If you are visiting Vancouver from overseas for the first time then don’t get overwhelmed by the things to do and places to visit. Check out our list below to see our favourite places on Vancouver Island:

1. Gordon Bay Provincial Park:

Gordon Bay provincial park located on the shores of Lake Cowichan, north of Duncan on Vancouver Island is absolutely gorgeous and great place for family camping. The lake is warm in the summer and hence great for swimming. Set in one of Vancouver Island’s sunniest valleys, this area boasts the highest average annual temperature in Canada. Other activities you can try here include: Fresh water fishing, Waterskiing and windsurfing, hiking and walking, birdwatching etc .

2. Tofino and Clayoquot Sound:

If you are keen on whale watching, sea kayaking and surfing then Tofino is your ultimate destination. Bring your surfboard and wet suit and have a fabulous time.

3. Parksville and Qualicum Beach: Parksville and Qualicum beach are popular with families interested in having a beach vacation. These oceanside communities are Canada’s Riviera. Parksville is also known for its beach festival and sculpture competition which is held here every year and is popular with tourists and locals alike.

4. Strathcona Park:

Strathcona Provincial Park is one of the oldest provincial park in British Columbia and is a must visit for tourists who enjoy rugged mountain wilderness, rivers, creeks and streams. Summers in Strathcona are pleasantly warm and snow fall can be expected on mountain slopes during November through March. Hiking or Backcamping are the best ways to discover Strathcona Park. Fishing is a very popular activity in the area. Butte Lake, the largest water body in the park, Della Falls -one of the largest water falls in Canada and Forbidden Plateau are most popular visitor -oriented areas.

5. Saltspring Island:

Salt Spring Island is located half way between Nanaimo and Victoria in British Columbia on the eastern side of Vancouver Island and is house for large number of artists, sculptors, artists, musicians and wild life like sheep and deer  which can be easily spotted on the Island.

If you get tired after exploring Vancouver city, then do visit these different parts of Vancouver Island to discover true Canadian beauty. 

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