Archie MontroseIf you’re itching for a quick escape from Vancouver but don’t want to break the bank, you’re in luck! From serene beaches to charming small towns, I’ve explored some of the best budget-friendly destinations just a short trip away.
Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure or a relaxing retreat, these spots offer a refreshing change of scenery without draining your wallet.
Grab your weekend bag and get ready to discover some fantastic getaways that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to find a perfect escape.
- Escape the City Buzz at Tofino
- Explore the Quaint Town of Pemberton
- Relax by the Tranquil Waters of Harrison Hot Springs
- Head to the Beautiful District of Hope
- Escape to the Quietude of Quadra Island
- Wander through Victoria
- Discover the Charm of Bowen Island
- Stroll through the Quaint Streets of Fort Langley
- Recharge in the Peaceful Surroundings of Port Renfrew
- Bask in the Wine Culture of Osoyoos
- Soak in the Picturesque Views at Salt Spring Island
Escape the City Buzz at Tofino
Website: https://tourismtofino.com/
Cost: $300 to $400
Address: Tofino, Vancouver Island, BC
Contact details: +1 866-231-8137
Tofino has its own unique charm, where incredible beaches meet towering trees on the rugged west coast. Most of Vancouver Island’s population is concentrated on the east coast, making the chance to experience the true Pacific Ocean all the more remarkable.
We recommend you stay here for four nights, giving yourself three full days to hike, beachcomb, relax, and watch the waves with a glass of wine in hand. Perhaps indulge in some spa time too.
It’s just enough time to soak in the raw beauty that draws visitors year-round, whether for summer adventures or winter storm watching.
You can stay at a 3-star hotel for around $287 a night and explore this town, affectionately known as The Tree Loving Capital of the World. Tofino boasts plenty of Airbnbs, unique restaurants, and shops.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss Tacofino, a must-visit spot where all tourists should grab a chocolate Diablo cookie!
Explore the Quaint Town of Pemberton
Website: https://tourismpembertonbc.com/
Cost: $200 – $300
Address: Pemberton, BC
Contact details: https://tourismpembertonbc.com/contact-us/
While Whistler to the south often steals the spotlight, Pemberton, just a half-hour north, offers its own unique charm. Here, accommodation is more affordable, with rooms at the Pemberton Hotel available for around $190 a night.
As you approach Pemberton, especially along Highway 99 from Whistler, the town’s slower pace of life becomes evident, harmonizing perfectly with its natural surroundings.
The Pemberton Valley, with its fertile lands, has fostered a distinct slow food culture, influenced by the towering peaks that encircle it.
Driving through the Pemberton Meadows, past downtown and its charming
farmlands, you may find yourself instinctively relaxing, lost in nostalgic reflections.
Key attractions include the stunning Nairn Falls Provincial Park, horseback riding through the valley, and sampling local brews at spots like the Pemberton Brewing Company and the Beer Farmers.
Pro tip:
Renting a bike ($20 to $50 a day) to pedal along Pemberton Meadows Road is also a must. Pause at the Beer Farmers, sit on the patio outside their barn, and soak in the breathtaking views and laid-back vibe.
Relax by the Tranquil Waters of Harrison Hot Springs
Website: https://www.harrisonhotsprings.ca/
Cost: $200 – $300
Address: Harrison Hot Springs, BC
Contact details: 604-796-2171
Harrison Hot Springs is well-known for its variety of outdoor activities, including sandy beaches, hot springs, hiking, forest bathing, rock climbing, golfing, and bird watching.
On a sunny day, the area truly shines, offering breathtaking views of mountains, a stunning lake surrounded by forests and hills, and expansive sandy beaches. Harrison Lake is the centerpiece of this picturesque setting.
For accommodations, the Harrison Hot Springs Resort & Spa is a top choice, featuring the main hot pools, where entry costs $9 for adults and $6.75 for children, with kids under five admitted free. However, the rooms here can be on the pricey side.
A budget-friendly option is the Harrison Lake Hotel, where rooms cost around $200 a night. The hotel has a full-length 9-hole PGA-rated golf course. For those who prefer camping, Sasquatch Provincial Park is nearby, offering affordable campsites.
Pro tip:
When you arrive, make sure to stop by the information booth at the entrance to Harrison for details on hiking trails and natural springs. Better yet, ask a local about the natural springs, and they might even draw you a map to find them.
Head to the Beautiful District of Hope
Media credit: gregitaz
Website: https://hope.ca/
Cost: $100 – $200
Address: Hope, British Columbia
Contact details: 604-869-5671
Hope and its surrounding areas offer a stunning mix of natural beauty and outdoor activities. You’ll see the diverse landscapes of Hope, from desert canyons and waterfalls to lush meadowlands and rainforests.
Two rivers wind their way through the mountains of the Coast and Cascade ranges, offering picturesque views and adventure opportunities. One of the highlights is the Othello Tunnels, accessible on foot from Hope along the Kettle Valley Trail.
