Plan Your Trip to Central Vancouver Island

What To Do in Central Vancouver Island

Many of the Island must-stops can be found in this region; think well-known favourites like goats on a roof, outdoor trails with waterfall vistas, and sprawling ocean views.

In Nanaimo, the blend of nature and culture runs deep. You’re likely to have breakfast at a farm-to-table cafe, hit the trails, and wrap up at a museum, all in one day. It’s easy to navigate from one activity to the next, whether you’re strolling downtown or zipping into cozy gear to go whale watching. And if you’d like to say you’ve island-hopped, you can visit the neighbouring Islands, such as Saysutshun, the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation (Newcastle Island), and Gabriola.

Where to Stay

The accommodations in Central Vancouver Island put you exactly where you want to be. Lounge it out at a seaside resort in Parksville, make a temporary home in one of Port Alberni’s boutique style inns, or stay in a historic downtown hotel with ocean views. With highway access to zip between each location, any of the towns in this region can serve as your base to explore the central Island and as far as your sense of adventure takes you.