Are you planning to visit Victoria, BC, and wondering what to do during your stay?
Look no further, as we have compiled a list of the best day trips from Victoria that will take you on a journey through the natural beauty of Vancouver Island and beyond!
Whether you’re a local, in town from the Lower Mainland, or from further afield, let’s see why this charming island city is not the end of your journey— but only the beginning.
The 12 Best Day Trips from Victoria, BC
Marvel at the Views from the Malahat Skywalk
Are you looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience that will take your breath away? Look no further than the Malahat Skywalk, located just a short drive from Victoria! The Skywalk is an exciting attraction that opened in 2021, and it’s quickly become one of the most popular destinations on Vancouver Island.
The Skywalk itself is a feat of engineering, featuring a 600-foot elevated walkway that winds its way through the trees, ending in a spiral tower that rises ten stories above the forest floor.
From the top of the tower, you’ll have a 360-degree view of the surrounding area, including the Salish Sea, the Gulf Islands, and the Olympic Mountains in Washington State.
Shuttles are available seasonally from Victoria, which include admission.
Want to learn more? Check out our article on how to get to the Malahat Skywalk from Victoria.
Explore the West Coast at Juan de Fuca Marine Trail
Next on our list is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, a 47-kilometre hiking trail that stretches along the west coast of Vancouver Island.
The trail offers hikers stunning views of the rugged coastline, hidden coves, and tidal pools. If you’re an experienced hiker, you can tackle the entire trail, which takes around four to five days to complete.
For those who prefer shorter hikes, there are plenty of day hikes that you can take from various points along the trail. This trail is a must-visit for any nature lover visiting Vancouver Island.
The trail starts at China Beach, about 35 km west of Sooke. It takes a little over an hour to get there from Victoria.
Looking to enjoy the outdoors closer to home? Check out our guide to Victoria’s Best Parks & Gardens.
Set Sail on a Victoria Whale Watching Tour
Are you looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget? Look no further than a Victoria whale-watching tour!
You’ll have the opportunity to see majestic whales in their natural habitat, as well as other marine life, such as seals, sea lions, and porpoises.
It’s a thrilling and educational experience that’s suitable for people of all ages and abilities. Better yet, the tours depart right from the Inner Harbour or Fisherman’s Wharf, just steps from most Victoria hotels.
So, why not book a whale-watching tour in Victoria and create memories that will last a lifetime?
Looking for something different? Try out Whale Watching in Cowichan Bay.
Relax at Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
The next stop on our list of Victoria Day trips is Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park features a series of deep pools and rock formations carved by glaciers in the Sooke River – hence the term ‘potholes.’
Above all, the park offers one of the best freshwater swimming spots on the island. You can also camp, fish, or simply relax by the water. Several hiking trails lead to viewpoints overlooking the river and the surrounding forests.
So remember to bring your camera. You’ll be captivated by the natural beauty of this unique Vancouver Island outpost, which is roughly 45 minutes southwest of town.
Go Wine Tasting in the Cowichan Valley
A Cowichan Valley day trip transports you to the second-largest wine region in British Columbia—it’s our answer to the Napa Valley. This offers visitors a chance to taste some of the finest wines in the province.
So, if you’re a wine enthusiast, you can take a Cowichan Valley Wine Tour that includes transportation from Victoria in a convenient package.
A quick stop off at Cowichan Bay is also an option if you’d like to stay closer to the coast. The aforementioned Malahat Skywalk is also along the way.
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the beauty of Vancouver Island’s rivers, look no further than tubing on the Cowichan River! I promise it’s an adventure that you won’t forget. It’s most definitely one of the best things to do in Victoria in Summer.
Go Surfing in Tofino
Admittedly, with a roughly 200-mile drive involved, we may be stretching the definition of a day trip. But for those who love the ocean, a road trip from Victoria to Tofino is simply a must-do—even if it’s better to make a weekend out of it.
Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is known for its pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and whale-watching opportunities. You’ll also find world-class restaurants that rival anything in Vancouver or Victoria.
