10 BC Escapes to Travel to This Spring Break

With the arrival of spring this month, British Columbia’s starting to leave behind its winter chill and gloomy atmosphere, welcoming the brighter, vibrant days we’ve all been desperately waiting for. The province, with its diverse landscapes from coastal beaches to mountain ranges, begins to buzz with activity. Sunlight stretches longer into the evenings, crocuses start peeking through the soil, and the sounds of birds fill the air, signalling warmer days ahead. Despite a touch of lingering dampness, there’s a collective sigh of relief for the new season.

But this shift into spring signals more than just a seasonal change; it’s an open invitation to explore this beautiful and diverse province. Through diligent exploration and research, we’ve pinpointed places we believe would make excellent choices for the solo traveller, girls’ trip, or family vacation. Our selection spans from up-and-coming gems waiting to be discovered to timeless classics you may have already heard of. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, extreme pampering, or unparalleled adventure, each location is chosen for its unique appeal. The common thread? They’re all worthy of a visit this Spring Break and beyond.

 

1. The Owls Perch AirBnB, Sooke BC  

The Owl’s Perch Treehouse, located in Sooke BC, is Vancouver Island’s highest Treehouse, promising a nostalgic journey back to childhood. Perched among British Columbia’s stately cedars, this arboreal hideaway is a marvel of design, using innovative tree tabs that allow a gentle sway with the breeze, connecting you directly with the rhythm of the forest. 

Inside, the treehouse transitions to contemporary comforts: a fully-equipped kitchenette, a snug living room with a fireplace for those chillier spring nights, and a loft bedroom featuring a queen bed and large window with views of the surrounding forest.

Outside, the sprawling deck provides a front-row seat to the sweeping views of the Salish Sea and the Washington mountains—a prime spot for your morning coffee. Not far from the property are some easy hikes and attractions such as Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, Ella Beach (which has fire pits for roasting smores), and Mystic Beach located along the Eastern section of the famed Juan de Fuca trail. 

The Owl’s Perch, accommodating up to 2 guests per stay, offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation that’s difficult to find—and even harder to leave.

 

2. The Nami Project, Ucluelet

The Nami Project is a luxurious adults-only resort situated beside the Pacific Rim National Park in Ucluelet. This is where you go to escape the city in search of serenity; and what awaits you is nothing short of majestic.

The suites, inspired by the Japanese Wabi-Sabi aesthetic, are modern spaces with breathtaking, direct panoramic ocean views. They feature private cedar saunas (yes, in your own room), high extended ceilings, large sliding windows, comfortable heated concrete floors, and a beautiful seamless micro cement bathroom. Even the decor is sourced from local designers, so you’re fully immersed in island culture.

The cabins are just as spectacular, with their own unique vibe and view. Expect to be wowed by 10 foot ceilings, large sliding glass windows designed to offer unobstructed views of the ocean (that will leave you in awe of the coastline). You’ll look forward to watching the nightly sunsets that will literally make you want to clap they’re so beautiful. All cabins come equipped with full kitchens, but with it being so close to town you may want to skip the dishes and treat yourself to a meal at the award-winning Pluvio Restaurant. 

Additionally, suites and cabins feature amenities such as a private hot tub, a cold plunge tub, a gas fireplace, and an expansive deck—perfect for sipping on a nightcap and listening to the crashing waves. 

Whether mom and dad want to leave the kiddos at home to reconnect in the most dreamy way possible or a group of friends are in dire need of some R&R, the Nami Project is a vacation spot clothed in pure bliss and tranquillity. 

 

3. Salty Pear Airbnb, Salt Spring Island 

Set upon five idyllic acres, complete with pear and apple trees, The Salty Pear, located on the adorable Bowen Island offers an escape into nature that creative types will especially find appealing. 

The 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom studio/suite accommodates up to 2 guests and is attached to a studio/gallery, designed by their in-house residential designer, Jorge Siemsen. As such, this AirBnB leaves no detail overlooked. The suite features little luxuries like heated concrete floors, a patio alcove built using Japanese Joinery, and a custom-built Murphy bed containing a Canadian-made Douglas Bed mattress and high-quality linens. Even the soap in the bathroom, from Saltspring Soapworks, is finely crafted.

