Pick-up your rental car and prepare to hit the open road. An Intermediate SUV will be reserved in your name. Please speak with your Destination Expert if you are interested in an upgrade option.

Exploring Vancouver Island by car offers the freedom to enjoy coastal scenery, charming towns, and rugged landscapes at your own pace. Traffic in and around Victoria can be moderate to heavy during weekday rush hours, particularly on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and around downtown. Roads are generally well-maintained, though sections toward Tofino along Highway 4 are winding, narrow, and may be challenging in wet conditions, so attentive driving is required. Fuel stations and services are readily available in Victoria and larger towns, but can be sparse on remote stretches, so plan ahead. Wildlife such as deer, eagles, and occasionally bears may be seen near roadways, particularly in rural areas, so remain alert. Cell service may be spotty in rural areas, so it is a great idea to download maps in advance if you rely on your phone.

Summer offers long daylight hours and generally mild weather, but expect slower travel on popular routes and in towns during peak tourist season. Spring and fall can bring rain, fog, and slippery conditions, while winter driving requires caution due to wet roads and occasional icy patches. Daylight varies seasonally, from sunrise around 5:30 am and sunset near 9:00 pm in summer, to much shorter days in winter with sunrise around 7:45 am and sunset near 4:30 pm.

Each dining option at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel is a culinary masterpiece that embraces the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and leaves a lasting impression. Indulge in a sensory journey that combines delectable cuisine with breathtaking surroundings, making your visit unforgettable.

The Dining Room: With only twenty-two seats, The Dining Room offers an intimate setting for reconnecting, celebrating, or kindling special moments. A refined and approachable menu showcases the best locally sourced ingredients, making it perfect for cherished occasions. Reservations accepted.

FARO Handcrafted Pizza and Tasting Room: As a beacon of culinary delight, FARO presents an Italian-inspired gem. Enjoy wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh salads, small bites, cocktails, and local wines, all in a modern tasting room or on the outdoor patio with fire features. Reservations accepted.

The Snug Pub: An iconic Victoria institution since 1954, The Snug Pub offers floor-to-ceiling ocean views, good food, spirits, and a touch of nostalgia. The menu adapts to the seasons, offering classics and modern cuisine, along with a selection of local brews.

Boathouse Kitchen & Bar: Exclusively for Pool Guests, this year-round spot is perfect for poolside relaxation, offering light snacks and delightful beverages.

Explore the coastal wonders of Victoria and its surrounding areas with your private guide. Today's tour is flexible, adaptable to weather conditions, and your preferences. Fisherman’s Wharf showcases colorful floating homes and bustling seafood eateries. Meander along the iconic Breakwater, where the rhythmic lull of the ocean accompanies your stroll, offering panoramic views of the sea and the rugged coastline. Ascend to the pinnacle of Mount Douglas, where panoramic views await at the summit, treating you to sweeping vistas of Victoria and its surrounding landscapes. Journey north to the charming town of Sidney by the Sea, a tranquil seaside escape where boutique shops and the waterfront beckon. Discover the allure of pristine beaches, from the serene shores of Willows Beach to the rugged beauty of Cattle Point, each offering its unique ambiance and coastal charm. Explore the Songhees Walkway, a scenic pathway that spans the Johnson Street Bridge, offering captivating views of the city skyline and the tranquil waters. Your tour concludes at your Victoria hotel.

The Oak Bay Beach Hotel offers a luxurious and tranquil retreat on the beautiful shores of Victoria, providing a range of amenities that cater to your physical and spiritual well-being. At the heart of this oceanfront sanctuary lies the Boathouse Spa, a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Whether you seek personal care or holistic therapies, this spa is open daily to provide an extensive menu of experiences, including facials, massages, body treatments, and Registered Massage Therapy (RMT). The opulent oceanfront treatment rooms, inspired by the natural beauty of the West Coast, offer a spacious and serene setting for your wellness journey. One standout feature of this hotel is its mineral pools, where spa guests can upgrade their experience to include two hours of access to these rejuvenating waters, the sauna, the Boathouse Kitchen & Bar, and the outdoor pool deck for an additional fee. The mineral pools are custom-designed and positioned on the edge of the Salish Sea, providing breathtaking oceanfront views throughout the year. Importantly, guests staying at the hotel who are 16 years or older enjoy complimentary access to the mineral pools.

