British Columbia is the kind of place that gives you a bit of everything - mountains, ocean, cities, small towns, and plenty of space to unwind. Whether you're looking for adventure, great food, or just a relaxing spot with a view, BC offers a range of options to match your pace and style.
If you're planning a trip and wondering where to start, here are five destinations that show off some of the best the province has to offer. Whether you’re after nature, culture, or a mix of both, these places are well worth a spot on your list.
Located on Vancouver Island, Tofino is a small town with a big reputation for natural beauty. It's known for its surf culture, peaceful beaches, and relaxed vibe, perfect if you're looking to slow things down.
Start your day with a walk along Chesterman Beach or Long Beach, where you'll likely see surfers catching waves or people simply enjoying the quiet. You can book a whale watching tour, take a boat out to hot springs, or explore local hiking trails in the nearby Pacific Rim National Park.
There’s also a growing food scene in town, with cosy cafés and restaurants focused on fresh, local ingredients, especially seafood. Tofino is a good pick if you want to unplug, get outside, and enjoy a slower pace for a few days!
Vancouver offers a mix of city energy and outdoor access that’s hard to beat. You’ve got beaches, mountains, parks, and great restaurants - all in one place.
If you're visiting for the first time, Stanley Park is a must. You can rent a bike and ride the seawall, or just enjoy a walk along the waterfront. The city’s neighbourhoods each have their own personality - Gastown for historic charm, Kitsilano for beach vibes, and Mount Pleasant for a younger, artsy feel.
Vancouver is also a great base for luxury British Columbia holidays. There are high-end hotels, spa experiences, and fine dining options that make it easy to treat yourself while staying close to nature. Whether you're kayaking in False Creek, shopping downtown, or hopping a ferry to a nearby island, you'll never be short on things to do.
If you’re into food, wine, or lake life, the Okanagan Valley is worth the trip. This area in the interior of British Columbia is known for its warm weather, vineyards, and relaxed summer vibe.
Kelowna is the biggest city in the region, but you’ll find smaller, quieter towns like Naramata or Oliver that are equally charming. Wineries are everywhere, and many of them have beautiful patios where you can enjoy a tasting or a long lunch with a view of the lake.
There’s also lots to do outdoors - boating, paddleboarding, hiking, and biking are all popular. Local markets are full of fresh fruit and produce in the summer, and the overall pace is calm and easygoing. It’s a great place for couples, small groups, or anyone who wants to enjoy good food and sunshine without feeling rushed.
If you're looking for something less touristy but still packed with natural beauty, the Kootenay Rockies region in southeastern BC is a solid pick. It’s full of lakes, mountains, and small towns with a laid-back feel.
Nelson is one of the main hubs - it has a cool arts scene, heritage buildings, and lots of independent cafés and shops. Nearby, you’ll find hot springs, backcountry hiking trails, and scenic drives that are especially beautiful in the fall.
This part of BC is more off-the-beaten-path, but it’s ideal if you want to spend time in nature without big crowds. Whether you're snowshoeing in the winter or paddleboarding on the lake in the summer, it’s a spot that feels personal and unhurried.
Most people know Whistler as a world-class ski destination, and it definitely is, but there’s a lot more going on here year-round. In the summer, it turns into a mountain playground with biking trails, ziplining, hiking, and alpine lakes.
The pedestrian village is easy to walk around and full of restaurants, shops, and places to relax. Whether you're looking for a high-end hotel, a cosy cabin, or a luxury spa day, Whistler has options that suit both adventurous travellers and those looking to wind down in style.
For luxury British Columbia holidays, Whistler checks a lot of boxes. It’s scenic, active, and polished all in one spot. And if you do visit in the winter, the après-ski culture is as much a highlight as the slopes.
British Columbia is big, beautiful, and packed with variety. Whether you're drawn to the ocean, the mountains, or somewhere in between, there's no shortage of places to explore and unwind. What sets BC apart is how easy it is to shift gears - you can be kayaking one day and wine tasting the next.
So, whether you’re planning a nature-focused escape, a luxurious city break, or something in the middle, British Columbia has a destination that fits the bill. All you have to do is choose your pace and go!
