Long weekends, they’re like mini-vacations we all look forward to, a chance to hit pause on daily life and enjoy some well deserved downtime. But when that extra day rolls around, how do you decide where to go? Since moving to Vancouver in 2021, I’ve been on a mission to explore all the hidden gems and must-see spots across BC. Whether I’m discovering new places myself or adding to my ever growing to-do list, I realized it would be a great idea to share my experiences and future travel plans with you.

So, whether you’re planning a trip with your family, escaping with friends, packing up the kids, or bringing along your dog, BC offers endless possibilities. The trick is finding the right spot for your vibe, your budget, and what you want to do. Let’s break it down. Here’s your guide to picking the perfect long weekend getaway based on what feels like ‘you’ right now. I promise there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re craving a cozy cabin, a beach day, or an outdoor adventure.

1. Sunshine Coast: The Quiet, Cozy Escape

The Sunshine Coast holds a special place in my heart after our stay in Sechelt. If you love fall as I do, you will enjoy Sechelt a lot! We spent three nights in a cozy cabin with a fully fenced backyard which is perfect for our dog, Robin. Living in a condo, Robin had never experienced that kind of freedom, and it was such a joy to watch her run and play without a leash. For anyone with pets who also live in small spaces, this was a game changing experience.

And let’s not forget the hot tub and sauna! After a long day of exploring, we’d unwind in the hot tub while my partner, Ian, became the weekend’s self-proclaimed firewood master. I’ve never seen someone take so much joy in chopping wood for the fireplace in the living room. It was both hilarious and heartwarming and definitely a core memory from our trip.

If you want to completely unplug and soak in nature, the Sunshine Coast is your ideal spot. Picture cozy cabins tucked away in the forest, quiet beaches, and friendly artisan markets. It’s perfect for a low-key weekend with friends, your partner, or even just a solo trip to recharge. For pet owners, there are plenty of trails and beaches for your dog to roam. During my visit, I even picked some beautiful driftwood from the beach to use in my DIY projects, which was a fun way to bring a piece of the coast home with me. You can be as active or as relaxed as you want here because it’s all about your pace.

• Activities: Hiking | Kayaking | Local artisan markets | Beachcombing

• Accommodation: Cabins | Rentals

• Budget: $ to $$

• Accessibility: Short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay for a quick weekend away.

Tip: Bring your own food and supplies; dining options can be limited in some areas, especially off-season. Find a spot with a fenced yard if you have pets as they’ll love the freedom, and you’ll love the peace of mind! Fall is the best time to visit if you love the warm colors of autumn all around you.

2. Osoyoos: Wine, Sun, and Scenic Views

Sunny days, endless vineyards, and lakeside lounging make Okanagan Valley is the perfect spot for a wine-filled weekend with friends or a romantic escape. This area isn’t just for wine lovers, though; it’s packed with activities for everyone, from water sports to hiking. Families will love the mix of fun and relaxation, and the warm fall weather makes it an ideal spot for a long weekend trip.

Osoyoos in the Okanagan always reminds me of my hometown, Mersin, Turkey. It’s that blend of sunny skies, friendly people, and stunning views that really captures my heart. We visited in July, and the heat during the day was intense, but as the sun sets, a strong wind rolls in that’s refreshing without being too cold. It’s the perfect way to end a day of wine tasting or exploring.

We stayed at Ian’s family home during Canada Day, which made the trip even more special. The long scenic drives were like therapy, with the most beautiful sunsets painting the sky every evening.

• Activities: Wine tasting | Paddleboarding | Hiking | Exploring small town and farmers markets

• Accommodation: Lakeside hotels | Vacation rentals | Bed and breakfast

• Budget: $$$

• Accessibility: A longer drive, but the stunning scenery makes it worth every mile.

Tip: Book your wine tastings in advance and plan to spend afternoons by the beach. If you go in the summer, embrace the heat during the day but plan your outdoor activities for the cooler evening hours.

3. Victoria: A Charming City Escape

If you’re craving a change of pace but want to keep things simple, Victoria is a perfect city getaway that feels like a world away without the long travel. Spend your days strolling the Inner Harbour, taking in the beauty of Butchart Gardens, or diving into history at the Royal BC Museum.

• Activities: Whale watching | Exploring gardens | Local markets | Museums | Waterfront cafes

• Accommodation: Hotels | Rentals | Bed and breakfast

• Budget: $$

• Accessibility: A short ferry ride from Vancouver.

4. Tofino: Adventure & Nature Therapy

If you’re yearning for the sound of crashing waves and long, lazy beach walks, Tofino should be your top pick. It’s perfect for those who love a blend of adventure and relaxation. Think endless beaches, cozy cabins, and some of the best surf in Canada. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or bringing along the kids and pets, Tofino lets you unwind. Surf in the morning, explore tide pools with the family in the afternoon, and cozy up by the fire at night.

• Activities: Surfing | Beachcombing | Hiking | Storm watching (especially as fall rolls in).

• Accommodation: Cozy beachfront cabins | Pet-friendly lodges, or campgrounds

• Budget: $$

• Accessibility: It’s a bit of a journey due to the ferry and drive (from Vancouver), but the scenic views along the way make it all worth it.

5. Nanaimo: Easygoing Waterfront Retreat

Nanaimo is a beautiful, low-key spot that offers a bit of everything. Whether you’re up for some outdoor activities (kayaking/hiking) or just want to relax by the water, Nanaimo fits the bill. Perfect for anyone looking for a laid-back weekend close to home.