A dinner reservation at The Dining Room allows you to discover the best of the Pacific Northwest – a setting that boasts stunning ocean views and a commitment to fine dining with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With only twenty-two seats, the atmosphere exudes warmth and charm, making it the ideal venue for special occasions. Reserve a table for dinner to reconnect, celebrate, or rekindle with loved ones while savoring a refined and approachable menu featuring the season's finest locally sourced ingredients.

Embark on an unforgettable adventure from Victoria's Harbor to the waters of the Salish Sea aboard an open-air Zodiac. Before boarding, don a full-length cruiser suit for both comfort and safety. Feel the wind in your hair and the ocean spray on your skin as you set off on an expedition filled with awe-inspiring sights and educational insights. Your Captain will search for Orcas and Humpback whales, as well as seals, sea lions, dolphins, Minke, and Gray whales. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of these incredible creatures, learning about their behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural environment. Alongside marine life, relish scenic views of Vancouver Island, the Olympic Mountains, and the islands of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Keep a lookout for the iconic sight of bald eagles gracefully soaring above the coastline. Today promises an adventure that will leave you inspired and in awe of the beauty of the Pacific Northwest's marine life.

Spend time at leisure immersing yourself in Victoria Harbour, where leisure unveils a tapestry of experiences. Begin your adventure by savoring the tantalizing flavors of local cuisine at charming waterfront eateries, with panoramic views of the bustling harbor. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Inner Harbour, framed by the majestic Fairmont Empress Hotel and the iconic Parliament Buildings. During the summer months, the harbor is the focus of festivals, shows and music. Immerse yourself in the rich history of British Columbia at the Royal BC Museum, a captivating treasure trove of cultural wonders. Perhaps even cap off your day by unwinding at one of Victoria's renowned spas, where luxurious treatments and breathtaking waterfront views promise a blend of relaxation and indulgence.

Embark on a scenic self-drive journey from Victoria to Tofino, covering approximately 198 miles through some of Vancouver Island’s most spectacular landscapes. Begin with admission to the Malahat SkyWalk, where breathtaking views stretch across mountains, forests, and the Salish Sea, before continuing to the charming community of Coombs, home to the famous Goats on the Roof at the Old Country Market. Along the way, enjoy the opportunity to stop at Cathedral Grove for a short walk along the forest trails and boardwalks, where towering ancient trees showcase the beauty of Vancouver Island’s old-growth rainforest. Arrive in Tofino, a laid-back coastal town surrounded by rugged wilderness and endless ocean vistas.

Dining at Long Beach Lodge Resort centers on a relaxed yet refined West Coast experience shaped by its spectacular Cox Bay setting. The Great Room serves as the resort’s signature restaurant, offering ocean-view dining with Pacific Northwest–inspired menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner that highlight local seafood and seasonal ingredients, with the cozy fireplace and sweeping windows making it especially inviting in the evenings. In the warmer months, the SandBar Bistro provides casual beachside dining right on the sand, ideal for laid-back meals, light bites, and drinks enjoyed alongside surfers and sunsets, while the Surf Club offers an easygoing spot near the beach for simple fare, snacks, and beverages before or after time on the water, creating a well-rounded mix of elevated dining and relaxed coastal comfort throughout your stay. Please speak to your Destination Expert to secure a reservation at The Great Room.

Today, explore Clayoquot Sound by boat and Flores Island by foot with your private guide. Departing from the shores of Tofino, scan the horizon for the majestic sight of whales breaching, eagles soaring overhead, and sea lions basking on rocky outcrops on your 45 minute journey. Upon arriving at Flores Island, the adventure continues on land. Traverse winding trails, meandering through towering cedar and spruce trees, where the air is rich with the scent of earth and sea. Discover hidden beaches and witness the untouched wilderness that defines the region. Pause at scenic viewpoints to absorb the breathtaking panoramas that stretch from the island's shores to the surrounding sound, and enjoy a picnic lunch to fuel your adventure. Following your hike, return to Tofino by boat. Please note, this mike covers approximately 7 miles over 5 hours on uneven terrain.

