6 West Coast Experiences
Every BC Resident Should Have

Savour Ocean Vistas

The West Coast is as much a state of mind as it is a geographic area: there’s nothing like salty ocean air to leave you feeling fresh-faced and alive. Immerse yourself in the elements and attune your body to the timing of the wind and waves.

With its expanse of forest-fringed beaches, the Sunshine Coast offers plenty of opportunity to look out over the cool waters of the Pacific. Stop by one of the many oceanside parks that dot the coast, or take in panoramic views from high atop the mountain peaks as you hike the Sunshine Coast Trail. 

With one of the longest shorelines in Canada, Vancouver Island’s eastern coastline is best explored from Nanaimo. Grab a coffee at oceanfront Drip Café, then cross the road to sit on Departure Bay beach, or head to Neck Point Park for a stroll. Or, take the 10-minute ferry to Saysutshun (formerly known as Newcastle Island) to explore village sites of the Snuneymuxw people, as well as walking trails and campsites. Head further north up the coast to Parksville and take a walk along the expansive shoreline of Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, where the Pacific Ocean meets the land.

Grab a picnic lunch in Victoria before venturing off for a day trip to East Sooke Provincial Park. Enjoy up to 50 kilometres of trails through forest, marsh and over the windswept rocky coast. The park has numerous trail heads to park at and explores. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot wildlife from the trail including seals and whales! 

Discover Coastal Wildlife

The West Coast’s towering forests and moody shores are home to a rich and biodiverse array of sea and land creatures. Eagles swoop from tree to tree, surveilling the shorelines. Seabirds dive below the surface in search of their next meal, and opalescent jellyfish glide gently through the emerald depths. On shore, coastal land dwellers move swiftly and silently at dawn and dusk.  

Taking a guided nature viewing tour is a great way to discover secret wildlife havens and learn about the ecology and history of the area. Groups of up to six people can explore the Sunshine Coast’s Sechelt Inlet by Zodiac with Pedals and Paddles. Harbour seals, bears, and occasional orcas frequent these waters. 

Coastal Rainforest Adventures offers spectacular wildlife viewing out of Port Hardy, where you can see whales, bears, sea otters, and more.

Head deep into Broughton Archipelago, the traditional territory of the Kwakwaka’wakw First Nation, with Sea Wolf Adventures. Departing from Port McNeill (North of Telegraph Cove), these tours offer an intimate and immersive opportunity to learn about the land and culture from Indigenous guides, while spotting local wildlife, including grizzly bears, eagles, and whales.  The Kwakwaka’wakw  people have a deep connection with all wildlife, but particularly orcas, who often appear in ceremonial masks, songs, and stories. 

Enjoy A Seaside Stay

Staying at an oceanfront accommodation offers a cozy perch from which to witness the many moods of the West Coast. With the ebb and flow of the tides, there’s always something new and interesting to see at the water’s edge: a boat passing by, a coastal creature, or a new way the sunlight illuminates your favourite viewpoint. 

Stay off the grid in rustic cabins in the heart of Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park at the Cabana Desolation Eco Resort, located on a remote island near Lund. Explore the calm waters by SUP and kayak, enjoy an evening dip in bioluminescence, and savour fresh-caught seafood.