Vancouver Island Wildlife
Orca Breaching in Haro Strait
In the Vancouver Island region, wildlife lives in the accessible wilderness.
From a tour boat, you’ll see massive grey whales or pods of orcas, also known as killer whales, as well as all kinds of other marine mammals and birds.
You can sign up for a guided snorkelling-with-the-salmon tour or take a bear-watching tour to see Vancouver Island black bears or grizzly bears at nearby coastal inlets on the mainland.
If you are a bird watcher, you will be well rewarded — the number of bird species to watch for exceeds 200.
And that’s not all: on the water, on land, and in the air, the Vancouver Island region is home to all kinds of wonderful creatures. Wildlife celebrations and a long list of wildlife attractions enhance your experience.
Telegraph Cove Marina & RV Park
"Over the water" luxury suites are the North Island's finest accommodations; park your boat on one side & your car on the other.! Modern 130-slip marina accommodates boats up to 65 feet in length; wide docks; easy access to and from boats; power and water; showers, laundry, fish cleaning stations.! RV park is steps away; 48 fully serviced stalls; marina & ocean views; restrooms with showers; picnic tables & pavilion.! Oceanfront and view homesites available & ready to build.! Residential apartments available for purchase.!!
250-928-3163
Telegraph Cove
North Island
North Island
Parksville and Qualicum Beach
Parksville and Qualicum Beach is Canada’s best family friendly beach destination according to Better Homes and Gardens. The Globe & Mail called these towns “Canada’s Riviera”. Relax by the sea, explore huge old-growth forests, or rappel down a 7-storey underground waterfall. Then pamper yourself with a spa experience, endless dining options, and a quiet sunset stroll along our famous beaches. Stay on the beach and save with seasonal Web Specials.
1-888-799-3222
Parksville / Qualicum Beach
Central Island
Central Island
Tourism Cowichan
The Cowichan region encompasses verdant farmland, deep ocean bays, whitewater rivers, numerous lakes and low rolling mountains. Cowichan’s pretty towns and villages – including Chemainus, Ladysmith, Duncan, Cobble Hill and Cowichan Bay – offer art galleries, outdoor murals, fishing piers and farmers markets. One of the top culinary destinations in Canada, Cowichan is home to medal-winning wineries, organic farms and artisan food-producers who have created a thriving agritourism industry based on the mantras of fresh, local, seasonal and sustainable.
250-746-1099
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Tourism Tofino
Tofino is remarkable any time of year. Summer days are full of fishing and exploring; Autumn is a photographer and foodie paradise. Winter affords you a front-row seat to the edge of the world during powerful storms. And Tofino rejuvenates in Spring; celebrating the return of the grey whales, shorebirds, black bears, and the renewed vibrancy of the rainforest. Come create your own reality here. Come be awed by the force of nature in Tofino.
250-725-3414
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Tourism Campbell River & Region
So full of outdoor recreational adventures that the hardest decision you’ll have to make is what activity to enjoy next. World-renowned fishing, whale watching, kayaking, rafting, diving, caving, golfing, skiing, …- challenge yourself a little or a lot. Campbell River & Region has an irresistible lure to visitors from around the world in search of outdoor experiences, tranquil beauty, spectacular scenery, and traditional First Nations culture. Discover Your True Nature! Call for your free Visitor Guide today
1-877-286-5705
Campbell River & Region
North Central Island
North Central Island
Vancouver Island North Tourism
The Vancouver Island North region is a paradise of natural splendour, located within a day’s travel from Victoria, Vancouver and Seattle. Here, black bears roam on the Island, grizzly bears can be viewed on the mainland coast and a population of some 260 fish-eating orcas known as the “Northern Residents” are often in the area pursuing salmon. Rich also in history and First Nations culture, Vancouver Island North offers an internationally renowned cultural centre.
250-902-8281
Vancouver Island North
Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge
A nature based, oceanfront property offering privacy and seclusion with an 1100 acre forest on the southern tip of Quadra Island, just a 10 minute ferry from downtown Campbell River. Tsa-Kwa-Luten's ocean front location offers spectacular views of historic Discovery Passage and the upper reaches of the Beaufort mountain range from all main lodge or beachfront cottage accommodation. West Coast seafood cuisine abounds in the casual yet elegant atmosphere of the seaside dining room.
