Vancouver Island Spring Break Activities

Spring Break is just around the corner, offering families the perfect opportunity to embrace adventure and create unforgettable memories. For parents, it's also a reminder of the challenge to keep young explorers entertained during those two weeks.

But don't fret, for I've done the legwork for you! By diving into this website's archives along with thorough research on the vibrant communities of Vancouver Island, I've curated an extensive list of exciting activities.

Whether you're planning for little ones, independent teens, or the entire family, this guide is packed with ideas that promise fun for everyone.

The best part? Many of these activities can be enjoyed year-round, meaning you can revisit this list longer after Spring Break ends. Consider this your secret weapon for tackling not just Spring Break but also the long days of summer.

Let the adventure begin!

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Spring Break in Victoria

Make the most of Spring Break in Victoria by immersing yourself in this charming destination's beauty and family-friendly activities. Spring is one of the best times to explore Victoria, with mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. This season provides a comfortable environment for outdoor adventures and sightseeing.

Wander Through Delightful Gardens

Explore beautifully manicured gardens in and around Victoria and view the abundant spring blooms. Victoria is known as the ‘Garden City,' and it's easy to see why. Many gardens are free to explore, while others charge admission. No matter which one you choose, you and your family will be immersed in various colours and intoxicating scents.

Get a History Lesson

• Visit the Royal BC Museum to explore one of Canada's leading museums and research centres and immerse yourself in 550 million years of natural history and 9000 years of human history in BC.

• For a chance to experience British Columbia's marine heritage, head to the Maritime Museum. They have a vast collection of over 35,000 artifacts, spanning from 1775 to the present, which has a unique significance to the history of BC. The Maritime Museum of BC is open daily from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

Be a Kid Again

Victoria has many other wonderful places to explore that help ignite curiosity and wonder in the young and young at heart.

• Visit the must-see Bug Zoo to view and experience live tropical bugs from around the world. All the animals are alive and in tanks. And you choose how up close and personal you'd like to be.

• Voted as one of the best places to visit in Victoria, Miniature World allows one to connect with one's inner child. There are over 85 miniature dioramas, including two of the world's largest dollhouses with over 50 beautifully furnished rooms representing the late 1800's.

• A museum of sorts, Victoria's Butterfly Garden (located in Brentwood Bay) offers an opportunity for people of all ages to experience the beauty and curiosity of a tropical jungle up close.  You’ll also encounter dart frogs, tortoises, flamingos, tropical ducks, free-flying tropical birds and more.

• Head to Beacon Hill Children's Farm within beautiful Beacon Hill Park. This quaint petting farm is a highlight for people of all ages, and the ‘Running of the Goats' brings delight and laughter to all. It shuts down during the winter but reopens in the spring.

• Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea is an award-winning non-profit aquarium and cultural center located on Sidney's waterfront. It offers educational programs and exhibits focusing on marine life, ecology, and conservation efforts. Visitors can explore interactive displays showcasing local marine species like orcas and salmon, as well as learn about the ecosystem's delicate balance.

Even More Activities in Victoria

• Best Indoor Activities in Victoria
• Victoria's Best Outdoor Attractions

Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Victoria

Victoria has many fantastic hotels catering to all needs. These are my top three recommendations for families.

1. Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites – Offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and views of the Inner Harbour. It's within easy walking distance to many of Victoria's main attractions.

2. The Embassy Inn – This 3-star hotel is centrally located, offering convenient access to popular attractions, dining options, and shops. The suites have plenty of room for large families.

3. Hotel Zed – while not downtown, this quirky hotel is a fun option. The decor is vibrant and retro-inspired and offers unique accommodations, including themed rooms, bike rentals, and a seasonal outdoor pool.

Spring Break Activities in the Cowichan Valley

Make your spring break memorable by exploring Cowichan's diverse attractions. The region caters to every interest, whether it's cultural experiences or outdoor escapades.

Enjoy Glorious Views

Check out Vancouver Island's newest outdoor attraction for stunning and expansive views, plus a whole lot of fun. The Malahat Skywalk is fully accessible to all and is a must-see attraction that's open year-round.

Visit a Historic Gem

The Kinsol Trestle is one of the world's tallest free-standing and most spectacular timber rail trestle structures. At 187 metres in length and standing 44 metres above the Koksilah River, it's an incredible sight.

For even more adventure, The Kinsol Trestle is one of eight trestles found along the Cowichan Valley Trail. Hop on a bike and see if you can find them all!

Hand of Man Musem

The Hand of Man Museum in Maple Bay showcases a unique blend of Natural History, Cultural Arts, and Conservation. Founded by renowned outdoorsman Jim Shockey, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into his adventures and interests. The collection reflects a passion for immersive experiences and exploration, aligning with Vancouver Island's spirit. It's a fascinating place to spend a few hours.

