advertise

Family Sightseeing Adventures on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island offers a rich tapestry of sights and experiences ideal for families exploring together. From nature walks in ancient forests to hands-on museums and scenic train rides, there's a wide range of activities that combine fun, education, and memorable adventures suitable for all ages.

Exploring Botanical Wonders

Families can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of local botanical gardens, where children can engage with nature through sensory gardens and interactive plant displays. Seasonal events often include scavenger hunts and educational workshops that teach kids about plant life cycles and local flora. Gardens like Butchart Gardens exemplify this with their year-round displays and family-oriented activities.

Stotan Falls

Stotan Falls

It is a grace finding a waterfall along a river. The Puntledge River makes Stotan Falls a beautiful pond waterfall with a wide area. The waterfall sound melodious by the water pouring smoothly on the large rocks on its way that you can enjoy for hours. Swimming in summer would be delightful while you are in hot water where the green forest surrounds you.

French Beach

French Beach

Time does not move on the beach, but your mood does with currents. French Beach is a rocky beach in French Beach Provincial Park, which has a wide swath of green lawn at the backside and the blue ocean in front. Relax and enjoy having a picnic with your family or take a dip in the water. You can have a view of Olympic Mountain if the weather is not foggy.

Fishy Hole Cave

Fishy Hole Cave

Discover Fishy Hole Cave on Vancouver Island, a lesser-known but captivating destination for adventure travellers and eco-tourists alike. Nestled in the rugged wilderness of Vancouver Island, this cave offers an authentic Canadian cave adventure that combines unique geological formations, outdoor exploration, and opportunities for sustainable tourism. Whether you're an experienced caver or a curious explorer, Fishy Hole Cave is an unmissable stop on your BC cave exploration journey.

Cowichan Lake

Cowichan Lake

Let's explore the second-largest lake on Vancouver Island. Cowichan Lake is the major recreational place in the Cowichan region and famous for paddling. It has some of the best hiking trails, several campsites, and chances for water-based activities. Get ready for this new experience, and we will strive to assist you in making your visit the best it can be.

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Walking from the ferry terminal to downtown Nanaimo, you can find a beautiful small garden, Chinese Memorial Gardens Park. A small public park with full-grown shrubs and trees and gracious lawns performs as a relaxing spot. The painted, formed pagoda structure and carved stones decorated it. The scenery is eye-catching and is mainly used for the background of family portraits.

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

Myra Falls (Lower Myra Falls)

In the south end of Buttle Lake at Strathcona Provincial Park, you can find Myra Falls (or Lower Myra Falls), a Jewel of natural wonders. This seven-drop waterfall is beautiful all year round, and it feels like you're in a land of fantasy. The tremendous view of the place and shades of green and blue of the pool under the falls make a great scene perfect for photography.

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park

Strathcona Provincial Park is a large mountainous natural park and the oldest provincial park in British Columbia. Excellent hiking trails, coastal areas, lakes, creeks, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and wildlife made this park a perfect destination for adventurous travellers. Summers are usually pleasantly warm, and winters are almost mild except for the higher levels. So, it is a great place to recharge.

Fry Lake Cave

Fry Lake Cave

Discover Fry Lake Cave, a hidden gem on Vancouver Island that exemplifies BC cave exploration and sustainable eco-tourism. This comprehensive guide provides a scientific look at its geological features, cultural heritage, and practical visitor tips. Whether you’re an experienced cave diver, an outdoor adventurer, or a nature conservation enthusiast, Fry Lake Cave offers a challenging yet rewarding Canadian cave adventure steeped in Indigenous heritage and sustainable travel principles.

Quennell Lake

Quennell Lake

Situated between ecological reserves and parks in a peaceful area, Quennell Lake is a unique destination on south Vancouver Island, particularly for fishing lovers. It is among the top ten locations in Canada for Bass fishing. As the lake is quiet and beautiful, paddling an entire day would be great, or you can have exploration as a family or do a little exercise.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a national park famous for its old-growth rainforest, spectacular coastal scenery and long sandy beaches. Hiking through the lush temperate forests, walking along the expansive soft-sand beaches, kayaking among small islands and hidden bays, discovering wildlife and whales, and surfing the Pacific Ocean waves are the best things to do in the park.

