Pacific Northwest Family Adventure: Whistler, Tofino + Sooke
This was hands down the best family vacation we’ve ever taken. The Pacific Northwest has such a vibe! Rugged coastlines, lush forests, waterfalls, mountains, and the kind of hidden gems that make you feel like you’re part of a secret.
I love exploring places not everyone sees, and this trip delivered exactly that. We balanced adventure with rest days (a must when traveling with kids) and built memories we’ll be talking about for years.
If you’re planning a family trip to British Columbia, here’s our full itinerary. Complete with tips, activities, and can’t-miss spots.
Day 1: Arrival in Vancouver + Travel to Whistler
Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
Pick up a rental car and drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway (~2 hours).
Stops along the way:
Shannon Falls Provincial Park – a quick walk to a stunning waterfall.
Whytecliff Park – breathtaking ocean views (detour off Exit 2).
Evening:
Check into Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler. Gorgeous lakeside setting. We even went for a cold plunge!
Day 2: Whistler Adventures (Free Day)
Breakfast at Fix Café inside Nita Lake Lodge (so good!).
Borrow bikes from the lodge (reserve ahead) and ride the Whistler Valley Trails to the village.
Swim, kayak, or paddleboard at the lake.
Other options:
Ziplining
Exploring Whistler Village
Evening:
Pizza + downtime back at Nita Lake Lodge.
Day 3: Joffre Lakes
Book Joffre Lakes Passes two days in advance at 7am.
Hike to see the 3 glacier-fed lakes (we did 2 with kids, but you can do all 3 if able).
Pro tip: Save passes to your phone or print them (no cell service at the trailhead).
Evening:
Back at Nita Lake Lodge to relax.
Day 4: Whistler → Tofino (via Nanaimo)
Drive to Horseshoe Bay (~1.5 hrs), ferry to Nanaimo (~1.5 hrs).
Continue drive to Tofino (~3 hrs).
Optional stops:
Neck Point Park in Nanaimo
Coombs Country Store (goats on the roof 🐐)
Cathedral Grove – massive Douglas firs + red cedars.
Evening:
Check into VRBO at 1319 Lynn Road, Tofino. Sunset beach walk 🌅.
Days 5–7: Tofino Adventures
Day 5 – Beach & Surfing
Morning: Cave exploring at Chesterman Beach (low tide).
Family surfing lesson at Cox Bay. Kids loved it, and yes, we got up too! (family fav!)
Chesterman Beach skim boarding.
Other Tofino options:
3 peaks hike
Tofino Water Taxi - Meares Island Big Trees Trail or vargus island
Day 6 – Boat Day
Private charter with Coastal Charters: fishing, whale watching, hot springs hike.
Cook your catch onboard—unreal experience.
Must-haves: printed fishing license, warm/rain layers, water + snacks, anti-nausea meds.
Day 7 – Exploring Before Heading to Sooke
Afternoon: Drive to Ucluelet → hike the Wild Pacific Trail (artist loop + ancient cedar loop if time).
Day 8: Tofino → Sooke
Drive (~4 hrs) with stops at Cathedral Grove, Hole in the Wall (Port Alberni), and Englishman River Falls.
Evening: Check into oceanfront VRBO (7687 West Coast Road, Sooke). Hot tub + ocean views 😍.
Day 9: Sooke Adventures
Charter with Tailspins out of Cheanuh Marina (Spirit Bay). Incredible fishing + coastal views.
Evening: Relax back at the cabin.
Day 10: Relax + Explore Sooke / Ferry to Vancouver
Take it slow with coffee and ocean views at the VRBO.
Visit Sooke Potholes Provincial Park for swimming + hiking. (kids fav!)
Other options: East Sooke Regional Park, Mystic Beach hike, or a day trip into Victoria.
Day 11: Fly Home
Ferry from Swartz Bay back to Vancouver.
Quick drive to Vancouver International Airport.
Return rental car and fly home.
Bear Safety Tips (Because It’s the PNW)
We saw 6 brown bears—most from a safe distance!
Speak firmly + back away.
Carry bear spray.
If far away: hum, sing, or use a deep “threatening” voice.
Final Thoughts
The Pacific Northwest is pure magic: mountains, beaches, forests, and wildlife all rolled into one. This trip had the perfect mix of adventure + rest, and honestly? It was even better than I imagined.
If you’re craving a family-friendly adventure with epic scenery, cozy lodges, and unforgettable experiences—this trip is a must.