Explore the Totems

Known as the City of Totems, Duncan has a self-guided walking tour around the downtown core, showcasing each of these hand-carved totem poles. It's a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs. 

Get Close to a Raptor

The Raptors, located in Duncan, offers a compelling interactive experience with birds of prey. Get closer than you ever imagined to these exciting, intelligent birds and learn about their world and how we all benefit when they survive and thrive. 

Visit a Farm

Head to Yellow Point Farm for your fix of adorable farm animals. The petting farm is open in spring, summer, and fall (the opening date is March 15, 2025). While there, shop at the farm store for local produce, local pastured meat, honey, wool products and blueberry leaf tea.

Family-Friendly Hotel Recommendations in the Cowichan Valley

1. Best Western Plus Chemainus for its spacious rooms and complimentary breakfast. You are also in the heart of Chemainus, which is an adorable town to wander. Kids will love the Hansel and Gretel Candy shop.

2. Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham is known for its modern rooms equipped with essentials, complimentary breakfast, fitness centre and an indoor pool that kids will love. The rates are pretty great, too!

Top Nanaimo Spring Break Activities

Make the most of your Spring Break in Nanaimo with a perfect blend of natural wonders and activities.

Ride a Wave Both Indoor and Out

• Head to the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre (741 Third Street) for some indoor swimming and wave action.

• Bundle up in the provided anti-exposure suits and search for whales. Head out into the Salish Sea from Nanaimo in search of the abundant wildlife that inhabits the area. Your guide is an experienced marine expert who will take the time to help you learn about the sea life around Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Do Something Wild

Head to WildPlay Nanaimo (35 Nanaimo River Road) for adventure activities of every intensity. You'll find zip lines, aerial games, bungee jumping, a giant swing, axe throwing, and much more! If you and your kids love exhilaration, this is the place to be.

Meet Some Mini's

Superior Farm is a wonderful petting zoo in the mid-island area. This family-run farm has been collecting mini animals for years and now shares them with the rest of us. Their lovely little petting farm has mini pigs, dwarf goats, babydoll sheep, miniature cattle, donkeys and horses. There are also Bantam chickens, Holland Lop Rabbits, dwarf rabbits, and an honorary “mini” goose named Lucky.

More Ideas

For even more ideas on how to spend quality time in Nanaimo, read:

• Nanaimo's Best Indoor Activities
• Best of Nanaimo
• 48 Hours in Nanaimo

Spring Break Activities in Oceanside

Parksville and Qualicum Beach, coined Oceanside by locals, is an excellent location for spring break activities.

Go Waterfall Hunting

Oceanside has many beautiful waterfalls and natural wonders to explore. From favourite spots loved by tourists, like Little Qualicum Falls, to hidden gems, like this secret waterfall found in a peculiar location, you'll surely find a beautiful trail your whole family will delight in.

Mini-Golfing

Just in time for Spring Break, both mini-golf adventure parks in Parksville will be open for the season. Both mini-golf parks offer two fun courses to choose from. Paradise Fun Park, located in downtown Parksville, also offers bumper boats, an arcade, an onsite bakery, and a cafe. Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf, located near Rathtrevor Beach, offers laser tag bumper cars, an arcade room and delicious ice cream.

Head to a Farm

Morningstar Farm is a working farm featuring self-guided tours, a petting farm, and a farm-gate store. With its delicious homemade cheeses and other delicacies, an onsite seasonal “calfe”, and Canada's first ‘milk-on-tap' dispenser, the farm is also considered a local food hub.

Go Karting

Fast Time Amusements in Parksville offers Karting, Axe Throwing and Archery Tag. Race your opponents around the track to see who can get the fastest time. Or perhaps try your hand at a game that's a cross between paintball and dodgeball (without the welts or mess) and challenge your friends and family with your archery skills. Reservations are recommended for all activities.

View the Goats

Head to Coombs Country Market to view the famous Goats on the Roof. While there, shop at the unique stores and try a delicious treat from Billy G's Doughnuts. There's a whole lot more to offer in this quaint little area.

Head Underground

For those who want to explore a cave without crawling or vertical climbing, the Riverbend tour at Horne Lake Caves offers the opportunity to view fossils and swooping rock formations while learning about the area's geological history. Make memories with your family on this caving adventure.

Top Family-Friendly Hotel Recommendation in Parksville

Whether you are enjoying activities in Nanaimo or the Oceanside area, I highly recommend the Beach Club Resort in Parksville. Their suites are spacious and have a full kitchen with everything you'd need for in-room cooking, plus a large sitting area. Some even come with two bathrooms – a welcome bonus when travelling with kids!

West Coast Spring Break Activities

Walk through an Old-Growth Forest

On your way to Tofino and Ucluelet, stop at Cathedral Grove to walk through one of the most accessible stands of old-growth forest on Vancouver Island. MacMillan Provincial Park offers beautiful boardwalk trails under a canopy of ancient trees, some over 800 years old.

