tours in british columbia

THE 10 BEST British Columbia Tours & Excursions

British columbia tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

2. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

3. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

4. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

5. Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

6. Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour

7. Vancouver Seaplane Tour

8. Skagway Shore Excursion: Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge

9. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

10. Vancouver Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

11. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

12. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

13. Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

14. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

15. Small Group Cultural and Historical Walking Tour in Victoria

16. Granite Falls Zodiac Tour by Vancouver Water Adventures

17. Small Group Tour: Vancouver Sightseeing and Capilano Suspension Bridge

18. Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Victoria

19. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

20. Vancouver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

21. A Wok Around Chinatown: Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour Led by a Chef

22. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

23. Same Day Round Trip from Seattle to Victoria

24. Epic Electric Bike by Cycle City Tours

25. COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

26. Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour - Cowichan Valley

27. Exploring Vancouver: Includes Admission to Vancouver Lookout

28. Whale Watching Cruise with Expert Naturalists

29. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

30. Vancouver City Hop-on Hop-off Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Dawn S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Touring the Highlights! We phoned ahead and Tim picked us up at our hotel and went to meet the rest of our group. Kyle was our driver and guide and did a great job of pointing out sights as we drove through the highlights of Vancouver! The views from the Vancouver lookout, Stanley Park and the walk around the trails at the Capilano Suspension bridge and cliff walk were excellent! Lunch at the Capilano Burger Shack was Great too! Awesome way to spend a day in Vancouver! Read more Review of: Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout Written April 18, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Vancouver Seaplane Tour
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver
• Kimberley's Underground Mining Railway
• Whistler Explorer
• Burnaby Central Railway
• The Royal Hudson Steam Train
• Alberni Pacific Railway
• Sea Vancouver
• Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
• Prince of Whales Whale Watching
• Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
• Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours
• Apex Raft Company
• Kelowna Water Taxi & Cruises
• Beach Bum Tours
• Pristine Charters
• Adventure Tofino - Wildlife Tours
• Archipelago Wildlife Cruises
• PRINCE RUPERT ADVENTURE TOURS
• Black Bear Kayaking
• lsland Marine Adventures

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Live the Adventure!

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Explore beautiful british columbia and its incredible diversity of landscapes, cities and adventures., the british columbia effect.

Discover beautiful British Columbia, from the Okanagan Desert, to the mountains of the North, to the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island.

Get a breath of fresh air while whale watching in Tofino , go bear watching in Whistler , or plan a city break in Victoria or Vancouver . Each season brings its own wonders, and we are confident we have just the right thing for you if you are interested in learning more. Explore our packages by applying our search filters. 

Discover the city like never before, including our beloved North Shore and favourite locations.

ROCKIES & PACIFIC RIM PREMIUM

Day Trips with Discover Vancouver Tours

Best guided day tours by local experts to discover Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria and the Malahat

Winter Adventures with Destination Snow

Ski and snowboard across the best resorts in Canada independently or with your private group

School Trips with Discover Canada Student Adventures

Adventure in the Rocky Mountains, The Yukon, Tofino and all around Canada with your school

A top-world destination offering year-round exciting adventures

WESTERN CANADA ICONIC SITES

WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

Young & Wild Tours with West Trek

Affordable tours to iconic destinations for solo travellers, international students & young at heart adventurers

The capital of BC is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities

COASTAL BC INSIDE PASSAGE & ROCKIES

VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM

Bc's rainforest, a surfer's paradise, and the tree loving capital of the world.

TOFINO & UCLUELET PACIFIC RIM

PARKSVILLE GETAWAY

VICTORIA GETAWAY

TOFINO STORM WATCHING

Vancouver island, explore the lesser-known regions of vancouver island, including the city of totems, okanagan valley, vineyards and lakes during the summer, snow resorts in the winter - adventure year-round.

ROCKIES & WATERTON HIDDEN GEMS

ROCKIES SUMMER PREMIUM

ROCKIES SUMMER CLASSIC

Explore the coasts of bc its wonderful diversity of landscapes, culture and wildlife, travel beyond british columbia with discover canada tours.

636 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2

Tel: (604) 689-8128 Toll Free: 1-855-689-8128 Email: hello@discovercanadatours.com

Office Hours:

Every day (Monday – Sunday) 9:00 am – 5:30 pm

• In the News
• Tour and Travel Deals
• Adventure With Confidence
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Brand Portfolio

Discover Vancouver Tours Extraordinary Experiences West Trek Destination Snow Discover Canada Student Adventures Uniglobe Specialty Travel

Agent Resources

Agent Login New Agent Sign Up E-Brochure

Be Social with Us

Top Tours in British Columbia, Canada

British columbia tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout

2. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

3. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

4. Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

5. Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

6. Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour

7. Vancouver Seaplane Tour

8. Vernon Full Day Guided Wine Tour with 5 Wineries

9. Skagway Shore Excursion: Half-Day Tour to the Yukon Border and Suspension Bridge

10. Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Granville Island & Stanley Park

11. Victoria Whale Watch Tour

12. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

13. Vancouver City Tour Including Capilano Suspension Bridge

14. Victoria and Butchart Gardens Day Trip from Vancouver

15. Victoria Bachelorette Full Day Guided Wine Tour with 4 Wineries

16. Granite Falls Zodiac Tour by Vancouver Water Adventures

17. Small Group Tour: Vancouver Sightseeing and Capilano Suspension Bridge

18. Vancouver Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

19. Beacon Hill Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Victoria

20. Discover Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver

21. Vancouver Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

22. A Wok Around Chinatown: Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour Led by a Chef

23. Victoria Guided Food and History Tour

24. Same Day Round Trip from Seattle to Victoria

25. Epic Electric Bike by Cycle City Tours

26. COMBO Victoria City Tour & Butchart Gardens & Entry Tix

27. Indulge in a Wine & Food & Farms (Cheese) Tour - Cowichan Valley

28. Exploring Vancouver: Includes Admission to Vancouver Lookout

29. Whale Watching Cruise with Expert Naturalists

30. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver

What travellers are saying.

