These Day Trips from Vancouver are Worth It

The region surrounding Vancouver is full of jaw-dropping nature, fascinating history, and exciting outdoor adventures. I was born and raised here, and I’m going to reveal the best day trips from the city to explore it all. 

British Columbia is one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada. And, while Vancouver is its star, there’s so much more to explore beyond the city’s famous attractions. No matter when you visit or what you’re looking for in your day trip, there is a destination for you on this list. 

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21 Best Vancouver Day Trips

Whistler

Epic views and outdoor adventure collide in one of the world’s best destinations. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1.5 hours | 📍 Google Maps | Whistler Website

Whistler is the place to be for winter sports fanatics. It’s one of the most popular Canadian destinations for skiing and snowboarding. And its two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, also offer Nordic skiing and snowshoeing for those looking for something kinder and gentler. 

But Whistler also makes for one of the best day trips during the summer. In fact, it’s my favourite time of year to visit. Mountain biking, white water rafting, and bungee jumping take over Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains during the warmer months. And the Peak 2 Peak Gondola offers the most spectacular views.

You’ll find many relaxing activities in this resort town. Hike to Lost Lake or Alta Lake. Visit the Audain Art Museum. Unwind at the Scandinave Spa. And shop in Whistler Village. 

Whistler also boasts an incredible food scene, with popular restaurants like Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar, Il Caminetto, and Balam. Make sure to save room for dessert at my favourite, Purebread.

If you’re only in Whistler for a day, it can be hard to choose where to eat. So why not try out a few different restaurants on a food tour? I treated myself to this wonderful dinner tour on my last trip to Whistler. I did not leave hungry or disappointed! 

Lastly, Whistler is popular with families, couples, and friends, but every traveler can enjoy themselves. I typically come here with friends, but I was surprised by how much I loved my solo trip to Whistler.

Squamish

A small town offering spectacular views of Howe Sound, hiking, and winter activities. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 50 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Squamish Website

The journey to Squamish is part of the fun of this day trip — it involves a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway. 

Ride the Sea-to-Sky Gondola 885 meters above sea level. See the best views of Howe Sound and its surrounding mountains all year round. At the top, there are easy hikes, winter activities, and the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge.  I’m no fan of heights, but this is one of my favourite attractions near Vancouver!

As you approach Squamish, you’ll notice the Stawamus Chief. Hikers will enjoy a moderate hike to the top. You can also watch rock climbers as they scale this monolith. Your stomach will be in knots!

If you’re continuing to Whistler, stop at Garibaldi Provincial Park. Here, you will enjoy more of the region’s dramatic nature. 

👉 Pro Tip: Visiting Whistler and Squamish in one day is ambitious, but it can be done. Taking a tour is an easy way to see it all, especially if you’re looking for day trips without a car! This Sea-to-Sky Gondola and Whistler tour is popular.

Brackendale

Get up close and personal with hundreds of bald eagles. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour, 5 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

The town of Brackendale is a short drive from Squamish. Every October, the salmon are at their peak in Brackendale’s surrounding rivers. Salmon is a big deal in British Columbia. 

Over 1,300 bald eagles come to spend the winter months in Brackendale. During this time, they feast on the abundant fish. It is an unforgettable opportunity to see these birds in their natural habitat.

Winter is cold in Brackendale, so warm up at the WaterShed Grill. If you’re a Virgin River fan like I am, you will recognize the exterior of this restaurant as Jack’s Bar. 

Britannia Beach

Step back in time at this important mining town, and maybe come away richer!

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 35 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Britannia Beach is a quaint waterfront town that was home to the Coast Salish First Nations for centuries. In 1900, the Britannia Mining and Smelting Company developed this land. The company ran the largest copper mine in the British Empire, and Britannia Beach was home to its employees.

Mining ceased in the 1970s, but the industry lives on at the Britannia Mining Museum. This is a fun day trip for everyone, but kids will especially enjoy it. A guided tour will take you inside the mountain on a mine train where you will experience life as a miner. Whenever I visit, I head directly for the train. I love it!

Afterward, you can explore the 20-storey Mill No. 3 and try your hand at panning for gold before you leave. Hey, you never know!

If you decide to visit Squamish from here, be sure to first stop at the majestic Shannon Falls along the way.

Every minute counts when you only have a day. So, book your ticket to the Britannia Mining Museum ahead of time. It can get quite crowded when school’s out!