250-285-2042
Quadra Island
North Central Island
North Central Island
Quarterdeck Inn & Marina Resort
40 Deluxe rooms, most with ocean view of Hardy Bay, restaurant on site, full service marina, liquor store and pub. Sport fishing trips can be arranged through us!
1-877-902-0459
Port Hardy
North Island
North Island
Long Beach Lodge Resort
Luxury oceanfront resort on the sandy beach of Cox Bay; relaxed inspirational West Coast setting & award winning architecture. Iconic Great Room with oceanview dining. Complimentary continental breakfast. Beachfront Lodge rooms most with oceanviews, gas fireplaces, double soaker tubs and balconies. Cottages ideal for families or extended stays each with two bedrooms, full kitchen, fireplace & hot tub. Surf Club offers on-site surf lessons & rentals. Private Marine Adventures (fishing, wildlife viewing &/or photography) offered on heated vessel.
1-877-844-7873
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Victoria Quay
You don't need to go far in Alberni to see black bears, minks, eagles, and seals - these can be safely viewed at the Victoria Quay. As wildlife puts on a show across the river, you can stroll along the Quay's walkway or have a picnic in the park. You'll also find restaurants, a tackle shop, a gift shop, and First Nations carvings.
250-723-2146
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Discovery Marine Safaris
MAKE YOUR CANADIAN DREAM COME TRUE!
Our covered vessels depart daily from Campbell River, gateway to Vancouver Island’s unique wildlife sightings: watch awe-inspiring, giant killer whales breach high out of the water, follow playful dolphins and swift porpoises or observe majestic grizzly bears hunt for salmon. We operate our tours with respect to the pristine coastal environment and its animals, and our passionate guides will add the icing to your experience of a life time!
WIR SPRECHEN DEUTSCH!
250-287-7008
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
Tourism Chemainus
Chemainus is one of the most beloved places by visitors to Vancouver Island. An Arts & Cultural Destination that is famous for its well over 40 murals painted on the towns various walls. Golf, diving, shopping and exploring our natural surroundings in this seaside village.
250-246-3944
Chemainus
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Tide Rip Grizzly Tours
Day trips to view grizzly bears in majestic Knight Inlet. Departs early each day May 15 to Sept 30 via covered tour boat with onboard washroom. Often we see dolphins, black bears, seals and eagles. Lunch included.
See grizzly bears in the wild.
1-888-643-9319
Telegraph Cove
North Island
North Island
Wickaninnish Inn
Discover Tofino through the only resort on Chesterman Beach. The Wickaninnish Inn offers magnificent views of the open ocean set against a backdrop of old-growth forest. A dedicated Clef’s d’Or Concierge custom creates readily available Tofino itineraries such as: wildlife viewing, fishing, ocean sports, and arts and cultural experiences. Uncompromising service and a range of in-house amenities, such as Ancient Cedars Spa and The Pointe Restaurant, make for memories reaching far beyond the tangible.
250-725-3100
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
April Point Resort & Spa
A west coast paradise away from the crowds, April Point Resort & Spa combines natural beauty, serenity and adventure to create the ultimate vacation experience. Discover a thrilling whale watching adventure, rejuvenate with a massage at the Aveda spa, or simply relax and enjoy the best of Quadra Island, BC.
250-286-1102
Quadra Island
North Central Island
North Central Island
The Whale Centre
The Whale Centre located in Tofino, BC offers whale, bear, bird and Hot Springs tours. You will have an opportunity to see Grey Whales, Humpbacks, Orcas, Sea Otters, Black Bears, Eagles and many other marine species. Our friendly, experienced staff is committed to providing you with an exceptional wildlife experience.
250-725-2132
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Sands Beach Resort
Pacific Sands Beach Resort boasts Tofino’s only Deluxe all Suite Oceanview and Beachfront accommodation with Vancouver Island’s finest and most comfortable, fully equipped Suites and Beach Houses. Enjoy peaceful moments at Pettinger Point or meandering along Cox Bay – our one mile beach. Some of our popular packages include: Surfing, kayaking, whale and bear watching, storm watching, and romance. Parents and kids enjoy free kids camps all summer long, Spring Break and every Saturday. Check us out @ http://www.pacificsands.com
1-800-565-2322
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre
Nestled in the district of Errington, BC on Vancouver Island NIWRA has a park like setting with a peaceful rustic atmosphere. When visiting the centre you will be able to view eagles, owls, falcons, hawks and black bears. This is truly a "Wildlife Experience for the Whole Family".