• Dawn S 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Touring the Highlights! We phoned ahead and Tim picked us up at our hotel and went to meet the rest of our group. Kyle was our driver and guide and did a great job of pointing out sights as we drove through the highlights of Vancouver! The views from the Vancouver lookout, Stanley Park and the walk around the trails at the Capilano Suspension bridge and cliff walk were excellent! Lunch at the Capilano Burger Shack was Great too! Awesome way to spend a day in Vancouver! Read more Review of: Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout Written April 18, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout
• Vancouver Seaplane Tour
• Whistler and Sea to Sky Gondola Tour
• Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour from Vancouver
• Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver
• Kimberley's Underground Mining Railway
• Whistler Explorer
• Burnaby Central Railway
• The Royal Hudson Steam Train
• Alberni Pacific Railway
• Sea Vancouver
• Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Watching Tours
• Prince of Whales Whale Watching
• Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
• Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours
• Apex Raft Company
• Kelowna Water Taxi & Cruises
• Beach Bum Tours
• Pristine Charters
• Adventure Tofino - Wildlife Tours
• Archipelago Wildlife Cruises
• PRINCE RUPERT ADVENTURE TOURS
• Black Bear Kayaking
• lsland Marine Adventures

• Canada and Alaska
• United States
• New Zealand
• South Pacific Islands
• Why Anderson?
• How We Travel
• Accreditations & Membership
• Company Info
• Sustainability
• Custom Group Tours
• Terms & Conditions
• Testimonials
• Online Brochure
• Covid Safety
• Toll-Free: 1-866-814-7378
• 303, 1117 1st Street SW Calgary, AB | T2R 0T9
• Travel Agent Portal

BRITISH COLUMBIA VACATIONS

On the far west coast of Canada lies beautiful British Columbia. Home to stunning coastlines, lush forests and majestic mountains, the province is filled with diverse ecosystems that make for exploring spectacular landscapes with much to see and experience. Enjoy the scenic hustle and bustle of the Vancouver metro area. The shopping, food and nightlife alone are enough to keep you busy but head outside of the city centre to find more of what the charming west coast has to offer. Seek out the relaxed vibes of Vancouver Island; located only a short ferry ride away from Vancouver, the island is easily accessible year round. Victoria, the Province’s historic capital, located on the southern tip of the island, is easy to explore by foot with the harbour,  quaint shops and historic sights and museums all within easy reach. Moving inland to southern BC, you will find Canada’s only desert. The Okanagan Valley, known its vineyards and high quality wines, is scattered with breathtaking views, golf courses, a warm climate and pristine sand beaches. With so much to fall in love with, British Columbia will have you lost in wanderlust before you know it.

MOST POPULAR TRIPS FOR BRITISH COLUMBIA

WHAT TO SEE AND DO?

Custom Trip Inquiry

What you get with a custom trip:

CONFIRMATION

When are your vacation dates, how many are travelling, who's this custom trip for, thank you for your reservation request.

We'll connect with you shortly to discuss your custom trip

CLASSIC TOURS

• Expert Tour Leader
• Maximum 24 passengers
• 3-4 stars comfortable accommodation (when available)
• Coach transportation
• Breakfast Included Daily
• Lunch or Dinner Included on Select Days
• Most Gratuities included

TOURS OF DISTINCTION

• Maximum 18 passengers
• Variety of 'off the beaten path' experiences
• Stays at Unique Inns and Boutique Hotel (when available)
• Mini Coach and Comfortable Local Transportation
• Lunch or Dinner Included Daily
• Unique Local Restaurant Experiences
• Most Gratuities Included

INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

• Private trip on a date of your choice
• Incorporates all modes of travel (coach, RV, car, VIA Rail, Rocky Mountaineer train)
• All Attractions, Activities and Events are Customizable
• Offers levels of accommodation from budget 3-star hotels, boutique lodges, to luxury properties
• Itineraries available in all 10 Canadian Provinces and the 3 Northern Territories and Alaska
• Itineraries also available in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific
• Itineraries cover all seasons and all travel styles
• Detailed crafted itineraries designed to agent/client specifications for content and budget

CUSTOM GROUPS

• Option for Expert Tour Leader to lead group at destination
• All Attractions, Activities, and Events are Customizable
• Offers levels of accomodation from budget 3-star hotels, boutique lodges, to luxury properties
• Daily breakfasts included

Your inquiry has been sent to us successfully. Someone will contact you very soon.

Showcasing the Best of Canada's West Coast Since 1985.

Vancouver tours including whistler & victoria, #3 outdoor activity, discover vancouver & beyond.

Vancouver Highlights Tour

Vancouver City + Lookout + Capilano Suspension Bridge Tour

Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour

Vancouver North Shore Tour: Mountain Discovery

Whistler, Shannon Falls, & Sea to Sky Gondola Tour

Vancouver pre and post‑cruise tours, post cruise vancouver highlights + lookout + capilano suspension bridge tour, pre or post cruise vancouver highlights tour, post cruise north shore mountain discovery tour, why book with us, more vacation. less effort., small tour group size, the best guides, favourite stops. great variety., vancouver tour packages, private transport & transfers, public tours, pre/post cruise tours, tour upgrades, transportation.

• Tours  > 
• Destinations  > 
• North America Itineraries  > 
• Canada Itineraries  > 

British Columbia Itineraries

Now you can find, compare, and share trips from 1,000+ operators and expert trip planners. Unlike most travel agencies and websites that only show options from large companies that pay big commissions, we show you all the options we can gather, and we’re adding more all the time. We want you to have all the available information to find your perfect trip, no matter who it’s with. Whether you’re looking for a short weekend getaway or a multi-country expedition, you can find it on Travelstride. About us.

...to foster a community connecting travelers to wonderful places, people, & experiences. Learn more.

British Columbia in 1 Week, Highlights

British Columbia  in 2 Weeks, Highlights

Top British Columbia Travel Packages

British columbia in 7-10 days.

British Columbia is packed full of stunning natural landscapes , culture and history. From sightseeing to surfing at the beach, British Columbia provides endless options for travelers. However, this can make it hard to decide what to do on your trip. Below are some sample itineraries to help your perfect trip come into focus.

British Columbia in 1 Week

One week may feel short but it’s plenty of time to hit some of the classic British Columbia sights as well as experience some iconic outdoor activities.

Day 1-2, Vancouver : Visit historic gastown, enjoy a bike ride through Stanley Park.

