12 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in British Columbia

British Columbia offers an incomparable variety of destinations for travelers looking to make the most of a long weekend, from world-class ski resorts and sunny beaches to charming small towns and cultural icons. British Columbia is a province of the extraordinary, from the soaring Rocky Mountains and roaring Pacific Ocean, to the vibrant cities and villages framed by vast wilderness. Whether looking for an ideal escape filled with outdoor adventure, soothing hot springs, fine dining, or cultural discovery, a corner of this province is waiting to be discovered. These twelve destinations highlight the best of British Columbia, perfect for a memorable weekend getaway.

Whistler

Best known for its legendary ski slopes, Whistler is a year-round mountain paradise equally stunning in summer. Wintertime getaways at Whistler Blackcomb offer over two hundred runs with deep powder and a vibrant after-ski scene. Summertime visitors can enjoy lush mountainous meadows, hiking trails, and world-class mountain biking. Whistler’s Peak 2 Peak Gondola connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, giving visitors panoramic views of the local glaciers, valleys, and distant peaks. Lost Lake offers serene swimming, canoeing, and, in winter, cross-country skiing. Food lovers will find award-winning restaurants, and art enthusiasts can explore the Audain Art Museum. The Scandinave Spa provides a tranquil experience surrounded by forest and mountain views. Whistler Village offers year-round boutique shopping, cozy cafés, and live entertainment, making it a destination for adrenaline-seekers and those searching for relaxation. Places to stay include the luxurious ‘ski-in/ski-out’ Four Seasons Resort Whistler and the elegant mountain lodge Fairmont Chateau Whistler with its world-class spa.

Tofino

Whether taking a weekend to surf, hike, paddle, or watch the ocean’s power, Tofino offers pure West Coast magic. Located on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island and famous for its surf culture, Chesterman Beach draws both beginners and seasoned surfers, while Long Beach stretches endlessly along the coast. Tofino is a nature lover’s paradise with the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve’s trails winding through ancient temperate rainforests and along spectacular shorelines. Hot Springs Cove visitors offer a relaxing soak in geothermal pools after a peaceful boardwalk stroll through pristine forest. Culinary delights abound, with Wolf in the Fog serving creative dishes inspired by local foraging and fishing. Art galleries and Indigenous cultural experiences add depth to a visit, while wildlife boating tours offer whale watching, enjoying sea otters, and spotting bald eagles.

Kelowna

Kelowna is considered British Columbia’s wine capital, nestled in the Okanagan Valley’s heart. The warm, sunny summers and rich soil offer ideal conditions for vineyards. The vineyards provide wine lovers with tours of world-class vineyards like Mission Hill and Quails’ Gate, sampling their award-winning vintages. Foodies and folk-art fans will adore the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market, which showcases the region’s bounty, from fresh cherries, pears, and peaches to artisan cheeses. The city’s dining scene profits from farm-to-table dining at casual lakeside restaurants and top accommodations in town, like the historic lakeside Hotel Eldorado and luxurious Manteo Resort. Winter brings skiing at nearby Big White Resort, just under an hour away, and Okanagan Lake, a sparkling 135-kilometre-long water wonderland, ideal for outdoor recreation that invites visitors to swim, paddleboard, sail, and enjoy sunset cruises. The surrounding hills, including Knox Mountain and its incredible city views, provide excellent hiking and cycling trails. Arts, culture, and outdoor adventure make Kelowna a year-round favorite for visitors seeking relaxation and pleasure.

Squamish

Ideally located between Vancouver and Whistler along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway, dubbed the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” Squamish is a paradise for weekend adventurers. Overlooking the town is an excellent challenge for all levels of climbers, the Stawamus Chief, a granite monolith with remarkable views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains. Climbers flock to its cliffs, while mountain bikers test their skills on the world-class trails. The top local accommodations appeal to all visitor levels, from the rustic Sunwolf Riverside Cabins to the family-friendly Executive Suites Hotel & Resort with mountain views. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers visitors access to breathtaking vistas, suspension bridges, and alpine trails. Shannon Falls Provincial Park, one of BC’s tallest waterfalls, is fun to visit, and the nearby Britannia Mine Museum offers a fascinating look into the region’s mining heritage. Spotting wildlife on land or marine life while paddling in the Squamish River adds to the variety. With its blend of rugged nature and small-town charm, Squamish is a perfect base for outdoor exploration.

Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island is famous for its creative community, local markets, and lush landscapes. Ganges, the main village, comes alive on Saturdays with an artisan market featuring handmade crafts, organic produce, and gourmet treats. The largest of BC’s Southern Gulf Islands, Salt Spring’s mild climate supports many vineyards, orchards, and small farms, each offering a chance to try fresh cheeses at Salt Spring Island Cheese Company and wines at one of the boutique wineries. Staying on the island is easy, and there are many options, from boutique waterfront accommodations like the Harbour House Hotel to the cozy, well-placed Salt Spring Inn. Outdoor activities range from kayaking through sun-dappled coves to hiking scenic trails in Ruckle Provincial Park, where BC farmland meets the rocky BC shoreline. Art galleries, studios, and roadside farm stands dot the island, creating a sense of discovery at every turn. Salt Spring’s blend of slower pace, nature, art, and culinary experiences makes it a comforting and enriching getaway.

Nelson

A healthy mix of culture and adventure makes Nelson one of BC’s most beloved small towns for a quick visit. Lying in the Selkirk Mountains along the shores of Kootenay Lake, Nelson blends historic charm with a vibrant, bohemian spirit and is one of BC’s favorite small towns. This spirit is reflected through the heritage buildings that house cafés and boutiques along its iconic Baker Street, and the Hume Hotel fits right in with historic charm and modern amenities. The thriving arts scene includes festivals, live theatre, public murals, Farmers’ markets, and local restaurants reflecting Nelson’s passion for fresh, sustainable food. Open-air enthusiasts can stay at Prestige Lakeside Resort with its stunning Kootenay Lake views or enjoy Whitewater Ski Resort for its famously deep powder. At the same time, summer offers hiking trails like Pulpit Rock for panoramic views. Ainsworth Hot Springs provides a soak in naturally heated pools and steamy limestone caves. Outdoors or indoors, there is always something to do in Nelson.

Sunshine Coast

Weekend getaways in BC do not get much better than a cruise down the 180km route along the Sunshine Coast, and it does not disappoint. After a fun ferry ride to get there, the paradise of charming towns, secluded bays, and artisan culture greets the weekend traveler. Gibsons, famous as the setting for the iconic Canadian TV series The Beachcombers, offers waterfront dining and a lively marina. The oceanfront promenade and galleries of Sechelt present local artistic talent, while nearby trails lead to hidden beaches and coves. There are many fine spots to rest for the night along the route, including the Painted Boat Resort and its luxury waterfront suites. For something different, Rockwater Secret Cove Resort offers Oceanfront ‘glamping’ tents. Nature lovers will want to visit the Skookumchuck Narrows, where tidal rapids roar through a narrow inlet, offering a once-in-a-lifetime hike. Kayaking and boating are everyday pastimes here, and visitors can explore fresh fish markets, craft breweries like Persephone Brewing Company, and hidden artist studios. The slower pace, friendly locals, and spectacular scenery make it a favorite for weekend escapades.

Revelstoke

Revelstoke is an all-season adventure hub located in the Selkirk Mountains with accommodations ranging from the ski-in/ski-out luxury Sutton Place Hotel to the budget-friendly Swiss Chalet Motel with mountain views. Wintertime brings legendary powder to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, home to North America’s most significant vertical drop, and ski trails for all skill levels. Mount Revelstoke National Park offers wildflower meadows, scenic drives, and hikes to panoramic views in summer. Visitors can mountain bike steep paths or try whitewater rafting on the Illecillewaet River to get the adrenaline going. Nearby, the whimsical Enchanted Forest and SkyTrek Adventure Park are ready to entertain families. Anyone can enjoy the nice soak in Halcyon Hot Springs overlooking Upper Arrow Lake after a long day outside. Coupled with outdoor excitement, Revelstoke’s historic core is filled with heritage buildings, craft breweries, and cozy cafés, creating the perfect mix of thrills and recreation.