Remember to try some of the delicious seafood the area is famous for. If you’re looking for some culture, you can visit the amazing Roy Henry Vickers Gallery. Nearby Hot Springs Cove provides the textbook definition of R&R.
Cross the Border to Seattle
A road trip (or ferry trip!) to Seattle from Victoria is one of the easiest and most exciting weekend getaways you can take.
The Victoria Clipper makes the journey a breeze—there’s no need to worry about driving or border crossings; just sit back and enjoy the scenic ride straight into downtown Seattle.
Once you arrive, there’s no shortage of things to do. Pike Place Market is a must for fresh seafood, quirky shops, and watching the famous fish-throwing vendors in action. The Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass offer iconic views and incredible art.
With incredible food, world-class attractions, and an easy travel experience, a trip to Seattle from Victoria is absolutely worth it.
Enjoy a Quick Escape to Goldstream Provincial Park
For a nature lover looking to explore the forests of Vancouver Island, Goldstream Provincial Park is the perfect destination.
Located just a 30-minute drive from Victoria, the park is home to old-growth trees, stunning waterfalls, and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
You can take a hike through the park’s trails or go birdwatching to spot some of the many species that call the park home.
If you’re visiting in the fall, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the annual salmon run, where thousands of salmon swim upstream to spawn.
Smell the Roses at Butchart Gardens & Brentwood Bay
Let’s state the obvious: listing Victoria’s most popular tourist attraction isn’t exactly going to blow your mind. Butchart Gardens is located about 40 minutes north of downtown Victoria.
Pair a visit to this botanical paradise with a stop at nearby Butterfly Gardens, and you’ve got the makings of a full-blown Brentwood Bay day trip.
Butchart Garden’s 55 acres of stunning floral displays, themed gardens, and tranquil paths attract over one million visitors per year—it is one of the top attractions in Canada.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a great choice for those travelling to Victoria with kids. You can observe thousands of butterflies from around the world, as well as a variety of other exotic plants and animals. It’s a full-blown tropical escape without even hitting the airport!
Don’t have a vehicle? Check out our article on how to get to Butchart Gardens from Victoria.
Visit the Idyllic Gulf Islands
The Gulf Islands are a group of islands in the Salish Sea, just off the coast of Vancouver Island. The Southern Gulf Islands include Saltspring Island, Pender Island, Galiano Island, Saturna Island, and Mayne Island. Each is easily accessible via a quick ferry from Swartz Bay.
The islands offer a variety of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages. You’ll find several charming villages, each with its own unique character and history.
Stroll through the quaint shops, cafes, and galleries and get a taste of island life. It’s so relaxing, making it a perfect day trip from Victoria for those just looking to chill.
Visit local wineries, cideries and breweries, explore local art galleries, rent a kayak or a boat or enjoy the pristine, secluded local beaches.
Make a City Excursion to Vancouver
Oh, I get it! You were promised peaceful island getaways and ecotourism hotspots, and now I’m throwing Vancouver your way? Well, hold onto your hats, folks! Vancouver may not be what you were expecting, but trust me, it’s a gem in its own right.
And if you visit via the 30-minute Victoria to Vancouver Floatplane, a day trip is more than doable. From Coal Harbour, you can make quick trips to the Capilano Suspension Bridge or Grouse Mountain.
The city itself needs little introduction. With a population approaching 3 million, it simply offers a level of shopping, entertainment, dining and nightlife options that the island can’t match.
And though you might prefer to spend the night if you’re looking to hit up a concert, check out a big game, or try some world-class food and culture, Vancouver is the place to do it.
⛴️ Heading over to the mainland? Check out our guide on how to get to Victoria from Vancouver.
Made your pick from our list on the best day trips from Victoria?
With so many incredible destinations just a short drive from Victoria, planning a day trip (or two!) is a must.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, or simply a change of scenery, the region has something for everyone.
So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the best that Vancouver Island has to offer.
Leave a reply