Vancouver Island is the place to be during the summer.
Tourists from all over the world descend on us with their sunscreen noses, floppy hats, and Crocs. But fear not, it’s never too late!
Here are eight things we think you should book now.
Hot tub boat
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This fun excursion in Victoria’s Inner Harbour gives you full control of a wood-fired hot tub boat. Take it down the beautiful Gorge waterway with your friends or a date. You can order a charcuterie board, grab some Epsom salts, or simply enjoy the hot tub while jamming to your favourite tunes. Book it now!
Camping
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There are so many amazing camping spots around Vancouver Island: the Gulf Islands, Bamfield, San Josef Bay, and Port Renfrew all have amazing campgrounds you can book now. You could also check out a “first-come first-served” campground, such as Pacheedaht Campground near Port Renfrew.
Tofino escape
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The 40-kilometre stretch from Ucluelet to Tofino is full of white sand beaches, towering old-growth rainforests, fine dining, whale watching, microbreweries, and hiking, making it one of the most popular spots for a summer vacation in Canada (and the world). There are campgrounds, resorts, and short-term rentals scattered throughout Tofino, but if you don’t plan ahead, you might be out of luck.
Tigh-Na-Mara-Resort Spa
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With a new $2.5 million renovation, Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, which was awarded the #1 spa in Canada by Spas of America, has gotten even better, so you know it’s good. With a two-storey waterfall and warm water mineral pool fashioned to look like an actual grotto, you can relax at this amazing spa resort between day trips around central Vancouver Island. Check it out.
Naturally Pacific Resort
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Naturally Pacific Resort is a brand-new option in Campbell River. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Strathcona Provincial Park and Cortes and Quadra Islands, making it a perfect home base to explore the area. You can book fishing trips, bear or whale-watching tours, or hit the links at the on-site golf course. Book it now.
HAVN Saunas
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Housed in an old World War II barge within Victoria’s stunning Inner Harbour, HAVN is one of the newest spas on this list and is not to be missed. With a combination of hot and cold pools scattered among a variety of saunas — socializing saunas, mineral saunas, and quiet saunas — HAVN has quickly become a tourist destination. Surrounded by panoramic views of downtown Victoria and James Bay, this is a perfect escape within the city, so make sure you get your spot.
Laketown Shakedown and Sunfest
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Alternative music festival Laketown Shakedown and country music festival Sunfest take place at the same venue on the beautiful Laketown Ranch near Cowichan Lake in the summer. Gwen Stefani is one of the headliners at Laketown Shakedown, which takes place from June 28 to 30, during the Canada Day long weekend, and Sunfest will have Keith Urban headlining the first weekend of August. Get your tickets for Sunfest here, and Laketown Shakedown here.
Whale watching
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Peak season to see whales on Vancouver Island is from May through October. There’s a 95% chance of spotting whales in Victoria, particularly resident orcas, humpback whales, and transient orcas. It’s one of the (if not the most) touristy things you can do in Victoria. But that’s not a bad thing — it’s an absolute dream experience. So, book it now!
Is there anything else we should add to this list? Let us know in the comments.