Winter
Winter on Vancouver Island is defined by a mild, rainy, and green climate, with average coastal temperatures ranging between 0℃ to 12℃. It is the wettest season, featuring lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and occasional, short-lived snow at lower elevations. While coastal areas see little snow, mountainous regions receive heavy snow for winter sports. Activities include storm watching on the west coast, hiking in rain-soaked forests, and skiing/snowboarding.
Ski & Snowshoe
Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Located in the Comox Valley, this resort offers skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, and unique stays. Escape to higher elevations for a thrilling adventure.
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
Outdoor
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Courtenay offers a wide range of outdoor gear including hiking, kayaking, skiing, and more. They carry top brands like Arc'teryx, Salomon, and more.
Culture & History
Puntledge RV Park & Campground
Caravan Site
Experience modern comforts in a picturesque setting at Puntledge RV Park & Campground, located in Courtenay, BC. Explore the rich cultural heritage of the K’omoks First Nation.
Arts Council of Ladysmith & District/Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery
Art is here! Explore the local art scene at Ladysmith's comprehensive arts organization. Enjoy monthly arts exhibitions, workshops, artist talks, community projects, and more.
Coho Books
Books
Coho Books online webstore offers a wide range of over 20,000 in-store titles, including New Releases, Best Sellers, Used Books, and Bargain Books, all available for order without additional cost.
West End Gallery
Art
The West End Gallery is a family-owned art gallery specializing in Canadian wall art, sculpture, and blown glass since 1975, with locations in Edmonton and Victoria.
Tally-Ho Carriage Tours
Tally-Ho Carriage Tours is Victoria's original public transportation company, established during the Gold Rush era of the 1850s. They offer historical carriage tours with professional guides sharing local folklore and insights into their operation.
Kwa’lilas Hotel
Hotel
Kwa'lilas Hotel, a premier Indigenous-owned 4-star hotel in Port Hardy on Kwakiutl People's land. Immerse in Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw culture through curated artwork, fine dining, and more.
Breweries
Phillips Brewing and Malting Co
Brewery
Phillips Brewing and Malting Co is a small-batch brewery known for its unconventional craft brewing, malting, and distilling. Since 2001, they have been creating unique and quality beverages, inspired by fermentation.
Land & Sea Brewing Co.
Alcohol
Land & Sea Brewing Co. is a new addition to the craft beer scene in Comox, British Columbia, offering a unique selection of beers in a vibrant community.
Rusted Rake Brewing
Pub
Rusted Rake is a farm-to-tap craft brewery and gourmet eatery located in Nanoose Bay, BC. They grow their barley and produce on-site, offering a unique and local dining experience.
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub
Alcohol
Spinnakers is a renowned brewery offering a wide range of craft beers and delicious pub fare, set in a charming waterfront location.
Herald Street Brew Works
Bar
Herald Street Brew Works is a craft brewery in Victoria, BC, offering 'tank fresh' beer brewed with authenticity, quality, and passion.
Shopping
Arts Council of Ladysmith & District/Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery
Art is here! Explore the local art scene at Ladysmith's comprehensive arts organization. Enjoy monthly arts exhibitions, workshops, artist talks, community projects, and more.
Coho Books
Books
Coho Books online webstore offers a wide range of over 20,000 in-store titles, including New Releases, Best Sellers, Used Books, and Bargain Books, all available for order without additional cost.
West End Gallery
Art
The West End Gallery is a family-owned art gallery specializing in Canadian wall art, sculpture, and blown glass since 1975, with locations in Edmonton and Victoria.
I-Hos Gallery
Gallery
I-Hos Gallery, owned by K’ómoks First Nation, showcases traditional and contemporary Northwest Coast art and crafts. Explore masks, prints, jewelry, carvings, and more.
Artina’s Jewellery
Fashion Accessories
Artina’s Jewellery is a family-owned business with two storefronts in Victoria and Vancouver. They specialize in Northwest Coast Indigenous and contemporary Canadian jewellery, offering a large selection of unique, ethical, locally-made pieces.
Sooke Region Museum & Visitor Centre
Museum
Community museum and visitor centre showcasing the human and natural heritage of the Sooke region. Explore exhibits and programs, including a summer night market.
Indigenous Experiences
Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions, Kayak Rentals and Retreats
Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions, Kayak Rentals and Retreats on Pender Island and Saltspring Island offer eco-educational experiences like dog sledding, snorkelling, kayaking, and more.
