Vancouver Island, nestled off the southwestern coast of British Columbia, is a diverse paradise that offers something for every type of traveler. From the charming colonial architecture of Victoria to the wild, rugged beaches of Tofino, the island is a microcosm of natural wonders and cultural experiences. Choosing where to stay on Vancouver Island can significantly impact your trip, as each region has its unique character and attractions.
Our pick of the best hotels in Vancouver Island 🔥
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Fairmont Empress Hotel
- ✨ 5-Star: Old House Hotel & Spa
- 🏨 4-Star: Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort
- 💸 Cheap: Island Travel Inn
- 🏢 Apartment: Solo Suites
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Riverside Resort
- 🏩 For Couples: Crown Mansion Boutique Hotel & Villas
This guide will help you navigate the island’s best areas for accommodation, tailored to different interests and travel styles. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious retreat in wine country, a surf-side adventure, or a cultural immersion in the provincial capital, we’ll explore the top spots to base yourself for an unforgettable Vancouver Island experience. From bustling city centers to tranquil coastal villages, we’ll cover the key areas that showcase the island’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local scenes.
Quick Vancouver Island Area Guide: ☀️
- 🎉 For Festivals and Events: Victoria
- 🦜 For Hiking and Birdwatching: Cowichan Valley
- 🏖️ For Pristine Beaches: Tofino
- 🌊 For Surfing and Nature: Ucluelet
- 🚵♂️ For Outdoor Activities and Local Flavors: Comox Valley
- 🌼 For Local Vibes: Qualicum Beach
1. Victoria – Best Area for History and Culture 🏛️
🏛️ Historic hub: Victoria is a treasure trove of history and culture on Vancouver Island. As the capital city of British Columbia, it’s home to some of the most significant historical sites and cultural institutions in the province.
🏰 Royal attractions: The crown jewel of Victoria’s historical attractions is undoubtedly the Royal British Columbia Museum. Founded in 1886, this venerable institution houses over 7 million objects, including natural history specimens, artifacts, and archival records. The museum’s three permanent galleries – Natural History, Becoming BC, and the First Peoples Gallery – offer a comprehensive look at the province’s past and present. Don’t miss the chance to explore the museum’s touring exhibitions, which have featured everything from Egyptian artifacts to the Vikings.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Victoria:
- Royal BC Museum: A deep dive into British Columbia’s history.
- Butchart Gardens: A beautiful floral paradise.
- Inner Harbour: Scenic views and bustling activity.
- British Columbia Parliament Buildings: Stunning architecture and history.
- Beacon Hill Park: A lovely spot for a leisurely stroll.
- Craigdarroch Castle: A historic, Victorian-era mansion with beautiful architecture.
- Chinatown: The oldest Chinatown in Canada, full of rich history and culture.
🌸 Garden glory: Just a short drive from Downtown Victoria, you’ll find the world-famous Butchart Gardens. This National Historic Site of Canada began as a humble project in 1904 when Jennie Butchart started transforming an exhausted limestone quarry into a stunning garden. Today, the 55-acre grounds feature themed gardens, including the dramatic Sunken Garden, the serene Japanese Garden, and the aromatic Rose Garden. It’s a living testament to the early 20th-century beautification movement and a must-visit for history and horticulture enthusiasts alike.
🚢 Harbor highlights: The Inner Harbour is the beating heart of Victoria, where history meets modern-day charm. Take a stroll along the harbor front to admire the iconic Parliament Buildings, their neo-baroque architecture illuminated beautifully at night. The grand Fairmont Empress Hotel, a symbol of Victoria’s colonial past, stands proudly nearby. For a unique perspective on the city’s maritime history, hop aboard one of the cute little Harbour Ferries that scurry around the waterfront.
🍴 Cultural cuisine: Victoria’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of history and contemporary flavors. For a truly historic dining experience, indulge in afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress – a tradition that dates back to the hotel’s opening in 1908. Or, for a taste of Victoria’s multicultural heritage, explore the diverse eateries in Chinatown, the oldest in Canada after San Francisco’s.
Best hotels in Vancouver Island: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Solo Suites Solo Suites offers modern, self-contained accommodations with free WiFi and private parking, ideal for travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience. The property is conveniently located near major attractions and shopping centers.
