Vancouver Islands Top 7 Experiences

1. Butchart Gardens

This world-renowned botanical garden is a must-visit attraction on Vancouver Island. It features some 55 acres of floral displays, including a Japanese garden. Butchart Gardens is a perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening, taking in the sights and smells of nature. Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria. 

2. West Coast Trail

The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail and West Coast Trail are two of the most popular hiking trails on Vancouver Island. Both offer incredible coastal scenery, with rocky shorelines, secluded beaches, and lush rainforest. The West Coast Trail is a challenging multi-day trek, while the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail can be done in shorter segments.

3. Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Two incredibly popular water-based activities on Vancouver Island are stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and Ocean Kayaking. Paddbloarding is a particularly great way to explore the island’s clear freshwater canyons and rivers for all ages, where the crystal clear surface showcases a truly memorable perspective of the life below. Observe salmon and other aqua-life, and even fallen trees that have been preserved for decades by the glacier fed waterways. Kayaking is a popular activity on Vancouver Island, and for good reason. Paddling along the coastline, visitors can spot wildlife like sea otters, seals, and eagles. Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers guided tours and accommodates all ages.

4. Pacific Rim National Park

This vast national park is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island and features over 500 square kilometres of pristine wilderness. Visitors can explore rugged beaches, old-growth rainforest, and coastal wilderness. The park is also home to wildlife, including whales, sea otters, and bears.

5. Helicopter Tours

For an unforgettable aerial view of Vancouver Island, consider taking a helicopter tour. You can fly over the rugged coastline, pristine lakes, and snow-capped mountains for an aerial perspective of the island’s natural beauty.

6. Wildlife Watching

Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. From May to October, visitors can spot humpback whales, grey whales, orcas, and even rare coastal wolves in their natural habitat. Many tour operators offer whale watching tours from Victoria and Tofino, or the lodge’s Sights of the Sound tour is an inclusive signature experience.

7. Provincial Parks on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is home to several outstanding provincial parks, including Strathcona Provincial Park, Miracle Beach Provincial Park, and Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. These parks offer outdoor activities including camping, hiking, swimming, and boating.

To learn more about experiences at Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge, visit clayoquotwildernesslodge.com/experience/. To learn more about experiences on Vancouver Island, visit vancouverisland.travel