Puntledge RV Park & Campground
Caravan Site
Experience modern comforts in a picturesque setting at Puntledge RV Park & Campground, located in Courtenay, BC. Explore the rich cultural heritage of the K’omoks First Nation.
We Wai Kai Campground
Year-round destination on Quadra Island owned by the We Wai Kai Nation. Borders Rebecca Spit Provincial Park, with sandy beaches and waterfront sites.
Wei Wai Kum House of Treasures
Gift
Located in Discovery Harbour Centre, Campbell River, showcasing works by Nation members and neighboring artists. Offers hand-carved jewelry and art pieces.
Sir Landon James Charters
Sir Landon James Charters, led by Captain Bert Tom, offers unique small-group tours in Tofino, immersing guests in Nuu-chah-nulth history.
H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours - Indigenous Tourism BC
H’aiagal’ath Grizzly Bear Tours offers ecologically sustainable and culturally immersive wilderness experiences in the Great Bear Rainforest, home to grizzly bears, salmon, wolves, and more.
Wineries
Cherry Point Estate Wines
Wine
Cherry Point Estate Winery offers guided tours, wine tasting, and dining, conveniently located near Highway 19. A warm welcome awaits you at this Vancouver Island gem.
Sage Hayward Vineyards
Winery
Sage Hayward Vineyards is a family-owned estate on Saturna Island, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy wines and coastal charm.
Unsworth Vineyards
Winery
Discover the best of Unsworth Vineyards in Cowichan Valley, offering award-winning wines, dining experiences, and more. Book a tasting or shop online today!
40 Knots Winery
Winery
40 Knots Winery is a family-friendly winery on Vancouver Island, crafting clean, vegan, and gluten-free wines with a commitment to sustainability and environmental protection.
Garry Oaks Estate Winery
Parking
Garry Oaks Estate Winery offers a unique selection of wines in the beautiful setting of Salt Spring Island. Visit for a taste of the island's finest.
Deep Cove Winery
Winery
Deep Cove Winery, a family-owned and operated establishment in North Saanich, produces hand-crafted wines aged to perfection. Nestled between Horth Hill Regional Park and Deep Cove Beach, the winery offers a serene atmosphere for wine enthusiasts.
Spa & Wellness
Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa
Located in a coastal forest on Vancouver Island, Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa offers stunning ocean and mountain views. Indulge in spa treatments inspired by the sea and enjoy exquisite West Coast cuisine at Ocean7 Restaurant.
Villa Eyrie Resort
Hotel
Rated as having one of the best views in Canada, Villa Eyrie Resort offers a stunning location in British Columbia. Perched atop Malahat Mountain, it provides breathtaking views of Finlayson Arm, Olympic Mountains, and Mount Baker.
Hollyhock
Hollyhock is a renowned retreat center offering immersive programs in personal growth, leadership, and social innovation. Guests can reconnect with nature and themselves through wisdom teachings, health and healing, and creative expression.
The Haven
The Haven on Gabriola Island offers a transformative experience on 7 acres of waterfront, focusing on personal growth through programs like the Come Alive program.
The Lost Faucet Sauna House
Beauty
Inspired by traditional sauna culture worldwide, offering maximally hot sauna sessions, cooling experiences, and self-administered services like facials and foot soaks.
Culinary Experiences
House of Boateng (HOB) Café
Award-winning café in Victoria, BC, offering vibrant brunches and elevated dinners with a focus on culinary excellence and community connection.
The Pedaler Cycling Tours
The Pedaler is Victoria's oldest bike touring and rental company offering biking, craft brewery, and culinary experiences. Tours, food, and craft beer tours, and e-bike tours are available.
Unsworth Vineyards
Winery
Discover the best of Unsworth Vineyards in Cowichan Valley, offering award-winning wines, dining experiences, and more. Book a tasting or shop online today!
Tofino Food Tours
Guide
Tofino Food Tours offers a unique culinary experience in Tofino, guiding you through the best places to eat and introducing you to the local culture and attractions. Let them make your vacation planning stress-free!
Outer Shores Lodge
Outer Shores Lodge offers all-inclusive experiences with Outer Shores Expeditions for escape, relaxation, education, and connection. Enjoy a remarkable stay in Bamfield, BC.
Kwa’lilas Hotel
Hotel
Kwa'lilas Hotel, a premier Indigenous-owned 4-star hotel in Port Hardy on Kwakiutl People's land. Immerse in Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw culture through curated artwork, fine dining, and more.