- Fairmont Empress Hotel This iconic hotel provides world-class service with luxurious amenities, including a spa, indoor pool, and gourmet dining. Located in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, it offers stunning views and easy access to historical sites and shopping.
- Hotel Grand Pacific Featuring an indoor pool and hot tub, this hotel is just 3 minutes’ walk from the Victoria Clipper Ferry Terminal and Coho Ferry Terminal. Guests enjoy private balconies, free WiFi, and a fitness center, all within a short stroll to Beacon Hill Park and BC Parliament Buildings.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Strathcona Hotel Located in the heart of Victoria, Strathcona Hotel offers comfortable accommodations with free WiFi and a lively pub. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural attractions.
- Pendray Inn and Tea House Built in 1897, this historic mansion features uniquely decorated rooms with modern amenities and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and traditional afternoon tea, all within walking distance of Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
- Red Lion Inn and Suites Red Lion Inn and Suites offers comfortable accommodations with free WiFi and an outdoor pool. It’s conveniently located near major highways, making it easy to explore Victoria and the surrounding areas.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Traveller's Inn Central This budget-friendly hotel provides basic amenities and free WiFi, ideal for travelers looking for affordable accommodations. It’s located close to downtown Victoria, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Island Travel Inn Island Travel Inn offers straightforward accommodations with free WiFi and parking, perfect for budget-conscious travelers. The hotel is situated near Victoria’s downtown, providing convenient access to local attractions and dining options.
2. Tofino – Best Area for Surfing and Nature 🌊
🏄 Surf’s up: Tofino is a surfer’s paradise and nature lover’s dream rolled into one. Long Beach, part of the Pacific Rim National Park, is where it’s at. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner – there are plenty of surf schools that’ll have you hanging ten in no time.
🐋 Nature’s beauty: I recommend taking a stroll along the Wild Pacific Trail in nearby Ucluelet. The views of the rugged coastline are breathtaking, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some whales. Speaking of which, whale watching tours are a must-do here.
🍴 Foodie heaven: Tofino’s dining scene is surprisingly diverse for such a small town. Here are some of my favorite spots:
- Wolf in the Fog: Incredible locally-sourced seafood with a view to die for.
- Tacofino: Started as a food truck, now an institution. Best fish tacos I’ve ever had.
- Tofino Brewing Company: Great local beers and a chill atmosphere.
- Rhino Coffee House: Perfect for a post-surf caffeine fix.
- Shelter Restaurant: Cozy atmosphere with hearty, locally-sourced dishes.
- The Schooner Restaurant: A classic spot known for its seafood and ghost stories.
✈️ Getting there: Visit during the shoulder season (May-June or September-October) to avoid the summer crowds and still enjoy decent weather. The drive from Victoria is winding through ancient forests and along scenic coastlines. If you’re short on time, you can also hop on a seaplane.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Tofino:
- Pacific Rim National Park: Stunning trails and beaches.
- Long Beach: Ideal for surfing and beachcombing.
- Hot Springs Cove: A relaxing natural hot spring.
- Chesterman Beach: Perfect for a peaceful walk.
- Tonquin Beach: A hidden gem with beautiful views.
- Tofino Botanical Gardens: A lovely spot to explore local flora and fauna.
- Radar Hill: Offers panoramic views of the area.
🚗 Getting around: The best way to explore Tofino is by bike or on foot. The Tofino Multi-Use Path and the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii pathway make it easy to get around. During the summer, there’s a free hop-on, hop-off shuttle from downtown Tofino to Long Beach. For more remote spots, consider renting a car or using local taxi services like Tofino Taxi or Tofino Water Taxi for trips to places like Meares Island.
Best hotels in Tofino: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort This oceanfront resort offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, free WiFi, and a private beach, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and beach activities. Guests can enjoy amenities like a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and easy access to Tofino’s attractions.
- Duffin Cove Resort Located in Tofino, this resort provides cozy accommodations with spectacular ocean views and private balconies. It’s perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to Tofino’s shops and restaurants.
- Hotel Zed Tofino This vibrant hotel offers unique, retro-inspired accommodations with free WiFi, a hot tub, and a sauna. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities including table tennis, cycling, and hiking, and the hotel is conveniently located near Chesterman Beach and Mackenzie Beach.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Tofino Resort + Marina This resort offers modern rooms with free WiFi and balconies overlooking the marina. Guests can enjoy on-site dining, a fitness center, and easy access to water activities like fishing and kayaking.
