7 Great Summer Weekend Vacation Ideas in British Columbia

Summer has arrived and, most likely, so has your need for a vacation.

You may be eager to get outside and experience somewhere peaceful, somewhere exciting, or simply somewhere new. Whether you’re from the Greater Vancouver Area or new/visiting, here are 7 adventurous day trip and weekend trips to guide you on a fun and affordable getaway this summer – guaranteed.

1. Victoria

Take the ferry to BC’s charming capital. Here you’ll find a pleasant dose of Canadian history, a beautiful harbourside, delicious food, hiking trails and parks everywhere – along with friendly locals, and Canada’s oldest and most eccentric Chinatown district.

Explore the Butchart Gardens, go for tea at The Empress, walk along the harbourside, take a stroll through Beacon Hill Park, visit Chinatown, and definitely visit the legislative assembly – there is much to do here! You can even get a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the streets.

If you’re a foodie, be sure to try out Pagliacci’s and 10 Acres Bistro. Looking for the best coffee? It could arguably be at the ever-wonderful Union Pacific Coffee.

2. Whistler

If you haven’t been, you may have already heard how beautiful this town is. Here you can experience the ultimate spa, trails for hiking and mountain biking, camping, and everything for the adrenaline-seeker.

Go exploring the village, horseback riding, bungee jumping, ziplining, visit the lakes and beaches, or take a ride on the peak to peak gondola – you’ll get a stunning view of the mountain peaks, glaciers, forests, and Whistler village. Also, head to Zog’s Dogs – they’re known for the best poutine!

3. Experience BC’s incredible wines

Head to the beautiful Okanagan valley for a relaxing and adventurous wine tour. You can take self-guided or guided tours to explore the wineries in this region – there are over 200 of them in this area!

4. Experience the Sunshine Coast

By heading just northwest of the Greater Vancouver area you will reach this gorgeous, scenic destination known as one of the best kept secrets in British Columbia. Walk along the pier at Roberts Creek, visit Bonniebrook beach, kayak to Mitlenatch Island, take a hike up Valentine mountain... This place is well-suited for those who love a wide range of outdoor activities.

5. Visit Tofino

There is one key reason why many people love Tofino: surfing! That and how it boasts beautiful sandy beaches. You can take surfing lessons at one of the surf schools – during the summertime, the waves tend to be at their best for beginners. Even if you’re not into surfing, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and scenery at this district on Vancouver Island.

6. Spent a day or afternoon on Granville Island

This little island is fun for the entire family – there is a free waterpark for kids, a kid’s market, a pet supply shop, art shops, a craft beer brewery, and a market filled with culinary chef favourites and work by local artists. Drive, bus, or walk along the seawall to reach this little island. Grab gelato and sit outside while watching sailboats float by. No matter what your personal passion is, chances are there will be something unique and captivating for you on Granville Island.

7. Vancouver Beaches

If you’re looking for something quick and easy, head to one of the many beaches nearby. Ambleside Park, Kitsilano Beach, Deep Cove, Jericho Beach, Spanish Banks, Wreck Beach, and many more. Regardless of your destination this summer, be sure to give yourself a little vacation.

If you’re running low on vacation supplies, get all the necessities for less here.

Find even more for less with our current flyer, or by browsing our new arrivals.

Sources

Image by ClickFlashPhotos / Nicki Varkevisser via Flickr; used under Creative Commons 2.0

http://boredinvancouver.com/listing/10-best-weekend-trips-from-vancouver/

https://www.whistler.com/activities/peak-to-peak-gondola/

https://www.hellobc.com/british-columbia/things-to-do/food-wine-and-relaxation/wineries-wine-tours.aspx

http://travelwritingpro.com/top-10-mustdo-sunshine-coast-british-columbia/

http://www.canadiantraveller.com/50_Awesome_Things_to_do_on_the_Sunshine_Coast

http://www.tofino-info.com/top-10-things-to-do-in-tofino/

http://granvilleisland.com/