Some of the best road trips from Vancouver are closer than you think — and way more jaw-dropping than you’re ready for. Seriously, this city is surrounded by insane natural beauty.
Whether you’ve got three days, a week, or just a long afternoon, there’s a route with your name on it. You can hit Whistler for mountains, cross over to Vancouver Island for beaches, or cruise south to chase the California sun.
These 14 road trips offer something for every summer mood, from quick 90-minute getaways to full-throttle adventures down the coast.
The Best Road Trips from Vancouver: Overview
Okanagan Valley: Wine, sunshine, and rolling vineyards.
Seattle: Coffee, music, and the Space Needle.
Harrison Hot Springs: Soak in mineral-rich waters.
The Vancouver Island Loop: Wild beaches and small-town charm.
Portland: Food trucks, craft beer, and weirdness.
Whistler: Outdoor adventure all year long.
The Sunshine Coast: Scenic ferries and laid-back vibes.
San Francisco: Golden Gate Bridge and cable cars.
Los Angeles: Sunshine, beaches, and Hollywood.
Banff: Turquoise lakes and mountain peaks.
Calgary: Cowboys, city life, and the Stampede.
Tofino: Surf, storms, and rugged coastline.
The Sea-to-Sky Corridor: Epic coastal views and waterfalls.
Mount Baker: Jaw-dropping mountain views.
The 14 Best Road Trips from Vancouver
Here’s the thing about living in (or visiting) Vancouver: summer road trips aren’t optional. They’re a way of life.
In just a few hours, you could be paddling alpine lakes, wine tasting under the Okanagan sun, or rolling along the Pacific coast heading for California. Pretty wild, right?
If you’re dreaming of your next getaway, these 14 epic road trips from Vancouver are calling your name.
The Okanagan Valley
🚗 Total drive time: About 4-5 hours, depending on your destination.
The Okanagan Valley is one of Canada’s warmest regions, known for its lush vineyards, sparkling lakes, and sandy beaches. You can experience urban lake vibes in Kelowna, or opt for a more laid-back experience in cities like Penticton or Osoyoos.
I love to visit the Okanagan on one of those dreamy July weekends where the air smells like peaches and sunscreen. What I love about this place is how it feels like California met a chill lake town and they had a laid-back, wine-sipping baby.
If you’re a sun chaser, a wine lover, or just someone who likes warm nights on patios, this valley’s your playground.
✨ Don’t leave without: Floating lazily on a tube down Penticton’s Channel, ice-cold drink in hand, under a sky so blue it almost looks fake. Oh, and don’t miss out on a wine tasting (or two!).
🏖️ Want to learn more? Check out our complete Vancouver to Okanagan Road Trip guide.
Seattle
🚗 Total drive time: About 3 hours, depending on border crossing time.
Seattle is packed with things to do—Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, and enough coffee shops to keep you caffeinated for life. The drive is straightforward, with scenic stops in Bellingham and along Puget Sound.
I love this trip because Seattle has the perfect mix of city energy and nature. The waterfront is great for a walk, the food scene is top-notch, and if you’re into music, you’ll want to check out the Museum of Pop Culture.
Whether you’re driving, taking the Amtrak Cascades train, or visiting via the Vancouver to Seattle Bus, a visit to our Cascade cousins down the I-5 makes for a great weekend getaway.
Protip: Pick up the Seattle CityPASS to save up to 46% on entry to 5 of the city’s top attractions.
✨ Don’t leave without: Visiting the famed Pike Place Market, then grabbing a coffee from the original Starbucks (if you don’t mind the line).
☕️ Heading to the Emerald City? Check out our guide on how to get to Seattle from Vancouver.
Harrison Hot Springs
🚗 Total drive time: 1.5 hours.
This cozy little lakeside town is known for its hot springs, but there’s more to do than just soak. The drive takes you through scenic farmland before arriving at Harrison’s peaceful setting.
I once spent an entire day here just alternating between the hot pools and the beach. It’s a great spot to unwind, and if you time it right, you can catch one of the local festivals or markets.
Harrison Hot Springs is one of the closest road trips from Vancouver and a great local spot to camp, making it the perfect place to recharge your batteries after the work week.
✨ Don’t leave without: A soak in the public hot springs or a boat tour of Harrison Lake.
The Vancouver Island Loop
🚗 Total drive time: 3-4 hours to Nanaimo or Victoria via BC Ferries
This loop lets you see the best of Vancouver Island in one road trip. Take the ferry to Nanaimo, then make your way through places like Parksville, Tofino, and Victoria before heading back. Expect ocean views, cute small towns, and some of the best seafood in BC.
I love this trip because every stop feels like a new adventure. Parksville has beaches that stretch for miles, Victoria has historic charm, and Tofino has rugged coastal beauty. Vancouver Island just has so much to offer, so it shouldn’t be slept on.
The drive between Tofino and Victoria is one of my favourites—forests, mountains, and glimpses of the Pacific make it unforgettable. Once you arrive, explore the lush beauty of Butchart Gardens before heading back from Victoria to Vancouver.
