marine observation continues on the surface of the water, where interpreted whale-watching trips escort visitors to orca, minke whale, grey whale, dolphin and sea lion habitats. Excursions via converted fishing boats, high-speed zodiacs or self-navigated kayaks are available during the May-to-October migratory season. Guided hot spring tours to the natural thermal pools at Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Marine Park are provided year round by the Whale Centre, which offers a six-hour tour combining whale watching and hot spring exploration.
CULTURAL EXPLORATION
A strong First Nations cultural and historical legacy is evident throughout the island, whether through art, cultural performances, culinary experiences or guided tours of centuries-old hunting and trekking routes. First Nations history and culture is easily accessible through an array of adventure centres and tours around the island, including Tla-ook Cultural Adventures in Tofino, where visitors can partake in interpreted hiking expeditions and navigate ocean waters aboard a traditional, hand-carved dug-out canoe. Duncan, home to the Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre, is renowned as the city of totems and boasts an impressive collection of 40 iconic, monumental hand-carved sculptures. Vibrant artistic communities are scattered across the island and provide a glimpse into the unique, creative vibe of the region. Hands-on and intimate art experiences are available island-wide through artisan tours or artist-run photography and painting excursions.
WINTER FUN
The island's unique winter climate allows visitors to experience two distinct seasons in one day; mild temperatures at lower elevations allow for year-round golf, scuba diving and sailing while wintery conditions on mountaintops provide ideal alpine sport opportunities. The popular Mt. Washington and Mt. Cain ski resorts and recreational areas are characterized by deep powder, awe-inspiring panoramic vistas, professional terrain parks and an extensive operating season, which typically runs from mid-December to April. At both hills, downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and snowshoeing are the activities of choice. Nordic skiers will delight in the facilities available at Strathcona Provincial Park, located in the central part of the island west of Courtenay, where the extensive cross-country trail system served as training grounds for athletes competing in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
LEISURE & RELAXATION
Those seeking a more subdued and relaxed holiday will delight in the low-key activities available on the island. The decidedly laid-back tone of the region lends itself to leisure, pampering and wellness, evident in the numerous yoga studios and retreats found in urban centres and quaint villages. A mild climate and extended growing season results in a diverse and varied plant life, best exemplified in the island's south, where impressively manicured gardens are sure to amaze. Interpreted garden tours, available year round in Victoria, offer a true feast for the senses. The lush, fertile lands and mild climates of the southern region have also spawned a sustainable food culture that draws visitors for its earth-friendly practices, artisan-style production and authentic gastronomic experiences, accessible through guided culinary, farm and vineyard tours. A leisurely and romantic horse-drawn carriage ride is a novel and relaxing method of exploring, with tours available year round in Sidney, Chemainus and Victoria. A day of touring or recreational activity is made complete with a relaxing visit to a full-service spa, where soul-soothing treatments and therapies promote wellness and complement any island journey.
Wildlife Tours
Air Charters
Atleo River Air Service
Seaplane Vacations and Charters - Scenic flights and Vancouver Island air taxi!
Fishing Tours
Fishing Charters
Slivers Charters Salmon Sport Fishing
Offering salmon and halibut fishing charters from Port Alberni, BC!
Victoria Sightseeing