This pet-friendly spot (yes, doggos are welcome) is just a short walk from the cute town of Ganges, so you can take the pooch for a stroll into the city. Make sure to stop by Salt Spring Coffee, the OG coffee roasting spot of the famous beans you find in-store, and grab yourself an Espresso.

But the best part? Each stay includes complimentary use of their DIY wood-burning barrel sauna accompanied by views of the forest.

 

4. Magnolia Hotel and Spa, Victoria  

If this spring break is all about the girls, gather your besties and make your way to Victoria’s Magnolia Hotel. Voted by Condé Nast as one of Canada’s best hotels & spas, and with just 64 rooms, the hotel outdoes itself with personalised service and a host of pleasant surprises—hello L’Occitane products and Rogers Chocolates adorning the lavish pillows— adding an extra touch of charm and opulence to your stay.

The spacious rooms are styled in an elegant, traditional manner, complemented by oversized plush robes and a gas fireplace that adds to a cosy ambiance. Live it up with your girls and book a corner room; you’ll adore the high ceilings and view of the Parliament building and grounds—you’d swear you were in Paris.

In terms of offerings, the Magnolia has plenty—there’s a spa, a gift shop, a fitness facility and a restaurant, The Courtney Room, that’s open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and maybe most importantly, happy hour cocktails (every day from 2pm – 5pm). Of course, while being in the historic city of Victoria, you’ll probably want to head out to one of the many fine dining establishments like Ugly Duckling, located in the Chinatown district. 

Magnolia’s location is also ideal for both sightseeing and shopping. Government Street is iconic, lined with high-end boutiques and adorable gift shops. And when you’re worn out from all the retail therapy, head to Ferris’ Upstairs Oyster Bar for oysters and bubbly.

5. Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages, Port Renfrew

The Seaside Cottages at Wild Renfrew in Port Renfrew, with a population of only 262, cater to couples and families craving adventure and the chance to explore BC’s untouched territory. The property has been on our radar since we first discovered it care of @vancitywild. The beach and overall vibes here are quite similar to Tofino but without the crowds.

The cottages are heavenly, each equipped with unique features like private hot tubs on the deck, beachside ocean views, and private outdoor wood-burning fireplaces, with some accommodations also welcoming furry companions. 

The latest addition to their lineup, the Forest View Studio, features an outdoor rainfall shower and soaker tub, alongside an outdoor gas firepit, all set amongst towering, sky-high trees—celebrating Port Renfrew’s status as the Tall Tree Capital of Canada.

Just steps from the cottages is a beach where kiddos will have a blast searching for seashells and sea creatures, while couples can enjoy romantic morning walks. The ocean and atmosphere around this time are striking, with mist and powerful waves putting on a magnificent show. 

For those looking to explore further out, the 2.9 Botanical Beach loop comes highly recommended as a walk to comb for seashells. And if you’re looking to dine the way the locals do, The Renfrew Pub is the place to go for comfort food—the Neapolitan flatbread is a must-try.

 

6. Nectar Yoga, Bowen Island

Nectar Yoga, situated on the serene Bowen Island, offers a unique blend of relaxation and spiritual enrichment, distinct from any other yoga retreat; it’s why guests make this an annual vacation spot. This popular yogi destination stands out as an awakening retreat for solo travellers, girls’ trips, and couples seeking to unwind and reconnect amidst the undeniable beauty of the island.

Everything Nectar does is intentional, ensuring guests leave feeling grounded, restful, and rejuvenated. The cottages (each sleeping 1-2 guests) reflect this ethos with their modern, neutral-coloured design, fostering peace of mind. Additionally, the beds are specially designed to promote the best sleep of your life.

The retreat’s offerings, such as the recent Winter Solstice Gathering, have left guests in awe, providing a profound experience of meditation and tranquillity. The personal touch in every aspect, from the atmospheric dome filled with candles and crystals to the thoughtful inclusion of singing bowls, enhances the sense of peace and well-being. Yoga sessions here cater to all levels of practice, the staff are kind and attentive, and meals are nourishing to complement the holistic experience. 

If you’re looking to leave the hustle of everyday life behind in exchange for solace, you’ll love Nectar Yoga. 

