Cover Image Credit: LukeL for Pixabay
Be it an adventurous explorer or a cosmopolitan traveler, Vancouver has something for everyone. The exciting cultural and outdoor activities, gorgeous views, a beautiful coastline, pristine lakes and obscure thick forests that’s Vancouver for you. There is perhaps no other city in the world which is as diverse and offers so much variety at one place and the city’s great location only adds to the charm of the place making place for some enthralling and very exciting day trips from Vancouver. From cliff walks to hot springs and obscure mountains to pretty islands, the are around Vancouver is so vast and expansive that one will definitely be lured and the best part about these places is that visiting them in both summer and winter is equally delightful.
10 Best Day Trips From Vancouver
Although Vancouver offers many day trips you just might not find the time to experience them all. So, here are the best 11 day trips that you just can’t miss out on.
1. Whistler
A place that you would probably find on every person’s list who plans to check for day trips from Vancouver, Whistler is a is an year-round resort spread across 8,000 acres and many mountain peaks. But it’s not just about that. One of the best parts of this 1 day trip from Vancouver is the Sea to Sky highway that connects Vancouver and Whistler which is believed to be one of the most beautiful and happening drives in Canada but if you are in the mood for it, it’s better to take a day trip from Vancouver by train to Whistler. We say so for the thrill and excitement of the train journey.
Distance From Vancouver: 121 Kilometres
Time Taken: 1 hour 34 minutes
Must Read: 7 Major Airports In Vancouver Ensuring The Safest Travel To Visitors
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2. Bowen Island
If you are looking for the best day trips from Vancouver without a car then Bowen Island is the place for you. Located on the North-western side of Vancouver, the laid back and relaxed vibe of this very accessible island is what you will love. If you want to escape the hustle bustle and get away from the monotony of everyday life then we say Bowen Island is perfect. If your adrenaline rush is boosted then the island also offers kayaking, mountain biking and many other adventurous activities.
Distance From Vancouver: 30 Kilometres
Time Taken: 1 hour 3 minutes
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3. Victoria
Victoria offers so much that you would think one day is not sufficient. It’s always better to take a longer trip to this destination. A 4 day trip from Vancouver to Victoria is what you should be aiming at if you want to see the true colours of Victoria and explore the place in all its glory. An important thing to note is that you can take this day trip by ferry or helicopter and helicopter although expensive is the better way to go.
Distance From Vancouver: 114 Kilometres
Time Taken: 3 hours 1 minute
Suggested Read: 10 Essential Vancouver Travel Tips For A Seamless Vacation To Canada!
4. Squamish
If your adventurous soul just refuses to be satisfied, try visiting Squamish and you just might feel that you have found your safe haven. If you are looking for 3 day tours from Vancouver then Squamish should be on the top of your list. Rock climbing at Stawamus Chief or windsurfing or kitesurfing on the West Coast or hiking at Four Lakes Trail or maybe all three of them will definitely satisfy your adrenaline rush.
Distance From Vancouver: 64 Kilometres
Time Taken: 52 minutes
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5. Steveston
A very alluring fishing village located at the southern side of Vancouver, Steveston is situated at the banks of the Fraser river and is the departure point of many whale watching tours. You can comfortably chill out with your friends at this village or take a stroll amongst scenic views with your loved one. Home to the historical Gulf of Georgia Cannery, Steveston is a must visit place. The place is also known for its annual Canada Day Salmon Festival.
Distance From Vancouver: 20 Kilometres
Time Taken: 23 minutes
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6. Lighthouse Park
The best thing is that it’s not far from Vancouver and is very accessible and extremely picturesque. If you check out the list of the best day trips from Vancouver then it will lead you to Lighthouse Park and is a very popular spot in Vancouver. The place is very popular amongst couples as it provides a very romantic backdrop and is the best place to witness the sunset. Another great thing is that you will find many hiking trails and rock climbing sites around the area.
Distance From Vancouver: 20 Kilometres
Time Taken: 45 minutes
7. Cypress Mountain
Heaven for all the skiers out there Cypress Mountain is one of the most approachable mountains from Vancouver and a day trip from Vancouver in winter to the beautiful mountains is totally worth it. Apart from skiing, you can also try snowshoe tours and cross country trails and if nothing you can just enjoy the scintillating views atop Cypress Mountain and have a fun and memorable time here.
