Welcome to "supernatural British Columbia", a province that lives up to its reputation, with a wonderland of snow-capped mountains, shimmering glacier lakes and lush coastal rainforests to explore. Nature lovers flock to explore its rugged Pacific coastline, ski at Whistler Blackcomb and hike in enclaves like Glacier National Park. Throw in cosmopolitan cities like Vancouver, free-spirited mountain towns like Nelson and stunning islands such as Salt Spring and you'll quickly see just how easy it is to fall under BC's spell. Want to stay a while? From sleek urban apartments to secluded forest cabins, simply take your pick of British Columbia vacation rentals.
Are you hoping to discover attractions to see in the city? Travelers enjoy fun activities like skiing and hiking. Venture out of your vacation home and experience everything that British Columbia has to offer. Here are some of the major attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
For most travelers, British Columbia is a gateway to outdoor adventure. Whistler Blackcomb is one of BC's most iconic destinations, treating visitors to some of the best ski slopes on the planet. Planning a ski break? British Columbia vacation rentals unlock access to a host of "ski in/ski out" chalets, just steps from Whistler Village. In summer, the resort transforms into an outdoor playground, with hiking, bungee jumping, mountain biking and more. Summers also see flocks of visitors descend on the Okanagan, a sun-drenched region known for its boutique wineries and peach orchards.
Summer is high season in British Columbia. Vancouver hums with energy and the province's national parks are packed full of hikers, campers and day trippers. It's a great time to beach hop around Tofino, road trip around the Canadian Rockies and soak up Vancouver's patio scene. Snow bunnies arrive in December, when local mountains like Whistler, Fernie and Cypress receive dustings of snow. By January, BC is in full-swing powder mode. Spring can be a beautiful time to visit, while fall sees the province's maple trees explode in a sea of reds, yellows and golds.
From the urban allure of Stanley Park to the grandeur of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia boasts the country's most extensive parks system. Canada's westernmost province is also rich with wildlife encounters. Whether you depart from Vancouver or Victoria, British Columbia offers some of North America's best orca watching opportunities. Are grizzly bears on your wish list? If you'd rather not risk a meeting in the wild, simply head up Grouse Mountain, where you'll find a pair of laid-back grizzlies relaxing in their mountaintop enclosure.
The nearest airport is in Vancouver Intl. Airport (YVR), located 53.6 mi (86.3 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you might consider flying into Victoria Intl. Airport (YYJ), which is 14.9 mi (24 km) away.
If you prefer to travel by train, Vancouver Rocky Mountaineer Station, Vancouver, BC (XEA-Vancouver Pacific Central Station) and Pacific Central Station are the main stations in the city. You can get around British Columbia by catching a ride on the metro at Richmond-Brighouse Station, Lansdowne Station or Aberdeen Station.
Set out for West End for a salt-washed, sun-filled escape. This family-friendly spot in British Columbia is where you'll find Sunset Beach — and plenty of houses you can book for a couple of days of seaside R&R. From its yellow sand to its views of sunsets, this lovely beach will make your weekend break an extra special one.