New year, new plans and new places to visit.
It could also be the year you’re finally exploring more of Vancouver Island.
If you need more convincing, look no further than the latest CNN Travel list of 25 best places to visit in 2025.
B.C.’s 285-mile-long island – home, among other stand-out destinations, to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve – made it to the list of places worth visiting this year.
According to the news travel site, the Island’s “wild and untamed landscapes and explosions of manicured blossoms” are a natural draw.
“We’re absolutely thrilled to have the mention by CNN Travel especially as it outlines the work being done by Indigenous-owned businesses and unique new experiences coming to the region,” says Brian Cant, president of Tourism Vancouver Island. “Additionally, communities on the Island’s east and west coasts have been highlighted, which greatly enhances our visitor strategy.”
From hiking and surfing to relaxing, the Island has it all.
Even seasoned hikers find the renowned West Coast Trail difficult, but it’s a favourite among those seeking to accomplish a “hike of a lifetime” in the backcountry.
The site says more creature comforts can be found at Long Beach Unit, which is three hours drive from the ferry terminal at Nanaimo along Highway 4 or an hour’s flight from Vancouver. Lodges are scattered along the coast between Ucluelet and Tofino.
“They serve as jumping-off points for wildlife expeditions, rainforest hikes or braving the legendary surf,” the travel site said.
A floating resort (previously the Tofino Wildnerness Resort on Quait Bay) purchased in 2022 by Ahousaht First Nation, is expected to reopen in June 2025 with a new name and newly appointed guest rooms and public spaces.
On southern Vancouver Island, outside Victoria, Butchart Gardens offers a show-stopping views year-round.
The Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa in Courtenay offers a six-cave experience that will elevate your spa experience to a whole new level for those seeking to unwind and revitalize.
The “55-acre wonderland” Butchart Gardens located approximately 30 minutes drive from Victoria, completes CNN Travel’s trip to Vancouver Island. Visitors can discover roughly 900 different kinds of flowers in a rose garden or sunken garden, along with delicious afternoon tea that complements the visual feast.
Tourism Vancouver Island says the total number of visitors to the island decreased marginally last year, compared to 2023.
“We are looking forward to a robust and strong 2025 across the island,” Cant said.
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