- Tofino Harbourview Motel Tofino Harbourview Motel offers comfortable accommodations with free WiFi and private balconies featuring harbor views. It’s conveniently located near downtown Tofino, providing easy access to local shops and eateries.
- Seafarers Bed & Breakfast This charming bed and breakfast offers cozy rooms with free WiFi and a delicious homemade breakfast. Located near Chesterman Beach, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy Tofino’s natural beauty and tranquility.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Sienna's Tree House - Tall Trees and Salty Breeze Nestled among tall trees, this unique treehouse accommodation offers a serene escape with modern amenities and free WiFi. It’s ideal for nature lovers seeking a unique stay close to Tofino’s beaches and trails.
- The Shoreline Tofino This beachfront property offers stylish accommodations with free WiFi and stunning ocean views. Guests can relax in the hot tub or explore the nearby beaches and hiking trails.
3. Comox Valley – Where to Stay on Vancouver Island for Outdoor Activities and Local Flavors 🚵♂️
🚵♂️ Adventure hub: Comox Valley is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With Mount Washington Alpine Resort offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and mountain biking in the summer, there’s no shortage of activities. The Comox Marina is a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a boating adventure, and the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park is perfect for a picnic.
🌲 Nature escapes: I recommend visiting Nymph Falls Nature Park for its stunning waterfalls and trails. Miracle Beach Provincial Park is another must-see, offering a beautiful stretch of sand and great spots for a picnic. If you’re into wildlife, Helliwell Provincial Park on nearby Hornby Island is fantastic for bird watching and exploring unique ecosystems.
🚗 Easy access: The valley is easily accessible by car and has a regional airport with flights from major cities. Public transit is available, making it easy to get around without a car. The central location also makes it a great base for exploring other parts of Vancouver Island. Don’t miss the scenic drives through the old-growth forests and along the coast.
🍴 Local flavors: Here are some of my favorite spots:
- Locals Restaurant: Seasonal, local fare from ocean, farm, and field with a riverside patio.
- Blackfin Pub: Great seafood and pub fare with stunning views of the harbor.
- Martine’s Bistro: Cozy atmosphere with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Comox Valley:
- Mount Washington Alpine Resort: Year-round outdoor activities.
- Comox Marina: Great for a leisurely stroll or boating.
- Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park: Perfect for a picnic.
- Goose Spit Park: A beautiful spot for a walk.
- Nymph Falls Nature Park: Stunning waterfalls and trails.
- Seal Bay Regional Nature Park: Ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
- Comox Glacier: Offers challenging hikes and spectacular views.
💡 Insider Tip: Visit the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market on Saturdays to sample some of the best local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and flavors.
🌄 Valley versatility: The Comox Valley is also home to charming towns like Courtenay and Comox, where you can find boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
Best hotels in Comox Valley: 🏨
- Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community This resort offers luxurious accommodations with free WiFi, an 18-hole golf course, and a fitness center. Guests can enjoy on-site dining and easy access to nearby attractions in the Comox Valley.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Courtenay - Comox, an IHG Hotel This hotel features modern rooms with free WiFi, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. It’s conveniently located near downtown Courtenay and offers easy access to local attractions and the Comox Valley Airport.
- Old House Hotel & Spa This all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, fireplaces, and free WiFi, along with a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. Located in Courtenay, it’s close to downtown and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
4. Cowichan Valley – Best Area to Stay in Vancouver for Wine and Artisanal Experiences 🍷
🍷 Wine lover’s dream: Cowichan Valley is renowned for its wineries and artisanal food producers. The region’s mild climate makes it perfect for growing grapes, and you’ll find a variety of wineries offering tastings and tours. Here are some of the top wineries you should visit:
- Blue Grouse Estate Winery: Known for its stunning location and exceptional wines.
- Unsworth Vineyards: Offers a delightful wine-tasting experience with beautiful vineyard views.
- Alderlea Vineyards: A boutique winery with highly rated wines.
- Averill Creek Vineyard: Features a beautiful tasting room and panoramic views.
- Emandare Vineyard: Known for its organic and biodynamic wines.
- Rocky Creek Winery: Offers a cozy tasting room and award-winning wines.
- Venturi-Schulze Vineyards: A family-run vineyard with unique wines and balsamic vinegar.
