Long Weekend in Vancouver Island

Long Weekend in Vancouver Island

Anushka Maheshwari
Easily one of the most scenic trips you will ever experience! Vancouver Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty, and charming towns, so there's something for everyone to enjoy.
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Day 1: Arrival in Victoria

Arrive in Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, either by ferry from the mainland or by flight to Victoria International Airport.

Check into your accommodation and freshen up.

The Craigmyle
@anushkamaheshwari
This is a beautiful Victorian house facing the famous Craigdorrach Castle. Our stay was comfortable and the staff really provided the best service. You can also just walk out and take a tour of the castle if you like Victorian architecture and interior design.
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Things to do in Victoria

Inner Harbour Centre
@anushkamaheshwari
Explore the Inner Harbour area, where you can find many historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
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Royal BC Museum
@anushkamaheshwari
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia.
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Beacon Hill Park
@anushkamaheshwari
Take a stroll through Beacon Hill Park, a beautiful park with gardens, ponds, and walking trails.
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Victoria Food Picks

Pagliacci's
@anushkamaheshwari
Don't think about your carb intake when you are at Pagliacci's because their pasta and dessert options are too good to miss for dieting.
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Nubo Japanese Tapas
@anushkamaheshwari
Nubo is a great option for sushi lovers like me. Whether you're a seasoned sushi connoisseur or trying sushi for the first time, this place is a must-visit. The combination of outstanding food, attentive service, and waterfront view makes it a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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Red Fish Blue Fish
@anushkamaheshwari
If you are looking for amazing fish and chips, this place does not disappoint. Great food and a beautiful view, what more can we ask for?
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J & J Wonton Noodle House
@anushkamaheshwari
This place is a gem in Victoria's Chinatown. If you are looking for traditional Chinese food, you are at the right place. This place doesn't take reservations, but you can almost always get a seat, even with a bit of wait time.
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Day 2: Victoria to Tofino

Check out from your Victoria accommodation.

Victoria’s Chinatown National Historic Site
@anushkamaheshwari
Start your morning by exploring the oldest Chinatown and find the narrowest shopping alley in Canada.
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Get some lunch and drive from Victoria to Tofino (approximately 5 hours). The drive is scenic, so plan for some stops along the way.

Explore the Wild Pacific Trail, which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. You can also walk to the Lighthouse Point to enjoy the sunset.

Drive from Ucluelet to Tofino (approximately 40 minutes). The drive will take you through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, so take your time to enjoy the scenery.

Ucluelet Lighthouse Loop
@elouisa
An easy, gorgeous hike year round. Lots of ocean view lookouts, huge trees and info signs around the trail. Well defined and easy to follow- you won’t get lost! Parking isn’t an issue, and there’s some benches & public outhouses on site.
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Once in Tofino, check into your accommodation.

The Inn At Tough City
@anushkamaheshwari
A beautiful place where you can enjoy the amazing scenery from your room. It is also right in the middle of the city, so most places are only a five-minute drive from you.
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Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in Tofino, many of which offer fresh and delicious seafood.

Day 3: Tofino

Explore the town of Tofino, known for its surf culture and beautiful beaches.

Visit Chesterman Beach or Cox Bay Beach for some relaxing time on the sandy shores.

Consider taking a whale-watching tour or a bear-watching excursion to see the local wildlife.

Tofino Food Picks

SoBo Restaurant
@anushkamaheshwari
This women-led restaurant is must visit when you are in Tofino. Their food is curated with farm-fresh seasonal produce, which makes it so so delicious. Don't forget to check their timings though, since they close at 5 pm most weekdays.
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The Schooner Restaurant
@anushkamaheshwari
The Schooner is the local's favorite. They have been serving some of the best seafood options in Tofino since 1949. I would definitely recommend giving it a go for your dinner in Tofino.
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Chocolate Tofino
@anushkamaheshwari
Whether you like your dessert before or after your meal, you can find something here to satisfy your sweet cravings. From a large collection of homemade chocolates and gelato, there is something for everyone to try.
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Day 4: Tofino and Departure

Consider starting the day with a visit to the famous Hot Springs Cove. You can take a boat tour from Tofino to the hot springs, where you can relax in natural hot pools surrounded by lush rainforests.

Explore the nearby Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Take a hike on one of the beautiful trails, such as the Rainforest Trail or the South Beach Trail.

Rainforest Trail
@anushkamaheshwari
One of the bests, indeed! Highly suggest this trail for experiencing the energy and peace nature can provide.
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After lunch, head back to Victoria (approximately 4 hours) for your departure. Alternatively, if you have more time, you can choose to spend an additional night in Tofino and explore more of the area.

If you have more days and want a longer trip, consider traveling to Calgary from Victoria and exploring the majestic mountains. Here's an itinerary to help you plan your trip to the Northern Rockies. 

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