• Activities: Waterfront walks | Kayaking | Hiking | Exploring local parks

• Accommodation: Cottages | Waterfront hotels | Pet-friendly lodges

• Budget: $ to $$

• Accessibility: A short ferry ride from Vancouver.

6. Camping with a Trailer in BC: Comfort Meets the Outdoors

I’ll be honest, I’m not the biggest camping fan, but hey, no judgment if you are! I totally get the love for being outdoors, even if the prep work can feel overwhelming. If you’re like me and want the adventure without all the hassle, renting a trailer is the way to go. There are still plenty of rental companies out there, choose wisely. :)

Renting a trailer gives you all the joys of camping with the comforts of home. Whether you’re packing up the family or rounding up some friends, you can head to one of BC’s beautiful provincial parks. Spend your weekend hiking, fishing, or just kicking back by the campfire without worrying about pitching a tent or getting a good night's sleep. It’s the perfect way to enjoy nature with a little extra luxury.

• Activities: Fishing | Swimming | Stargazing | Campfires | BBQ

• Accommodation: Trailer rentals | Campsites | Glamping sites

• Budget: $ to $$

• Accessibility: BC parks are dotted all around, so you can find one that fits your travel distance and vibe.

Tip: Don’t forget the s’mores!

7. Glamping in BC: Luxury Meets Nature

If you love the idea of connecting with nature but can’t part with your creature comforts, glamping might just be your perfect getaway. It offers a unique experience where you can enjoy fresh air, stargazing, and campfires, all while ending your day in a cozy bed with a hot shower nearby. I haven’t tried glamping yet, but I’d love to! If you’ve got any recommendations, drop them in the comments below. :)

• Activities: Wildlife watching | Campfires | Stargazing

• Accommodation: Luxurious tents | Domes | Yurts | Eco-friendly treehouses

• Budget: $$ to $$$

• Accessibility: Glamping spots are scattered across BC, choose the one that suits you best.

Tip: Look for glamping sites that offer packages including meals or guided activities, making your stay even more hassle-free and enjoyable.

A Journey Through Kamloops, Salmon Arm, and Kelowna

Our recent trip through Kamloops, Salmon Arm, and Kelowna was a mix of everything we love: wildlife, nature, charming rentals, and city adventures. Here’s a peek into our journey and what made each stop unique.

Kamloops: A Quick Stop at the Zoo

• Activities: Visiting the local zoo | Wildlife watching

• Budget: $

• Accessibility: Easy to reach, located right in Kamloops, ideal for a short stopover

Tip: If you’re planning a stop at the zoo, be prepared for the weather, it can get quite hot during the day. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water to stay hydrated. And even though it’s sunny, having an umbrella on hand for shade can make a big difference on those extra hot days!

Salmon Arm: A Cozy Cabin with Unique Adventures

Salmon Arm was the perfect mix of relaxation and unique adventures. We stayed for two nights in a charming rental with friends and their child, surrounded by the natural beauty of Shuswap Lake. While we spent our days hiking and birdwatching, we also made time for a few fun, unexpected stops.

As a fan of the Netflix show Rust Valley Restorers, I couldn’t resist visiting Rust Bros Restorations, a car lover's dream! Even though we didn’t get to see the garage, it was still an experience I’ll never forget. We also stopped by the White Post Auto Museum & Antiques Mall, which was a treasure trove of old cars and antiques. If you’re into classic cars, it’s definitely worth a visit, oldies really are goldies!

• Activities: Birdwatching | Visiting Rust Bros Restorations | Exploring White Post Auto Museum | Wine tasting

• Accommodation: Charming rentals | Hotels

• Budget: $ to $$

• Accessibility: 90mins drive from Kelowna

Kelowna: A Rainy Day Preview of What’s to Come

After our time in Salmon Arm, we made a detour to Kelowna on the last day of our trip. Despite the rainy, cold weather, we could tell this city had a lot to offer. We walked along the waterfront and had a cozy brunch, but the weather kept us from fully exploring. Still, the vibrant food scene and scenic views left us eager to return when the sun is shining. We’re already planning to spend at least two nights here in the summer, where we can soak in the beautiful wineries, outdoor activities, and the lively atmosphere. Comparing it to Kamloops, Kelowna feels more engaging and full of possibilities, but we’re reserving judgment until we can spend more time in both cities.

• Activities: Wine tasting | Waterfront walks | Exploring local cafes and restaurants

• Accommodation: Lakeside hotels | Cozy rentals | Vineyard stays

• Budget: $$ to $$$

• Accessibility: About a 4-hour drive from Vancouver, but the stunning scenery along the way makes it worth the trip

Tip: Kelowna is best enjoyed in the summer. Plan ahead for winery tours and take advantage of the city’s many outdoor offerings once the weather warms up.

Your Perfect Long Weekend Journey

BC offers endless opportunities for exploration, and this journey highlights just a few of the amazing experiences waiting for you. Wherever you go, adventure and relaxation are always within reach.

Find Your Perfect Long Weekend Escape

Long weekends are the perfect excuse to explore BC’s stunning landscapes and charming towns. Whether you’re drawn to the beach, craving quiet time in the mountains, or looking for a quick city escape, there’s a destination waiting for you. So, what’s your vibe this weekend? Since we’re in the fall season, embrace the warmth of autumn all around you. Pick the place that speaks to you, pack your bags, and make the most of your extra day off!