10 MUST-SEE SPOTS FOR YOUR FIRST VANCOUVER ISLAND ADVENTURE

So, you’ve landed on Vancouver Island, or you’re planning to. Good choice.
We’re talking winding coastal highways, rainforests thicker than your morning coffee, and beaches that make you forget about cell service.

If it’s your first time exploring the Island, consider this your cheat sheet to the greatest hits — the spots that’ll have you saying “we need one more night” at least five times.

Oh, and make sure you read to the end — we saved our all-time favorite Island spot for last. 🌊

1. Sombrio Beach

If you know, you know. Tucked just off the Juan de Fuca Highway, Sombrio is the kind of place you could stay “for a night” and accidentally camp for three. Surfers, driftwood forts, hidden waterfalls, and that salty-haired, barefoot vibe that makes you wonder why you ever owned dress shoes.

2. Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Provincial Park

Because you can’t come to Vancouver Island and skip the giants. These Douglas firs have been around since before you could spell “selfie.” Walk slow, look up, and breathe in that ancient-forest smell that hits different after a few days on the road.

3. Cowichan Lake

Calm waters, tall trees, and cozy lakeside camping — it’s where you finally slow down. Swim, paddleboard, or just crack a cold drink and watch the sun dip behind the hills. It’s also a perfect halfway stop between Duncan and the Island’s west coast.

4. Elk Falls Suspension Bridge – Campbell River

Don’t look down (or do, if you’re brave). A short trail leads you to a jaw-dropping waterfall and a suspension bridge that’ll give you just the right amount of adrenaline. Bonus: grab a cinnamon bun from a local café after to reward your bravery.

5. Englishman River Falls

Two sets of waterfalls, one easy hike, and a bunch of swimming holes that will test your bravery (spoiler: it’s cold). Perfect picnic spot, and close enough to Parksville that you can grab ice cream after.

6. Mount Washington Alpine Resort

Snow in winter, wildflowers in summer, Mount Washington’s a choose-your-own-adventure situation. Take a chairlift up for panoramic views, or just soak in that crisp alpine air that somehow makes every snack taste gourmet.

7. Tofino & Ucluelet

The surf, the sunsets, the tacos, it’s all legendary for a reason. Even if you don’t surf, just standing on Long Beach at golden hour counts as therapy. Bonus points for rolling up in a Westy and making it look like you live there full-time.

8. Cowichan Valley Wineries

Because even adventurers deserve a little class. The Cowichan Valley has some seriously good wineries, and after a few nights of campfire cooking, a glass of rosé feels downright luxurious. Just make sure your van’s parked for the night — and yes, we’ve all underestimated local wine before.

9. Storey Beach – Port Hardy

Way up north and absolutely worth the drive. Storey Beach is quiet, wide open, and the kind of place where you can actually hear yourself think. Bring snacks, a blanket, and maybe someone who doesn’t mind a little wind in their hair.

10. Botanical Beach – Port Renfrew (Our Favourite!)

We’re ending on a high note. Botanical Beach is where the Island shows off — tidal pools filled with sea stars, urchins, and other alien-looking sea life. Go at low tide (trust us), wander the sandstone shelves, and feel that perfect mix of awe and calm that makes this spot our all-time favorite. If you only visit one place on this list, make it this one.

Ready to Roll?

Let Base Camp set you up with the perfect home on wheels. We’ll handle the van — you handle the memories. The slow lane done right.