Vancouver Island had been high on our travel wish list for several reasons: whales, bears and bald eagles. But the real dream? Kayaking with orcas. Our road trip takes us from Vancouver city to the Gulf Islands, and across the island from Ucluelet to Telegraph Cove, eventually crossing to the mainland’s Sunshine Coast. From bear watching on riverbanks to spotting humpbacks off the coast. And from wild, untamed nature to towering forests and rocky coastlines, it was everything we hoped for.
Day 1: one night in Vancouver city
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Day 2-5: Pender Island - whales, wine & West Coast vibes
On our way to Vancouver Island, we make a 3-night stop on Pender Island. With its quiet coves, forest trails and big ocean views. Pender feels like one of those places where time slows down. It’s also one the best spots in the Gulf Islands to spot whales from land, so of course we have on eyes on the water the entire time.
We go on a whale watching tour with Salt Spring Adventures. They depart from Salt Spring Island but have a pick-up service (small extra fee) for guests staying on Pender. You spend the afternoon exploring surrounding islands and searching for whales. This is what we came for, we spot a large pod of transient orcas and two humpback whales!
We stay in the oceanfront West Suite with private outdoor jacuzzi at Sahhali on the Bluffs. Here we spend our time scanning the horizon, hoping to catch a dorsal fin slicing through the water. And lucky enough, we spot a humpback whale!
Day 5-8: Ucluelet
Tucked away on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Ucluelet offers the perfect mix of wild nature and a peaceful escape.
We stay in the Hemlock suite at Snug Harbour Inn, an intimate adults-only B&B overlooking the wild Pacific coastline. The room is super cozy with a fireplace and the kind of soaker tube that you never want to get out of. Every morning a delicious breakfast is served in your room. you can also relax in the outdoor hot tub or cedar barrel sauna with stunning ocean views.