Distance From Vancouver: 28 Kilometres
Time Taken: 36 minutes
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8. Harrison Hot Springs
Quite famous amongst health enthusiasts and adventure travelers, for its therapeutic properties and mineral and sulphur rich water. Harrison Hot Springs day trip is one of the best day trips from Vancouver. Made on the shore of the beautiful Harrison Lake the beautiful and quaint village of Harrison Hot Springs is definitely worth a visit. If you feel like exploring the place a bit more than you can visit the picturesque marina or attend a Dutch art festival.
Distance From Vancouver: 131.2 kilometres
Time Taken: 1 hour
9. Mount Baker
Mount Baker’s peak can be seen from Vancouver itself and although it’s not a very popular spot to take a day trip to, it’s definitely worth it. If you are looking for places offering a scenic view of the mountains and offering some adventure then visiting Mount Baker is the best gift you can give yourself. One of the best day trips from Vancouver in winter is to Mount Baker and if you plan for it, you won’t be disappointed. If you visit the place in late summer, you will see the wildflower in its full bloom and that is something incredibly beautiful.
Distance From Vancouver: 88 Kilometres
Time Taken: 2 hours
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10. Bridal Falls
If cascading waterfalls and obscure forests are your idea of the perfect vacation then taking a day trip from Vancouver to the beautiful Bridal Falls is what you should be doing. A great place for picnics and offering a very romantic setting these falls are quite popular. An interesting fact is that these falls freeze during winters creating a dreamy landscape and attracting many visitors. These 60 metres high waterfalls are extremely gorgeous and are a treat for the eyes.
Distance From Vancouver: 120 Kilometres
Time Taken: 1 hour 19 minutes
Further Read: 5 Vancouver Waterfalls Which Are All That You Need For That Well Deserved Break
These day trips from Vancouver only go on to show how the city is surrounded by beauty all around. From cascading waterfalls to therapeutic hot springs there is a wide variety of what you can try if you plan for a day trip. If you already can not stop thinking about how exciting this is going to be we suggest you to go through this customizable options for a trip to Canada and plan your trip with TravelTriangle.
Frequently Asked Question About Day Trips From Vancouver
What are the best places to go on a day trip to Vancouver?
The Whistler, the Vancouver Coast, the Victoria, the Hot Springs of Harrison, and the Haida Gwaii are some of the best places to go on a day trip in Vancouver.
What types of day trip destinations are near Vancouver?
One can go for a 25 minutes travel to New Westminster. The city of Richmond is a nice place to visit just 20 minutes away, and Steveston is a fishing village just an hour away from Vancouver.
Is transportation expensive in Vancouver?
Transportation costs in Vancouver have a range from $2.75 to $5.50 for adults and $1.75 to $3.75 for people eligible for the concession. One is allowed to travel for 90 minutes at the same fare. The fares are charged irrespective of what method of transport you take – the bus, the Sky Train or the Sea Bus.
How safe is Vancouver for day trips?
Although big cities are more unsafe, Vancouver is a safer one. The DownTown is a busy area so be aware while visiting there. There is less threat to personal safety in Vancouver.
Are there any waterfalls for a day trip tour in Vancouver?
There are many waterfalls in Vancouver. Tsusiat Falls in West Coast, Elk Falls on Campbell river, and Lower Myra Falls are some of the waterfalls one can visit for a day trip in Vancouver.
When should I visit Vancouver for day trips?
The best time to visit Vancouver for a day trip is on the warmer days of summer in February. But to avoid the crowds, one might choose the winter season for the day trip.
Where should I not visit for day trips in Vancouver?
There are certain localities that are full of downtrodden homeless unlucky people who may be harmful to travelers. One might avoid those off beaten paths such as Gastown, Surrey and East Hastings. The North Shore is the most expensive region. It can also be avoided for its expensiveness.
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A kid at heart who is the happiest when traveling and an avid reader who can talk to you about books endlessly, Japneet is someone who cannot do without chai and her love for mountains knows no bounds and quotes ‘Mujhe khabar thi mera intezar ghar mein raha, yeh haadsa tha ki main umr bhar safar mein raha’.
