Description
This camping trip, operated by West Trek, begins in Vancouver and includes a ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. Stop at Coombs Market, famous for its goats wandering across the rooftops. The journey continues to Vancouver Island’s west coast where you will stay in tents near the beach. After setting up camp, evenings can be spent by the ocean, relaxing under a star-filled sky.
Adventures may include whale watching along the coastline, with opportunities to see seals, otters, and whales. Visitors might also explore the forest trail to Tonquin Beach, a peaceful spot for walking and connecting with nature. Surf lessons at a local shop will offer the chance to learn new skills, from balancing on the board to catching waves for the first time.
Another highlight is a stop at Cathedral Grove will provide the opportunity to walk among Douglas firs more than 800 years old, an awe-inspiring reminder of the island’s ancient forests.
Trip Includes:
- Ferry Ride to and from Vancouver Island
- Camping by the beach for 2 nights (sleeping bag, tent, and other equipment included)
- Transportation from Vancouver to the ferry and on Vancouver Island
- Sightseeing
- Trip Leader / Guide
Not included:
- Transportation to Vancouver (Travel with others on the e-Bus)
- Accommodation in Vancouver
- Food
- Optional Activities
Itinerary
Friday, May 22nd
6:45am – Arrive at Canada Place in Vancouver where you’ll be greeted by your Guide
7:00am – Depart for Horseshoe Bay and check in for the ferry to Nanaimo. Keep an eye out for wildlife as we make the crossing
Visit the famous Coombs Market just outside of Parksville, look up to the roof where their resident goats live
Arrive in the town of Tofino and visit famous Long Beach, the largest and longest beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Check into your campground and set up your campsite
Free time for dinner
Saturday, May 23rd
Today you can choose to explore the town on your own or book one of the optional activities such as whale watching, bear watching, surfing or kayaking. We highly recommend booking in advance. You will have a full day to explore Tofino
Option to join your guide today on a leisure walk/hike to Tonquin Beach. Easily accessible from downtown Tofino for those who want to explore on their own
Free evening to relax or join your guide for a campfire & marshmallow roast at the beach (weather and fire-restriction permitting)
Sunday, May 24th
Pack up your campsite and make your way to Ucluelet where you will have the opportunity to hike the Lighthouse Loop on the Wild Pacific Trail
Visit Cathedral Grove, a protected old growth forest with ancient Douglas Fir trees dating back more than 800 years
Arrive in Nanaimo and check in for the ferry back to Vancouver
Arrive in Downtown Vancouver at approximately 9:00pm, depending on traffic
