Vancouver Island

From misty rainforests and sheltered coves to open beaches and mountain valleys, Vancouver Island is a world of wild beauty waiting to be explored. Stretching along the Salish Sea and out to the open Pacific, the Vancouver Island region connects an incredible mix of habitats that host a rich variety of birdlife year-round.

Each community has its own rhythm and charm. On the south island, Sooke’s lush forests and misty shores are alive with coastal songbirds, while Langford’s sparkling lakes and nearby Goldstream Park offer easy trails and year-round birdwatching. The Cowichan Valley glows with farmland and estuaries, and the wide, sandy beaches of Parksville Qualicum Beach invite birders to slow down and soak up the coastal air.

Farther west, the wild shores of Tofino and Ucluelet echo with the sound of surf and seabirds, while the Southern Gulf Islands provide a peaceful retreat of sheltered bays and forested trails along the Salish Sea. Continuing north, the adventure opens into untamed landscapes around Port Hardy, Port McNeill, and Port Alice. The islands of Sointula and Alert Bay offer a glimpse into deep coastal heritage, where rich wildlife and vibrant Indigenous culture thrive side by side.

Rooted in history and shaped by its connection to land and sea, Vancouver Island invites you to slow down and follow the rhythm of the tides. Breathe in the salt air, wander through ancient rainforest, or sip coffee in a seaside café after a morning in the field.