British Columbia: Travelzoo Tips
There is something for everyone in British Columbia. From remote islands to cosmopolitan cities, hidden gems to bucket list iconic destinations. Our travel savvy members have travelled the world and also close to home: we asked them to share the must-see places in their communities.
Visit Vancouver Island
Connect with your inner adventurer as you explore windswept beaches, snowcapped peaks and old-growth rainforests at Vancouver Island. For more information, read on for the best places to visit on Vancouver Island.
Explore Hidden Gems in Victoria, B.C.
"The area surrounding Victoria is full of great options. Begin the day with a walk across the Kinsol Trestle. Over 44 metres high, this deactivated rail bridge is among the tallest timber rail trestles in the world and dates back to the 1920s, when it served a key role in the transportation of resources. The walk from the parking lot to the beginning of the trestle is 1.2 kilometres and winds through a towering coastal temperate rain forest. Afterwards, trek west towards the coast and visit Mystic Beach. Time your arrival to coincide with sunset and you’ll have views that stretch across the Pacific. Bonus tip: A little exploration rewards the adventurous with a secret waterfall and an iconic beach rope swing." — Deb, Travelzoo Member
Visit our Victoria Travel Guide for more inspiration on where to eat, stay and play.
Experience Natural Wonders in Whistler
"Whistler is one of those destinations where there are more things to do than you can realistically pack in, but many activities can quickly blow the budget. There are many hiking and cycling trails all over Whistler that are relatively flat for those that want to experience natural wonders without committing to daylong treks, special equipment or lift tickets. An easy one to access and enjoy is the Lost Lake Loop. Follow in the footsteps of an Olympic bobsledder at the Whistler Sliding Centre. Afterwards, hang out at Rainbow Park on the far side of Alta Lake. There is a beach and large grassy area to spend an afternoon lounging or jumping off the dock." — Dana, Travelzoo Member
We have plenty of guides with great recommendations on things to do in Whistler. Whether you are looking to visit in the summer, or in the winter, we also have insider guides to Whistler with tips and tricks from our deal experts.
Embark on an Adventure in Squamish, B.C
"What used to be a gas stop on the Sea to Sky Highway, Squamish is now a destination unto itself. Your first stop should be the spectacular Shannon Falls and a ride up the recently reopened Sea to Sky Gondola. Does the thought of white-water rafting on a glacier-fed river get your heart beating faster? If so, the question isn't whether you'll want to go with Canadian Outback Rafting, but which rapids you'd prefer to shoot. For something more relaxed, float around on the refreshing waters of Brohm Lake — a local's favourite swimming hole about 15 kilometres north of Squamish." — Darren, Travelzoo Member
Squamish was on our list of seven family-friendly day trips from Vancouver. Read on for other noteworthy recommendations.
Experience the Surf Scene in Tofino, B.C.
“Surfers, locals and hippies are all just the most awesome. Be sure to walk the Wickaninnish Beach and enjoy a cinnamon bun at the Common Loaf Bake Shop.” — Jo, Travelzoo Member
Tour Government House in Victoria, B.C.
"It's got beautiful gardens, well-maintained grounds and breathtaking views of the ocean and the Olympic mountain range. And it's free!" — Fiona, Travelzoo Member
Wine-Taste Your Way Through B.C.'s Okanagan Valley
"The Okanagan Valley is BC’s premier grapegrowing region. With an ever-changing panorama, the valley stretches over 250 kilometres, across sub-regions, each with distinct soil and climate conditions suited to growing a range of varietals from sun-ripened reds to lively fresh and often crisp whites." — Brad, Travelzoo Member
We have plenty of guides on things to do in Okanagan. Whether you're looking to make sun-soaked memories in the summer, looking for things to do in South Okanagan in the fall, wine taste your way through Okanagan valley or looking for an insider's guide to Kelowna.