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

Marvel at turquoise lakes in one of British Columbia’s most breathtaking (and most photographed) spots. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours, 45 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Instagrammers have made Joffre Lakes famous, so much so that you now need a day pass to visit between May and October! Book your pass online two days before your visit. You don’t want to get there without one.

Once you arrive, you’ll see what all the fuss is about. Joffre Lakes are three lakes with the most brilliant turquoise water you’ll ever see. Rock flour (glacial silt) suspends in the water and creates magic before your eyes.  

To see the lakes up close, there is a moderate hike that takes 4-6 hours to complete. Otherwise, a five-minute walk from the parking lot will get you to a scenic lookout. 

Bowen Island

This island is so close to Vancouver, but you’ll feel like you’re in another world. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 50 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Bowen Island Website

Bowen Island lies less than an hour away from Vancouver. The heart of Bowen Island is Snug Cove. It comes alive with its pubs, restaurants, bakeries, and shops. Do you think you’ll be able to tear yourself away for a hike? 

You’ll find around 50 kilometers of hiking trails on Bowen Island. This means there is something for every level. The most challenging is the hike to Mount Gardner. But when you reach the top, the views of Howe Sound will be your reward. 

Bowen Island is one of the best Vancouver day trips if you don’t have a car. Catch the ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver, and 20 minutes later, you’ll land in the heart of Bowen Island. There are three bus routes on Bowen Island. But I think you’ll prefer using your feet to get around. 

Sunshine Coast

Beaches, hikes, and relaxation is what the Sunshine Coast is all about. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour, 45 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Sunshine Coast Website

The Sunshine Coast is 180 kilometers of islands and small communities. It’s impossible to see it all in a single day, but you can still get a good taste of what these islands have to offer.

From Horseshoe Bay, take the ferry to the Langdale ferry terminal. Here, you’ll find beaches, hiking trails, artisan workshops, and fresh seafood. Grab breakfast at Molly’s Reach in Gibsons before starting your day. 

Gibsons and Sechelt are the bigger towns in the area, where you’ll find lots to do. But the tranquil spots are just as rewarding. Halfmoon Bay and Roberts Creek are a delight if you’re looking for some quiet time. And one of my favourite activities is watching the tidal rapids at Skookumchuck Provincial Park. 

If you’re seeking nature, you’ve come to the perfect place.

👉 Pro Tip: You’ll need to catch a ferry for some of the best day trips on this list. The ferries fill up fast, so always book a reservation, whether you walk on or drive your own vehicle. 

North Vancouver

Discover a vibrant city and the serene outdoors all in one place. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 15 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | North Vancouver Website

North Vancouver is another super quick day trip, accessible via the Lions Gate Bridge or SeaBus. I even included it in my 5-day Vancouver itinerary!

The city of North Vancouver is famous for its spectacular Coast Mountains and lush forests. It’s an outdoor playground that has endless hiking and mountain biking trails. Skiers and snowboarders will love Grouse and Seymour mountains. 

Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park are two of Vancouver’s top scenic attractions.

You’ll get to play in nature and see some of Vancouver’s most breathtaking views. To maximize your day, consider taking this fantastic tour, where you’ll visit both with an expert guide. 

And don’t miss a visit to my favourite place in North Vancouver, the vibrant Shipyards District. You can wander around the Lonsdale Quay Public Market for locally made products. Enjoy art and photography at The Polygon Gallery. And see some of the best views of Downtown Vancouver. 

This area is also home to fantastic restaurants and breweries. I can usually be found at JOEY Shipyards or Pier 7. They have such amazing patios! The North Shore Ale Trail is also a must for craft beer aficionados. Several breweries line the nearby Esplanade, and make for a fun bar hop.  

Deep Cove

For anyone who loves to go for a scenic hike or get out on the water, Deep Cove has it all. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 25 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Deep Cove is a small community with a picturesque bay on the eastern end of North Vancouver. The best thing to do at Deep Cove is the easy hike to Quarry Rock. This hour-long hike will take you high above Deep Cove for beautiful views of Indian Arm and the town center. 

If you prefer water sports, rent a kayak or paddleboard from Deep Cove Kayak and go for a leisurely paddle. You can even take lessons!

You’ll burn lots of calories at Deep Cove. Recharge with a nice meal at the Arms Reach Bistro or grab a donut from Honey’s and sit in Panorama Park. Honey’s donuts are Kate Winslet’s (and my) favorite!

New Westminster

Take a historic walk through British Columbia’s original capital city. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | New Westiminister Website

New Westminster gets its name from Queen Victoria’s favorite district in London. 