- Enrico Winery: A charming winery with a great selection of wines.
🌲 Nature escapes: The natural beauty of Cowichan Valley is truly something to behold. I recommend visiting the Cowichan River for fishing or kayaking, and exploring the trails at Stoney Hill Regional Park for some incredible views.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Cowichan Valley:
- Kinsol Trestle: A historic railway trestle with stunning views.
- BC Forest Discovery Centre: Offers a glimpse into the region’s forestry history.
- Stoney Hill Regional Park: Perfect for hiking and enjoying panoramic views.
- Split Rock Lookout: A scenic lookout point with breathtaking views of the valley.
🍽️ Culinary experiences: Some of my favorite spots include Hudson’s on First, which offers a fine dining experience with locally sourced ingredients, The Old Firehouse Wine Bar for a cozy spot with a great selection of local wines and tapas, The Farm Table Inn known for its farm-to-table dining and rustic charm, and True Grain Bread, a must-visit for freshly baked, organic bread and pastries.
🏞️ Valley versatility: The Cowichan Valley is also home to charming towns like Duncan and Cowichan Bay, where you can find boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
Best hotels in Cowichan Valley: 🏨
- Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay This waterfront hotel offers suites with stunning ocean views, free WiFi, and kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant and easy access to Cowichan Bay’s shops and attractions.
- Wessex Inn By The Sea Located in Cowichan Bay, this inn offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi and beautiful ocean views. It’s a great base for exploring the local area and enjoying water activities.
5. Ucluelet – Best Place to Stay for Tranquility and Scenic Trails 🌲
🌲 Tranquil escape: Ucluelet, located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is a haven for those seeking tranquility and scenic beauty. The Wild Pacific Trail offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and lush forests. The Ucluelet Aquarium is a fun stop for families, and the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse is a picturesque spot for photos.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Ucluelet:
- Wild Pacific Trail: Stunning coastal views and lush forests.
- Ucluelet Aquarium: Fun and educational for families.
- Amphitrite Point Lighthouse: Perfect for picturesque photos.
- Big Beach: A beautiful spot for a walk.
- Little Beach: A hidden gem with serene views.
- Huu-Mees-Ma-As Native Art Gallery: Showcasing local Indigenous art.
- Pacific Rim National Park: Offers a variety of trails and stunning beaches.
🍴 Cozy cafes: Some of my favorite spots include:
- Norwoods Restaurant: Known for its fine dining and locally sourced ingredients.
- Ravenlady Oyster Forte: Offers fresh, delicious oysters in a casual setting.
- Zoe’s Bakery and Cafe: Perfect for breakfast or a coffee break with freshly baked goods.
- Fetch Restaurant: Located in Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, it offers stunning views and a great menu.
- Jigger’s: A food truck known for its excellent fish and chips.
✈️ Getting there: Ucluelet is accessible by car, and while public transit options are limited, the drive itself is a scenic adventure. Seaplane options are also available for those looking for a quicker journey. Once in Ucluelet, many attractions are within walking distance or a short drive away.
Best hotels in Ucluelet: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina This lodge offers comfortable accommodations with free WiFi and stunning marina views. Guests can enjoy on-site dining and easy access to Ucluelet’s attractions and outdoor activities.
- The Cabins at Terrace Beach These cozy cabins offer a private beach area, free WiFi, and beautiful views of Terrace Beach. Located in Ucluelet, it’s perfect for those looking to relax and explore the nearby trails and beaches.
- Sounds of the Sea Suites This property offers spacious suites with free WiFi and ocean views, ideal for a peaceful retreat. It’s located close to Ucluelet’s main attractions and outdoor activities.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Peninsula Motor Inn This budget-friendly inn offers basic accommodations with free WiFi and easy access to Ucluelet’s attractions. It’s a great option for travelers looking for affordable lodging near the town center.
- Hyphocus Inn This charming inn offers luxurious suites with free WiFi, private balconies, and beautiful forest views. It’s perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat in Ucluelet.
6. Qualicum Beach – Perfect Stay for Charming Eateries and Local Vibes 🌼
🌼 Charming vibes: Qualicum Beach is a delightful area known for its charming eateries and local vibes. The Qualicum Beach Museum offers a fascinating look into the area’s history, while Milner Gardens & Woodland is a beautiful spot for a leisurely stroll. The Heritage Forest is another must-visit, with its towering trees and peaceful trails.
