It's officially, only three weeks until the start of summer - and we couldn't be more excited! With the rain finally behind us, there is no better time to hit the road and explore the endless places there are within a few hours from Vancouver.
With everything from hikes, islands, wineries, hot springs, within a day-trip's distance from Vancouver, we couldn't be more blessed for choices.
If you are in need of a spontaneous day trip, here are thirteen ideas that are within three hours of Vancouver!
Get rejuvenated at Harrison Hot Springs
@harrisonhotspringsresortembedded via
Distance From Vancouver: 2 hours
If you're looking for a BC hot spring then look no further than Harrison Hot Springs healing mineral waters! The two hot springs that exist in the area are sulphur and potash, which are pumped from the springs and cooled to provide a mineral hot springs pools that visitors can enjoy. There is a public access pool as well as the resort - which only guests at the resort can access!
Whale Watch at the Southern Gulf Islands
@giacomogallazziDistance From Vancouver: 2 hours
During the summer season, there is no better place to whale watch than the Gulf Islands - Galiano Island and Salt Spring Island are prime spots! Learn first-hand about these endangered species from experts, there is nothing quite like seeing these creatures in their natural habitat.
Hike the Tunnel Bluffs
@dalynnwingardDistance From Vancouver: 1 hour
Vancouver has countless hiking trails and mountains to climb, so of course we had to mention at least one on the list! Tunnel Bluffs is located in Squamish and offers one of the best views of the Howe Sound.
Hit up BC's Biggest Waterpark
@cultuslakewaterparkembedded via
Distance From Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes
With over 16 waterslides, Cultus Lake Waterpark is a whole day of fun! It is the biggest waterpark in BC, and also includes a lazy river for those who aren't thrill seekers. There is something for everyone here - picnic areas on the lawn, barbecue sets, and more!
Frolic in the Lavender Fields on Salt Spring Island
@jennchen_88Distance From Vancouver: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm on Salt Spring Island is a boutique lavender farm with over two acres of lavender. The field looks and smells like absolute paradise, and there is a wide range of lavender products you can actually purchase from the farm!
Relax at the Scandinave Spa Whistler
@carolontherunDistance From Vancouver: 2 hours
These open-air baths in Whistler are open all year round, and allow you to relax in a tranquil, secluded setting. You can just enjoy the baths all day or add a massage for complete rejuvenation!
Explore the Butterfly Gardens in Victoria
@ugh_sageDistance From Vancouver: 3 hours
You can see thousands of butterflies here, up to 70 different species. The Victoria Butterfly Garden is so big that it is almost the size of three basketball courts, and houses frogs, tortoises, iguanas, flamingos, tropical birds, and more!
Experience the Seaside at White Rock
@deniseoligesDistance From Vancouver: 1 hour
White Rock is an oceanfront city that is only a 1-hour drive from Vancouver - where you can experience the seaside and the amazing food they have to offer. It should come as no surprise that the activities that you can do in White Rock revolve around the beach and water, however, if you are not into that, take a walk and explore the pier boardwalk!
See the sights at Bowen Island
@me_in_sydDistance From Vancouver: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Bowen Island is truly one of the best day trips you can make from Vancouver - located in the middle of Howe Sound, it offers a welcome escape from the city life. Only a 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, there are stunning views all around the island, excellent hike trails, and great food to discover!
Spend the day exploring Seattle
@hannahdtrickDistance From Vancouver: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Why not head across the border and experience the sights and sounds the United States has to offer! Seattle has some of the best food and coffee roasters around, and be sure to check out Pike Place Market as well as the surrounding area.
Get your tan on at Lillooet Lake
@sullyfaceDistance From Vancouver: 2 hours and 50 minutes
We couldn't round up this list without mentioning one of Vancouver's natural beauties - Lillooet Lake is located in Pemberton and is only a few hours drive from Vancouver! You can relax here the entire day, whether you want to chill by the water, kayak, or swim.
Round up your friends and create those Spotify playlists so you can crank the tunes in the car - these spots make the perfect road trip!