Taste the freshest fare from local farms and waters, courtesy of a convenient dinner reservation at Shelter. This contemporary timber house delivers elevated bistro fare sourced from local purveyors. Indulge in a comforting bowl of seafood chowder, or a satisfying Tofino surf bowl featuring freshly caught salmon or free run chicken. Save room for dessert - particularly a chocolate trio of sweet delights. Please note: Your meal is not included and will be paid for on location. Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking and are subject to availability.

Discover the best of Tofino, British Columbia, during a leisurely day where relaxation meets adventure. Opt to begin with a morning beach stroll or boutique exploration, indulging in local culinary delights to fuel up for the day. Dive into the thrill of wildlife encounters or surf lessons in the afternoon, or take to the skies with Tofino Air for a captivating sunset flight. Wrap up your day with a cozy waterfront meal or a beachside bonfire under the stars, savoring the essence of Tofino's coastal magic. Whether embracing cultural charm, adrenaline-pumping activities, or tranquil moments, a day in Tofino offers an unforgettable blend of experiences on Vancouver Island.

Evenings at Long Beach Lodge Resort unfold at an easy, coastal pace. In the summer months, head down to the beach to watch the sun sink into the Pacific, with sunset typically occurring between 8:00 and 9:30 pm during the summer months, casting warm light across the shoreline and waves. As twilight settles in, return to the resort to gather around the outdoor firepits, where the crackle of the fire and ocean air create a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. After dark, look skyward to take in the stars, enjoying a peaceful end to the day shaped by the rhythms of the coast and the quiet beauty of the night sky.

Paddle through hidden inlets surrounded by towering cliffs draped in emerald-green moss, and navigate tranquil channels where wildlife thrives. Set out with your private guide from the Tofino harbor on a 25-minute scenic boat ride to a remote cove of Clayoquot Sound, avoiding the need to kayak through the busy harbor area. Here, your guide will assist you into your single or double kayak from the remote dock. While exploring secluded coves and rocky beaches accessible only by water, keep an eye out for the diverse life that calls this remote paradise home. From curious seals to majestic eagles, black bears to orcas, the wildlife encounters enrich the journey, creating moments of pure connection with nature. After your kayaking adventure, return to Tofino by boat.

This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

Depart Tofino and self-drive to beautiful Victoria. Approximate travel time for a direct drive is 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Your self-drive journey concludes as you make your way to the rental car drop-off center and return your vehicle.

Situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in beautiful Victoria, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel is the ultimate blend of luxury service, style, and comfort. Built in an English Manor House style, this charming resort offers a captivating glimpse into the past while providing modern amenities. Each of its 100 elegant guestrooms and suites features thoughtfully designed decor and furnishings, cozy fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the hotel. Whether opting for breathtaking views of the Salish Sea or the tree-lined community of Oak Bay, guests are guaranteed an unforgettable stay. With three heated outdoor pools situated on the edge of the Salish Sea, no matter what the season, visitors can experience breathtaking oceanfront views. Custom-designed mineral pools and a sauna are the perfect addition to a repertoire for building a healthy, holistic lifestyle. The spa at Oak Bay Beach Hotel is designed as a haven of serenity for personal wellness, offering rejuvenating services to rebalance the body, mind, and soul. Ignite all your senses at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel with a selection of dining options to satisfy all your senses. Guests can indulge in a fresh and local approach to fine food while basking in breathtaking Pacific Northwest views.

Situated in Tofino on the Pacific shores of Vancouver Island, Long Beach Lodge Resort has become the go-to beachfront sanctuary for those seeking a seamless blend of tranquility, exquisite dining, and thrilling adventures. This boutique resort is perched on 8 acres of oceanfront rainforest property, offering a choice of 41 lodge rooms and 20 charming two-bedroom cottages nestled beneath towering trees. The resort's design, reminiscent of a grand West Coast residence, exudes warmth and familiarity, ensuring every guest feels like they've stepped into a friend's home. The Great Room, located on the edge of Cox Bay, boasts breathtaking ocean views, large timber framing, an open concept for panoramic experiences, and a stone fireplace for a cozy ambiance. Dining at Long Beach Lodge on-site restaurant is an experience in itself. The culinary team crafts fresh and seasonal dishes that span from brunch to dessert allowing you to indulge in a sensory journey that perfectly complements the breathtaking surroundings. Conclude your day by unwinding on the beach-side patio, where you can enjoy a cocktail and the mesmerizing ocean-view sunsets around the warmth of a fire.