🚶 Top sights: Here are some must-see sights in Qualicum Beach:
- Qualicum Beach Museum: Fascinating local history.
- Milner Gardens & Woodland: Beautiful gardens and trails.
- Heritage Forest: Towering trees and peaceful trails.
- Qualicum Beach: Perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
- Spider Lake Provincial Park: Great for swimming and picnicking.
- Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park: Offers guided cave tours and stunning underground formations.
🍴 Local flavors: Some of my favorite spots include:
- Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria: Delicious Italian cuisine in a charming setting.
- The Shady Rest Waterfront Pub: Offers great food with stunning ocean views.
- Bailey’s In The Village: A cozy cafe perfect for breakfast or lunch.
- Lefty’s Fresh Food: Known for its creative menu and fresh, local ingredients.
- Qualicum Beach Cafe: A beachfront restaurant offering a great selection of dishes.
🌳 Nature escapes: I recommend visiting the Heritage Forest for a peaceful walk among towering trees, and exploring the trails at Milner Gardens & Woodland for some incredible views. If you’re up for an adventure, Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park offers guided cave tours that are both thrilling and educational.
🚗 Easy access: Qualicum Beach is easily accessible by car, and public transit is available for those who prefer not to drive. The town’s compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and many attractions are within walking distance. The nearby Parksville Beach is also worth a visit for its long sandy shores and family-friendly atmosphere.
Best hotels near Qualicum Beach: 🏨
⭐ Best hotels
- The Old Dutch Inn This charming inn offers cozy accommodations with free WiFi and beautiful ocean views. It’s located in Qualicum Beach, providing easy access to local attractions and the beach.
- Riverside Resort This family-friendly resort features two seasonal outdoor pools, mini-golf, and spacious units with fully equipped kitchens and free WiFi. Located near Qualicum Beach, it’s perfect for a fun-filled getaway.
🏨 Best cheap/moderate hotels
- Casa Grande Inn This beachfront inn offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi and private balconies overlooking the ocean. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing stay in Qualicum Beach with easy access to the water.
- Crown Mansion Boutique Hotel & Villas This historic boutique hotel offers elegant rooms with free WiFi and luxurious amenities. Located in Qualicum Beach, it provides a sophisticated and tranquil retreat with beautiful gardens and ocean views.
- Sand Pebbles Inn Sand Pebbles Inn offers comfortable accommodations with free WiFi and stunning ocean views. Situated in Qualicum Beach, it’s perfect for a peaceful and scenic getaway.
🛏️ Best hostels
- Mountain House of Wonder This unique property offers cozy accommodations with free WiFi and beautiful mountain views. It’s ideal for those looking to explore the natural beauty of Qualicum Beach and its surroundings.
- Qualicum Beach Inn This modern inn offers stylish rooms with free WiFi, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Located near the beach, it’s a great choice for a relaxing and convenient stay in Qualicum Beach.
- Tea Cozy Bed & Breakfast This charming B&B offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi and a delicious homemade breakfast. Located in Qualicum Beach, it’s perfect for a cozy and welcoming stay with easy access to local attractions.
FAQs about trips to Vancouver Island ❔
Which part of Vancouver Island is the best?
The best part of Vancouver Island depends on your interests; Victoria is great for history and culture, while Tofino is ideal for surfing and nature lovers. Each region offers unique experiences, from wine tasting in Cowichan Valley to outdoor adventures in Comox Valley.
How many days should I spend on Vancouver Island?
I recommend spending at least 5-7 days on Vancouver Island to fully explore its diverse regions and attractions. This allows time to visit key areas like Victoria, Tofino, and the Cowichan Valley.
What is the best way to explore Vancouver Island?
The best way to explore Vancouver Island is by car, as it provides the flexibility to visit remote areas and scenic spots at your own pace. Public transit is available but can be limited, especially for reaching more secluded destinations.
What are the best months to visit Vancouver Island?
The best months to visit Vancouver Island are from May to September when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. The shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October offer fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Do you need a car to get around Vancouver Island?
While it’s possible to get around Vancouver Island using public transit and ferries, having a car is highly recommended for convenience and to access more remote areas. A car allows you to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and attractions more efficiently.