Haida Gwaii

A remote archipelago off BC’s northwest coast, Haida Gwaii offers an unmatched combination of natural beauty and Indigenous culture. Rich in Haida heritage, the islands are home to SGang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient totem poles and the remains of a Haida village. Haida Gwaii’s remoteness fosters a deep connection to land and culture, making every visit transformative. Though isolated, lovely accommodations are nearby, like Ocean View Cabins in Queen Charlotte and the fascinating Haida House at Tllaal, a cultural immersion lodge. More culture can be discovered at the Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate, providing insight into centuries-old traditions. Outdoor adventures include kayaking through the fjords of Gwaii Haanas National Park, hiking in old-growth rainforests, and strolling along beaches like North Beach. Visitors can see the abundant wildlife from whales and seals to rare seabirds, and the local Art galleries feature iconic Haida carvings and jewelry.

Osoyoos

Osoyoos is one of the most unique areas of North America, a desert jewel set in BC’s southern Okanagan Valley. Osoyoos contains the country’s warmest lake and a unique arid landscape. Here, visitors can enjoy over three hundred days of sunshine annually, making Osoyoos ideal for relaxation and exploration. The land is perfect for vineyards, and some of the best Canadian wines come here. The luxurious Spirit Ridge Resort offers vineyard views and tastings. The Watermark Beach Resort is ideally located to enjoy the golden sands of Osoyoos Lake, perfect for sunbathing, and its clear waters are great for swimming, paddleboarding, and boating. History buffs will also enjoy the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, which offers interactive exhibits on Osoyoos ecology and its fascinating Indigenous history.

Bowen Island

An ideal weekend getaway is just a short ferry ride from Vancouver. A peaceful retreat from city life, Bowen Island will give visitors the feeling that the pace of life can slow down, and they can enjoy the moment and relax. Snug Cove, the main arrival point, is home to cafés, boutiques, and galleries. Artisan Square features boutique shops and farm-to-table dining. Visitors can enjoy live music at the Bowen Island Pub or indulge in handmade treats from the Bowen Island Chocolate Shop. Accommodations range from the rustic-chic Alderwood Farm to the more modern boutique hotel called the Barcelona Suites. Walking in the area offers a taste of the good life. Sports fans can rent kayaks or canoes to take to Killarney Lake for a refreshing paddle. Hikers can tackle Mount Gardner and be rewarded with their sweeping views. The island’s forested trails, rocky beaches, and welcoming community make it a perfect day trip or weekend escape.

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Near the Rocky Mountains lies the magnificent Wells Gray Provincial Park. This expanse of parkland and forest contains more than forty waterfalls, including the spectacular Helmcken Falls that plunge 141 metres into a volcanic canyon. Known as “Waterfall Park,” its vast wilderness and uncrowded trails make Wells Gray a true haven for nature lovers. In the summer, activities include horseback riding through wildflower-filled meadows, canoeing on Clearwater Lake, and hiking to alpine viewpoints. The Clearwater River offers thrilling whitewater rafting opportunities for the more adventurous, while wildlife watchers may spot bears, moose, and eagles in their natural habitat. The park becomes a serene snow-covered wonderland in winter, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Nearby Wells Gray Guest Ranch offers guests an authentic ranch experience, and guests can also enjoy riverside cabins at the Clearwater Lodge; both are top destinations in their own right.

There are almost endless choices regarding a long weekend getaway in British Columbia. Whether craving a thrilling adventure in the mountains, a peaceful walk along the coast, or cultural immersion in lively towns and communities, each destination on this list captures a unique part of BC’s charm. This variety can be found in the rugged beauty of Haida Gwaii and the chill vibes of Salt Spring Island, as well as in the steep slopes of Whistler and the waves off Tofino. No matter the season, weekend travelers can find breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality throughout the province. Whether it is your first visit or just another weekend, British Columbia promises experiences that linger long after the weekend.