B.C. dominates list naming most beautiful places in Canada

British Columbia is known around the world for some truly spectacular landscapes, and several destinations in the province were just named among the most beautiful places in Canada.

New York-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure released its roundup of the 25 most beautiful destinations in the country, and naturally, B.C. found itself dominating the list.

Seven B.C. spots were named to the prestigious list, more than double the number of Newfoundland & Labrador, which had three destinations honoured.

Joffre Lakes Park

Coming in at #2 on the list, the publication described Joffre Lakes Park as “a sight to behold,” featuring “ice-capped peaks and turquoise-hued lakes.” Hiking, skiing and snowshoeing were highlighted as must-do activities in the park.

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Clayoquot Sound

Clayoquot Sound is close behind at #3, with outdoor activities and wildlife-spotting opportunities being the reasons it’s high on the Travel + Leisure list. Orcas, grey whales, sea otters, seals, and black bears are just a few of the animals you can expect to see during your next visit.

Golden

Mountain scenery propelled Golden, B.C., to #6 on the list, as did its proximity to other destinations such as Banff, Jasper, and Mt. Revelstoke National Park. Those craving a little more excitement can also check out an alpine coaster, zip line, and other thrilling outdoor activities in the area.

Tofino

Landing at #8 is Tofino and its outdoor paradise for hiking, kayaking, paddleboarding and, of course, surfing.

“You’ll also find several stunning stretches of sand, including the nearly 10-mile-long Long Beach,” wrote Travel + Leisure. “Part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this wide sandy beach is nothing short of show-stopping—if you’re lucky, you may even spot grey whales from the shore.”

Cheakamus Lake

The stunning Cheakamus Lake in Garibaldi Park placed #14, with amazing views any time of year. According to Travel + Leisure, the glacier-fed lake can best be seen in the warmer months by hiking High Note Trail, while in the winter, you can scope the scenery from the top of Whistler’s Symphony chairlift.

Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii’s wildlife paradise is home to whales, black bears, eagles, deer, sea otters, seals, and more. Those who enjoy the outdoor lifestyle will agree that it deserves a spot on the list of most beautiful places in Canada, coming in at #16.

Victoria

“There’s so much to love about British Columbia’s capital city,” gushed Travel + Leisure about Victoria, which scored the 21st spot. The city’s Inner Harbour, with its stunning waterfront views, and the nearby Butchart Gardens, featuring over 900 varieties of flora, were highlighted as reasons why Victoria made the list.

While we are on the topic of being touted as some of the best, the province is no stranger to the spotlight. Just last month, three picturesque B.C. destinations were crowned among the best places to visit in Canada.

A hidden spot on Vancouver Island was also recently voted one of the best beaches in North America for 2025. And a pristine B.C. destination was dubbed one of the best quiet places on Earth this spring.

You can check out the full list of the most beautiful places in Canada online.

With files from Laine Mitchell