Day 3-5, Rocky Mountaineer : Kamloops Lake, Hell’s Gate , Fraser Canyon, end in Banff National Park

Day 6-7, Banff National Park : Explore the stunningly beautiful National Park, Lake Louise, and Icefield Discovery Center. Stay the night in a luxury lodge

Day 8, Calgary : Visit the Calgary Tower for great views of the city and surrounding area, and take a walking tour of the downtown area.

See All British Columbia One Week Tours

British Columbia in 2 Weeks

With 2 weeks in British Columbia , travelers can better immerse themselves in nature and culture. There’s more time to hit all your major interests whether that include active experiences like bike riding, nature viewing like whale watching or culture immersion like visiting a cultural center. With 2 weeks, you could do all three!

Day 3-5, Vancouver Island : Ferry trip to Vancouver Island. In Victoria, enjoy the Butchart Gardens in and take a scenic walking tour. Get active with the many activities such as whale watching, bear spotting boat rides, kayaking, and visit the Cathedral Grove in Tofino for beautiful hiking trails.

Day 6-8, Whistler : Sea-to-Sky Highway, Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre to learn about native traditions, Cache Creek for stunning scenery, historic Kamloops.

Day 9-10, Banff National Park : Stay in a mountain resort, and marvel at the majesty of the Canadian Rockies. Spot diverse wildlife and take invigorating hikes through the beautiful wilderness. Other highlights: Kananaskis Valley, Bow Falls, hoodoo rock formations.

Day 11-12, Jasper : Lake Louise, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Glacier drive, Maligne Canyon trail.

Day 13-14, Bella Coola : Spot wild Grizzly Bears, take a wildlife rafting tour, enjoy hikes and nature walks.

See All British Columbia Two Week Trips

Travelstride featured in

Unlock Community Benefits

• Save favorite trips and itineraries
• Get insider insights
• Receive personalized recommendations ...and much more

Top British Columbia Tours See all

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Top British Columbia Attractions

Glacier National Park

Stanley Park

Butchart Gardens

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve    

Whistler Mountain

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

Top Activities in British Columbia

Hiking and Walking

Historic Sites Tour

Kayaking Tours

Mountaineering

Seeing Wildlife

Travel by Train

British Columbia Tours Reviews & Ratings

Related Categories

• North America tours
• Hiking & Walking tours
• 50-Plus Travel tours
• Wildlife tours
• Nature tours
• Small Ship & Expedition Cruises
• Canada tours
• Whale Watching tours
• Banff National Park tours
• Vancouver tours
• Jasper National Park tours

Top British Columbia Tour Companies

• G Adventures Reviews
• Exodus Travels Reviews
• Trafalgar Reviews
• Landsby Reviews
• Contiki Reviews
• ROW Sea Kayak Adventures Reviews
• ROW Adventures Reviews
• Rocky Mountaineer Reviews
• Uncommon Journeys Reviews
• Un-Cruise Adventures Reviews
• Road Scholar Reviews
• Tauck Reviews
• Cosmos Reviews
• Lindblad Expeditions Reviews
• REI Adventures Reviews
• Butterfield & Robinson Reviews
• Grand Circle Travel Reviews
• Smithsonian Journeys Reviews

Why Travelstride

Click to send a new magic link to your inbox.

Welcome back!

By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy  and  Terms of Use

• Bookmark trips you like
• Share with your travel companions
• Track price changes
• Access private discounts on trips you save

TripFinder is a member-only feature. Don’t worry, it’s free!

With a membership you:

• Save up to $700 per person!*
• Access private deals and offers
• See personalized trip recommendations
• Save favorite trips

Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.

With your free membership you:

British Columbia Itinerary – 7 days or 2 weeks

Last Updated on March 1, 2024

British Columbia is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in North America, with its towering mountains, flowing fjords, ancient forests, wine country and energetic cities. British Columbia is also massive, it can take several days to drive across it from north to south! Because of it’s size and geographic diversity, planning a trip can be a bit daunting. This article will help you prioritize and see as much as you can with either a 7 day or 2 week British Columbia Itinerary.

Can I visit British Columbia without a car?

When is the best time to travel to british columbia.

• 7 day British Columbia itinerary without a car
• 2 week British Columbia Road trip itinerary
• What to do if you have more time
• What to pack for British Columbia

Yes! However, it depends on what you want to do on your British Columbia itinerary.

Vancouver and Victoria are both very walkable and even if you have a car I recommend parking it and walking and making use of the fantastic public transportation. It will be a lot less frustrating!

Whistler is also easy to get to and around without a car. You can take a bus from Vancouver and then take the Whistler shuttle anywhere you want to go.

Rural areas of British Columbia are difficult to access without a car, so if you’re traveling car free I recommend sticking with Vancouver, Victoria and Whistler.

You can also take the train from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies which has a stop in Kamloops in Interior BC. This is a gorgeous train ride although it is expensive.

British Columbia is a wonderful year round destination! Depending on what you want to do should determine the best time for your trip.

Summer is the busiest and most popular travel time. Most of British Columbia has long, sunny days, though it’s important to be prepared for rain any time of year, especially in Vancouver, Whistler and Vancouver Island. Expect crowds and lots of people out hiking, paddling and camping.

Fall is a beautiful time of year with less crowds, except in the Canadian Rockies where it’s very crowded through October. Expect freezing temperatures at night in the mountains and the interior. Coastal areas and cooler and rainier, but not as wet as winter.

Winter is a popular time to visit and travel British Columbia. The mountains have incredible skiing (both downhill and cross country) and there are lots of other winter sports to enjoy. Driving is much slower and involves winter driving conditions. Roads are well maintained but can be treacherous at times or closed during storms. Winter is wet and gray in Vancouver and Victoria, though it rarely snows.

Spring is another good way to avoid crowds and is a bit less wet than winter in coastal areas. Spring can still be VERY wet so be prepared. Ski season usually wraps up in late March or early April and high country areas continue to have deep snow through the spring. Keep this in mind if you’re a hiker, since spring is not ideal for mountains hikes in BC.

