Vancouver Island is home to some of best spas in North America. Many spas in this region feature stunning ocean or rainforest views, and some spa treatments incorporate local ingredients, such as seaweed, wine, berries and cedar trees.
Feel the ocean breeze while enjoying a massage in a shore-side hut at Ancient Cedars Spa at The Wickaninnish Inn (voted "#1 Hotel Spa in the Continental US and Canada" and “Best Hotel Spa Overall” worldwide by Travel + Leisure), or head to the Gulf Islands to unwind at a luxury spa. At Poets Cove Resort & Spa, enjoy waves of relaxation while sitting in a sandstone cave under a waterfall. In addition to large resorts, there are a number of day spas on Vancouver Island.
Unique Spa Treatments and Settings
The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino is one of Vancouver Island’s most iconic spa resorts. The Ancient Cedars Spa includes oceanview massages, treatments inspired by Aboriginal cleansing ceremonies (such as seaweed exfoliation and water therapy), and body wraps that use hand-harvested kelp and seaweed.
At Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa (in Courtenay), follow the Pacific Mist Hydropath (a series of pools and caves carved from sandstone) to experience eight water therapies, including a waterfall massage, steam cave and sea mineral soak. Traditional spa services are also available.
The Orchard Spa at Merridale Estate Cidery offers outdoor spa treatments and a spa dining menu with ingredients from local farms. A glass of crisp cider is the perfect complement to a manicure or pedicure; massages, body wraps and facials are also available.
Popular Destination Spas
The Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara is the largest resort spa in British Columbia. Located in Parksville, this oceanfront resort offers spa treatments and a huge grotto mineral pool. The Treetop Tapas & Grill is exclusive to spa guests and has a relaxing "spa attire" dress code: robes and sandals.
Drift Spa at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort & Spa in Ucluelet features spa treatments with amazing ocean views. It's possible to book private treatments in the resort's rooms, which overlook the ocean and Wild Pacific Trail.
On Pender Island, sit in a sandstone steam cave under a waterfall at Susurrus Spa at Poets Cove Resort & Spa. Visit Madrona Del Mar Spa on Galiano Island to savour a unique blackberry vinotherapy massage.
Wilderness Resorts and Spas
Treatments at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort's Healing Grounds Spa take place in tents and rooms on the edge of the rainforest. Sit in wood-fired hot tubs, rinse under an outdoor shower, or try a morning yoga session where the only companion might be an eagle soaring overhead.
Island Currents Spa at Sonora Resort offers luxury and relaxation in a pristine environment. Experience full service spa treatments overlooking the Inside Passage; also keep a watchful eye for Orcas or take a grizzly bear sightseeing tour. Sonora Resort is accessible via air and water taxi only.
Health and Wellness Retreats
Hollyhock Centre is an internationally-recognized wellness retreat on Cortes Island near Campbell River. Hollyhock provides a quiet, stress-free environment where guests can focus on personal and professional development, and offers yoga classes, nature walks, guided sunset kayaking, meditation and massage.
Coastal Trek Health and Fitness Resort is an all-inclusive health resort in Courtenay. The resort features personalized fitness programs that focus on hiking in the scenic Comox Valley.
Health and Wellness Services
Vancouver Island has numerous practitioners that offer wellness treatments and physiotherapy, as well as yoga, pilates and other fitness classes.
Many yoga and wellness studios encourage drop-ins and clinics with licensed therapists can often accommodate visitors on short notice. Ask at hotels, B&B’s, or local Visitor Centres for recommendations.
Vancouver Island Spa Getaways
Check out Vancouver Island spa getaways for a few ideas about spas to visit and places to stay.
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