Forget the usual tourist spots. This guide is all about the best places to visit and the hidden gems tour companies won’t tell you about. Why? Because they’re too hard to get to or just not profitable enough.
As outdoor lovers and locals from Vancouver Island, we’ve explored these places firsthand. Each one has something special, and we wish we could relive the thrill of discovering them for the first time. In this post, we’re focusing on the southern half of Vancouver Island, leaving the northern section for another adventure.
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Hidden Gems for a Road Trip from Parksville to Victoria
1. Englishman River Falls Provincial Park (Parksville)
Why Visit: A stunning park with two waterfalls surrounded by lush old-growth forests, perfect for a peaceful escape into nature.
What to Expect: A short, easy 1.3 km loop trail leads to incredible views of the falls and the canyon below. In summer, cool off in clear swimming spots, or enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by towering trees.
Why It’s Special: The combination of dramatic waterfalls, tranquil forest trails, and serene swimming areas makes this park a must-visit for nature lovers.
In summer, bring swim gear to enjoy the refreshing waters.
2. Neck Point Park (Nanaimo)
Why Visit: A 36-acre waterfront park with rugged cliffs, pebble beaches, and abundant wildlife, offering stunning ocean views and peaceful trails.
What to Expect: Explore scenic trails through Garry Oak groves and along the shoreline, with secluded coves perfect for photography. Watch for seals and sea lions, especially at low tide, or dive into vibrant marine ecosystems.
Why It’s Special: Neck Point’s natural beauty, unique geology, and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for outdoor and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bring binoculars, and plan for a quiet escape into nature, the park is open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM
3. Roberts Memorial Provincial Park (Ladysmith)
Why Visit: A peaceful coastal park with unique sandstone rock formations and tide pools filled with marine life.
What to Expect: A short, easy walk through forested trails takes you to the shoreline. Here, you’ll find carved sandstone ledges and colourful tide pools to explore. It’s also a quiet spot for birdwatching and enjoying ocean views.
Why It’s Special: The sandstone rocks and tide pools make this park stand out, offering a one-of-a-kind spot to connect with nature and enjoy the coast.
The park is open year-round for day use, with no camping facilities available.
4. Chemainus Murals (Chemainus)
Why Visit: Chemainus, known as “The Little Town That Did,” transformed itself into an open-air art gallery with over 60 murals depicting its rich history and culture.
What to Expect: Stroll through the town’s streets to view these impressive murals, each telling a unique story of the community’s past. Many murals are accompanied by plaques providing historical context, enhancing the self-guided tour experience.
Why It’s Special: The mural project revitalized Chemainus, attracting visitors worldwide and inspiring similar initiatives globally. The town’s commitment to art and history offers a unique cultural experience.
5. Kinsol Trestle (Shawnigan Lake)
Why Visit: The Kinsol Trestle is one of the tallest free-standing timber rail trestle structures in the world, standing 44 meters high and spanning 187 meters across the Koksilah River.
What to Expect: Visitors can walk or cycle across the trestle, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding forest and river below. The trestle is part of the Cowichan Valley Trail, offering well-maintained paths suitable for all ages.
Why It’s Special: Completed in 1920, the Kinsol Trestle is a remarkable example of wooden railway trestle engineering and has been meticulously restored to preserve its historical significance.
6. Malahat SkyWalk (Malahat)
Why Visit: The Malahat SkyWalk offers an immersive experience high above the trees, featuring a 600-meter-long elevated walkway through a beautiful arbutus forest leading to a 10-story spiral tower.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy a gentle, accessible ramp that ascends to the top of the tower, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker, and the distant Coast Mountains. For the adventurous, there’s an optional 20-meter spiral slide for a thrilling descent.
Why It’s Special: Opened in July 2021, the Malahat SkyWalk is the first of its kind in British Columbia, offering a unique perspective of the island’s natural beauty. The structure is designed to be accessible for all ages and abilities, making it a family-friendly destination.
The SkyWalk is open year-round, but for the best experience, we recommend visiting on clear, sunny days to fully appreciate the expansive views.
7. Sooke Potholes Provincial Park (Sooke)
Why Visit: This park features a series of deep, naturally carved rock pools along the Sooke River, offering stunning views and a unique swimming experience.
What to Expect: Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear, refreshing pools, hiking along riverside trails, and picnicking in designated areas. The park’s unique geological formations and serene environment make it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Why It’s Special: The Sooke Potholes were formed during the last ice age, approximately 15,000 years ago, as melting ice packs carved deep pools into the bedrock. This geological history, combined with the park’s natural beauty, makes it a must-visit location.
8. Abkhazi Garden (Victoria)
Why Visit: Abkhazi Garden, often referred to as “The Garden that Love Built,” is a tranquil heritage site renowned for its unique landscapes and heartwarming history.
What to Expect: Visitors can explore the meticulously designed garden featuring native Garry oaks, Japanese maples, and splendid rhododendrons. The on-site Teahouse offers a delightful afternoon tea experience, allowing guests to soak in the garden’s serenity.
Why It’s Special: Created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi, the garden reflects their love story and dedication to horticulture, making it a living testament to their legacy.
Vancouver Island’s southern half offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and hidden gems that showcase the heart of this incredible region. From serene gardens and rugged coastlines to iconic landmarks, every stop adds a unique layer to your journey. But this is just the beginning, stay tuned for part two, where we’ll explore the breathtaking northern half of Vancouver Island and uncover even more must-visit destinations.