7 Day British Columbia Itinerary without a car

This 7 day itinerary is designed for those who don’t want to deal with getting a rental car or driving on their British Columbia Itinerary. This whole trip can be done without a car! If you do have a car, this still makes for a wonderful trip (except for parking in Vancouver and the expense of taking the ferry, which you could skip if you’re driving and stick with the mainland). This chart is a summary, the details are below. If you do drive this route, give yourself plenty of time for all the stops along the Sea to Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler.

Day 1 – Arrive in Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver and stretch your legs after your journey in Stanley Park. Find a delicious dinner and catch the sunset before calling it a day. I recommend staying near Stanley Park or Canada Place for this short, car free visit to Vancouver.

Related : Best things to do in Vancouver

Day 2 – Exploring Vancouver

There are so many wonderful things to do in Vancouver! I recommend starting the day in Chinatown for Dim Sum, which is a meal eaten around brunch time and involves lots of small plates to enjoy and share.

After that, take the bus to the University of British Columbia campus and check out the wonderful Museum of Anthropology. The museum is an ideal place to learn about the First Nations people of what is today called British Columbia, both past and present.

Next, take the bus to Granville Island and explore the many shops, eateries and amazing food! Make sure to take the ferry around false creek. The ferry is not only fun, scenic and very Vancouver, but it can also quickly whisk you back to downtown.

Day 3 – Travel to Victoria on Vancouver Island (4 hours)

Today you’re heading to Victoria on Vancouver Island and British Columbia makes it really easy to do this car free! The ferry terminal is a ways outside of town (on both sides) but you can take a bus that takes you from downtown Vancouver to downtown Victoria without having to navigate lots of different busses on both sides (which is also an option, though it takes longer and is more complicated).

Head over here for all the scheduling and booking details for the bus and ferry trip to Victoria. The trip takes about 4 hours (including the very scenic ferry ride).

Depending on what time you arrive in Victoria, you will likely have time to wander around town and check out the inner harbor. For a longer walk with expansive views head out Dallas Road along the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

I recommend staying in Victoria’s inner harbor, which puts you in the middle of everything and is very walkable. It’s also easy access to transit.

Related : Best things to do in Victoria

Day 4 – Exploring Victoria

Today is your day to explore the delightful and charming town of Victoria, which is also the capital of British Columbia.

In the morning, walk around town and down the shopping area of Government Street and take in one of Victoria’s excellent museums. I recommend the Maritime Museum or the Royal BC Museum.

In the afternoon, you need to have afternoon tea! This is an institution for generations in Victoria. I recommend skipping the very tourist oriented (and overpriced) tea at the Empress Hotel and instead have tea at Butchart Gardens. In my opinion, this is the best afternoon tea in Victoria . This also gives you the chance to explore world famous Butchart Gardens, which is really beautiful all year.

To get out to Butchart Gardens, you can take the city bus from downtown and it takes about 45 minutes. There are also tour buses you can take to get there which are a bit more expensive but get you there a little faster.

In the evening, make sure to stroll by the British Columbia parliament buildings, which have really beautiful white lights at night all year round.

Day 5 – Travel to Whistler

Today you’re heading from the harbors of Victoria to the towering mountains of Whistler . First, you’ll take the ferry/bus combo back to downtown Vancouver and then take the bus to Whistler. Learn all about the bus service to Whistler here . You will need to take the bus or Sky train a short distance from Pacific Central Station to Burrard to catch your Whistler bus. Plan on the journey taking most of the day.

Not only are you seeing the amazing islands and mountains of the Salish Sea from the ferry on your return trip, you’ll also be traveling up one of Canada’s most beautiful roads on the way to Whistler.

I recommend staying in Whistler Village which is very walkable and you can also take the shuttle around the Whistler area.

Day 6 – Exploring Whistler

Today you get to explore the stunning mountain town of Whistler! Make sure to enjoy some of Whistler’s incredible restaurants, no matter what time of year it is.

I recommend riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which you can ride year round. If it’s not a clear day, I would skip this since the view is what makes it really amazing. If you’re a hiker, don’t miss out on the amazing hiking options here .

Whistler is also a wonderful place to take a hike or a walk, there are lots of places to explore close by. Alta Lake has kayak rentals if you want to explore the water in summer and you can snowshoe around it in winter.

If it’s winter, Whistler is a great place to ski! If you’re not a skier, you can enjoy the snowy wonderland on snowshoes too.

Day 7 – Return to Vancouver

Today you’ll take the bus back to Vancouver, which takes about two hours. Depending on the schedule the day you’re traveling, you might have more time to explore Whistler before you depart or Vancouver when you arrive.

Spend the rest of the day doing anything else you missed at the beginning of your trip in Vancouver before heading home.

Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip Itinerary – 2 weeks

If you’re looking for an epic two week road trip adventure in British Columbia, here it is! You’ll want to park and take public transportation in Vancouver and Victoria, which are very walkable and have excellent transit. If you want to stay away from towns altogether, you can spend more time on the open road (driving around Vancouver Island instead of exploring Victoria for example). The chart provides a summary, with details below

Arrive in Vancouver and stretch your legs after your journey in Stanley Park. Find a delicious dinner and catch the sunset before calling it a day. I recommend staying near Stanley Park or Canada Place and leaving your car parked. It’s easy to get around Vancouver without driving! If you choose to drive, know that parking in many locations can be a challenge.

After that, take the bus (or drive) to the University of British Columbia campus and check out the wonderful Museum of Anthropology. The museum is an ideal place to learn about the First Nations people of what is today called British Columbia, both past and present.

Next, take the bus (or drive) to Granville Island and explore the many shops, eateries and amazing food! Make sure to take the ferry around false creek. The ferry is not only fun, scenic and very Vancouver, but it can also quickly whisk you back to downtown. Parking can be a challenge on weekends at Granville Island. Leave the car at your lodging if possible.

Day 3 – Travel to Victoria on Vancouver Island (3 hours – not including ferry wait)

Today you’ll get up and drive to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal. While not technically required, I highly recommend getting a reservation for the ferry in advance if you’re bringing a car ( schedules and booking here ). It could take up to an hour to get there depending on traffic. Make sure to arrive 30-60 minutes before your ferry is scheduled to sail.

The ferry ride is just over an hour and a half, with beautiful views of the mountains and islands of the Salish Sea around you.