✨ Don’t leave without: Eating fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish in Victoria. It’s worth the wait.
⛴️ Looking to explore the island? Check out our Vancouver Island road trip guide for a complete itinerary.
Portland
🚗 Total drive time: About 6 hours.
Portland is weird in all the best ways. It’s got the best food trucks, amazing craft beer, and more bookstores per capita than anywhere else in the U.S. The drive takes you past the Columbia River Gorge, which is worth a stop.
I could spend an entire weekend just eating in Portland. The doughnuts at Blue Star, the food carts downtown, the coffee scene—it’s all incredible. And if you like beer, you’re in the right place.
This hipster haven is a perfect candidate for a road trip from Vancouver, but it’s also easily accessible via the Amtrak Cascades train, which passes through Seattle.
✨ Don’t leave without: Visiting Powell’s City of Books. Even if you’re not a book nerd, it’s an experience.
Whistler
🚗 Total drive time: 1.5-2 hours.
Skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, and a village that feels like a European mountain town. The drive up the Sea-to-Sky Highway is worth it alone, but Whistler is the crown jewel of Vancouver road trips.
Attractions like the Sea to Sky Gondola and Britannia Mine Museum are a perfect way to break up the drive.
I once went in September and took the Peak 2 Peak Gondola. Floating over the alpine landscape was unreal.
If you’re more into relaxing, the Scandinave Spa is one of the best places to unwind. Either way, Whistler has something for everyone.
✨ Don’t leave without: A pastry from Purebread. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
⏱️ Short on time? Check out our list of the top Vancouver to Whistler tours.
The Sunshine Coast
🚗 Total drive time: 2-3 hours, including a ferry ride.
The Sunshine Coast is a mix of laid-back coastal towns, scenic ferry rides, and lush forests. The drive starts with a short ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Langdale, then continues through artsy spots like Gibsons and Sechelt. It feels like an island, but it’s actually part of the mainland.
I love this trip because it forces you to slow down. The Sunshine Coast has a way of making you forget about schedules. I once spent an afternoon in Gibsons just hopping between coffee shops and bookstores, and it was honestly perfect.
If you’re into kayaking, hiking, or just chilling by the water, this is a great escape from the city.
✨ Don’t leave without: Grabbing a pint at Persephone Brewing. The farm setting and craft beer make it a great place to unwind.
San Francisco
🚗 Total drive time: About 16-18 hours (best split into 2-3 days).
Ok, I get it. This might sound a bit overly ambitious. But a Vancouver to San Francisco road trip is quite doable. In fact, as a child, I visited by busting it straight through—though you’re likely not as determined as my dad!
If you’re looking for a serious road trip, this is it. Drive down the West Coast, stopping at places like the Oregon Coast, the Redwoods, and the Napa Valley. Once you arrive, San Francisco has endless things to do.
Last time I drove this route, I was amazed at how diverse the landscapes were. From foggy cliffs to golden beaches, it’s like driving through a travel magazine. Once you arrive, you can visit Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, and more.
✨ Don’t leave without: Taking an Alcatraz Tour and San Francisco Bay cruise. It’s touristy, but worth it.
💸 Trying to save some cash? The San Francisco CityPASS offers savings of up to 46% on up to 5 of the Bay Area’s top attractions.
Los Angeles
🚗 Total drive time: About 21-22 hours (plan for multiple days).
All right, you’ve already come this far, why not go further? Any California road trip from Vancouver has to include Los Angeles. From the glamour of Hollywood to the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach, Los Angeles offers a dazzling array of experiences.
This is the ultimate Pacific Coast Highway road trip. From forests in Washington to San Francisco and isolated California beaches, you’ll see it all. Once in LA, hit the beaches, head to Disneyland, or just enjoy the constant sunshine.
I did this drive once over four days, stopping in small coastal towns along the way. By the time I got to LA, I was sunburned, road-weary, and completely in love with the journey.
Naturally, due to the distance, you’ll want to allocate 7-10 days and hit a variety of stops along the way.
✨ Don’t leave without: Catching a sunset at Griffith Observatory. The view is unbeatable.
Banff
🚗 Total drive time: About 9 hours.
Alright, let’s get back closer to home. Just past the Alberta border, you’ll find what is quite possibly Canada’s most iconic travel destination.
Banff is straight-up one of the most beautiful places on earth. The drive through the Rockies is unforgettable, and once you’re there, you’ve got turquoise lakes, mountain hikes, and hot springs to enjoy.
I went in the fall once, and the golden larches made it feel like a dream. Whether you hike, canoe, or just take in the views, Banff is a must-see. Just make sure you take a Lake Louise & Moraine Lake tour while you’re there.
Oh, and don’t sleep on Jasper, about 3 hours north. The area is Banff’s wilder, more rugged cousin.
✨ Don’t leave without: A sunrise visit to Moraine Lake. It’s worth waking up early.
🚠 Looking for the ultimate mountain escape? Have a look at our detailed guide to a Vancouver-Banff road trip.
