Top Vancouver Island Day Trips

Enjoy round-trip travel from Vancouver to Victoria, and discover top attractions in British Columbia on this Victoria and Butchart Gardens day trip from Victoria. Take the ferry to Vancouver Island, and enjoy fine views over the beautiful Gulf Islands. Dock in Swartz Bay, and visit the famous Butchart Gardens, exploring the grounds at your leisure. Then, enjoy free time to explore the city, perhaps walking through Chinatown and the Inner Harbour, before returning to Vancouver by ferry.

Discover one dramatic landscape after another with the help of a guide on this full-day coach tour between Vancouver and Whistler: the Sea-to-Sky Highway, Shannon Falls, the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, and Whistler Village. From the gondola, admire Howe Sound, the Squamish River, and the Coastal Mountains. Then, enjoy plenty of free time to wander through Whistler Village at your own pace.

Discover the hidden gem of Hot Springs Cove on a serene journey from Tofino. Enjoy a scenic 30 nautical mile boat ride, offering sightings of coastal wildlife, before embarking on a picturesque 1.5 km walk through ancient old-growth forests via a well-maintained cedar boardwalk. Immerse yourself in the natural geothermal pools fed by cascading waterfalls, where you can unwind amidst the stunning wilderness. This intimate tour accommodates up to 12 guests, ensuring a personal experience while exploring the unspoiled beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast. - Scenic boat ride with wildlife viewing opportunities - 1.5 km easy walk through majestic old-growth forest - Relax in natural geothermal pools for two hours - Intimate experience for up to 12 guests

Vancouver Island is known for producing great wines in a beautiful environment. Visit well-regarded wineries on Saanich Peninsula on this tour from Victoria, which includes private wine tastings at each location, a behind-the-scenes tour of a local winery, and a guide with extensive knowledge about the industry. This small-group tour is limited to 15 passengers or fewer for a more intimate experience.

Explore more of the Cape Scott Provincial Park than you’d be able to alone on this small-group guided tour. Witness the towering sea stacks in San Josef Bay—eroded by the ocean over thousands of years—learn the historic town of Holberg’s logging heritage, keep an eye out for the region’s diverse wildlife, and much more.

Venture out to the sparkling waters of the Toba Inlet on this brand new, full-day tour hosted by our sister nation, Klahoose First Nation. Cruise alongside cascading waterfalls and scenic mountains as you scan the landscape for grizzly bears, majestic humpbacks and orcas, and a variety of other wildlife. Join us in Campbell River before crossing the Salish Sea, one of the world’s best whale-watching spots. You’ll soon reach Toba Inlet, an area densely populated by grizzly bears. The first of its kind, the TOBA BEARS AND WILDERNESS is a collaborative partnership between the Homalco and Klahoose First Nations. Join your Klahoose guides as they take you to their home Territory. Hear stories and learn about the vibrancy of the living Klahoose culture. The toq qaymɩxʷ (Klahoose) peoples have lived here on the west coast of BC since time immemorial. We invite you to see the beauty of Toba Inlet through our eyes and share in our traditions, which have been handed down through generations.

Explore Vancouver Island's magnificent scenery on a full-day, private tour from Victoria to Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Cathedral Grove, home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on the island. You'll visit a country market, hike through the rainforest and to the waterfalls, and make plenty of photo stops, while learning about Vancouver Island's nature and culture throughout the day. Traveling with a private guide means the trip can be tailored to you, and this tour is priced per-group for up to eight people.

Discover Vancouver beyond the ordinary on this unique full-day experience combining iconic city landmarks, coastal heritage, award-winning local wine, designer shopping, and authentic local culture. Journey through scenic False Creek and Cambie Bridge, visit the charming Steveston Fisherman's Wharf and historic Britannia Shipyards, enjoy a guided 3-pour wine tasting at Lu Lu Island Winery, and shop at McArthurGlen Designer Outlet. Complete your adventure with a visit to Vancouver's famous Earnest Ice Cream. Complimentary Cruise Terminal pick-up and airport drop-off for evening flights make this the perfect tour for cruise passengers and visitors seeking an unforgettable Vancouver experience.

Discover the wines of the Cowichan Valley on a wine tour from Victoria, and taste your way through part of Vancouver Island's fascinating wine trail. You’ll visit three wineries for tastings and tours, and enjoy lunch at a boutique winery surrounded by rolling vineyards. This wine tour includes round-trip transport from downtown Victoria, lunch, and tastings, for the perfect introduction to Vancouver Island wine.

Experience the Great Bear Rainforest’s diverse wildlife while exploring the culturally rich territories of the Kwakwaka’wakw people on this half-day small-group boat tour. After departing from Port Hardy, spend the day searching for sea otters, orcas, humpback whales, pacific white-side dolphins, Steller sea lions, Dall’s porpoises, and bald eagles, all from the comfort of a rigid inflatable (RHIB) wildlife viewing boat with comfortable shock-mitigating seats.

What makes this tour unique it that there are no crowds and we are not in bear stands. Viewing is from the boat only. Most often we are the only boat out there. Additionally, we do not book more than 8 guests on this adventure to ensure unobstructed views and a quiet setting for bears. Upon departure, we travel 2 hours north of Campbell River into the heart of bear country through vast fjords with whimsical waterfalls for you to enjoy while your guide keeps a keen eye out for intertidal Black bears! Shortly thereafter, we head to the estuaries in search of Grizzly bears. This is a spring bear tour and only books May & June when bears are emerging from hibernation and their spring foraging habits are predictable. They are not feeding on salmon this time of year. Note: Departure times vary due to tides. If your departure time changes we will contact you prior to the trip. Please check for our messages the day before, or contact us if you are going out of service.