Pacific Rim Whale Festival

Be a part of the inspiration, education, and entertainment by celebrating coastal traditions, unique environments, and the spring return of the grey whale. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is a yearly celebration put on by many participating Tofino and Ucluelet businesses. This year’s event is taking place March 15-22.

Go Surfing

Canada’s surf capital offers amazing sandy beaches swept by the swells of the Pacific Ocean. These waves offer a playground for those wishing to ride them. You can rent a board and wetsuit from various locations around Tofino for the day or as long as you stay.

Walk the Trails and Beaches

The Pacific Rim offers many wonderful trails at varying lengths. Most wind their way through a dense forest full of beautiful greenery, and a few are boardwalked. The beaches, however, are the main attractions, and they beg to be strolled along. These vast sandy beaches provide hours and hours of entertainment.

Family-Friendly Accommodations on the West Coast

The West Coast is a place my family visits frequently, and I have my favourite locations in which to stay. My top pick for a great family stay is these cabins on Terrace Beach in Ucluelet. If you want to stay in Tofino, then these are my top recommendations.

Spring Break Activities in the Comox Valley

Play in the Snow

Whether you downhill ski, cross-country ski, snowshoe, or want to play in the snow, Mount Washington is the place to go. They even have Fat Bikes available to rent (bikes that you can ride in the snow). This boutique resort has plenty of activities to keep the whole family happy.

Watch Planes

Head to the Courtenay Airpark (100 20 St, Courtenay) for a close-up view of light aircraft during landings and take-offs. It's one of the few airfields still in existence that allows the public to do so. Surrounded by a park, it's also a great place to bike, rollerblade or skateboard.

Go Mountain Biking

Pedal yourself up and down world-class mountain bike trails in the Cumberland Forest. From beginners to experts, you'll find a trail suitable for your experience level. And thanks to United Riders of Cumberland, each and every trail is marked and mapped.

Explore the Backcountry

Head into BC's oldest Provincial Park for some true off-the-grid experiences. There is no cell coverage in Strathcona Park, so you are REALLY getting away from it all by heading here. And the quietness, fresh air, and breathtaking views of lakes, mountains, and waterfalls will recharge your soul like no other place does.

Check out the Dinosaurs!

Established in 1961, This small but mighty museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to collecting, preserving, and interpreting the cultural and natural history of the Courtenay area. It features exhibits on local paleontology, including displays of fossils and information on prehistoric life found in the region.

Wander through Rhododendron Groves

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is a beautiful spot to let the kids run free. While there, you can view over 3000 rhododendrons of different varieties and sizes as well as companion plants and cultivated trees, all blending into the breathtakingly beautiful natural surroundings. The Rhodos are typically in bloom from March until June.

Best Family-Friendly Hotel in the Comox Valley

My top pick for a kid-friendly hotel in the Comox Valley is the Old House Hotel in Courtenay. It offers spacious suites ideal for families, even those with pets, and is centrally located in downtown Courtenay, giving you easy access to all the above attractions.

Campbell River Spring Break Ideas

Indoor Playground

The Reef Indoor Playground is perfect for little ones, especially if the weather isn't cooperating during your spring break stay. This exciting new venue boasts an adventurous indoor playground with trampoline zones and toddler features. While the kids play, parents can relax in the comfortable lounge equipped with TVs, cozy couches, and a barista-style café. 

Suspension Bridge & Waterfall

At Elk Falls, you can walk across one of Canada's highest suspension bridges to a stunning waterfall. The easy 30-minute walk from the parking area is clearly marked, relatively flat and well-maintained. The short “Old Growth Loop Trail” is also highly recommended if you want to see some huge trees.

Go on a Treasure Hunt

This unique driftwood creations treasure hunt gets you out exploring many different areas of Campbell River and beyond. The talented artist Alex Witcombe creates large driftwood sculptures for all to enjoy. Can you find them all?

Walk the Discovery Pier

Walk along Canada's first built saltwater fishing pier. There is always tons of action along the pier, whether it's fishermen reeling in a catch or sea birds trying to snatch the catch for lunch. The pier extends 150 feet from shore and is 600 feet long, giving you an expansive view of the Discovery Passage and Quadra Island across the passage.

Recommended Family-Friendly Hotel in Campbell River

With great rates and clean and comfortable rooms, I recommend the Comfort Inn & Suites in Campbell River for a great family stay. There is an indoor pool and hot tub, a fitness centre, and a complimentary breakfast, which is quite good!

Spend Your Spring Break on Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island isn’t just a destination – it’s an open invitation to dive into a world of stunning nature, abundant wildlife, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural experiences.

So, why choose Vancouver Island for your Spring Break? The real question is, why not? This Pacific paradise offers everything you need for an unforgettable escape, leaving you with memories to treasure long after the break is over.

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