The Perfect Itinerary For Exploring The Central Vancouver Island BC Bird Trail

Launched in 2020, the BC Bird Trail is a network of birdwatching sites and nature-centric destinations, attractions, activities, and accommodations spread throughout the province of British Columbia, Canada. It’s composed of five main trails and two “outposts” that celebrate birdwatching (and the great outdoors in general).

Among these trails, the Central Vancouver Island BC Bird Trail stands out as a highly sought-after route due to its breathtaking scenery, iconic wildlife (such as whales) and incredible array of bird species. For those eager to embark on this remarkable trail and explore the other noteworthy and nature-focused attractions on Vancouver Island, here is an ideal itinerary from which to craft your adventure of a lifetime.

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Stop 1: Parksville Qualicum Beach

Begin your journey along the Central Vancouver Island BC Bird Trail with one of Canada’s most striking drives. The drive from Victoria up the coast to Parksville Qualicum is a captivating journey that shows off the unparalleled natural beauty of Vancouver Island. This scenic route offers breathtaking vistas, lovely coastal landscapes, and charming towns along the way, making it an unforgettable part of the Vancouver Island BC Bird Trail itinerary. On your journey towards Parksville Qualicum, be sure to visit birding sites centered around Cowichan and Nanaimo as well.

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Stay: Just steps away from Parksville Beach (at high tide it ranks as Canada’s warmest ocean beach), the Beach Club Resort in Parksville serves as an ideal base that is perfect for solo travels, couples and families. The hotel offers ocean-view rooms with large balconies (some rooms also come with convenient kitchenettes), an indoor pool, a hot tub, and an excellent restaurant and spa. Additionally, the solicitous staff are more than happy to offer advice on the best activities in the area.

Eat: The top choice for eating out in the area has to be the Qualicum Beach Café, where you’re always guaranteed a memorable meal and an ocean view. Known for its delectable cuisine — which is perhaps best described as West Coast with an Italian flare — incredibly friendly waitstaff and warm ambiance, the restaurant captures the essence of Vancouver Island’s vibrant and welcoming food scene.

One of the main features of Qualicum Beach Café is its commitment to using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The dinner menu is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing a fusion of culinary influences that celebrate the region’s bountiful offerings. From succulent seafood creations to delectable pasta dishes, each item on the menu features flavors that sing. Standout dishes include the burrata caprese, forno baked focaccia, seafood spaghetti and the spaghetti vongole, to name a few. To top the meal off, the restaurant has a wonderful selection of regional wines. Additionally, the warm and attentive staff at Qualicum Beach Café go above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.

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Activities: The not-to-be-missed activity in the area is a visit to the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. This remarkable conservation facility offers a unique and immersive experience to see British Columbia’s diverse wildlife up close while promoting education and conservation efforts. This incredible sanctuary not only provides rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife, but also plays a pivotal role in the recovery and release of bears. A high point is meeting animal ambassador Rae the bear (who, due to her injuries, could not be released back into the wild).

Other activities to enjoy include: a stop at Coombs Old Country Market (see the famous Goats on the Roof); Cathedral Grove; Little Qualicum Cheeseworks; farm-to-tap craft brewery Rusted Rake Brewing; and on your way to Tofino, grab an ice cream at Coombs Country Candy.

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Birding: A few examples: Englishman River Estuary is a short walking trail with over 250 bird species, including the Pacific Brant Sea Goose. The French Creek Estuary & Breakwater is good for shorebirds, and at Hamilton Marsh you might see owls, early migrant swallows, and migrant shorebirds.

Stop 2: Tofino

While not officially part of the Bird Trail, Tofino is a coastal paradise that lies nestled along the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. The area beckons nature lovers with its fecund landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas. The town abuts the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, which is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve filled with temperate rainforests, rugged coastlines, and diverse ecosystems. During your time in Tofino, keep an eye out for notable bird species, such as the bald eagle, the black oystercatcher, and the iconic tufted puffin.

