Vancouver Island Road Trip Guide
If you’re looking to plan a roadtrip on Vancouver Island that takes you between Nanaimo and Tofino, in this post I’m going to share the best stops between those two destinations that you can’t miss. The drive across the island is more than just a way to reach the surf: it’s a journey filled with waterfalls, old-growth forests, turquoise rivers, and delicious food stops. With the right mix of nature and local flavor, the drive itself becomes just as memorable as the destination.
Grab a Bite in Nanaimo
If you’re starting your trip in Nanaimo and need a meal before hitting the road, stop at Nori Sushi, a local favorite for fresh and generous rolls. It’s a quick, satisfying option that will fuel you up for the drive west. Or, some great ice cream can be found at Cold Front Gelato.
Qualicum Beach
The first road trip stop is Qualicum Beach, a peaceful waterfront town where you can stretch your legs, sip a coffee, and walk along the shoreline. If you’ve packed a paddle board, the calm waters here are ideal for a quick paddle before continuing inland. Also, the Paradise Fun Park in Parksville right beforehand is a great place for families and has an arcade and two mini golf courses.
Little Qualicum Falls
Just beyond Qualicum Beach, Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a must-do. The short 3 km loop trail passes both upper and lower falls, with multiple viewpoints over turquoise water and canyon walls. There are a few stairs and a bit of elevation, but in general it’s a pretty manageable walk for most skill levels, and another great place to stretch your legs and break up the drive. There are also picnic tables and washrooms available for a pit stop.
Cathedral Grove
Next up is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park, where Douglas firs tower more than 70 meters above the forest floor. Parking is available on both sides of the highway, and you can easily explore the short walking loops in under an hour. Whether you wander the trails or simply pull over to admire the trees from the roadside, this is a stop you won’t want to miss.
Hole in the Wall
Just outside Port Alberni, the Hole in the Wall trail offers a quirky Instagram stop: a waterfall flowing through a man-made rock tunnel. The hike is only about 1 km each way, though it can be muddy, and while it’s more novelty than must-see, it’s a fun excuse to stretch your legs. If driving from east to west, park at the Coombs Country Candy (and pick up a treat!) and carefully cross the highway. If driving west to east, there is a small, fast pull off (really just a large shoulder on the highway) to park at.
Coffee or Lunch in Port Alberni
By the time you reach Port Alberni, you’ll be ready for a break. Grab a coffee at the cozy Witch’s Brew Café or Riverbend Café, or sit down for lunch at Bare Bones Fish House for some of the freshest fish and chips you’ll ever try. If you’d rather keep things quick, pick up fish tacos or a sandwich before heading back out on the highway.
Stamp River Provincial Park
If you have the time, detour to Stamp River Provincial Park, where salmon leap their way up the fish ladder in late summer and fall. Short trails along the gorge offer scenic viewpoints, and during the salmon run you may even spot black bears fishing in the river. Port Alberni is the salmon and fishing capital of Canada, after all.
Sproat Lake Petroglyphs (K’ak’awin)
Right past Port Alberni (driving east to west), you’ll come upon Sproat Lake Provincial Park. In the summer, this is a great place to stop for a break or even get in the water for a swim (the water is pretty warm). If you don’t have that much time but still want to see something unique, walk down to the petroglyphs that are visible along the lake (~20 min walk out and back). There’s a dock set up so that you can get a good vantage point of the designs etched onto the rocks.
Taylor River Rest Area
Back on the Pacific Rim Highway, the Taylor River Rest Area is one of the most underrated stops between Nanaimo and Tofino. The water here glows bright blue, and on hot days it’s perfect for a swim or quick paddle board session. Even if you don’t get in the water, it’s worth a quick stop to admire the scenery.
Arrival in Ucluelet & Tofino
From Taylor River, it’s a short drive to the coast. Ucluelet is perfect for stretching your legs on the Wild Pacific Trail, while Tofino greets you with its surf beaches, lively cafés, and small-town energy. No matter where you base yourself, the road trip there will feel like part of the adventure.
Road Trip Tips
- Driving time: Nanaimo to Tofino takes about 3.5–4 hours without stops, but with this itinerary plan for 6–7.
- Best time to go: Summer and early fall are ideal for salmon runs, lake swims, and clear driving conditions.
- Car rentals: If you’re flying in, check Discover Cars for rentals in Nanaimo or Victoria.
- How to get there: You can fly to Nanaimo by Harbour Air sea plane from Vancouver or take a ferry (BC Ferries or Hullo). Learn more in my First Time Vancouver Island Guide.
Related Adventures
If you’re planning more Vancouver Island adventures, you may also like:
Final Thoughts
The road from Nanaimo to Tofino isn’t just a means to an end — it’s one of the most scenic drives in British Columbia. From sandy beaches and waterfalls to old-growth forests and local cafés, these stops transform the journey into an adventure all on its own. Take your time, enjoy the stops, and you’ll discover that the road trip is every bit as special as your destination on Vancouver Island’s west coast.
