The Top 10 BC Resorts to Visit This Summer and Why

Hotel El Dorado Resort in Kelowna is a charming property perched on Okanagan Lake with what is surely one of the prettiest outdoor decks in the country. Since 1926, the resort has been a destination for seekers of fun in the sun especially with its attached marina. The Spirit of The El is the historic 34-foot Chris Craft Sedan Cruiser yacht, built in 1952, and is available for private charters of up to 8 passengers. Landlubber? Sip a local craft brew during happy hour drinks and nibbles on the Boardwalk for the ultimate al fresco experience. If this resort doesn’t have the ultimate summer Okanagan vibe, I don’t know what does.

Sonora Resort is a bucket-list destination for perhaps the ultimate in wilderness luxury stays. Located on Sonora Island, which is situated between the mainland and Vancouver Island, the resort is accessible only by water or air. As a Relais & Chateaux property the resort has exceeded the criteria that goes along with that label. Once a rustic fishing lodge some 40 years ago, the resort has evolved into a world-class salmon fishing destination, and for those who delight in seeing bears, whales, and eagles in their natural habitat, the ancient BC rainforest archipelago location is idyllic. An exceptional culinary program in the restaurant, and guestrooms are gloriously forest bathed.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia has JUST reopened after a 5-month extensive renovation and it’s a rather big deal. Design-driven with the work of Ste Marie making its mark on the lobby, and 1927 Lounge, plus guest rooms curated by NYC-based Lillian Wu. The new Georgia Bar features a custom Fazioli Pianoforti Model F183 Art Case Edition, plus an art collection of local talent. Try a ‘caviar bump’ with their signature cocktail, called the Patricia, a nod to the “Patricia Room,” a dedicated space for HRH Edward, Prince of Wales, dating from the original hotel’s grand opening.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is practically the poster child for glamping, that wonderful morph of camping and glamour, that really captures the best of both worlds. Situated, you guessed it, right in Clayoquot Sound, guests stay in one of 25 canvas tents with beautiful rainforest or waterfront views. The Healing Grounds spa is set in an old growth forest, and if getting away from it all means this? I’ll take it.

Sparkling Hill Resort near Vernon is your go-to if your idea of a summer resort vacation involves basking in luxury spa treatments at Kur Spa, cycling through 7 different steamy hot saunas, steams and cooling spaces, and all with a European vibe. A variety of restaurants and bars will fortify you in between spa and pool visits, and lake views throughout the resort will have you stopping in your tracks several times a day.

Naturally Pacific Resort is Vancouver Island’s newest hotel, just opened in spring 2024, and owned by a Campbell River family with deep roots in the area. Check out the Immersion Spa, Carve Kitchen & Meatery, and indoor pool with walls of windows plus a sunny (and essential) pool deck. Outdoor fire pits have cozy seating, and the fairways of Campbell River Golf Club one of the island’s most established courses, are right on property.

Fairmont Chateau Whistler was given a significant refresh, to the tune of $14 million and finished two years ago. A sense of place is important in a mountain resort, and Fairmont has nailed it with its natural wood throughout the guestroom design, and artwork that’s well suited to inspire relaxation. Whistler’s Montis Distilling unveiled Blackcomb Gin and it’s a winner in my martini or G&T. Try it when you settle into the lobby lounge with its spectacular mountain views. Also, fun this summer is the new pop-up restaurant Radiante Taqueria Terrace, serving Don Julio cocktails and authentic Mexican cuisine, open just until the end of September. And golf? Look no further and take on this stunner of a course that’s written up every year as one of the best in golf magazines.

The Westin Bayshore is the ultimate Vancouver staycation. No need to travel far if you live in the city and a stay here has all it takes to ensure you feel rested and revived when you check out. Located right in Coal Harbour, with floatplanes drifting in and out through the summer days, views are scenic, and the pool scene equally so. A walk on the seawall leads into Stanley Park, then circle back for a meal at H2 Kitchen and Bar with what some say is the best patio, and best kept secret in the city. Pool yoga is a thing here, where your core strength is tested as you stand on special mats bobbing in the pool. 

Spirit Ridge in Osoyoos has it all. A dry, desert climate but surrounded by wineries and fruit orchards this destination is nothing short of dreamy. All guest rooms are suites, with full kitchens, and patios. Two pools, one adult and one for families, a great restaurant and the Nk’Mip Winery is right next door.  Sonora Dunes 9-hole golf course is also just across the driveway and gives guests priority to tee times.

Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa is located in Courtney, is oceanfront, and highly acclaimed. The guestrooms have modern décor, a nice change from the sometimes-tired pacific northwest look known to resorts in BC. Check out Ocean 7 restaurant for dinner, with its seafood-centric offerings, then do some star-gazing around one of the fire pits afterward.