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Stay: The Wickaninnish Inn is not only the best place to stay in Tofino, this unparalleled property ranks as one of Canada’s most exceptional — and unforgettable — accommodations. If you want to immerse yourself in the heart of nature, few places rival the rustic grandeur of the Wickaninnish Inn. Perched on a rocky outcrop and overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, this hotel effortlessly blends luxurious comfort with untamed wilderness. The property is a haven for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views from every room and sitting just steps from the sandy shores of Chesterman Beach. Enjoy beautifully appointed rooms or suites, many of which come with cozy fireplaces and private balconies overlooking the ocean.

To complete the experience, the inn’s renowned restaurant, The Pointe Restaurant, showcases the finest regional cuisine with a focus on sustainable seafood, locally sourced ingredients and an award-winning wine list. You can indulge in an exceptional meal while enjoying jaw-dropping, 240-degree views of the Pacific Ocean.

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Eat: Without a doubt, Shelter Restaurant is the place to eat in Tofino. A popular dining destination for both locals and visitors alike, it has an enviable spot overlooking Tofino’s harbor. Be sure to make a reservation for a seat by the window and ask your server to show you where the sea lions are hanging out. Shelter takes the concept of “farm-to-table” to new heights, elevating Tofino’s dining scene to a new level. The menu highlights the bounties of the sea and the region’s natural ingredients.

From flavorful seafood chowder to melt-in-your-mouth salmon, each dish is a testament to the skill of the kitchen and the restaurant’s commitment to showing off the high points of West Coast cuisine. Knowledgeable, friendly staff are more than happy to help guide you through menu selections. Pair your meal with a carefully curated selection of cocktails (try the Shelter mule!), wines or beers emphasizing regional labels that thoughtfully complement your dish.

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Activities: Visit the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery to see stunning works by the renowned Canadian First Nations artist; Ucluelet Aquarium, a remarkable catch-and-release aquarium with plenty of touch tanks for the kids; a tasting at Tofino Distillery (try the Old Growth Cedar Gin); and grab dessert at the Savary Island Pie Co. The area also abounds with some of the country’s top hiking and biking opportunities.

Birding: While in Tofino, check out the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where you can observe a plethora of seabirds and shorebirds. The Tofino Mudflats Wildlife Management Area is another hotspot for birdwatching, offering a chance to spot migratory birds in their natural habitat.

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Stop 3: Victoria

As the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria is an essential addition to any Vancouver Island itinerary. Victoria’s coastal location provides stunning views of the ocean and unlimited opportunities for nature-focused adventures. Boasting a vibrant culture and foodie scene, along with fascinating museums and world-class outdoor activities (including whale watching), the city is one of Canada’s most interesting destinations.

Stay: The iconic Empress Hotel is the premier accommodation option in Victoria because of its unrivaled reputation and luxurious offerings. Dating back to 1908, the hotel is a beloved Victoria landmark renowned for its regal elegance, award-winning dining and impeccable service. The property overlooks the harbor and features ornate architecture, lavish interiors, and a rich history that has played host to royalty and celebrities. The luxurious guest rooms and suites are meticulously designed to provide the utmost comfort, combining classic elegance with modern amenities. The incredible Gold Lounge has recently been renovated and features things like a full breakfast, a well-stocked honor bar, appetizers and incredible views of the harbor. Be sure to indulge in a treatment at the renowned Willow Stream Spa.

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Eat: The Empress Hotel is also famous for its afternoon tea — complete with freshly baked scones, tasty finger sandwiches and pastries — all accompanied by the world’s finest teas. Also, don’t miss out on a meal at Q at the Empress: the restaurant features gourmet Pacific Northwest cuisine with a focus on fresh regional ingredients and sustainably sourced seafood.

Activities: Visit the Royal BC Museum to experience the province’s rich history and culture, as well as to explore indigenous culture and artifacts. Discover the verdant beauty of the Butchart Gardens and step back in time at Craigdarroch Castle. Go on a whale-watching tour, paddle through the inner harbor or take the kids to Victoria’s unique Bug Zoo.

Birding: In Victoria, visit Beacon Hill Park, home to various bird species including waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Also, keep an eye out for great blue herons, Anna’s hummingbird, and the colorful western tanager while exploring the park and Victoria’s other parklands. The Swan Lake Christmas Hill Nature Sanctuary in Saanich is a good spot to observe migratory birds in a wetland setting.

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