Restaurants
House of Boateng (HOB) Café
Award-winning café in Victoria, BC, offering vibrant brunches and elevated dinners with a focus on culinary excellence and community connection.
Wickaninnish Inn
Hotel
The Wickaninnish Inn offers magnificent views of the open ocean against old-growth forest. Services include wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean sports, and cultural experiences.
Mudsharks Coffee Bar
Mudsharks Coffee Bar in Comox Valley offers fresh food and drinks for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free items. Enjoy dining on the largest patio in the area.
Shipwreck Pizza
Fast Food
Casual pizzeria in Ucluelet offering fresh pizza, wings, nachos, and more delicious options.
Gladstone Brewing Co.
Gladstone Brewing Company in Comox Valley offers a variety of Belgian ales, European lagers, and IPA ales, along with unique small-batch creations, fostering a sense of community.
Brown’s Bay Resort & Marina
Parking
Discover the beauty of Brown’s Bay Resort & Marina, located just North of the Seymour Narrows in Campbell River, BC. Immerse yourself in nature, enjoy breathtaking ocean views, and witness marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
Spirits & Distilleries
Island Spirits Distillery
Distillery
Distillery Barrells offers a unique and authentic distillery experience with a variety of spirits to enjoy.
Sheringham Distillery
Distillery
Discover Sheringham Distillery, bringing the unique flavors of British Columbia's West Coast to the world, including Seaside Gin, Beacon Gin, Lemon Liqueur, Rhubarb Liqueur, and Coffee Liqueur.
Fermentorium Distilling Co.
The Fermentorium is where Old World craftsmanship meets modern techniques to create unique BC-inspired spirits like STUMP Coastal Forest Gin.
Shelter Point Distillery
Distillery
Established in 2011, Shelter Point Distillery crafts high-quality single malt whiskies with unique coastal influences. Explore their range of award-winning spirits.
Ampersand Distilling Co.
Wine
Explore the family-founded craft distillery in the Cowichan Valley, offering a range of spirits and merchandise.
Stormwatching
Wickaninnish Inn
Hotel
The Wickaninnish Inn offers magnificent views of the open ocean against old-growth forest. Services include wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean sports, and cultural experiences.
Outer Shores Lodge
Outer Shores Lodge offers all-inclusive experiences with Outer Shores Expeditions for escape, relaxation, education, and connection. Enjoy a remarkable stay in Bamfield, BC.
Crystal Cove Beach Resort
Beach Resort
Nestled in Tofino, Crystal Cove Beach Resort offers genuine log cabins with stunning views, hot tubs, and more. Stay in comfort or camp in style at our RV park. Family and pet-friendly near MacKenzie Beach.
Bostrom’s Bed & Breakfast
Oceanfront B&B offering amazing amenities like hot tub, sauna, fire pit, games room, and gourmet breakfasts. Enjoy stunning ocean views and outdoor activities.
Wild Pacific Trail Society
Explore the stunning 9km+ trail in Ucluelet, BC, with ocean views and ancient rainforest. Wheelchair accessible at Lighthouse Loop.
Long Beach Lodge Resort
Hotel
Discover the Long Beach Lodge Resort on Cox Bay, offering breathtaking ocean views and award-winning cuisine sourced from local, sustainable ingredients. Enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere in our Great Room and SandBar Bistro, perfect for a relaxing getaway or exciting adventure at the Surf Club Adventure Centre.
Surfing
Sea Otter Lodge
Sea Otter Lodge is a hand-crafted coastal lodge located on a private 7-acre island in Kyuquot, British Columbia. Offering all-inclusive kayak fishing holidays and customizable wilderness experiences, it's the perfect destination for adventurers seeking genuine hospitality and luxury in the wild.
Long Beach Lodge Resort
Hotel
Discover the Long Beach Lodge Resort on Cox Bay, offering breathtaking ocean views and award-winning cuisine sourced from local, sustainable ingredients. Enjoy a warm and inviting atmosphere in our Great Room and SandBar Bistro, perfect for a relaxing getaway or exciting adventure at the Surf Club Adventure Centre.
Valhalla Pure Outfitters
Outdoor
Valhalla Pure Outfitters in Courtenay offers a wide range of outdoor gear including hiking, kayaking, skiing, and more. They carry top brands like Arc'teryx, Salomon, and more.
