VANCOUVER ISLAND

Snowbirding in Canada?

Vancouver Island is a year-round destination—yours to explore

When many RVers think of snowbirding, they often think of heading to a warm destination in the lower United States or Mexico.

Waves

Canada is typically known for its harsh winters, but Vancouver Island, located in southwestern British Columbia, is one place within its borders that is mild and pleasant year round. The mild temperatures, which rarely fall below zero, entice RVers to stay put in Canada rather than going elsewhere spending more money due to high currency exchanges with the U.S. dollar.

Activities generally enjoyed through the summer can also be enjoyed throughout the winter on Vancouver Island. These include ocean kayaking and boating, fishing, hiking and even golfing. And with an annual snowfall of 30 feet in the alpine, a day of skiing on the slopes of Mount Washington can be enjoyed.

Victoria

With the mildest climate in Canada, Victoria is a year-round paradise for many people seeking a winter destination. Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia, offers an abundance of parks, gardens, museums and activities. It is a great starting point for exploring Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo

A snowbird’s opportunities are also endless in Nanaimo with its natural beauty, attractions and activities. In this city you can take a heritage walk or observe some art at local galleries.

Along with its shopping, Nanaimo attracts kayakers from around the world. Nanaimo is an ideal place for single and multi-day excursions, with day trip options including a quick paddle into a secluded bay, an up-close examination of the Gabriola Galleries and a stop by Protection Island in Nanaimo’s harbour for a meal at Canada’s only floating pub.

Parksville & Qualicum Beach

A popular place that offers year-round attractions is Parksville and Qualicum Beach, known as the Oceanside Region. These communities are bordered by both ocean and mountains and the area boasts sandy beaches, golf courses and an abundance of wildlife and hiking trails.

The Oceanside Region is home to the Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, which will entice you to explore some of the secrets hidden in the caves.

The Englishman River Falls Provincial Park is another place worth checking out, offering a large day use area, picnic facilities, hiking trails, fishing holes, as well as 105 campsites. The waterfalls are amazing and they have attracted many movie producers, including the makers of Alaska.

Comox

Nestled between the Beaufort Mountains and the Strait of Georgia, the Comox Valley offers alpine to ocean adventures from alpine skiing on Mount Washington to scuba diving the nutrient-rich waters surrounding Vancouver Island.

The Comox Valley is a dynamic centre for arts and culture with an eclectic assortment of museums, galleries and performing arts venues presenting an excellent blend of entertainment and education year round.

History buffs will take notice at the Courtenay Museum, which is located in downtown Courtenay. For 45 years the museum has served the north central island with a mandate of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Comox Valley.

Vancouver Island key contacts