Interactive Museum Visits

Visit interactive museums where history and science come alive. These places often feature child-friendly exhibits that encourage hands-on learning and participation. From natural history museums with dinosaur exhibits to maritime museums with pirate ships to explore, each visit can be a new adventure that sparks curiosity and a love of learning.

Quennell Lake

Quennell Lake

Situated between ecological reserves and parks in a peaceful area, Quennell Lake is a unique destination on south Vancouver Island, particularly for fishing lovers. It is among the top ten locations in Canada for Bass fishing. As the lake is quiet and beautiful, paddling an entire day would be great, or you can have exploration as a family or do a little exercise.

Mount Elliot Ecological Reserve

Mount Elliot Ecological Reserve

Located north of Woss, Mount Elliot Ecological Reserve has about 324 hectares (800 acres) area. It was established in 1989 to preserve representative old-growth montane forests and a small self-contained subalpine drainage, including Tsitika Lake, in its natural state. Nature observation, hiking and photography are permitted in Mount Elliot Ecological Reserve.

Beach Estates Park

Beach Estates Park

If you plan to be away from urban life and spend hours in the woods watching wildlife and get relaxed, take a visit to Beach Estates Park, west of Departure Bay. With a beautiful designated hiking trail, Beach Estates Park is interesting for hikers and runners. The park's nature includes a lush forest with magnificent tall trees, a small river, a rocky beach, and Beach Estates Falls.

The Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum

Located in Victoria, the Royal BC Museum is one of Canada's most significant cultural and historical treasures. It showcases natural wonders and includes artifacts, documents, specimens, and everything slightly relevant to British Columbia's natural and human history. The museum also provides a dynamic forum and a safe space for discussion and reflection.

Cowichan Lake

Cowichan Lake

Let's explore the second-largest lake on Vancouver Island. Cowichan Lake is the major recreational place in the Cowichan region and famous for paddling. It has some of the best hiking trails, several campsites, and chances for water-based activities. Get ready for this new experience, and we will strive to assist you in making your visit the best it can be.

China Beach

China Beach

Being at China Beach could be a memorable experience. The beach is a mixture of sand, pebbles, and grit, with access to the Juan de Fuca Trail. China Beach is suitable for watching whales, seals, dolphins, and even storms. With perfect waves, you would have an unforgettable adventure surfing there. If you desire to get the most out of the beach, stay at China Beach Campground.

Gowlland Range

Gowlland Range

The Gowlland Range is a small and low mountain range. It has spectacular views and varieties of animals such as blacktail deer, cougar, river otter, raccoons, black bear and birds as hawks, eagle, grouse, and owl. Mountaineers would experience fantastic climbing and hiking trails passing through a beautiful forest ornamented with plentiful, stunning wildlife.

Disappearing River Cave in Vancouver Island

Disappearing River Cave in Vancouver Island

Deep within the rugged landscapes of Vancouver Island lies the intriguing Disappearing River Cave—a natural wonder that beckons adventure travelers, eco-tourists, and families alike. This unique cave system, where a river mysteriously vanishes underground, offers an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s dynamic geology and rich Indigenous heritage. Whether you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure or a family-friendly day out, the Disappearing River Cave is an experience that marries natural beauty with cultural significance.

Cape Beale Lighthouse

Cape Beale Lighthouse

The first lighthouse established in BC by the Canadian government is the original Cape Beale Lighthouse. It was constructed on the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Rim. The whole complex consists of the keeper's house and the lantern tower. Visitors can access this station by the hiking trail. The lantern tower is not open to the public, but you can enjoy the surroundings and the panoramic views.

Little Huson Cave Regional Park

Little Huson Cave Regional Park

Little Huson Cave Regional Park is a complete package located in Nimpkish Valley. You can explore 15 caves, have water activities in Nimpkish Lake and enjoy your time at the park or even mountain ranges in the area. The scenery features unique rock bridges and rock arches, flowing water, natural bridges and deep pools filled with crystal-clear green water from Huson Lake.

