British Columbia Travel Guide: Vancouver, Whistler & Vancouver Island
Snow-capped mountains, endless forests, vibrant cities, and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Canada.
There are places that impress us. And then there are those that completely capture our hearts from the very first moment.
British Columbia, on Canada’s west coast, was one of those places.
Throughout this trip, I visited Vancouver, Whistler, and Vancouver Island—three very different destinations connected by one extraordinary feature: an incredible relationship with nature.
Vancouver Island: The Best Part of British Columbia?
After spending several days in Vancouver and Whistler, we headed to Vancouver Island.
The journey began aboard BC Ferries, traveling from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.
The crossing takes approximately one hour and forty minutes and was one of the most beautiful ferry journeys I have ever experienced.
Along the way, the ferry passes countless forest-covered islands, creating landscapes that seem straight out of a nature documentary.
The largest island on North America’s west coast (larger than Jamaica) contains some of the world’s last remaining temperate rainforests, wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and abundant wildlife.
Our final destination was Tofino, a small coastal town famous for its beaches, surfing culture, and laid-back atmosphere.
The beaches seem endless, with forests stretching almost all the way to the sand. The Pacific Ocean displays its raw power here, and the sunsets are unforgettable.
While in Tofino, I joined a beach yoga class, a popular activity in the area.
Practicing yoga to the sound of crashing waves while surrounded by such incredible scenery was one of the most relaxing experiences of the trip and the perfect way to embrace the slow pace of this coastal town.
What I’ll Remember Most
When I think back on this trip, it’s not only the places I remember. It’s the feeling.
The peace of Whistler’s forests. The energy of Vancouver. The wild beauty of Vancouver Island. The constant contrast between city life and nature.
Canada reminds us of something we often forget: the world is still full of places capable of surprising us.
British Columbia has a rare ability to slow us down and help us appreciate what truly matters.
And perhaps that’s exactly why it became one of the most special places I’ve ever visited.
And I hope I’ll be back.
Practical Information
How to Get There
The route I chose from Madeira was:
Funchal → Porto → Toronto → Vancouver
Flights to Vancouver
- Skyscanner: Funchal → Porto → Toronto → Vancouver
Car Rental in Vancouver
For anyone planning to explore the region freely, renting a car is the best option.
The Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler is considered one of North America’s most scenic drives and is part of the experience itself.
You can also take your rental car aboard BC Ferries to Vancouver Island, making it much easier to explore places such as Nanaimo and Tofino.
Best Time to Visit Vancouver
- December to March: Winter sports season
- May to September: Hiking, road trips, and warmer temperatures
Where to Eat
Bar Tartare – Vancouver
📍 54 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1E7
One of the most interesting dining experiences I had in Vancouver.
Known for its natural wine selection and contemporary cuisine, it’s an excellent choice for a special dinner in one of the city’s most characterful neighbourhoods.
Tacofino – Tofino, Vancouver Island
📍 1184 Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, BC
If you’re visiting Tofino, Tacofino is practically a must.
What started as a simple food truck has become a local institution. The fish tacos are legendary, but honestly, anything on the menu is a great choice after a day exploring the coast.
The Bear – Restaurant, Bar & Hockey!
Black’s Pub – Whistler
📍 4359 Main Street, Whistler, BC
Even during summer, Whistler’s après-ski culture remains very much alive.
After a day hiking, biking, or simply exploring the area, many visitors finish the day on a patio or in a pub overlooking the mountains.
Black’s Pub is one of the best places to experience that atmosphere, offering a relaxed setting and one of the most popular outdoor terraces in the village.
Shopping in Vancouver: Tsawwassen Mills Outlet
📍 5000 Canoe Pass Way, Tsawwassen, BC V4M 0B3
If you enjoy shopping while travelling, Tsawwassen Mills Outlet is one of the best places in the Vancouver area.
Popular brands include Aritzia, Lululemon Outlet, Nike Factory Store, GAP, Coach Outlet, Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, and many more.
It’s also worth exploring Robson Street, one of Vancouver’s main shopping districts.
Bookstore Recommendation: Mermaid Tales Bookshop
📍 455 Campbell Street, Tofino, BC
In downtown Tofino, I discovered Mermaid Tales Bookshop, an independent bookstore full of character that perfectly reflects the town’s laid-back spirit.
It was here that someone recommended my trip read:
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
Some books become forever associated with a journey.
For me, this was one of them.
During my time in Vancouver, Whistler, and Vancouver Island, I carried Our Perfect Storm with me.
Similar in spirit to Eat, Pray, Love, the novel follows a woman recovering from heartbreak who travels to Tofino with her best friend to rediscover herself in one of the most beautiful places on Canada’s west coast.
Surrounded by misty forests, wild beaches, and the constant sound of the Pacific Ocean, the story felt perfectly matched to the landscape around me.
Experiences
Vancouver
Sea to Sky Highway
Whistler
- Peak 2 Peak Gondola
- Bear Viewing Tour
- Rainbow Park
- Blackcomb Mountain
- Green Lake
Vancouver Island
- Whale Watching Tour
- Bear Watching Tour
- Hot Springs Cove Tour
- Chesterman Beach
Where we Stayed
Airbnb in Tofino / Vancouver Island
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