Maximize time in British Columbia with a full-day sightseeing tour to Vancouver Island. Board a ferry for a scenic ride through the Georgia Strait to Victoria and check out popular landmarks on a guided tour. Discover the Inner Harbour, stroll through Canada's oldest Chinatown, visit the Royal BC Museum, and explore the beautiful Butchart Gardens. In the evening, ride the ferry back to Vancouver, where you might catch a stunning sunset.

This small-group experience gives you the whole day to tour the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait in a speedy Zodiac boat. Stay cozy in provided floater suits, toques, gloves, and goggles as you spend the day searching for some of the abundant wildlife of the coastal waters, including humpback whales, bears, sea lions, and Pacific white-sided dolphins. Your tour will focus on finding orcas, but highlight the diverse beauty of the coast.

Spend a full day getting back to nature in the Johnstone Strait! The dynamic Johnstone Strait is home to everything from sea stars to orcas and is surrounded by incredible rainforested mountains. This tour is designed for all ages and ability levels, though you will be paddling for up to four hours, so a certain level of physical fitness is advised. Your guide will provide you with all the instruction and equipment you need to comfortably enjoy a day of spectacular paddling.

Make the most of your visit to Victoria by seeing  many of the area’s highlights in just one day. This private tour packs in top sights including, Butchart Gardens, one of Canada’s oldest Chinatown neighborhoods, Craigdarroch Castle, and the famed Parliament Buildings. Plus, you’ll even have time to stop at a local winery to experience British Columbia’s burgeoning wine scene. Round-trip transportation is also included for an added convenience.

Explore Victoria's history and culinary scene on this two-in-one, small-group walking tour of the British Columbian capital. Follow a guide to highlights such as the Parliament Buildings, the Inner Harbor, Fan Tan Alley, the Harmonious Gates of Interest, and the Victoria Public Market. Along the way, stop for food tastings of local products.

Take in the dramatic beauty of Discovery Passage and the wild strength of grizzly bears on this small-group cruise and sightseeing tour. Cruise to Toba Inlet with a certified naturalist captain and scan the waters for wildlife, before a welcome to the land by your Klahoose First Nation guide. View grizzly bears along the river and enjoy a lunch on land.

FOOD, WINE and SPECTACULAR SCENERY. We LOVE this revised tour to REFLECT COVID-19.Join Island Time Tours for a lovely relaxing adventure exploring the Cowichan Valley. We visit 3 (4 if time permitting) of the prettiest vineyards and do our own thing to avoid any line-ups. We offer you a wonderful experience at each vineyard.. First stop includes bubbly with orange juice (optional) w/ fresh warm bake goods. Relax, inhale and take in this beautiful countryside. LUNCH is filled with afternoon tea delights with WINE served weather permitting in the great outdoors. Dessert w/wine complete this tour at another picturesque vineyard. Great food, award winning wines and spectacular beauty. Let's go!

Embark on private, professionally guided fishing charters with your family or friends. We make the experience easy and fun for everyone, whether you are a first-time fisher or a seasoned pro. Your guide will help you target a variety of seasonal fish and is happy to teach everything from casting to reeling, Our local expert will take you to the best fishing spots in British Columbia’s rich waters. We know the best fishing grounds, which are just a short boat ride away. This means you’ll spend more time fishing and less time traveling. Your safety is our top priority. All essential safety gear, including life vests and a first-aid kit, is provided. You can relax and enjoy the trip, knowing you are in safe hands. Capacity: Max 6 guests Departure: Daily fishing charters, from Quadra Island & Campbell River Includes: Rods, tackle, fish finder, GPS, life jackets, & bottled water.

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of nature on your trip to Vancouver Island, it can be tough to know where to start. On this full-day small-group guided tour, join your guide for a curated tour of Toba Inlet and take in the region’s crashing waterfalls, craggy cliffs, and dense forests. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the grizzly bears that call the area home.

Join us for an awe-inspiring, private whale watching tour through the pristine waters of the Discovery Islands. Your expert guide will take you to known whale hotspots, offering a breathtaking journey perfect for nature lovers and photographers. We specialize in intimate, small-group tours that ensure a comfortable and personal connection with nature. NOTE: If your heart is set on seeing orcas specifically, book at least a 5-hour tour as they are usually found further north. The waters around Campbell River and Quadra Island are a haven for marine wildlife. On this tour you’ll have the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, gray whales, as well as seals and bald eagles. The comfortable boat offers excellent viewing, and your guide will provide expert insights and commentary. Capacity: Max 6 guests Departure: Tours available all year, as whale sightings are possible any month. The peak season is April to November. Includes: Binoculars, life jackets, and bottled water.

Take to the skies on a short seaplane adventure over Victoria and its stunning surroundings, including the Inner Harbour, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the Olympic Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views of rugged coastlines, shimmering inlets, and landmarks as you soar above southern Vancouver Island. With thrilling water take-offs and landings, this small-group experience offers an unforgettable introduction to seaplane aviation.

This is your opportunity to get as close to wild grizzly bears as it’s possible to safely get. Explore the wilderness of Bute from the water, discover its hidden natural gems, and keep a look out for its furry local inhabitants, also known as the Great Bears of Bute. Watch for whales on the inlet, and visit the Campbell River and meet the indigenous people who own this river.