This easy walk through the tunnels and gorge showcases an impressive feat of engineering, although it’s worth checking if the bridges that were washed out have been replaced.
For accommodation, Hope offers a range of options including campgrounds, bed-and-breakfasts, and motels, with motel stays averaging around $100 a night.
The town also features bike and kayak rental shops at about a third of the cost you’d pay in the Metro Vancouver area. Depending on the season and availability, you can also book jet-boat whitewater tours for an added thrill.
Pro tip:
A day trip along the Fraser Canyon to witness the swirling currents of the Fraser River is a must-do while in the area. The journey never disappoints. To help plan your visit, be sure to check out the Hope tourism website.
Escape to the Quietude of Quadra Island
Website: https://www.quadraisland.ca/
Cost: $140 – $200
Address: Quadra Island, BC
Contact details: https://www.quadraisland.ca/contact.html
Quadra Island serves as the central hub of the Discovery Islands, a picturesque group of small islands nestled along the Inside Passage seaway.
Surrounded by stunning wilderness and blessed with a mild temperate climate, Quadra Island is a vibrant and healthy community, whether you’re looking to visit or settle down.
Taku Resort is a top accommodation choice here, offering options from studio suites and cabins to two-level beach houses and townhouses. Rates start around $139 per night, with campsites available for $30 per night for tenting and $40 for RVs.
The island offers a wide range of activities including kayaking, hiking, canoeing, biking, paddleboarding, camping, fishing, and golfing.
Boaters frequently anchor here as a vital last stop before heading further north into the Discovery Islands, thanks to the island’s grocery store and other essential businesses.
Rebecca Spit is one of Quadra’s most cherished outdoor spots. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, with or without a dog, rock throwing, or enjoying a bite from the Trout and Trivet food truck when it’s open.
Pro tip:
Summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit Quadra Island, with ideal weather for beach outings or exploring one of the island’s serene lakes.
Wander through Victoria
Website: https://www.tourismvictoria.com/
Cost: $120 to $200
Address: Victoria, BC
Contact details: 250-953-2033
Victoria, often called the Garden City, is a beautiful and historic destination that’s fantastic to visit year-round. In spring and summer, the city is in full bloom, and with its mild winters, you can even golf throughout the year.
The ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria costs about $18.50 for adults and $9.25 for kids. Once you arrive, budget-friendly accommodations can be found at the Gaslight Inn, with rates ranging from $119 to $149 per night.
Victoria boasts the best weather in the country, with a stunning cityscape and surrounding areas that offer incredible hiking and paddling opportunities. The city is fairly quiet, safe, and full of charm.
June is an especially lovely time to visit, with great weather and blooming flowers at Butchart Gardens. Whale watching, bus tours, and other summer activities are in full swing.
Victoria’s pub scene is also vibrant, with most communities having a cozy, local pub within walking distance—perfect for socializing or catching a game in a relaxed atmosphere.
The best beaches include Sandcut, Mystic, Sombrio, and Botanical Beach. Botanical Beach is best visited at low tide, while the others are great at any time. Witty’s Lagoon also makes for a perfect afternoon trip; aim for low tide there as well.
Pro tip:
If you’re in town for the Victoria Day long weekend, be sure to check out the annual Victoria Highland Games at Topaz Park—it’s always a fun event!
Discover the Charm of Bowen Island
Website: https://www.tourismbowenisland.com/
Cost: $200 – $300
Address: Bowen Island, BC
Contact details: [email protected]
Bowen Island, the most easily accessible island from Vancouver, is full of charm and makes for a relaxing getaway or the perfect nature-filled date.
A popular activity here is hiking Mt. Gardner, a challenging 4-6 hour round trip. Be sure to come prepared, especially during summer, as there is no water available on the mountain, so bring plenty with you.
Snug Cove, the island’s main village, offers a variety of cute shops and restaurants. The new “Tell Your Friends” café on the pier is a must-visit, especially for their Elixir coffee. Nearby, Branch 01 serves tacos, and Earnest Ice Cream has vegan options.
Don’t miss the Copper Spirit Distillery, where you can sample locally crafted spirits at their tasting counter.
For accommodations, Artisan Suites on Bowen is a top choice, offering cozy rooms with great views above a quiet café serving delicious food, at around $230 a night.
Alternatively, Bowen Island Lodge offers a more budget-friendly option with room packages starting at $207 for a two-night stay, which includes a tour and shuttle service.
Pro tip:
To get around the island, you can download the Tap A Ride app, which allows you to call up a free Translink bus that functions like Uber, making it easy to explore every corner of Bowen Island.
Stroll through the Quaint Streets of Fort Langley
Website: https://www.tol.ca/en/the-township/fort-langley.aspx
Cost: $200 to $300
Address: Langley, BC
Contact details: 604-513-4777
The charming village of Fort Langley is the perfect destination for a day trip, whether rain or shine. Though small in size, it offers a wealth of activities and attractions.
Among the highlights are the village’s museums, the antique mall, the scenic Fort-to-Fort trail, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants. The centerpiece of Fort Langley, however, is the Fort Langley National Historic Site.