Architecture buffs will love this small suburb. Tour the neighborhood of Queen’s Park, where you will see the city’s gorgeous heritage houses. Then, head to Front and Columbia Streets to visit the historic downtown core. 

There are many places to walk alongside the Fraser River. Here, you can visit the River Market or take a dinner cruise on a vintage paddlewheeler. If you get hungry, El Santo is my go-to for tasty Mexican food, while L’Onore serves up Italian favourites. 

Richmond

Foodies flock to Richmond for the best Chinese food in the region. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 30 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Richmond Website

Richmond is a flat city that sits below sea level, which gives it a unique natural landscape. Iona Beach is a wonderful place with lots of hiking and biking trails. Other easy walks are along the dikes of the Fraser River. Kids will love watching the planes take off and land at YVR at the Larry Berg Flight Path Park.

At Minoru Park, you can enjoy the lakes, visit the historic Minoru Chapel, or watch a play at the Gateway Theatre.

Richmond has the largest Chinese community in BC and has become a top foodie destination. Take a self-guided dumpling tour or visit Richmond Night Market (open April to October) dumpling tour or visit Richmond Night Market for the best Chinese food in Vancouver. 

Steveston

Discover British Columbia’s fishing history in this tranquil waterfront village. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Nothing beats Steveston on a sunny day!

The town of Steveston was once a thriving fishing community, so it’s packed with history. Everyone will love the Gulf of Georgia Cannery and Britannia Shipyards. National Historic Sites. Visit the Steveston Museum and hop aboard the historic tram. And stop by Murakami House and the Chinese Bunkhouse. They’re two of my favourite places for a history lesson!

Steveston is also full of quiet places. Take a peaceful walk around Garry Point Park and along the Imperial Landing Boardwalk. You may even spot an eagle or a heron. You can also find whale-watching tours that depart from here. 

Shop along Moncton Street and have some of Steveston’s famous fish and chips. Dave’s and Pajo’s are the best! And I love Kari House Malaysian when I’m craving spice. Check out my 1-day Steveston itinerary to plan the perfect day.

Ladner

Ladner is so peaceful, you’ll forget you’re still near the big city.

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Ladner Website

Ladner sits on the banks of the Fraser River surrounded by bogs, marshes, and wildlife. The houseboats that line the river are a joy. You can even rent one and stay overnight!! 

One of my favourite weekend activities is to drive over the rickety, single-lane bridge to Westham Island. I love a couple of hours at the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary. Here, you can see and feed many different types of birds. Afterward, I like to feed myself strawberries and ice cream at Emma Lea Farms. 

Historic Ladner Village is full of shops and home to a wonderful summer market. The village is the place for you if you’re looking for locally-grown food and handmade products.

White Rock

White Rock is a lively beachfront town, perfect for soaking in the sun on long summer days.

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour | 📍 Google Maps | White Rock Website

White Rock’s main strip gives off serious California vibes. Car stereos pump out the tunes. Friends and families enjoy a meal at one of the many patios that line the waterfront. 

White Rock is pleasant all year round, but fantastic in the summer months. Legend has it that a sea god’s son threw a white rock across the water from Vancouver Island. An actual white rock sits on the beach, making it a great photo op. 

Browse the local shops and galleries along the strip. Have lunch at the famous Charlie Don’t Surf. Then relax on the beach or walk along White Rock Pier, taking in the views. 

Fort Langley

Get lost in a corn maze, take a hayride, and find a collector’s item in the historic town of Fort Langley.  

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 45 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Destination Website

Vintage shopping is what Fort Langley is all about. Cute shops are scattered around town, but the place to go is the Village Antiques Mall. This antique supermarket houses 60 dealers selling all sorts of unique treasures. 

The whole town of Fort Langley is a National Historic Site. The highlights are the CN Rail Station, built in 1915 and the Fort Langley Community Hall, dating back to 1931. 

There is fun for the whole family in Fort Langley. The annual Cranberry Festival is a highlight. And family-run farms offer entertaining seasonal activities. Whenever I can get to Fort Langley, I love walking the Fort-to-Fort Trail along the Fraser River. It’s a peaceful spot to go for an easy hike.

Cultus Lake

A family-friendly lake offering endless adventure for the young and the young at heart. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour, 15 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Cultus Lake is a fantastic day trip, especially if you have kids. Adults and children alike will enjoy picnicking at the lake and visiting nearby Bridal Falls. 