Calgary
🚗 Total drive time: Vancouver to Calgary – about 10 hours
Calgary is Alberta’s biggest city, where shiny glass skyscrapers meet cowboy hats without blinking an eye. The city is most famous for the Calgary Stampede, which locals call “the greatest outdoor show on earth.”
The drive there is half the fun, too — I got to stop in Banff, sip wine in the Okanagan, and roll past some of the wildest, wide-open spaces I’ve ever seen.
The first time I rolled into Calgary, it felt a bit like Dallas and Vancouver had a secret love child. Sleek, fast, and a little wild around the edges with a mountain backdrop. If you like energy, business swagger, and a touch of rodeo spirit, you’ll find Calgary impossible to resist.
✨ Don’t leave without: Grabbing a plate of Alberta beef at one of the city’s classic steakhouses — it’s the kind of meal you’ll dream about later.
🤠 Looking to hit up Stampede? Check out our guide to the ultimate Vancouver to Calgary road trip.
Tofino
🚗 Total drive time: About 6 hours, including the ferry ride.
This is where the wild meets the West Coast. The drive takes you through Nanaimo, past Cathedral Grove (where trees are over 800 years old), and along winding coastal roads before reaching Tofino.
Expect fog rolling in over the ocean, surfers braving the waves, and beaches that look straight out of a postcard.
I once visited Tofino in November during a storm. Sitting inside with a coffee, watching massive waves crash against the shore, was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had.
Whether you surf, hike, or just want to relax by the fire in a cozy lodge, this place is pure magic.
✨ Don’t leave without: Watching the sunset at Long Beach. Just look at the pic above, simply amazing!
🌊 Heading to the West Coast? Check out our guide on how to get to Tofino from Vancouver to learn more.
The Sea-to-Sky Corridor
🚗 Total drive time: About 1.5 hours to Whistler, but expect to stop often.
This is hands-down one of the most beautiful drives in Canada. The road hugs the coastline, with the ocean on one side and the mountains on the other. Along the way, you’ll pass waterfalls, hiking trails, and viewpoints that make you want to pull over every five minutes.
I’ve done this drive more times than I can count, and it never gets old. The first time I did it as an adult, I completely underestimated how many stops I’d want to make.
Shannon Falls is a must-see, and the Sea-to-Sky Gondola gives you an insane view of Howe Sound. Squamish is a great pit stop for coffee or a quick hike before continuing to Whistler.
✨ Don’t leave without: Taking the Sea-to-Sky Gondola up for a panoramic view that makes you question ever leaving BC.
Mount Baker
🚗 Total drive time: 2.5-3 hours (border crossing required).
Mount Baker is just across the border near Bellingham, which is traditionally a favourite shopping getaway for Vancouverites. As a kid, my family made this trek dozens of times, without visiting Baker; boy, were we wrong.
It’s a year-round destination—skiing and snowboarding in the winter, hiking and wildflower meadows in the summer. The first time I saw Mount Baker up close, I actually gasped. It’s that dramatic.
If you’re into hiking, Artist Point is an absolute must. I promise, make one visit and you’ll leave Bellis Fair back in the 90s where it belongs.
✨ Don’t leave without: Hiking to Artist Point if the road is open, or just soaking in the mountain views from the ski area.
Best Road Trips from Vancouver FAQ
What are the best road trips from Vancouver for a weekend getaway?
Some of the best weekend road trips from Vancouver are Whistler, the Sunshine Coast, and Vancouver Island. They’re all close enough to squeeze in some serious fun without feeling rushed.
How far can you drive from Vancouver in a day?
You can easily reach spots like Whistler, the Okanagan Valley, or Seattle within a day’s drive from Vancouver. Even Banff is possible if you’re ready for a long haul.
When’s the best time of year to plan a road trip from Vancouver?
Summer is king. The weather’s dry, the mountain passes are clear, and those blue-sky days make everything look like a postcard.
Is Vancouver Island a good road trip destination from Vancouver?
Absolutely. Between the ferry ride, Victoria’s quaint Inner Harbour, the wild beaches, and cute towns like Tofino and Parksville, Vancouver Island feels like a whole different world just a few hours away.
What’s the best route from Vancouver to Whistler for a scenic road trip?
The Sea-to-Sky Highway is the stuff of legends. I’ve driven it dozens of times, and it still blows my mind — ocean views, waterfalls, and jagged mountains all the way up.
How long should you spend road tripping through the Okanagan Valley?
If you want to properly soak up the wineries, lakes, and beach towns, I’d give it at least 3 to 4 days. Trust me, you’ll want more.
Is Banff worth the long road trip from Vancouver?
Without question. Banff looks fake in the best way possible — turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and mountain town charm. Plus, the drive through the Rockies is half the adventure.
What should I know about crossing the U.S. border for road trips from Vancouver to Seattle, Portland, or California?
You’ll need a valid passport, and expect possible wait times at the border (especially on weekends and holidays). I always check current border conditions online before heading out — it saves a ton of headaches. Once you’re through, the I-5 provides easy access to destinations like Seattle, Portland, or even California.
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