Coastal Wonders of Vancouver Island

A self-drive loop from Vancouver through the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island, combining coastal scenery, rainforest and some of Canada’s best wildlife watching, with your flights, hotels, car hire and ferries all arranged.

After a night in Vancouver, take the ferry to the Sunshine Coast for two nights, then cross to Vancouver Island and Campbell River, where a small-boat bear watching and waterfall safari is included, with lunch. Continue west to the Tofino and Ucluelet area for two nights and a whale and sea otter tour.

Finish with two nights in Victoria, including entry to Butchart Gardens, before the ferry back to the mainland and a final night in Vancouver.

Like all our trips, it’s easy to adjust: add nights where you’d like longer, choose superior or deluxe hotels, or change the route to suit you.

Is this a private trip, and can I change it?

It’s a private trip built around your dates, not a group tour on fixed departures. You drive yourself and set your own pace. The bear and whale watching trips are small-boat tours shared with other guests. You can change anything: add nights, swap places, upgrade hotels or slow the pace, and we’ll reprice it for you.

When is the best time to go?

June to September is the main season, with long days and everything open. Late September and early October bring autumn colour, especially in the east, and quieter roads.

Winter is for skiing and snowy landscapes, but some roads, lodges and tours close. Book summer trips early, as the best mountain lodges and the Rocky Mountaineer fill up months ahead.

Which airlines do you use?

We usually use Air Canada, British Airways or WestJet, which fly direct from London to Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montréal, and we can book flights from regional UK airports.

Flights out leave during the day, so you arrive the same day. Flights home are usually overnight, which is why the length of each trip includes a night on the plane.

What are the hotels like?

We choose hotels for their location and character, from city hotels to mountain lodges and small inns. Some Canadian hotels add a resort or facility fee, and city hotels often charge for parking. Where we can, we include these in your price, and we’ll tell you about any you pay locally.

Do I need a visa?

UK passport holders flying to Canada need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). It only takes a few minutes to apply online, but do it as soon as you’ve booked, and use the official Government of Canada website, as other sites charge extra. If you hold a different passport, ask us.

Vancouver

Set between the Pacific Ocean and the coastal mountains, Vancouver is a stunningly scenic city that perfectly blends urban sophistication with natural beauty. From the bustling streets of downtown and the trendy shops of Gastown to the leafy trails of Stanley Park, the city offers a wealth of experiences for every visitor.

Vancouver is also a culinary hotspot, with an international food scene that reflects its multicultural population, including fresh seafood, Asian fusion, and farm-to-table delights. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby beaches, bike along seawalls, or ski in the nearby mountains during winter. With its lively arts scene, vibrant neighbourhoods, and breathtaking surroundings, Vancouver promises a city experience like no other.

Sunshine Coast

Stretching along the Strait of Georgia, the Sunshine Coast is a hidden gem of coastal British Columbia, accessible only by ferry or floatplane. Known for its laid-back charm and artistic spirit, this region blends forested mountains, quiet beaches, and charming seaside communities.

Visitors can explore quaint towns like Gibsons and Sechelt, browse local galleries, or stroll along picturesque waterfronts. Outdoor adventures abound, from kayaking and paddleboarding to hiking forest trails and discovering secluded coves. With its friendly locals, creative energy, and stunning natural backdrop, the Sunshine Coast offers a truly relaxing West Coast escape.

Campbell River

Set along the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Campbell River is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This vibrant coastal community combines rich Indigenous culture, outdoor adventure, and spectacular ocean-to-mountain scenery.

Visitors can enjoy world-class fishing, embark on wildlife tours to see whales, bears, and eagles, or hike the scenic trails of Elk Falls Provincial Park. The waterfront offers charming shops, local eateries, and sweeping views across Discovery Passage. Blending wilderness and welcoming hospitality, Campbell River is the perfect base for exploring the wild beauty of northern Vancouver Island.

View Itinerary in Detail

To view a sample holiday, click on one of the links below. This will open the itinerary up in a new window.

All of our Canada Holidays are completely tailor made and we can put together any kind of itinerary to suit your interests and budget.

We have many other options so if you have a particular hotel in mind just let us know and we'll put together a price and itinerary for you.