Breaking News for travel lovers! Vancouver Island, off the west coast of Canada, is famous for its beautiful capital Victoria and tall ancient trees. But there’s a quieter, peaceful side on the east coast that many people don’t know about. From Nanaimo to Port Hardy, the east coast of Vancouver Island is a hidden gem filled with nature, friendly small towns, and Indigenous culture. Here’s your simple guide to exploring this calm and beautiful part of Canada.
1. Start Your Trip in Nanaimo
Nanaimo is a lovely city where you can start your journey. Grab a sweet treat called the Nanaimo bar from Red’s Bakery, then drive 30 minutes north to the cute towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. These towns offer 12 miles of clean, sandy beaches. On a nice day, you can take a long walk and enjoy the ocean views.
2. Discover Art and Culture in Courtenay
Next, drive 40 minutes north to Courtenay in the Comox Valley. This town has small shops, cozy cafés, and great art galleries. Visit The Potters Place Gallery to see ceramics from local artists. Then stop by the Spirits of the West Coast Art Gallery and I-Hos Gallery to see Indigenous masks and jewelry made by local First Nations artists.
3. Go Fishing and Whale Watching in Campbell River
A 30-minute drive takes you to Campbell River, known as the salmon capital of the world. If you enjoy fishing, you’ll love trying to catch different kinds of salmon in the ocean or rivers here. Just make sure to get a fishing license online before you go.
Campbell River is also one of the best places for whale watching. The area’s special waters attract whales, sea lions, and other sea creatures. You can see humpback whales between June and October, and orcas all year round. If you get seasick, choose a covered boat instead of an open one.
If you’d rather stay on land, hike to Elk Falls in Elk Falls Provincial Park. It’s a short and easy walk that takes you through old forests to a large waterfall and a hanging bridge with great views.
4. Visit the North Island for a Deeper Experience
Keep driving north for two more hours to reach Port McNeil. From here, take a 45-minute ferry to Alert Bay on Cormorant Island. Alert Bay is home to the world’s tallest totem pole at 173 feet, made by the Kwakwaka’wakw people.
Drive further to Port Hardy, the farthest north you can go by paved road on Vancouver Island. This area is rich in Indigenous culture. You can see art from over 100 local artists at the West Coast Community Craft Shop and the Copper Maker Gallery in nearby Fort Rupert.
5. Explore the Great Bear Rainforest
From Port Hardy, you can enter the Great Bear Rainforest, one of the largest and most untouched rainforests in the world. It’s full of huge trees, waterfalls, and animals like grizzly bears, spirit bears, and more. This place is very special and full of life. You can reach it by small plane, boat, or BC Ferries from June to September.
Where to Stay
- Naturally Pacific Resort in Campbell River offers ocean views and a heated indoor pool.
- Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy is Indigenous-owned and filled with beautiful First Nations artwork.
- Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort near the rainforest offers kayaking, sea urchin diving, and even floating saunas.
Where to Eat
- Fanny Bay Oysters Seafood Shop near Courtenay sells fresh oysters and tasty fish snacks.
- Shelter Point Distillery offers local whisky made from homegrown barley.
- Carve Kitchen + Meatery at the Naturally Pacific Resort serves local seafood and veggies from its garden.
- Ha’me’ Restaurant in Port Hardy offers Indigenous fine dining, with dishes like smoked sablefish and bannock donuts.
Whether you want to explore peaceful forests, spot whales, or learn about First Nations culture, the east side of Vancouver Island is the perfect place. This destination offers something for everyone, from relaxing beach walks to exciting wildlife adventures.
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