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Why BC Should Be Your Next Squad Holiday Destination

From diving to dining, wine to wellness, British Columbia has everything you need for the ultimate group getaway - by Jessica Wilkinson
  • 10 Dec 2018
Why BC Should Be Your Next Squad Holiday Destination

Planning the ultimate getaway with your friends? If world-class food, wine, and nature is your idea of a good time, then British Columbia should be at the top of your list. Book a kayak tour, sample some wine and cheese, or go on a whale-watching adventure and enjoy the best of what this Canadian province has to offer. Here are two of the best squad destinations in British Columbia to consider for your next group getaway.

Vancouver Island

Nestled along Canada’s west coast (25-30 minutes by air from Vancouver), Vancouver Island is a haven of windswept coastlines, deserted beaches and lush, verdant forests. It’s really no exaggeration to say it’s a natural paradise, and with so much to see and do here it’s hard to know where to start.ear not, we’ve rounded up the top must-do’s, from forest to water to mountains, to help guide your next group trip.

The Forests

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Reaching new heights in the Campbell River region. What's your go to spot on Vancouver Island? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #vancitywild #happyadventuring
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"The sun does not shine for a few trees and flowers, but for the wide world's joy." 📸Photo by @tylermcave #ShareVI
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"Life comes from the Earth and life returns to the Earth." 📸Photo by @michaelmatti #ShareVI #ExploreNanaimo

Across Vancouver Island, the pristine temperate rainforest is littered with beautiful hiking trails that lead you under a canopy of centuries-old trees. In Tofino, these rainforest trails run alongside the Pacific Ocean, overlooking stunning beaches and isolated coves. While Sooke’s hiking trails wind past rocky cliffs, and scenic beaches, and pass through Strathcona Provincial Park - a beautiful mountain park and nature conservation area.

The Water

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"Travel makes one modest. You see what a tiny place you occupy in the world." 📸Photo by: @vancitywild #ShareVI
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Board Meeting 🤙🏼

Situated on the edge of BC’s Pacific Coast means Vancouver Island’s beaches are perfect for surfing, swimming, and of course, taking some pretty epic Instagram shots. For the ultimate west coast vibe, spend some time and disconnect in the surf-loving, ultra chill surf town of Tofino.

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Smokey skies and a whale tail. Always fun having company from back East and playing tourist in your own back yard. Yesterday we were lucky to see many orcas and humpbacks just off of Campbell River. While I've seen a lot of orcas through the years, the recent influx of humpbacks hanging out around here is really awesome to see. Orcas remain my favorite though, a childhood love that's never waned. . . . . #explorecanada #explorevancouverisland #explorebc #amazingvancouverisland #beautyofbc #sharethecoast #beautifulbc #ilovebc #totescanadian #nature_brilliance #sharecangeo #shotoncanon #canoncanada #opcmag #discovervancouverisland #campbellriver #tourismvancouverisland #tourcanada #britishcolumbiamagazine #ourvi #orca #killerwhale #livelovecanada #onenature #fiftytwoweeksofnature

If you’re looking for a group experience that will leave you and your friends at a loss for words, then you’re in luck because Vancouver Island offers some of the best whale watching in the world. Orcas, grey whales, humpbacks and minke whales are just some of what you can expect to spot out in the water, with tours operating along both the east and west coast of Vancouver Island.

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a taste of summer.
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Spent the long weekend in the middle of nowhere with some great people. On the first morning I was brushing my teeth when I turned around to see these beams of light coming through the mountains, it was stunning. I literally started taking pictures while still brushing my teeth (a first). Then I ran down the beach and took a selfie. More to come from this trip for sure but I've got to get some adulting done first 🌲 #cvcollective #explorecanada #explorebc #opcmag #tourismvancouverisland #tourcanada #beautifulbc #womenwhoexplore #canadaday #feedbacknation #getouthere #hellobc #ilovebc #rsa_outdoors #sharecangeo #shotoncanon #canoncanada #totescanadian #hubs_united #fiftyshades_of_nature #imagesofcanada #yourtofino #cangeotravel #livelovecanada #nature_brilliance #52weeksofnature

Vancouver Island’s many rivers and ocean inlets are amazing to explore by canoe or kayak during autumn or spring. For a relaxing and scenic paddle, organise a day trip to the Ucluelet Harbour and book a 3 hour kayak tour. If seeking something a little more adventurous for your squad, why not go white water rafting down the Campbell River? Whether a group of beginners or seasoned thrill-seekers, there are options for everyone..

The Mountains

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"The mountains are calling and I must go." 📸Photo by @mike.andy #ShareVI
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"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop away from you like the leaves of autumn." 📸Photo by @jonmiddletonmusic #ShareVI

Located between the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Georgia, snow conditions on Vancouver Island offer some of the world’s best winter scenery. Rent a cozy cabin and explore the island trails on a pair of snowshoes, or take in some slope-action and skip the Whistler crowds with a visit to Mount Washington Alpine Resort.

Okanagan Valley


You can’t write about the ultimate group getaway in British Columbia without listing the Okanagan Valley as a must do. Soak up the sun, swim in freshwater lakes and tour around the stunning landscape while tasting some of Canada’s award-winning local wine.

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📷: @darrenrobinsonphotography #exploreokanagan
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Delicious ambrosia apples. Just one of the many wonderful things about fall in Kelowna and area. 🍎 📷: @bctreefruits #exploreKelowna

The Okanagan Valley is 400 kilometres inland from Vancouver (that just so happens to be a stunning road trip), has a glowing reputation for its incredible wines and sunny, hot climate in the summertime. With its crystal clear lakes, soaring mountains, and abundant vineyards and orchards, you can practically hear your Instagram account begging you to go.

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📷 @breepy ・・・ 🌻 #exploreokanagan
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📷: @coryfleck #exploreokanagan
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We've got your Saturday night plans covered. Open late, @downtownkelowna's newest urban winery @riccobambino is serving up minimal intervention wine and classic cocktails. #exploreKelowna

To sample the very best BC wines, head anywhere from Lake Country in the north to Osoyoos in the south. There are almost 200 regional wineries that are best known for their Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris varieties – we recommend Sperling Vineyards, Mission Hill Winery, and Tantalus Vineyards. And because a glass of wine can’t go without a side of delicious cheese, make sure to stop at the region’s best local cheeseries. Poplar Grove Cheese’s Okanagan Double Cream Camembert is a must-taste!

So whether you and your squad are looking for an adventure packed with outdoor activities, or a cultural trip filled with amazing food and wine (or both!), BC definitely has an adventure for every squad.

Jessica Wilkinson
Jessica Wilkinson
Jess is a freelance writer covering everything from fashion to travel. You can see her work on InStyle, marie claire, Grazia and Tourism Australia. When she’s not writing you can find her at the flower market or patting other people’s dogs.

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