Once you arrive at the Schwartz Bay Terminal on Vancouver Island, it’s about a 45 minute drive to Victoria.

I recommend staying in the inner harbor so you can walk to most things in town.

To get out to Butchart Gardens it’s about a half hour drive from the Inner Harbor. You can take the city bus from downtown and it takes about 45 minutes if you don’t want to deal with parking.

Day 5 – Victoria to Tofino (5 hours)

This morning you’ll get up and do some scenic driving on Vancouver Island to the town of Tofino , which faces the open Pacific Ocean. It’s a slow drive but absolutely beautiful and fully worth it to see the stunning surf of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rocks or exploring the beaches at low tide.

There are plenty of forest walks, waterfalls and beaches to stop at along the way to stretch your legs. Once you pass the town of Parksville, you’ll begin driving across Vancouver Island, going over a pass in the middle. You’ll pass the town of Port Alberni at the head of a long fjord.

When you are almost to Tofino, you’ll be near the town of Ucluelet which is another option for a place to stay on the west coast of Vancouver Island a slightly shorter drive.

Related : Best things to do in Ucluelet and Tofino

Day 6 – Tofino to Whistler (7 hours – not including ferry wait)

Today you’ll enjoy breakfast in Tofino (or Ucluelet) and perhaps fit in another beach stroll before starting your journey to Whistler. First off, you’ll retrace your journey back as far as Nanaimo (about 3 hours).

In Nanaimo, you’ll board a different BC ferry that will take you to the Horseshoe Bay terminal on the north side of Vancouver. Once again, you’ll want to have a reservation and arrive 30-60 minutes early. If you have enough time to explore the city of Nanaimo, make sure to get a Nanaimo bar!

It’s another scenic ferry ride across to the mainland that lasts about an hour and forty minutes.

When you arrive in Horseshoe Bay, you’ll be driving the almost unbearably beautiful Sea to Sky Highway for 100 km (60 miles to Whistler). While the drive is only an hour and a half, there are so many wonderful places to stop along this highway it is likely to take you much longer! At a minimum make sure to stop at Porteau Cove and Shannon Falls.

Related : 17 fun stops on the Vancouver to Whistler drive

Day 7 – Exploring Whistler

Today you get to explore the beautiful town of Whistler! Whistler is world famous for it’s skiing (the Olympics were here after all), but there’s so much more to Whistler than just ski slopes.

I recommend riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which you can ride year round. If it’s not a clear day, I would skip this since the view is what makes it really amazing. You’ll see mountains as far as you can see in every direction!

Make sure to take in some of Whistler’s excellent food as well.

Day 8 – Whistler to Kamloops (4 hours)

Today you’ll start your drive to Kamloops, which is a delightful town in BC’s sunny interior of wineries and agriculture! Kamloops is a perfect halfway point to break up the drive to the Canadian Rockies.

Make sure to give yourself time to explore the town of Kamloops as well as stop and taste some delicious BC wine.

Day 9 – Kamloops to Radium Hot Springs (5.5 hours)

Today you are heading to the Canadian Rockies! This post is about a British Columbia itinerary, although the Canadian rockies stretch across British Columbia and Alberta. Many people go straight to Lake Louise, Banff and Jasper. These are beautiful and extremely crowded locations. If you want a little more room, less people and a more relaxed experience, stick with Kootenay National Park and Yoho National Park, which adjon Banff National Park and are every bit as stunning!

Related : Why you should visit Kootenay National Park

I recommend Radium Hot Springs as a base camp for your explorations in the Canadian Rockies, because it’s more affordable and less crowded than Banff and Lake Louise. There are a number of hotels in the town of Radium Hot Springs as well as vacation rentals and one of my favorite campgrounds ever, the Redstreak Campground. Redstreak Campground is operated by Parks Canada and is in Kootenay National Park. You can also walk from your campsite to Radium Hot Springs for your soak.

On the way from Kamloops to Radium, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop and stretch your legs. Make sure to stop at the Giant Cedars Trail in Mt Revelstoke National Park and Roger’s Pass.

When you arrive in Radium, make sure to go to Radium Hot Springs, which is my favorite of the Parks Canada operated hot springs. It is MUCH less crowded than the hot springs in Banff. Actually, I recommend doing this EVERY night while you’re in the Canadian Rockies

Day 10 – Exploring the Canadian Rockies

I suggest spending today exploring Kootenay National Park and Yoho National Park. In Kootenay, make sure to stop at Marble Canyon, which is a relatively short walk and absolutely stunning. The drive through the park is breathtaking, even in moody weather. There are plenty of hiking opportunties here as well.

In Yoho, don’t miss gorgeous and internet famous Emerald Lake, with it’s towering mountains, perfect blue-green water and charming photogenic lodge. You can walk around the lake or rent a canoe here if you want to spend some time.

Takakkaw Falls is another fantastic stop in Yoho, if you’re up for the adventurous drive to get there!

Don’t forget to go back to the hot springs tonight!

Day 11 – More exploring the Canadian Rockies

If you’re up for braving the crowds, this is a good day to head to Banff and Lake Louise. I recommend going straight to the shuttle area on the highway for parking and get there as early as possible to see Lake Louise. Get there as early as possible as even the shuttle sometimes includes a long wait. Don’t even think about trying to drive into the Lake if you’re not staying there.

Lake Louise has plenty of hiking trails and canoe rentals to spend your day in and you can also go further up the road (again on the shuttle) to Morraine Lake, which is possibly even more beautiful!

If you’re not tired of crowds, head over to Banff and explore this charming mountain town. There are plenty of shops and restaurants as well as walks and hikes to keep you busy in Banff.

Day 12 – Radium Hot Springs to Nelson (5.5 hours)

Today you’re leaving the Canadian Rockies behind you to make your way back to Vancouver. You’re going to spend three days getting there so you can have some fun and not just be in the car all day. It is possible to drive straight from Radium to Vancouver in one day, which takes about 10 hours (without stops) and backtracks the same roads you’ve already driven.

On this British Columbia itinerary, we’re seeing new things on different roads on the way back!

On your drive from Radium to Nelson, I recommend going the slightly slower way that includes taking a short and scenic ferry across Kootenay Lake and a soak in Ainsworth Hot Springs (which has a super cool human made cave).

