6 Days in British Columbia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Sunshine Coast Getaway

Just northwest of Vancouver lies the Lower and Upper Sunshine Coast, accessed via a short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay. Starting in Gibsons, drive through a series of small coastal communities that have great breweries and restaurants as well as retreats and wellness centers to rejuvenate the soul. With six days, you can drive as far up as Powell River and Desolation Sound, famous for some of the best sea kayaking in the region. Along the way, stop at numerous beaches, coves, and inlets and enjoy the laid-back feel of this region. See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #2: Okanagan Valley Road Trip 

For wine lovers, head to the lake country of the Okanagan Valley where you'll find hundreds of local wineries as well as great breweries, local cider, and farm-to-table restaurants. Six days is the perfect amount of time to explore the region as well as undertake a few outdoor activities, like biking the Kettle Valley Railway. Osoyoos, Penticton, and the larger city of Kelowna are all great places to base yourself and from which to explore the region. See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #3: Pacific Rim Adventure: Vancouver to Tofino

This classic road trip follows the Pacific Rim Highway on Vancouver Island to the coastal communities of Tofino and Ucluelet. Start the trip with an overnight stay along the island's eastern coast in Parksville or Qualicum Beach. The next day, it's an easy drive to the west coast where you can take your time exploring the forest groves and waterfalls along the way. You'll then have three days to explore the Pacific Rim, which is the minimum amount of time you'll want without feeling too rushed. Finally, spend a night in the provincial capital of Victoria before taking the ferry back to Vancouver.  See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #4: Pacific Marine Circle Route

This road trip serves is a more laid-back alternative to the Pacific Rim (and closer to Victoria, as well). Departing Victoria, make you way west past coastal communities and driftwood-strewn beaches. Make a stop at Sooke Potholes and Mystic Beach to stretch your legs and hike along the beach and past waterfalls. Arriving in Port Renfrew, treat yourself to a night at Wild Renfrew's Seaside Cottages and a craft beer at the Wild Renfrew pub. The next day, wind your way inland on narrow roads through old-growth forest to Cowichan Lake and take a tube down the river. Finally, you'll circle back to Victoria with the option of more hiking and local vineyards along the way. See the full itinerary. 

Itinerary #5: Sea-to-Sky Highway: Vancouver to Whistler

The most popular road trip from Vancouver, most locals make this trip in just a few days. With six days, however, you'll get a much better feel for all the hidden gems that this region has to offer. Take your time to enjoy the viewpoints and roadside hikes as you follow the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish. Here, take a short scenic flight over the coastal range before checking out the local craft breweries. Arriving in Whistler, you can access alpine via the gondola or venture farther afield to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park for great hiking. See the full itinerary.