250-248-8534
Errington
Central Island
Central Island
Steep Island Lodge
Spectacular Private Island Lodge, all inclusive fishing and adventure packages, day trips, eco-tours, kayaking, private cabins with ocean views capacity 22, reserve lodge for group of 12 or more exclusively. Ideal for wedding, family reunions and corporate retreats.
250-830-8179
Campbell River, Steep Island
North Central Island
North Central Island
Canadian Princess Resort
Located in Ucluelet on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Canadian Princess Resort offers a variety of accommodations: stay on the permanently moored 235’ ship or in traditional shoreside rooms. Savour the thrill of guided fishing trips targeting salmon, halibut and bottom fish and whale watching adventures through the Broken Group Islands.
250-726-7771
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Majestic Ocean Kayaking
Kayaking tours of the Broken Group Islands. Wildlife viewing, certified guides, gourmet lunch, superior equipment. Hundreds of islands to explore with white sand beaches.
250-726-2868
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Great Bear Nature Tours
Journey with us to the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest to view and photograph grizzly bears. Using our charming floating as your base, you will venture into a remote wilderness valley with our experienced wildlife biologists. Open May through October, maximum 10 guests.
1-888-221-8212
Port Hardy
North Island
North Island
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. Your relaxation destination on Vancouver Island's rugged west coast. Modern comfort set in breathtaking ocean side wilderness. Come and explore all the Ucluelet has to offer and enjoy the amenities available at Black Rock. Pool, Hot Tubs, Spa and wonderful dining in the restaurant or lounge.
250-726-4800
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Mothership Adventures Inc.
Explore remote coastal British Columbia in luxury! Sea kayaking and cruising tours to Desolation Sound, Broughton Archipelago and the Great Bear Rainforest aboard the immaculate heritage vessel Columbia III. 3-10 day tours. Certified crew and ship. Spectacular wildlife viewing!
1-888-833-8887
Heriot Bay
North Central Island
North Central Island
Ocean Outfitters
A premier tour company offering guaranteed whale watching, bear watching, coastal hot spring tours, Meares Island walk & custom private charters. Comfortable state of the art cabin vessels & large zodiac with washrooms. Free parking, gallery & espresso bar. Book online before June 1st & receive a 10% discount. Readers choice award - Voted #1 charter company for six years.
250-725-2866
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Brown's Bay Resort
Nestled in the Salmon Capital of the world known as Campbell River, Brown's Bay Resort is just a short 5km drive off hwy 19. This unspoiled resort includes new Rental Cabins, an oceanfront RV Park, full service Marina with fuel barge, tackle shop, restaurant and launch facilities. Please visit us at brownsbayresort.com for more information and reservation details.
250-286-3135
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures
Join us kayaking with the orcas of Johnstone Strait. Our four-day “Orca Waters Base Camp” tour is designed to responsibly view orcas, humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, seals and other wildlife from the comforts of a permanent base camp. No experience is necessary and family friendly departures are available.
250-956-4617
Port McNeill
North Island
North Island
Marine Link Tours
Explore the spectacular & remote central coast of British Columbia aboard a working freight boat, the "MV Aurora Explorer". Enjoy fabulous meals, incredible scenery, abundant wildlife & marine life. Visit secluded villages, logging camps, fishing lodges & destination resorts, meeting many unique characters that work & live along "Aurora's Coast".
250-286-3347
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
Painter's Lodge
Nestled on the pristine shores of Vancouver Island, Painter’s Lodge offers exhilarating outdoor adventure in a stunning natural setting. From legendary salmon fishing, whale watching and wildlife viewing to relaxing in the new Aveda spa, experience the best of British Columbia at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River.
250-286-1102
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
Reef Point Cottages
Vancouver Island's hidden gem, Reef Point Cottages offer an exciting, intimate and self-indulging experience for those who want to explore what British Columbia’s most spectacular and natural landscape has to offer. With clean fresh air, idyllic scenery and breathtaking activities, we are casually situated in the middle of raw nature.
1-877-726-4425
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
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