Established in 1827, this historic Hudson Bay Company trading post is a must-visit. It’s one of the Lower Mainland’s top attractions, offering a fascinating glimpse into the region’s history and what life was like in the early days of British Columbia.
Admission to the fort is $9 for adults, $7.50 for seniors, and free for children under 18. For frequent visitors, an annual pass is available at $22 for adults and $18.50 for seniors.
The Fort Langley Bed and Breakfast is a great accommodation choice, with rates starting at $250 per night.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider the Brookside Inn, which offers stunning views of Mount Baker and the Pepin Brook Vineyard, and is conveniently close to several wineries in the area.
Pro tip:
As you explore Fort Langley, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and be prepared for a good walk around this delightful village.
Recharge in the Peaceful Surroundings of Port Renfrew
Website: https://vancouverisland.travel/communities/port-renfrew/
Cost: $130 – $195
Address: Port Renfrew, BC
Contact details: https://vancouverisland.travel/contact/
Port Renfrew is one of the most outdoorsy spots on Vancouver Island.. This small town is a hiker’s paradise, nestled between two of the world’s most famous and challenging coastal trails: the West Coast Trail and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.
However, you don’t need to be an expert hiker to enjoy the area—there are trails for everyone, ranging from easy 20-minute strolls to more challenging half-day hikes.
One popular trail is the Fairy Lake Nature Trail, located about 5 km from Port Renfrew. The lake is a sandy beach recreation spot with campsites and is situated upstream from the mouth of the San Juan River.
Sombrio Beach Waterfall is another must-see in the area, offering a hidden gem experience. Falls Creek Falls, a lesser-known but equally stunning waterfall, is just a short distance from Port Renfrew and is one of the best spots to explore nearby.
With rooms starting at $129 per night, the West Coast Trail Lodge is an excellent option for lodging. Along with contemporary conveniences like WiFi, a coffee maker, and a mini fridge, you’ll take in views of the mountains and wildlife.
Pro tip:
Many of the ecotourism attractions around Port Renfrew are accessible by driving along active logging roads. When traveling these roads, it’s important to stay alert for logging trucks that may be coming your way.
Bask in the Wine Culture of Osoyoos
Website: https://www.osoyoos.ca/contact-us/contact-directory/town-hall
Cost: $240 to $300
Address: Osoyoos, BC
Contact details: 250-495-6515
Osoyoos is an ideal destination if you’re looking for a quieter, slower-paced environment. Although it’s about a five-hour drive from Vancouver, the journey is well worth it, especially as you watch the changing terrain along the way.
Known for its warm weather and stunning location, Osoyoos is a popular resort and recreational destination. Most days here are spent relaxing on the beach or swimming in the lake.
You can start your morning with a coffee at Junction 3 Cafe, then head to the restaurant at Inkameep Winery for a delightful brunch with a view.
The area between Osoyoos and Oliver is dotted with wineries, perfect for a leisurely exploration. In town, Gyro Park offers a lovely beachfront spot for relaxation, while Jojo’s Cafe serves up delicious breakfast options.
For a bit of fun, check out Rattlesnake Canyon, which has a mini golf course and a few rides. They also make really gigantic ice cream cones here.
For budget-friendly accommodations, the Sahara Courtyard Inn & Suites on Cottonwood Drive is a great option, with rates starting at $236 per night. The rooms come equipped with full kitchens, complete with basic dishes and cutlery.
Pro tip:
Since Osoyoos is so close to the U.S. border, it’s a good idea to bring your passport—you might find that the nearest grocery store is just across the border!
Soak in the Picturesque Views at Salt Spring Island
Media credit: jstar88888888
Website: https://www.saltspringtourism.com/
Cost: $264 to $350
Address: Salt Spring Island, BC
Contact details: 1-866-216-2936
While Salt Spring Island may not have the dramatic landscapes of Tofino, it certainly has its own unique charm. Known for its rural, country-farm atmosphere, Salt Spring offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.
The island’s appeal lies in its quaint attractions—pottery studios, wineries, cheese farms, and roadside flower stands. On Saturday mornings, the Ganges Market is a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Mt. Maxwell and Ruckle Point Park are popular destinations. Just at the entrance to the park, you’ll find an old farm museum and the Ruckle Heritage Farm.
Be sure to bring cash, as it’s an honor system when no one is around, and you can pick up their famous molasses ginger cookies—some of the best you’ll ever taste.
If you’re up for a quiet and peaceful hike, Mt. Tuam is a hidden gem, especially if you can find the falls. The island also has a Sunday farmer’s market, and in the evening, you might catch a performance at the Tree House Café.
For accommodations, the Salt Spring Inn offers rooms at $264 per night, while the Salt Spring Carriage House is slightly cheaper at $225 per night. Both are affordable options compared to other places on the island.
Pro tip:
If you’re planning a visit, it’s best to come on a weekday during the summer to avoid the crowds, as Saturdays can be quite busy.