Nelson is only a short distance beyond Ainsworth. If you get there early enough to explore this quirky mountain town, you’ll enjoy it’s many shops and restaurants along the river.

Day 13 – Nelson to Osoyoos (3 hours)

Today you could drive all the way back to Vancouver, but I recommend taking your time to explore the agricultural heartland of British Columbia and taste more incredible wine. You’ll be going through mountains and forests to get there, but Osoyoos itself is very dry.

Spend some time enjoying Osoyoos Lake and wine tasting when you arrive.

Day 14 – Osoyoos to Vancouver (5 hours)

Today you’ll complete your British Columbia road trip by returning to Vancouver! Along the way you’ll head up and over the Cascade Mountains to the Salish Sea once again.

EC Manning Provincial Park is a wonderful place for hiking or picnicking. The mountains here are incredible and you’ll continue to see amazing views as you drive from Hope to Chilliwack over a high mountain pass.

Once you get to Chilliwack, you’ll be in the outskirts of Vancouver. If you are flying out, it makes sense to stay near the airport tonight so you’re ready to fly home.

Related : Complete guide to Winter in Manning Park, BC

If you have more time for your British Columbia Itinerary

If you have more time for your trip in British Columbia (lucky you!) here are a few ideas for how to spend it:

• Explore more of Vancouver Island , including the remote north end of the island
• Relax on the quiet and stunningly beautiful Sunshine Coast
• Go further up north along the Cariboo Chilcotin Highway
• Spend more time in BC wine country
• Visit even more hot springs !
• Spend more time in the Canadian Rockies
• Spend more time in Vancouver

Related : Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary

What to pack for your trip to British Columbia

This post contains affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases .

The weather throughout British Columbia varies quite a bit, with the Vancouver and Victoria area being rainier with more mild temperatures year round. The BC interior is hotter in summer, colder in winter and sunnier and drier year round.

For both of these itineraries, I recommend being ready for rain or sun any day all year! The main difference for winter is to bring more warm layers on colder days. The most important thing is to have an excellent rain jacket and waterproof footwear any time of year in British Columbia.

If you’re doing your British Columbia itinerary in the winter, you might want to consider bringing snow boots as well as a puffy coat if you are leaving the Vancouver and Vancouver Island area.

For summer travelers, it can be rainy and chilly in the summer, but it can also get quite hot. Make sure to bring some light layers for hot days (or warm indoor spaces).

Some specific things I recommend packing for your trip to British Columbia include:

It’s probably not a surprise that the most important thing to consider in what to pack for British Columbia is an  excellent rainjacket . Make sure it’s actually waterproof and not a light windbreaker (although if you’re visiting late July through early September that would likely be adequate if you’re staying in Vancouver).

• Make sure it’s  waterproof  (I like Gore Tex material but it’s not the only option)
• Make sure it’s  big enough to fit over other layers  (especially in winter when you’ll need a warm layer underneath it). I always have a rainjacket one size bigger than other tops I own.
• Make sure it’s  long enough  – this is a matter of personal preference but I prefer one that is long enough to not ride up all the time, especially with layers on
• Get a  lightweight  one – Because rain happens at a wide variety of temperatures in British Columbia, I recommend getting a rain jacket without an insulating layer and getting a separate layer of warmth (like a fleece or puffy) . This will allow you to wear them separately. A light raincoat is also easy to bring in your bag for that sudden rainstorm

If you’re looking for a specific rainjacket to pack for British Columbia, I highly recommend both this  Marmot one from Amazon  and  this REI Co- op one  (also available in plus sizes!). Both of these are excellent rain jackets that are durable and reasonably priced.

Waterproof boots or shoes

This is particularly important in fall through spring. If you’re visiting late July through early September and staying in cities without doing any hiking, then you might be fine without waterproof footwear.

Lots of people wear rubber boots even on city streets when it’s raining, in particular the super popular Hunter rubber boots, which come in a variety of colors. I personally prefer Xtra Tuf Boots ( especially these beautifully patterned Salmon Sisters ones ) because they are also super comfortable for muddy hikes!

If you’re more interested in hiking boots or hiking shoes, that’s another great option for the footwear you pack for British Columbia and it’s totally ok to wear hiking shoes and boots in the city too. I personally recommend Merrells which I wear for hiking. I prefer  hiking shoes  to boots, but if you prefer the extra ankle support of  hiking boots then I recommend these .

In addition to shoes,  wool socks  will help keep your feet warm and if they get wet it’s not totally miserable! Bring lots of extra socks!

Other Essentials

A few other things I consider necessary (in addition to toiletries and person items) include

• Waterbottle – like much of the Pacific Northwest, people carry waterbottles and you can fill them up all over the place
• Umbrella – this can be really handy for summer days or surprise rain showers
• Resuable shopping bag – you can get this when you arrive if you don’t have one or don’t want to travel with it. Effective January 1, 2022 there is a plastic bag ban so you’ll want to have something to carry purchases with
• Layers – you’ll want to be comfortable in a variety of temperatures, so bring clothes you can wear separately or together on warm or cool days.

Privacy Policy

APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

British Columbia Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

27 british columbia tours for singles / solo travelers with 18 reviews.

• Kayak & Canoe

The Magic of Vancouver Island

Orcas and Grizzlies Wildlife Tour

Note this is not a tour of a fixed group of participants with a professional guide. It is an itinerary composed of separate events which could be undertaken by groups, couples or like me an individual. Every aspect of this "tour" was organised to perfection and the notes provided exact details of what, where and how to expect things. There was no problem with flights, taxis, ferries or specialist providers. I loved the accommodation as I was made to feel I was wanted there and every assistance was provided. The local features at Alert Bay are worthwhile and the Cultural Centre is outstanding. Taxis are available on this small island but the best transport is walking to enjoy the local atmosphere. The one star missing for "overall" is because no warning was given that whales and grizzlies may not be seen as that is a seasonal thing which should be checked before booking.

