Top 3 Uncrowded Family Vacation Spots

Port Renfrew

When people think about iconic locations on Vancouver Island, Tofino is often at the top of the list. While this world-renowned destination is surely worth it, during peak season, it can be a little overwhelming, especially on a family vacation. So instead, we’re here to pitch Port Renfrew, also known as the Tall Tree Capital of Canada. It’s situated 2 hours outside of Victoria on the southwest side of the Island.

What to Do?

You’ll be spoiled with activities to choose from in this picturesque town. The waters around Port Renfrew are a little calmer than those in Tofino. It’s tucked along the Port San Juan inlet, sheltered from some of the harsher ocean winds. The inlet is one of the richest intertidal zones on the West Coast, ripe with biodiversity. To experience the most of this, you must visit the Botanical Beach tidepools in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park! Your kids will become little explorers, and we guarantee you’ll be just as enamoured with the life you find hiding in the shallow waters. Discover marine treasures like giant green anemones, starfish, algae, sea cucumbers, and sea urchins in the tidal pools. Just remember to check the tide charts ahead of time and go at low tide.

Sombrio Beach is also a highlight that shouldn’t be missed. Go for a hike and discover the hidden waterfall tucked into a moss-covered canyon, camp on the beach for a night or two, or have a lunchtime picnic with the family. Go for a walk through the forests around the beach. You’ll even be able to see some of the old growth giants that this region is known for. If you’re looking for a lake to visit, instead of the cool ocean waters, Lizard Lake is a great family spot with a day-use area and sandy beach.

Where to Eat?

Make sure you take a break from all your fun and activities and go for a meal on the waterfront at the Renfrew Pub. If you’re looking for a much-needed caffein fix when you wake up, we recommend eating a delicious breakfast at the Coastal Kitchen Café.

Pender Island

The Salish Sea encompasses the body of water between the mainland coast of British Columbia and Vancouver Island. There is a collection of Gulf Islands that offer popular tourist spots in the Salish Sea. These islands are all about sun, slowing down, and the creative arts. Arguably, none are more popular than Salt Spring Island. However, if you’re looking for a similar adventure with a small island feel, Pender Island is the way to go. It’s a charming, cozy, natural oasis.

What to do?

One unique activity the whole family can get into is disc golf! The Golf Island Disc Park on Pender is one of the premier disc courses in North America. If you don’t own your own discs, you can pick some up nearby at Pender Island Kayak Adventures. And when it’s time for a little break from all the kids’ activities, Sea Star Vineyard is one of our top winery recommendations. There is plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy a sunny day and children are welcome to come with you. At some point during your stay, everyone will be craving a treat and hands-down the best place to go is Pender Chocolates. This chocolate shop and café hand craft to-die-for chocolates and a variety of beverages to sip alongside your sweets.

For a small hike and a great place to spend half a day, Roesland is a park located on North Pender Island. Pack up your lunch for a little picnic, or go for a playdate by the beach. You’ll even find the Pender Island Museum close by. If you’re looking to get out on the water and try your luck at spotting some marine life, you can take a boat tour. Salt Spring Adventures offers whale watching tours that pick up at the North-end of Pender Island. You and your family will spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding islands and searching for whales, while learning first-hand about local ecosystems and wildlife in the area.

Cumberland

While Squamish and Whistler might get the usual hype for the best outdoor activity locations close to Vancouver, there’s another option on the coast. We’re here to share that you will fall in love with Cumberland instead. Cumberland is a village an hours drive north of Nanaimo. It’s known for great food, arts and culture, and plenty of outdoor activities for your family vacation.

What to do?

If you’re looking for a spot where there’s something for every kid and teen, the Village Park is where to go. When your family drives up, everyone will think you’ve hit the jackpot! This public park comes outfitted with a playground, a splashpad, skatepark, dirt jumps, and so much more! If you’re looking for more adrenalin fuelled adventures, Cumberland also boasts the best mountain biking on Vancouver Island. From fast and flowy to rocky and technical, these trails have variety. With over 200 km of singletrack trails, you can spend hours in the hills just steps from downtown. When you’re looking for a shift in energy, take an educational detour and visit the Cumberland Museum. Through a variety of exhibits, you and your family will learn all about the town and its people since time immemorial.

Where to eat?

Though it’s a small village, you’ll find no shortage of incredible food in Cumberland. First off, the Cumberland Village Bakery is an institution that can’t be missed! Everyone raves about the donuts and so will you. To fuel up after your day of adventuring, check out Cooks Restaurant, for the most classic smash burgers and milkshakes. For sandwiches and bowls that satisfy cravings at breakfast or lunch, visit Laneway Coffee and Kitchen. Serving local and seasonal food, they are redefining the expectations of a small-town café.

NImmo Bay

If you’re looking to take a family vacation this summer outside even the smallest towns and villages in British Columbia, Nimmo Bay is as secluded as it gets. With no roads in or out and only 9 cabins, there are no crowds. Every amenity is available to you during your trip. Here, you can truly unplug and reconnect with what matters most, each other. Our remote location offers families a rare opportunity to explore pristine wilderness, spot wildlife from a kayak, or share stories by the fire without distraction. With tailored experiences for all ages, thoughtful service, and endless room to roam, Nimmo Bay is a peaceful, safe, and unforgettable escape from the busy pace of everyday life.