Victoria and Vancouver Island by RV
Quick summary: Vancouver Island is a favorite RV rental destination, reached by vehicle ferry from Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay. Victoria, the provincial capital, has the Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings and Butchart Gardens nearby. Further up the island lie the Cowichan Valley’s wineries, Nanaimo, the beaches of Parksville and Qualicum, and the road west to Tofino, with campgrounds suited to a campervan or motorhome throughout.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Access | Vehicle ferries from the mainland |
| Victoria | Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, whale watching |
| Cowichan Valley | Wineries and farm stands |
| Nanaimo | Ferry hub and harbor city |
| Parksville and Qualicum | Beaches and family campgrounds |
| Tours | Victoria tours, Butchart Gardens tours |
Compare RV rental in Vancouver
What should you see in Victoria?
| Sight | Tours |
|---|---|
| Butchart Gardens | Butchart Gardens tours |
| Inner Harbour and Parliament | Victoria tours |
| Whale watching | Whale watching tours |
| Seaplane flights | Seaplane tours |
Where can an RV park in Victoria?
Downtown parking for large vehicles is limited. Stay at an RV park on the city’s edge and take a bus or taxi in. Butchart Gardens, north of the city near the ferry terminal, has parking for larger vehicles.
What’s further up the island?
The Malahat drive to the Cowichan Valley, Chemainus with its murals, Nanaimo, and the beaches of Parksville and Qualicum Beach. From there, Highway 4 leads west to Tofino. See Tofino and Pacific Rim.
How many days should an RV trip on the island take?
At least four or five days for Victoria and the east coast, and a week to include Tofino. See Vancouver Island in 7 days.
Compare RV rental in Abbotsford
Frequently Asked Questions
On the vehicle ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay.
Yes, there is parking for larger vehicles.
Four or five days for Victoria and the east coast, a week with Tofino.
Yes, RV parks on the city’s edge and provincial parks nearby.