But the Cultus Lake Adventure Park is the real showstopper. With over 18 rides and attractions, boredom won’t be a thing at this amusement park. But when your stomach has had enough, head over to the waterslides at Cultus Lake Water Park. These are the biggest in BC!

Harrison Hot Springs

Soak in natural hot springs surrounded by majestic mountains. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour, 30 minutes | 📍 Google Maps

Harrison Hot Springs is popular with families and groups of friends during the summer. The town is famous for its ancient mineral spring pools. Take a dip in the public hot springs or at the spa in the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. I’m not much of a swimmer, but I make an exception for the pools at this hotel!

Kids will love the floating water park on beautiful Harrison Lake. You can also rent boats and paddleboards for fun on the water. Or, relax on the sandy beach. Walkers will enjoy an easy hike on the Spirit Trail. 

For a Canadian treat, head to the village for poutine at Maison D’La Poutine House. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

Hell’s Gate

Can you handle hanging over some of the fiercest water in British Columbia? 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours, 15 minutes | 📍Google Maps | Hell’s Gate Website

If you have your own car, head 2 hours east via the Trans-Canada Highway. Here you’ll find Hell’s Gate. Does that sound scary? It kind of is. 

The Fraser River narrows at Hell’s Gate. 200 million gallons of water rumble through this 33-meter-wide space every minute. The Hell’s Gate Airtram carries visitors over these rapids for some amazing views from the sky. On the other side, there is a bridge, an observation deck, and a museum.

If you have a fear of heights, it might not be the most “enjoyable” place. But you’ll never forget this experience when you’re back on solid ground. 

Salt Spring Island

An idyllic island with breathtaking scenery and an artsy vibe. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours, 15 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Salt Spring Island Website

In addition to the beautiful scenery of the Gulf Islands, Salt Spring Island is most known as a hub of arts and crafts. Take the ferry from Vancouver to Long Harbour. Once you arrive, wander around the main town. Explore the local artisan shops. You’ll find painters, potters, and sculptors, among many others. Saltspring Soapworks is my favorite! 

Locally produced food and drink are also staples here. You can find handmade cheese, wine, cider, and craft beer. The Saturday Market sells it all. And be sure to visit Saltspring Island Cheese and Salt Spring Wild Cider. I always crave the food and drink from these two!

Although it’s a bit of an ambitious day trip due to having to take the ferry, I think everyone should visit Salt Spring Island if they get the chance!

Victoria

English charm on British Columbia’s West Coast. 

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 2 hours, 55 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Destination Website

A breathtaking ferry ride will land you in Victoria. The city is Vancouver Island’s largest and British Columbia’s capital city.

Victoria’s city center has a quaint English vibe. Pop into Murchie’s for a cuppa or treat yourself to Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel. Then, stroll the seawall admiring the city’s parliament buildings. Consider a boat tour of the Inner Harbour to see the city from the water. 

Explore Victoria’s history at the Royal British Columbia Museum and Craigdarroch Castle. Relax in Beacon Hill Park. And go shopping in Chinatown, Market Square, and along Government Street. Chocoholics must visit historic Rogers’ Chocolates. Even though we have these in Vancouver, this shop is always my first stop!

A visit to Butchart Gardens should be at the top of your list in Victoria. Regardless of the season you visit, the flowers are spectacular. 

👉 Pro Tip: Victoria is best as a weekend getaway, but if you only have a day, consider this popular organized tour from Vancouver. This way, you’ll get to experience all the highlights with ease. 

Bellingham, Washington 

Art, breweries, and natural beauty await just over the American border.

🗺️ Distance from Vancouver: 1 hour, 10 minutes | 📍 Google Maps | Destination Website

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Bellingham, just over the border in Washington State. You’ll find the same spectacular scenery but with added American charm. Hip breweries and heritage homes give Bellingham a funky vibe. Murals, outdoor sculptures, and totem poles show off the city’s love for the arts. 

Leave Vancouver early and stop for breakfast at Skylark’s Hidden Cafe in Old Fairhaven. Afterward, browse the delightful shops for locally-made items. 

The best places to enjoy the area’s natural beauty are Whatcom Falls Park and Larrabee State Park. If you have a car, don’t miss the scenic Chuckanut Drive. 

And, as a Canadian, a Bellingham highlight for me is always a stop at Trader Joe’s!

👉 Read Next: Best Places to Stay in Vancouver

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I hope this guide has inspired you to take some day trips from Vancouver! The province is huge, but you don’t have to go far to see some unforgettable British Columbia destinations.