 

7. The Moosewood Airbnb, Hope 

The Moosewood cabin is a true hidden gem nestled amongst the old-growth forest of the Cascade Mountains. It boasts 3 bedrooms, 6 beds, and 1.5 baths, all adorned with decor that could be straight out of Dwell magazine—a rarity for cabins of this size. This makes it a hip find for a family or friends’ getaway.

The cabin is equipped with everything you need for both a relaxing and lively retreat: a wood stove for a fire, Netflix for movie nights, and games for when you prefer to get competitive.  Parents will appreciate the abundance of children’s toys—even a teepee tent to play indoors with—as well as a white noise machine to keep the littles sleeping peacefully all night. 

For the adventurers amidst the group, not far away is Manning Park (a 35 minute drive), full of trails that cater to all levels of hiker, as well as the historic town of Hope, home to the iconic Othello Tunnels.

8. River Therapy Retreat; Tiny riverside A-frame, AirBnB, Chilliwack

River Therapy Retreat in Chilliwack is an adorable little rustic cabin (sleeping up to 2 guests) that is more of a glamping style experience—there is no shower—but it does have fresh and soft sheets for the two beds, a well-equipped kitchen, and spectacular forest views. The tastefully decorated A-Frame, with its ample windows allowing plenty of natural light, creates an airy atmosphere. Because the cabin is located in the backcountry of Chilliwack, there’s plenty of nature walks to be done, and with pets permitted you can bring the pooch. 

Enjoy your evenings gathered around the fire pit bundled up in a Lenny Kravitz level scarf, marvel at a sky full of stars unobstructed from light pollution, and allow yourself to be soothed by nothing but the sound of the roaring river. 

Because the A-Frame is quite tiny, it’s best suited to a solo traveller or couple.

 

9. Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, Ainsworth

Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort is located in the Kootenay region of BC, an area known for the Purcell Mountains—just as breathtaking as the Swiss Alps—and rich in biodiversity, wildlife, with endless areas to explore. The road trip to this resort is so beautiful it’s almost a vacation in itself.

While surrounded by nature, enjoy the hot spring pool, either before or after bracing yourself for the cold plunge pool. Unique to Ainsworth Hot Springs are the hot caves—natural underground hot mineral water steam baths that are pure bliss. 

The resort offers comfortable accommodation with various room options and amenities. Included in your stay is complimentary access to the pools and cave. This is a great option for a family looking to explore somewhere different that will keep the kids entertained—who doesn’t love a pool?

There’s a restaurant, the Ktunaxa Grill, conveniently located on-site. Or if you prefer to explore the area, the historic town of Kalso is only 15 minutes away. We recommend The Waypoint Restaurant and Bar for fabulous West Coast-inspired food and artisanal cocktails. Or for something more casual, stop by the Angry Hen Brewing for a pint and some fish and chippies (as they call them).

 

10. Halycon Hot Springs Resort, Nakusp

Halcyon Hot Springs was featured in the National Geographic Traveller Luxury Collection list in 2022, and it’s obvious why. The peaceful resort is located in Nakusp, situated between the Selkirk and Monashee ranges, offering picturesque mountain and pristine lake views.

If you’re looking to melt away into a resort that seamlessly combines nature with luxury, Halcyon delivers; the spa is divine. With every massage treatment, you receive a plush robe rental and access to the hot springs for the day during regular operating hours—while the plush robe may be a small gesture, it’s little details like this that add to the calming and luxurious atmosphere of the resort.

Halcyon offers a diverse range of lodging options, catering to solo travellers, couples, and families. The resort was built for everyone to enjoy. From intimate, lavish cabins to spacious family cottages and majestic loft chalets, the lodging options ensure a stay of unparalleled luxury and comfort. Conveniently situated within walking distance of the hot springs and the main lobby, accommodations provide easy access to all the amenities.

There is no need to leave the resort for dining. The onsite restaurant, Alcédo, serves dishes that not only look like pieces of art but taste equally as exquisite. The chefs source the ingredients grown from their own gardens and geothermal greenhouses, local farmers, and even forage from the Kootenay mountains. With a modern take on homestead mountain cuisine, the chefs are influenced by the French and Italian Alps with a Kootenay feel.

We love that this resort brings a little European flair to a region that parallels the mountain ranges in France, Italy, and Switzerland.