Vancouver is an amazing place with a lot of tourist places to go. It doesn’t matter if you just want a day trip or an amazing weekend getaways from bustling life of city. Vancouver is most amazing city in British Columbia which includes all the different kind of tourism available for everyone. From mountains to lakes, Islands to dense Forest, beautiful Coastline to Small towns.
There are a lot of Places to go but it all depends upon one need. In this Article I’m going to share top 10 best and beautiful weekend getaways from Vancouver. Most of these trips include some travel from personal vehicle and some hiking and trails but the end result is mesmerizing. Make sure to share your experience over here and all the details you can share about these trips.
Now Coming to top Weekend Getaways from Vancouver
1. Bowen Island
Bowen Island is known for Relaxing Haven in the middle of Howe Sound. This island is best weekend getaway if you just want to relax. With amazing relaxing spots to Yoga Dome where you can get connect to your soul and feel the Nature around you. Exploring Island is all about exploring nature and the best way to do this is by rent a kayak and sail in ocean. There are alot of other things to do in Bowen Island for which you can check our article on Things to do in Bowen island.
Things to do in Bowen Island:
- Hike in Crippen Park
- Hike Mount Gardner Loop Trail
- Visit Artisan Square
- Visit Bowen Island Beaches
- Go Sea Kayaking
- Practice Yoga for Wellness
How to Reach Bowen Island?
Take the 20-minute ferry to Bowen Island from Horseshoe Bay. If you don’t have a car, you can take transit to the ferry and on the island. Transit is available easily in Vancouver with multiple Buses throughout the day.
2. Squamish
Squamish is known as the adventure capital of Canada with a lot of things to do which will not let you get bored. From Hiking mountains to Kitesurfing to Mountain Biking and lot of other adventurous things to do. No matter how many places you have visited, You’ll get blown by the views from mountains from here. Squamish is not just a place to stop and stretch the legs on the way to whistler. However, Squamish is a place with a lot of things to do and visit a lot of beautiful places.
Things to do in Squamish:
- Ride Sea to Sky Gondola
- Explore Alice Lake Provincial Park
- White water rafting
- Hike the Stawamus Chief
- Visit Shannon Falls
- Kayak in Howe Sound
- Learn Rock Climb
How to Reach Squamish?
The trip from Vancouver to Squamish, which is located along Highway 99, takes around an hour, depending on traffic and pace. The ‘Sky Highway,’ as it is known, bends along the coast. It also offers spectacular ocean and mountain vistas. Take your time and enjoy the scenery because this is one of Canada’s most picturesque roads.
3. Whistler
Whistler is known as winter paradise of Canada. But to be honest Whistler is not just a place to visit during winters. There are a lot of things to do in whistler and around the village. Whistler is vibrant town and has a lot to offer to the visitors. Whistler is four season destination and comes with a lot of things to do as per the weather.
Things to do in Whistler:
- Go for Bungee Jump
- Hike to the Train Wreck
- Go Tree Climbing
- Peak 2 peak Gondola
- Go Biking
- Try Axe Throwing
- Go River Rafting
How to Reach Whistler?
Highway 99, often known as the Sea to Sky Highway, is the only way to get to Whistler, and the vistas are breathtaking. It’s easy to get to Whistler from Vancouver. You can see Vancouver, the huge seas of Howe Sound, and vistas of Mount Garibaldi, Black Tusk, and the Tantalus Range on a clear day. If this is your first drive, take the time to stop at views, waterfalls, and culturally significant sites along the road.
4. Victoria
Victoria, The Capital of British Columbia is a small city located on the tip of Vancouver island. It’s a simple day drive from Vancouver, but frequent flights link through Vancouver, making it a great weekend location from anyplace in North America. It’s also an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of the island. It boasts a lovely harbour, interesting museums, historic buildings, a thriving food scene, and convenient access to beaches and hiking trails.
Things to do in Victoria:
- Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
- Explore the Inner Harbour
- Visit the Victoria Harbour building
- Go Whale Watching
- Visit Miniature World
- Visit Victoria Bug Zoo
- Explore Chinatown
How to Reach Victoria?
The most popular mode of transportation between Vancouver and Victoria is to take a ferry over the Strait of Georgia, which is operated by BC Ferries. One of the two ferry lines between Tsawwassen and Vancouver Island travels directly to Swartz Bay, just outside of Victoria. The other boat from Tsawwassen runs to Nanaimo, which is north of Victoria on Vancouver Island, and is called Duke Point. You’ll need to travel down to Victoria once you’ve arrived in Nanaimo.
5. Harrison Hot Springs
Harrison Hot Spring is a small resort town famous for its Geothermal Hot Springs. This place has stunning view with giant rocky mountains, Spectacular Lake with forests and hills around the long sandy beach. It is an amazing places to visit anytime of the year from Vancouver. the place offers a number of activities year round with majorly focused on water activities.
Things to do at Harrison Hot Springs:
- Harrison’s Floating Water Park
- Scenic Boat Tour
- Relax on the Beach
- Relax at the Spa
- Rent a Quadracycle
- Ride Jet Ski
- Paddle Harrison River
How to Reach Harrison Hot Springs?