Visit B.C.'s Nisga'a Memorial Lava Bed Provincial Park
"It is just a wonderful sight any time of the year. October, I think is one of the nicest times with the changing of the leaves. But any season has its own beauty. There are four villages to explore in the Nisga’a Nation; Gitlax'aamiks (New Ayiansh) the seat of Governmet for the Nation. Gitwinksihlkw (Canyon City) with a suspension bridge to cross over the Nass River. Laxgaits'ap and (Greenville) and Gingolx (Kincolith), the end of the Valley were it meets the sea. There are many things to do and explore, check their website, and plan your trip. It is well worth the visit." — Barry, Travelzoo Member
Cross Vancouver's Lions Gate Bridge by Bike
"Vancouver is big on its bike lanes. The best suggestion come summertime is to rent a bike and ride the seawall -- not only around Stanley Park, but take the route over Lions Gate Bridge. Your quads will burn, but the breathtaking views across the bridge will numb the pain with a sight that showcases the true beauty of the West Coast.” — Riaz, Travelzoo Member
There is something fun and exciting to enjoy every season: visit our blog post four seasons of outdoor fun in Vancouver. If you only have a limited time, consider our guide to 48 hours in Vancouver.
Visit B.C.'s Haida Gwaii by Zodiac or Kayak
"It's not like any other part of Canada - or probably the world! It's a temperate rainforest paradise full of amazing vegetation and wildlife, with Haida guides to help you understand the totems, living sites, and surroundings. Breathtaking!" — Ellen, Travelzoo Member
Feel the Heat at Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, B.C.
"It has been a number of years since we experienced the beauty of these springs but they are forever imprinted on my mind. There are three levels -- in the hottest, people were trying to boil eggs. We were there in summer, but the place must be a wonderland in winter with snow surrounding you, sitting in the warmth of the water. The foliage and woods are unbelievable -- a very serene place in our amazing country." — Irene, Travelzoo Member
See the Glaciers in Summer at Whistler-Blackcomb in B.C.
"It's absolutely beautiful and you feel like you’re on top of the world. You will be in awe! You will also meet people from around the world." — Wes, Travelzoo Member
See the Geology of Gabriola Island, B.C.
"Malaspina Galleries, a natural rock formation, is unique and never fails to delight visitors to our island." — Janice, Travelzoo Member
Visit the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver
"It has some of the best Bill Reid pieces on display, and a beautiful outdoor exhibit of First Nations artifacts." — Richard, Travelzoo Member
Get a Glimpse of Grouse Mountain, B.C.
"Everywhere people travel, they seek out tall viewpoints such as the Empire State Building or the Eiffel Tower. I think we are very spoiled in Vancouver -- we have one of the most spectacular natural viewpoints of the city in Grouse Mountain, a truly world-class attraction. I will never forget the first time I experienced it." — Curtis, Travelzoo Member
Get outside on B.C.'s Okanagan Rail Trail
"It goes from Vernon to Kelowna on the old rail line. Almost half of it goes along the lakeshore. It's great for walking and mountain biking and it will only improve as it gets more developed." — Gary, Travelzoo Member
Save on Your Trip to Whistler, B.C.
"Most people park at Whistler Village, but you can actually park at Creekside in an underground parking lot for free, and the walk is much shorter to the gondola. During ski season, you can also buy day lift passes from 7-Eleven in Squamish instead of waiting in the ticket queues at Whistler." — Katie, Travelzoo Member
Step Back in Time to B.C.'s Gold Rush Era
"Experience the Gold Rush era at Hat Creek Ranch, where you can sleep in a teepee or covered wagon." — Sherri, Travelzoo Member
Save on Vancouver Suspension Bridge Experience
"Most tourists flock to Capilano Suspension Bridge, which costs a wallet-crunching $43 per person. Instead, head to Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, which is free as it’s a public park. It's currently closed but keep an eye out for an update on its reopening. There are loads of walking trails, too." — Katie, Travelzoo Member
See the Sites of Vancouver
"Visit Stanley Park, eat fish and chips at Lumberman’s Arch, then take a walk up Robson or Denman Street. It’s the place to be in the summer, and all the locals will be there." — Valerie, Travelzoo Member
Explore Quadra Island, B.C.
"Quadra Island sits next to Campbell River and serves as the entryway to the rest of the Discovery Islands. Quadra is a magical place with its friendly people, great hikes and outlooks onto the rugged chain of islands. [You'll] feel a sense of adventure inspired by the uniquely West Coast setting." — Tony, Travelzoo Member