My 5 BC Bucket List Vacation Spots

Mount Robson, BC (c) David Spender, CC by 2.0

British Columbia. Such a beautiful province, with such a vast array of terrain and surroundings. With the weather getting warmer and summer just around the corner, I can’t help but dream about places that I’d love to visit! Here’s the top five BC locations that I’ve never been to and would love to have a chance to visit.

1. The Gulf Islands
   This one is a big one because it’s really not one place. The Gulf Islands are composed of both the Northern Gulf Islands and the Southern Gulf Islands, and unfortunately I’ve never been to any of them! I would love to visit any of them, really, as I’ve heard so many stories of romantic island life, the relaxed atmosphere, the artistic flair, and the breathtaking nature.

   Galiano Island, Gulf Islands (c) David Herrera, CC by 2.0

   The thing that most attracts me to the Gulf Islands is the peace and serenity I can imagine experiencing by escaping there. I love the idea of a vacation with no stress, no strict schedule, and nothing much to do.

2. Squamish

   Trip 14-0810 Sea-to-Sky Gondola 02 (c) McKay Savage, CC by 2.0

   More than just a place to refuel and grab some gas, Squamish is a city that I haven’t explored more than stopping in off the highway. Squamish seems like it would be an adrenaline junkie’s heaven, with amazing rock climbing and white water rafting among some of the activities you can enjoy in the area.
   The first thing that I would love to do in Squamish is to try hiking up the Stawamus Chief (aka “The Chief”). This has been on my bucket list for a long time. The Chief has three peaks, or hikes, with the easiest being about a 4 km return trip. Another thing I would make sure to do in Squamish would b to go on the Sea to Sky Gondola. The gondola ride is about 10 minutes long, but leads to viewing areas, a suspension bridge, hiking trails and rock climbing. The gondola experience would be a great way to make the Squamish experience super family friendly while still staying active and adventurous.

3. Haida Gwaii
   When I think of HaidaGwaii, I think of mystery. Sure, I can point it out on a map, but I know very little about this area. One thing that draws me in about this area is how secluded it is, despite not really being that far from Vancouver.

   Forest Along the East Beach Trail (c) Karen Neoh, CC by 2.0

   Haida Gwaii seems like an amazing place to learn about native culture and also to just get in touch with yourself and enjoy some natural beauty.

4. The Rockies

   Stanley Glacier, Kootenay (c) Adam Kahtava, CC by 2.0

   Who doesn’t want to experience the beauty of the Rockies? While the Rockies span past BC, I would love seeing any portion of the Rockies. Within BC, the Kootenays are a great place to enjoy the Rockies. Not only can you see the Northern Lights from the Kootneys, you can enjoy some relaxing small town charm but still be less than an hour away from some of the more popular Rocky Mountain tourist destinations!

5. Tofino
   Okay, Tofino is beautiful with its gorgeous beaches and  it’s fantastic views, but to be honest, the reason I most want to go here is the Ancient Cedars Spa at Wickaninnish Inn. A spa vacation sounds ideal to me, especially with some of the back pain this pregnancy has been giving me. Plus, check out the views:

   Source: Ancient Cedars Spa

   Not bad, eh? You can just imagine the fresh air as you’re relaxing during a massage! And along with their spa treatments, they also have daily semi-private or private yoga classes.
   Other than the spa, Tofino also offers beautiful beaches, trails, and hot springs, all with lots of opportunities to enjoy nature and wildlife.

   Tofino, BC (c) Sandra Hintzman, CC by 2.0

These are some of the places I would love to visit in Beautiful British Columbia! What places are on your bucket list?