10 weekend getaways from Vancouver

by Jennifer Foden

Summer is here – the time for camping trips, weekend getaways and hitting the open road. Vancouver is within a few hours to many noteworthy destinations around B.C. (and the U.S.), which makes it rather easy to get away for just a couple days. Here are 10 weekend vacation ideas to get your feet moving! [Photo credit: iStock/franckreporter]

Located on the north end of Howe Sound, Squamish – a popular destination among outdoor enthusiasts – is about an hour’s drive north of Vancouver along the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. The focal point of this small town’s landscape is the Stawamus Chief, a massive granite dome favoured by hikers and rock climbers. Finish your day off with a pint from Howe Sound Brewing. [Photo credit: Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Tourism/Bob Young]

Bowen Island – a part of the islands of Howe Sound – is just a 20-minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. There is plenty to do in this charming small town of just 3,500: hike Mount Gardner, go paddleboarding or kayaking, or spend an afternoon shopping the boutiques. There are also several delicious cafés and restaurants: try the eggs Benny at Snug Café or the fish and chips at Doc Morgan’s. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Alex Guiry]

B.C.’s scenic Fraser Valley – home to Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Langley – is known for its agriculture, and, as a result, its wineries, breweries and farms. It’s less than an hour’s drive southeast of Vancouver and a popular destination among foodies. Be sure to makes stops at Willow View Farms (for apple picking), Onnik’s Blueberry Farm (for blueberry sampling) and Krause Berry Farms (for pie tasting). [Photo credit: Destination BC/Albert Normandin]

Whistler is a popular winter destination of course, but it’s just as attractive in the off-season too. Outdoor activities are endless: from horseback riding and ziplining to mountain biking, white water rafting and much, much more. If outdoor adventure isn’t your thing, there are also several interesting museums, world-class restaurants and fun summer concerts to keep you busy in Whistler Village all weekend long. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Blake Jorgenson]

It’s easy to see why Tofino – with its temperate rainforests and beaches that line the coast – is one of B.C.’s most stunning settings. Located on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Tofino is a favourite year-round, from storm-watching in the winter to surfing in the spring and fall to beach strolls in the summer. Getting there is half the fun, too. Drive the winding road from Nanaimo or take a flight from Vancouver or Victoria. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Boomer Jerritt]

The Gulf Islands – between Vancouver Island and B.C.’s mainland – are more than 200 islands scattered along the Strait of Georgia. The larger islands are accessible by B.C. Ferries, others can be reached by private boat or plane. Each island has its own unique vibe: favourites include Galiano, Mayne, Pender and Salt Spring. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Andrea Johnson]

The Okanagan Valley – made up of Vernon, Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland, Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos – is the second largest wine region in Canada. Of course, one of the most popular activities in this region is wine tasting, but there are also several fun things to do for foodies, outdoor enthusiasts and families, too. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Kari Medig]

Victoria – on the southern tip of Vancouver Island – is B.C.’s capital and one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest. Thanks to the many historic buildings that remain – including the parliament buildings and Empress hotel – the city is full of the charm of days gone by. And, Victoria is full of things to do: feast on seafood overlooking the harbour, bike along the waterfront or visit one of its many museums. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Reuben Krabbe]

The Sunshine Coast – just northwest of Vancouver – stretches almost 200 kilometres from Gibsons to Lund. Due to the region’s steep, rugged terrain, it can only be accessed by ferry or airplane, but it’s well worth the trek. Enjoy the region’s creative spirit: the dozen (or so) quaint waterfront villages along the Sunshine Coast have more artists, crafters and artisans per capita than almost any other area in Canada. [Photo credit: Destination BC/Albert Normandin]

Yes, B.C. is brimming with several remarkable spots to visit, but Vancouver is also less than 40 kilometres from our neighbours to the south. Less than a three-hour’s drive, Seattle makes for an entertaining weekend trip. Grab your passport and check out a rock show (the city is considered the home of grunge), sports game (calling all Seahawks or Mariners fans!) or the world-famous Pike Place Market. [Photo credit: iStock/sandiegoa]