Known for its mild climate and wild, untamed beaches, Vancouver Island has a multitude of outdoor activities on offer all year round including surfing in the winter. These vacation rentals are located in the heart of the island’s wildness, with each boasting an ocean view. If you’re lucky—and patient—you may catch a glimpse of commuting orcas swimming along the shoreline, eagles diving after fish, or black bears lumbering through the woods.
If wildlife isn’t your thing, head to Cowichan Bay, a 45-minute drive north of Victoria. The surrounding area is flush with wineries. Get in a round of 18 at the public golf courses near the island’s southern tip. Or visit one of 40 craft breweries dotted around the island’s lower half.
Whether you’re travelling solo, or with family and friends, Vancouver Island has an adventure for everyone.
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Photo by VRBO/Terry Hebblethwaite
Located on the east side of Vancouver Island, this vacation rental has 1,600 feet of private shoreline. Inside is an open concept design with hardwood floors and a stone fireplace. Spend the evenings in the outdoor hot tub soaking in the ocean view.
Location: Union Bay, B.C.
Price: Averages $536 per night
Sleeps: 6
Bedrooms: 2
Notes:
- Oceanfront property
- Internet included
- No pets
- Outdoor hot tub
- BBQ available for use
- Outdoor fire pit
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
Photo by VRBO/Billy McGinnis
This oceanfront rental offers white oak floors, spacious bedrooms, and a kitchen with all the latest features. The rental is less than a kilometre from Cox Bay Beach, considered one of the best surfing beaches in Canada.
Location: Tofino, B.C.
Price: Averages $536 per night
Sleeps: 4
Bedrooms: 2
Notes:
- Oceanfront property
- Internet included
- Laundry on site
- Outdoor shower
- The minimum age requirement for renters is 30
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO
Photo by VRBO
Photo by VRBO
Photo by VRBO
Photo by VRBO
With panoramic views of the Salish Sea and snow-capped mountains, this 2,800 sq. ft. lake house is the perfect place to relax and take in the surrounding wildlife. Walk the private path to access a secluded beach where you can walk for miles, exploring the tidal pools.
Location: Comox, B.C.
Price: Averages $450 per night
Sleeps: 6
Bedrooms: 3
Notes:
- Oceanfront property
- Beach access
- Minimum one-week stay
- Laundry on site
- Kayaks available for use but need to be driven to the launch
- Onsite suite used by owner
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
Photo by VRBO/Lynda Baron
From Cliff House, you can watch cruise ships sail through Discovery Passage, whales swimming north through the water, or eagles perched in nearby trees. The rental is a short drive from the shops, restaurants, and farmers’ market of downtown Campbell River.
Location: Campbell River, B.C.
Price: Averages $198 per night
Sleeps: 6
Bedrooms: 3
Notes:
- Oceanfront property
- Beach access
- Internet included
- Laundry on site
- Outdoor fire pit
- The minimum age requirement for renters is 25
Click here to book
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
Photo by VRBO/Tammi Cyr
End your evenings by watching the stunning sunset over the Salish Sea. During the day, comb the nearby beach, get in a game at Arrowsmith Golf and Country Club, or enjoy a cocktail in the sunroom.
Location: Deep Bay, B.C.
Price: Averages $149 per night
Sleeps: 2
Bedrooms: 1
Notes:
- Oceanfront property
- Beach access
- Internet included
- Full breakfast available at additional cost
- Owner lives on-site
Click here to book