The Fraser Valley village of Harrison Hot Springs is 120 kilometres east of Vancouver. The hamlet of Agassiz is 8 kilometres from Harrison Hot Springs, while Harrison Mills is 20 kilometres away. On clear days, driving is very straightforward and provides some of the greatest views.
6. Revelstoke
Revelstoke is a small town in British Columbia situated right between big mountains range. There are several outdoor activities to choose from, as well as a bustling downtown with much to do and a burgeoning restaurant and craft liquor scene. It’s small enough to see in a weekend, but there’s plenty to keep you coming back since it’s one of the finest weekend getaways from Vancouver’s hectic pace.
Things to do in Revelstoke:
- Ride the Pipe Mountain Coaster
- Go white water rafting
- Explore Lake Revelstoke
- Try Local Beer and Spirits
- Go Mountain Biking
- Visit Revelstoke Mountain Resort
- Go Paragliding
How to Reach Revelstoke?
The Coquihalla Pass on Highway 5 is the fastest route, but you may also reach Revelstoke through the Fraser Canyon on Highway 1 or the Duffy Lake Highway on Highway 99. In our view, the best way to complete the drive is to vary it up and take one route to Revelstoke and another on the way back.
7. Nanaimo
Nanaimo, on the east coast of Vancouver Island, is a picturesque city with views of the Salish Sea. The port is the city’s focal point, with seaplanes taking off and landing, boats and excursions arriving and departing, and walking trails lining the beach. Nature is a significant part of what draws people to this city, but the downtown area, with its shops, restaurants, and museums, is equally appealing.
Things to do in Nanaimo:
- Take a Whale Watching Tour
- Take a Scenic Flight along the Sunshine Coast
- Explore Neck Point Park
- Visit WildPlay Element Parks
- Explore Nanaimo Bar Trail
- Visit Newcastle Island
- Visit Pipers Lagoon Park
How to Reach Nanaimo?
With two ferry ports serving the Vancouver region, Nanaimo is your entrance to Vancouver Island. Depart Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver and arrive at Departure Bay in Nanaimo 1 hour 40 minutes later. Travel from Tsawwassen to Duke Point, 15 minutes south of Nanaimo, in approximately 2 hours.
8. Tofino
Tofino is a tourist location where visitors may enjoy nature, play in the water, and unwind at a coastal resort. The town is tiny enough that you feel like you’re going away from it all, and it’s packed with art, adventure, culture, and gastronomy – an unforgettable experience. This is a year-round attraction with a variety of activities and things to do.
Things to do in Tofino:
- Go Surfing
- Whale Watching Tour
- Kayak around Clayoquot Sound
- Take a Bear Watching Tour
- Take a Scenic Flight
- Check Views from Radar Hill
- Walk on Long Beach
How to Reach Tofino?
You must first drive from Vancouver to the Horseshoe Bay ferry port, and then drive on the 1.5-hour boat ride. After that, it’s a three-hour drive from Nanaimo, on Vancouver Island’s southern tip, to Tofino, on the island’s northern point. And if you’re sidetracked by beautiful scenery or interesting roadside attractions, your journey may take longer.
9. Powell River
Some of the greatest outdoor experiences on the Sunshine Coast can be found in Powell River. Powell River is a hidden treasure on the Sunshine Coast, located in the traditional territory of the Tla’amin Nation. Many visitors have become residents due to the fascinating local culture and numerous outdoor activities. This neighbourhood is home to world-class art galleries, fantastic restaurants, and unforgettable events and festivals.
Things to do in Powell River:
- Go kayaking
- Hike the Sunshine Coast Trail
- Explore the historic townsite
- Take trip to Savary Island
- Try the local beers
- Sunset at Second Beach
- Try Rock climbing in Eldred Valley
How to Reach Powell River?
Powell River is also accessible from Vancouver by taking a boat from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Langdale, driving from Langdale to Earls Cove on Highway 101, and then taking a ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay. On Highway 101, Powell River is located northwest of Saltery Bay.
10. Pemberton
Pemberton is a fantastic place to visit for a weekend break from Vancouver. It’s a laid-back little town surrounded by mountains with plenty of hiking and mountain riding opportunities. From late spring to early fall, sports enthusiasts flock to the town for everything from hiking, bicycling, camping, golfing, and horseback riding to rafting, jet boating, swimming, and fishing. Backcountry skiing and riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are all popular activities in the area from late fall to early spring.
Things to do in Pemberton:
- Go Paragliding
- Try Fishing For Lunch
- Horseback Riding
- Explore Nairn Falls Provincial Park
- Go Mountain Biking
- White Water Rafting
- Experience Motorcycle
How to Reach Pemberton?
Take Highway 99 north from Vancouver, through Whistler, to Pemberton, which is roughly 2.5 hours away. Check out my Sea to Sky Highway road trip guide if you’re searching for picturesque spots to stop along the way. If you don’t have a car, you may take a shuttle to Whistler and then change to public transportation to go to Pemberton.
We’re confident you’ll find one to add to your list among the over ten weekend excursions from Vancouver on our list. What is your go-to weekend destination near Vancouver? Let us know in the comments section.