• Christmas & New Year

4 days Whistler, Salmon Arm, Kelowna, Tour from Vancouver

Active West Coast Canada Discovery

Discover Klahoose - British Columbia Summer Wildlife & Cultural Tour - 3 Nights / 4 Day Package

Very friendly staff, beautiful scenery, awesome food

Vancouver Island Premium Tour

Had one of the best trips of my life so far! I've seen and done about everything on this weekend: watched a beautiful sunset, learned how to do s'mores, seen whales (!!) & eagles & sea lions and even a bear! I met some great people on the trip and really enjoyed Vancouver Island, Tofino and its nature :D

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Whales & Bears of British Columbia

Despite some very wet weather it was a thoroughly enjoyable holiday.

Discover Klahoose - British Columbia Summer Wildlife & Cultural Tour - 4 Nights / 5 Day Package

Tofino & Ucluelet Pacific Rim Tour

We thoroughly enjoyed the tour. Our tour guide Jafar was great, very knowledgeable and likeable.

• In-depth Cultural

3 Days Vancouver-Victoria, Duncan, Chemainus, Nanaimo Private Tour

The weather wasn’t great, but the tour was still fabulous! Loved the Nature was breathtaking. Amazing views,Driver cum Guide was Very knowledgeable and interesting. We had a great time. I really enjoyed his company, curiosity and sharing Victoria on a winter's day.felt totally safe and comfortable,At many places he gave us different options on how to continue. We had a great overview of all places. a very nice birthday treat :)

Vancouver 4 Days island Adventure Tour Vancouver, Victoria, Ucluelet, Tofino and Nanaimo

Vancouver to Nanaimo, Ucluelet, Tofino 3 Days Harbour City Tour Private

Grizzly Bears of Toba Inlet - 3 Nights / 4 Days

Grizzly Bear of Toba Inlet - 4 nights / 5 days

5 Days Vancouver Island, Victoria, Duncan, Lady Smith, Nanaimo, Comox, Lund, Sunshine Coast, Coastal Circle Tour From Vancouver

What people love about british columbia solo tours.

Note this is not a tour of a fixed group of participants with a professional guide. It is an itinerary composed of separate events which could be undertaken by groups, couples or like me an individual. Every aspect of this "tour" was organised to perfection and the notes provided exact details of what, where and how to expect things. There was no problem with flights, taxis, ferries or specialist providers. I loved the accommodation as I was made to feel I was wanted there and every assistance was provided. The local features at Alert Bay are worthwhile and the Cultural Centre is outstanding. Taxis are available on this small island but the best transport is walking to enjoy the local atmosphere. The one star missing for "overall" is because no warning was given that whales and grizzlies may not be seen as that is a seasonal thing which should be checked before booking.

We loved the tour! Ian is a fantastic tour guide. He’s so knowledgable and makes things fun. It’s a long day but totally worth it. The Discover tour is the best. It’s a smaller group. Very personal. Just enough “tour” time as well as free time. Victoria is wonderful!

• Seniors tours (7)

Travel Styles

• Singles and Solo (24)
• Seniors (7)

Planning the Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip

Kevin Miller / Getty Images 

British Columbia (BC) is the westernmost province in Canada, bordered by the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Rocky Mountains on the other. In addition to mountains and coastline, forests dominate British Columbia's geography, creating a diverse and beautiful landscape to traverse by road trip.

Since the northern portion of British Columbia is largely unpopulated, extremely mountainous, and underdeveloped, the ideal tour would stick primarily to the province's lower portion. The two best options are to drive a loop from Vancouver, hitting the charming mountain villages that dot the Rocky Mountains along the way, or to spend your time touring Vancouver Island, known for its untamed, surf-centric beaches.

BC roads are, for the most part, well-maintained, safe, and clearly marked, but some routes are winding and mountainous. Visitors should be aware of weather conditions, especially between late October and April when snow, fog, and ice can affect the roads. Driving through the Rocky Mountains during this time is not advisable for inexperienced winter drivers.

Always check the weather forecast and the road report before traveling. For information on current road conditions, visit the British Columbia Ministry of Transportation . 

Basic Rules of the Road

Getty Images

Driving in Canada is very similar to driving in the U.S. Canadians drive in the right lane, like Americans, but they measure distances in kilometers instead of miles. Consider these regulations:

• Drivers may not use hand-held electronic devices while driving. Talking on the phone or texting could earn you a ticket for distracted driving, which can cost upwards of $350.
• International visitors may drive in BC for up to six months with a valid driver’s license from your country.
• Driving under the influence of any substance, such as alcohol or drugs, is illegal, even though marijuana products are legal throughout the province.
• Seat belts and car seats appropriate for the age and size of your child are mandatory.
• Common speed limits in BC include 30 kmh (20 mph) in a school zone; 50 kmh (30 mph) in built-up areas; 80 kmh (50 mph) on rural roads; and 110–120 kmh (70–75 mph) on major highways and expressways. The maximum speed limit in BC is 120 kmh (75 mph).

Planning the Logistics

If you plan to fly into Canada and rent an RV or car for your road trip, the most logical place to start is either in Calgary in the neighboring province of Alberta or in Vancouver. Seattle , a two-hour drive away from the Canada/U.S. border, would also be a convenient takeoff point for a drive around British Columbia. Flying into the U.S. instead of Canada can sometimes be more convenient or affordable. 

Calgary is a major airline hub that's about 118 miles (190 kilometers) from the BC border. If you arrive in Calgary and rent a car, you can make a splendid drive to Vancouver via Banff and Lake Louise, two of Canada's most stunning mountain destinations.

Camping is also an excellent option for accommodation during your trip; campgrounds in British Columbia are abundant and range in service level, from pit toilets and hand-pumped water to full washrooms with hot showers and electricity. If you plan to stay in hotels and lodges, it would be best to book far in advance, especially for summer.

Option 1: East of Vancouver Loop

Jenske Arts / FOAP / Getty Images

This trip option, east of Vancouver, can take between five and 10 days, depending on whether you include the eastern cities of Revelstoke and Golden in your itinerary. In any case, you'll first want to get from Vancouver to Whistler along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99). This 750-mile (120-kilometer) route is extremely scenic, offering ocean views to one side and mountain panoramas to the other. At the end of it is the famous ski destination—Whistler—one of the best in the world and home to two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, that hover a mile above the village. 