Nature Trails and Forest Walks

Take a family hike through lush rainforests like Cathedral Grove, where you can teach your kids about ancient ecosystems. These trails are often designed with families in mind, featuring educational signs that explain the ecological importance of the rainforest and its inhabitants. It's a perfect way to combine physical activity with environmental education.

Victoria Storm Watching

Victoria Storm Watching

If you happen to visit Victoria during fall and winter, do not hesitate to go storm-watching. It is a perfect place for brave souls seeking some exciting moments, watching the high waves making up in the distance, rolling into the coast, crashing against the rocks while rain's whipping. Protecting this natural phenomenon of nature is one of the most popular recreations at Victoria and exposed west beaches of Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo Diving

Nanaimo Diving

Ranked as the best cold-water diving destination in BC, Nanaimo waters are saturated with new diving experiences. BC Ferries, dive shops, accessible shores, and the chance to observe cute beaches have made Nanaimo an ideal destination for visitors. Diving enthusiasts find themselves in the heavens when they come to Nanaimo, for it is home to spotless diving spots.

Wild Pacific Trail Storm Watching

Wild Pacific Trail Storm Watching

While hiking Wild Pacific, you are given a chance to enjoy a fantastic storm watching. With hurricane-force winds, both trails of Wild Pacific offer an excellent opportunity to watch storms. Not to mention that overlooking views are provided throughout the hike, which doubles the joy of walking on this long stunning trail.

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

Mount Adrian Snowmobiling

As one of the highest points of Vancouver Island, Mount Adrian offers great snowmobiling, among other winter activities. It has two summits that feature Strathcona Provincial Park in every direction—looking for a place to have winter excitement? Nowhere is better than Mount Adrian.

The Hike to Trent Falls

The Hike to Trent Falls

A relatively short and easy trail in the Comox Valley area is the hike to Trent Falls. Stay on track because its wild nature has much to offer. Hiking along the Trent River with its perfect swimming and fishing opportunities and watching the waterfall with a deep pool under and the wildlife around it brings you joy, especially if you are with the family.

Mount Washington Skiing

Mount Washington Skiing

As one of the biggest and most visited ski resorts in Comox Valley, The Mount Washington resort is a summer-winter destination primed with several facilities to serve skiing followers. The high rate of snowfall and spectacular views of the ocean, and ample facilities for winter activities multiply the attractiveness of Mount Washington.

Kayaking Denman and Hornby Islands

Kayaking Denman and Hornby Islands

Ready to paddle through paradise? Denman and Hornby Islands, nestled in British Columbia’s Gulf Islands, are kayaking hotspots bursting with natural beauty and artistic vibes. From white sand beaches and old-growth forests to wildlife like eagles and seals, these islands offer unforgettable adventures for novice and seasoned paddlers alike. Whether you’re exploring Sandy Island’s bird-filled shores or gliding past Tribune Bay’s warm waters, this guide has everything you need to plan your kayaking trip. Read on for detailed routes, launch sites, camping options, and insider tips to make your visit to Denman and Hornby Islands a splash!

Tyee Cove Diving

Tyee Cove Diving

Just a short distance from downtown Nanaimo, you will find fantastic diving opportunities available all year round in Tyee Cove. You can choose the depth you are willing to dive in based on your proficiency level; plus, you are given a chance to explore the marine life inhabiting this diving zone.

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

Nanaimo Kayaking and Canoeing

If you are trying to get away from your lethal daily routine and your adventure flow has been stopped, why don't you plan a trip to the only multi-functional port city on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo? An assemblage of several distinguished bodies of water has made Nanaimo one of the best paddling locations in the world. You are provided with tons of other activities on both land and the sea.

Camping in Little Qualicum Falls Campground

Camping in Little Qualicum Falls Campground

The resemblance of Little Qualicum Falls Campground to paradise is something uncanny. One of the most beautiful parks with a spectacular Vancouver Island environment has a lot to offer campers worldwide. Great campsites enclosed by stunning scenery comprising ample facilities for the visitors. Not to mention that there is saturated with opportunities for adventure that no one can ignore.

Scenic Train Trestle Adventures

Enjoy the nostalgic charm of a scenic train trestle landscapes such as the Kinsol Trestle near Shawnigan Lake. These historic places can be educational and entertaining, often themed around local history. It’s a relaxed way for families to see the countryside while learning about the region's cultural and natural heritage.

Camping in Quatse River Campground

Camping in Quatse River Campground

Nestled in old-growth forests, Quatse River Campground offers peaceful camping next to the bank of Quatse River. This campground provides you with privacy and peace away from the busy urban life comprising a green and treed atmosphere. Also, admirers of nature can enjoy a diversity of flora and fauna while drowning in other adventures.

Victoria Whale Watching

Victoria Whale Watching

Almost 70% of whale-watching adventures take place in the BC capital. So, while you are in Victoria, try to make the most out of your freedom from work and check our incredible whale watching tours provided for you there. A trip to Race Rocks Ecological Reserve may also be available for the admirers of nature.

Cattle Point Storm Watching

Cattle Point Storm Watching

Cattle Point is a part of Uplands Park in Victoria, runs along the coastline of Oak Bay. During falls and winters, especially November through March, the Cattle Point Storm Watching is an exhilarating experience. Watch storms smashing from spectacular vantage points as dark clouds blanket the sky, rains whipping, gusts of winds making barreling high waves.

Mount Cain Snowshoeing

Mount Cain Snowshoeing

Mount Cain ski resort is a suitable place for snowshoeing and a renowned destination for snowshoeing followers. Take the risk of exploring a non-patrolled wilderness area and enjoy the spectacular surroundings and natural habitat. Mount Cain has the highest base elevation of any coastal ski resort in British Columbia, Alaska, and Washington.

Alcala Point in Porlier Pass Diving

Alcala Point in Porlier Pass Diving

Looking for a daring diving experience? Hop on and drive to Alcala Point in Porlier Pass diving site. There is a fantastic diving place where you may need a diving guide during winter due to enormous waves. Also, plenty of marine life is living there, so employing safety is mandatory.

Sidney Kayaking

Sidney Kayaking

Views of Olympic and Cascade Mountain ranges, besides appealing sea excursions, make Sidney a paradise for tourists and suitable for kayaking. Sidney's moderate Mediterranean climate with relatively low rainfall is the reason behind its popularity among paddling enthusiasts. Also, recreational sites around Sidney have made it an ideal place to make beautiful memories while exploring the incredible opportunities provided for you.

Nitinat Triangle Kayaking and Canoeing

Nitinat Triangle Kayaking and Canoeing

Nitinat Triangle provides an excellent opportunity for those fearless paddlers that lets them set their adventure-thirsty souls on fire. Schedule your trip to Nitinat Triangle when you have 4 or 5 days free. The triangle features campsite facilities and magnetic vies of the land.

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Camping in Bradsdadsland Campsite

Spacious, unique, private, and complete facility sites are provided in Bradsdadsland Campsite for visitors to have a perfect time camping on Hornby Island. Embrace this fantastic opportunity for adventure while you are in one of the gems of Hornby Island. You would feel peaceful while camping in the beautiful Bradsdadsland, away from your daily boring daily routine. While watching sunsets, enjoy the ocean view ahead of you.

Camping in Helen Mackenzie Lake Campground

Camping in Helen Mackenzie Lake Campground

When you do not expect it at all, endless excitement on Helen Mackenzie Lake will strike you. There, campers would experience backcountry camping, and all the amenities and convenient facilities that enthusiasts may need are provided. You will be fascinated by breathtaking views and various flora and fauna. It has trails through beautiful meadows by the crystal water while the mountain is spreading upfront.

Telegraph Cove Kayaking

Telegraph Cove Kayaking

As another significant paradise for paddling, kayaker and canoeists can lose themselves enjoying every single moment while they are on board. Besides the great adventure of surfing the water, paddlers can do other water activities and make their stay even more memorable. So, if you are a paddling freak, don't forget to prioritize Telegraph Cove.

Waterfront Strolls and Bike Rides

Explore the island’s extensive waterfronts with a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Many coastal towns offer well-maintained pathways with stunning ocean views, interspersed with playgrounds, picnic areas, and interpretive signs that provide information about the local marine life and geography. These pathways are great for families looking to enjoy outdoor time together without venturing too far into the wilderness.

Camping in Port Hardy RV Resort and Log Cabins

Camping in Port Hardy RV Resort and Log Cabins

While exploring the lands of Northern Vancouver Island, do not forget to visit Port Hardy RV Resort and Log Cabins to stay a day or two. This clean and safe campground provides you with amenities and chances to have a splendid time at a sandy beach, in which you can enjoy a meal of the fish you caught. The resemblance of this campground to paradise is uncanny, providing untenable forest tours.

Pacheedaht Beach Kayaking

Pacheedaht Beach Kayaking

If you want to make every moment on Vancouver Island worthwhile, remember to plan for a kayaking adventure on the waters next to Pacheedaht Beach. The San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve is the habitat for a variety of wildlife worthy of visiting. In addition to paddling, visitors can enjoy themselves doing other outdoor activities in the region.

Bamfield Whale Watching

Bamfield Whale Watching

Adjacent to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Bamfield is a favourable destination for whale watching in the Port Alberni area. To make the most out of your journey in Bamfield, you can do salmon fishing around the coast and enjoy the outstanding birdlife living there.

Gabriola Passage Diving

Gabriola Passage Diving

Hope to have a great adventure and do not fear new experiences. One of the best diving spots near Nanaimo downtown, accessible by both beach and ferries, offers a fantastic diving opportunity not to be forgotten easily. The mighty currents with great drifting experience increase the amazement of diving.

Nootka Island Surfing

Nootka Island Surfing

Get out of your comfort zone and get away from the bustles in towns; Nootka Island has a lot to offer to make your vacation count. A place of amazement and glory, the waters of the most oversized island located off Vancouver Island give you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for surfing. Nestled near Vancouver Island, Nootka Island features breathtaking scenery you can let your spirit feed on it.

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

Boeing 737 Jet Plane Diving

You cannot believe your ears are hearing a diving place made after a Jet Plane was sunk. But, there is only one way to find out, especially for divers who like abnormal experiences. While you are in Chemainus, you can rent a boat and paddle till you reach this place, offering you unbelievable diving opportunities.

Tyee Cove Diving

Tyee Cove Diving

Just a short distance from downtown Nanaimo, you will find fantastic diving opportunities available all year round in Tyee Cove. You can choose the depth you are willing to dive in based on your proficiency level; plus, you are given a chance to explore the marine life inhabiting this diving zone.

Camping in Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park Campground

Camping in Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park Campground

Nothing can feed your spirit like a clean, relaxing vacation. To do so, you have fantastic chances to camp in Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park Campground and let your lungs to be flourished by the fresh air you let in. These oceanside campgrounds have a lot to offer: ample amenities, various wildlife and astonishing scenery. Camping at this campsite is something that happens once in a lifetime.

Wya Point Camping

Wya Point Camping

Find the inside campers of yours while you are camping in Wya Point Campground. In the heart of an oceanside forest, Wya Point Campground offers opportunities for camping, and you are given a chance to choose which campsite you want to spend time at. Crystal water, sandy cove, and tide rocks that offer marine life sights and several beachfront cabins and yurts with ocean-view are available in Wya Point, making it an ideal place.

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Camping in Buttle Lake Campground

Home to many campsites with all kinds of facilities and services right on the shoreline, Buttle Lake campground offers you the best opportunities to explore the shore. There you can do a lot of activities and enjoy seeing marine creatures.
Annually, the campground welcomes RV and vehicle campers. Also, you can have a good time camping in your tents.

Plan Your Family Sightseeing Adventure

With activities available throughout the year, Vancouver Island is an all-season destination for families. Our website offers detailed guides on family-friendly attractions, seasonal events, and educational opportunities to ensure your sightseeing plans are both fun and fulfilling. Whether it’s learning about local wildlife, enjoying a leisurely garden walk, or discovering history through interactive exhibits, there’s something on Vancouver Island for every family to enjoy.

Family Adventures Await on Vancouver Island

Embark on a journey of discovery and adventure with your family on Vancouver Island, where every day can be a new and exciting educational experience in beautiful, natural settings.

Share Your Thoughts!