From Whistler, head northeast to Kamloops , (a four-hour drive). You'll see the terrain change from coastal mountains to near-desert. Worthwhile stops along the way include Nairn Falls Provincial Park, Pemberton, and Lillooet. The latter two towns were a hub of Gold Rush activity in the 19th century and are steeped in First Nations (indigenous) culture. But instead of staying in Kamloops, continue an hour past—still on the TransCanada Highway —to Salmon Arm, which is far more charming. 

If you have the time, continue east to Revelstoke and Golden, two of BC's most beautiful destinations in the Canadian Rockies and home to some epic ski resorts. In this region, you can visit hot springs and provincial parks whose lakes are full of that azure-blue glacial water that Lake Louise is known for. Because of the mountainous terrain and limited roads, you'll likely want to head back the same way you arrived, on Highway 1. On the return, stop by places you might have passed the first time around, like Craigellachie and Sicamous, both sleepy-but-scenic resort and retirement towns.

At Sicamous, head south to Kelowna  (a two-hour drive), also known as the gateway to the Okanagan Valley and its wine region. Sporty travelers love the wide array of outdoor activities here: hiking, golfing, boating, and more. From there, drive down through Penticton to Osoyoos, stopping at any winery that appeals to you. Mission Hill and Quails Gate are two of the better known and visually striking wineries, but there are dozens of others. You're now on the way back to Vancouver along the very southern part of British Columbia. From Osoyoos, hop onto Highway 3, through Hope and then on to Vancouver, about a four-and-a-half-hour drive. 

Option 2: Vancouver Island

Known for its rugged, diverse, and beautiful geography, moderate climate, and unhurried way of life, Vancouver Island sits just off the mainland of British Columbia. It's home to the provincial capital of Victoria, but not the province's most populous city, Vancouver.  Vancouver Island is fairly big, requiring about six hours to drive from its south end to its north end. It takes three hours to drive from Nanaimo (mid-island on the east) to Tofino (mid-island on the west) alone.

Victoria makes for a great stopover, with Butchart Gardens beckoning a half-day tour and Craigdarroch Castle requiring at least a few hours. There are plenty of museums to explore and whale-watching tours departing from here, too. After staying in Victoria for a night or two, road trippers can continue to Parksville (about a two-hour drive away) for sprawling, sandy beaches, then proceed for three hours to beautiful Tofino, a small coastal town with a major surf culture.

The hippie-ish town of Tofino is brimming with forests, trails, and beaches (that are slightly cold for swimming, but stunning nonetheless). It offers a diverse culinary scene and activities such as whale watching, black bear viewing, and sea kayaking. End your trip at the picturesque fishing village of Telegraph Cove or Port McNeill for a grizzly bear safari.

Canada's Most Scenic Drives

Discover the Glacial Blue Waters of Peyto Lake

Your Trip to Vancouver: The Complete Guide

How to Travel From Vancouver to Banff by Train, Bus, Plane, and Car

Banff National Park: The Complete Guide

Top 10 Cities in British Columbia

Top Things To Do in Banff

Best Vancouver Day Trips & Weekend Getaways

How to Plan the Ultimate Ski Vacation to Whistler, British Columbia

Skiing in Canada

The Best Vancouver Day Trips

Where in Canada to Live for U.S. Citizens Post Eelction

The Ultimate Cross-Canada Road Trip: Montreal to Vancouver

The 10 Best Hot Springs to Visit in British Columbia, Canada

The Best Places to Visit in Canada in May

The Most Romantic Places in Canada

RBC Heritage

Harbour Town Golf Links

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina • USA

Apr 18 - 21, 2024

Wesley Bryan would rather be at Hilton Head. He's leading in the Dominican Republic

PUNTA CANA, Dominican Republic. — Wesley Bryan chipped in for eagle early and for birdie late, giving him a 9-under 63 on Thursday for a three-shot lead in the Corales Puntacana Championship, a PGA Tour event held the same week as a place he’d rather be.

Bryan birdied his last two holes to stretch his lead to three shots over five players, a group that includes former PGA Tour winners Charley Hoffman and Troy Merritt, along with tour rookie Parker Coody.

The tournament is held opposite the RBC Heritage, site of Bryan’s only PGA Tour victory. The South Carolina native even took part in Harbour Town’s promotional day last month.

But with injuries to his left shoulder and his wrist, his game has suffered and Bryan has spent more time delivering YouTube content with his brother, George . They first gained fame with their trick shots .

There was nothing tricky about his 63, outside of the chip-in for eagle on the par-5 fourth on the Corales course at Puntacana Resort & Club, and his chip-in for birdie on the par-3 17th. Bryan also birdied the 18th.

His 63 matched his low round on the PGA Tour. Bryan also shot 63 in the third round of the Genesis Open at Riviera in 2017.

“Got off to a good start, which was nice,” Bryan said. “But I mean, I’ve been hitting it nice leading up to this week. It’s fun to actually go out there and make some birdies, and had a couple chip-ins, which was nice as well.”

Hoffman is 47 and already had a surprise start to his year with a playoff loss in the Phoenix Open. He’s trying to build on that and added a trip to the Dominican Republic.

He started on the back nine, played bogey-free on a breezy day and finished with three straight birdies.

As an opposite-field event, the winner gets into the PGA Championship and receives a two-year exemption, which more than makes up for not getting a spot in the Masters.

“This year every event means a ton,” Hoffman said. “Everyone knows how important is it to get in that top 50, top 70 to get in the playoffs. I got off to a good start this year, struggled a little bit — I didn’t struggle, just missed a couple cuts by a few shots.

“Late in my career every event means a ton and obviously trying to get a W is the most important thing this week, and then obviously put myself in position for the playoffs.”

The group at 67 included Billy Horschel and Pierceson Coody, the twin brother of Parker. Their grandfather is Charles Coody, the 1971 Masters champion.

The RBC Heritage at Harbour Town is known for being a big exhale from the Masters. Perhaps the Dominican Republic had some of that vibe for Nicolai Hojgaard, though his scorecard looked like he was going through an emotional hangover — five birdies, six bogeys, seven pars for a 1-over 73.

Hojgaard, a 23-year-old from Denmark, briefly had the lead on Saturday at the Masters until making five straight bogeys. He wound up in a tie for 16th.

Hojgaard is the only Masters participant playing at Puntacana.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf