Aerial View of Desolation Sound | Credit: Destination BC / Andrew Strain
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Vancouver Island & Coast Circle Self-Drive
Thumbnails
Aerial View of Desolation Sound | Credit: Destination BC / Andrew Strain
Black Bear | Credit: Tourism Vancouver Island / Tyler Cave
Ucluelet | Credit: Destination BC / Cristina Gareau
Whale Watching | Credit: Prince of Whales / Seanie Malcolm
Sunshine Coast | Credit: Sunshine Coast Tourism / Shayd Johnson
Butchart Gardens | Credit: Destination BC / Local Wanderer
Totems in Duncan | Credit: Tourism Vancouver Island / Tourism Cowichan / Paige Owen
Canada

Vancouver Island & Coast Circle Self-Drive (Tour code: 15412)

Starts and Ends
in Vancouver
Travel Periods
01 May 26 - 30 Sep 26
Travel Style
Independent Holiday Packages
Discover the wild beauty of British Columbia on this unforgettable self-drive journey. From coastal fjords and island ferries to wildlife encounters and charming seaside towns, this adventure blends freedom, flexibility, and discovery at every turn.

Highlights

Sail through fjord-like waters to the Sunshine Coast and across the Strait of Georgia, taking in mountains, forests, and the Gulf Islands

Explore the Homalco First Nation village at Aupe and learn about the lives of the Northwest Coast people at Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village

Admire 800-year-old Douglas firs at Cathedral Grove, marvel at the Mars Water-Bombers, and traverse the stunning Sutton Pass and Sawtooth Range

Witness humpbacks, orcas, grey whales, sea lions, and bears up close on guided Salish Sea and Clayoquot Sound excursions

Explore Campbell River, Tofino, and Victoria your way with freedom of choice excursions

9 days
From
NZD 5,848
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

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Overview

This 9-day self-drive holiday invites you to journey along the Infinite Coast, where the Pacific Ocean sets the rhythm for travel. From the fjord-like waterways of the Sunshine Coast to the wild, rugged shores of Vancouver Island, every stage of the trip reveals a different side of British Columbia’s dramatic landscapes.

Travel by road and ferry through old-growth forests, island-studded straits, and coastal towns shaped by the tides. Along the way, immerse yourself in experiences that connect you to the land and its people - whether it’s encountering whales breaching in the Salish Sea, watching black bears forage along Tofino’s shoreline, or walking with Indigenous guides who share their stories and deep-rooted traditions.

In Victoria, choose how you engage with the city’s vibrant character, from exploring the lush Butchart Gardens to tasting regional flavours on a guided food tour or enjoying High Tea at the iconic Fairmont Empress. With flexible Freedom of Choice excursions, comfortable accommodation, and the independence of the open road, this itinerary blends coastal discovery, cultural connection, and breathtaking wilderness into one unforgettable journey along Canada’s Pacific edge.

Peace of mind booking plan
  1. ENTIRE Cooling-Off Period
  2. ENTIRE AUD Prices
  3. ENTIRE Change of Mind
  4. ENTIRE Industry Accredited
  5. ENTIRE On Ground Support
  6. ENTIRE Australian Owned

Inclusions

2 nights in Sunshine Coast at West Coast Wilderness Lodge
2 nights in Campbell River at Coast Discovery Inn (or similar)
2 nights in Tofino at Water's Edge Shoreside Suites (or similar)
2 nights in Victoria at Inn at Laurel Point
Return BC Ferries toll for vehicle & passengers, between Vancouver and Vancouver Island
Freedom of Choice Days
Freedom of Choice

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days.

Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day, as follows:

  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 4
  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 6
  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 8

Expand the itinerary below for more details.

Please note, if more than one room is selected during the booking process, our team will contact you afterwards to discuss options.

Day 1 Vancouver Sunshine Coast

Depart Vancouver for Horseshoe Bay and take a 45-minute BC Ferries sailing to the Sunshine Coast. This scenic cruise passes through fjord-like waters surrounded by mountains blanketed with virgin forests and glaciated peaks. Upon arrival in Langdale, disembark the ferry and drive along a leisurely and stunningly scenic route through forests and coastal fishing villages to your overnight accommodation at the West Coast Wilderness Resort.

Overnight in Sunshine Coast at West Coast Wilderness Lodge

Dinner
Vancouver → Sunshine Coast
Vancouver | Credit: Albert Normandin

Day 2 Sunshine Coast

The beautiful natural landscapes of Canada’s Pacific Coast offer the opportunity to enjoy a variety of outdoor adventures.

Overnight in Sunshine Coast at West Coast Wilderness Lodge

Breakfast, Dinner
Sunshine Coast
Sunshine Coast | Credit: Destination BC / Albert Normandin

Day 3 Sunshine Coast Campbell River

Today, travel north to Earls Cove for a 50-minute BC Ferries ride to Saltery Bay. Continue along the coast to Powell River to board another BC Ferries service across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island, then travel north to Campbell River.

Overnight in Campbell River at Coast Discovery Inn (or similar)

Breakfast
Sunshine Coast → Campbell River
BC Ferries | Credit: Destination BC / Andrew Strain

Day 4 Campbell River

You can personalise your day by choosing from one of three excursions.

Overnight in Campbell River at Coast Discovery Inn (or similar)


Freedom of Choice Options

  • People Water Land:

    Experience an authentic cultural and whale-watching excursion through the Salish Sea to the historic Homalco First Nation village site of Aupe (Church House). Humpback and killer whales are commonly seen in these scenic waters, along with other iconic marine wildlife. Walk onto the shores of Aupe with a Homalco guide to explore its rich and complex history.

OR

  • Salish Sea Whale Watching Cruise:

    Enjoy an unforgettable small-group marine adventure to see whales (Qʷ̓ənɛs) with an experienced marine wildlife guide. These modern and comfortable boats ensure you can safely explore the Salish Sea in search of humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, other marine mammals, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.

Campbell River
Campbell River | Credit: Destination BC / Jordan Dyck

Day 5 Campbell River Tofino/Ucluelet

Today, head south-west to Tofino on the rugged West Coast. En route, make picture stops at Cathedral Grove to admire the splendour of 800-year-old Douglas fir and cedar trees, and at Sproat Lake to see the Mars Water-Bombers, the world’s two largest water-bombers used solely for fighting forest fires. After visiting the Mars Water-Bombers, continue through the majestic Sutton Pass and the Sawtooth Range of the Cascade Mountains to arrive in Tofino around mid-afternoon.

Overnight in Tofino at Water's Edge Shoreside Suites (or similar)

Campbell River → Tofino/Ucluelet
Cathedral Grove | Credit: Alberni Valley Tourism / Peter O'Hara

Day 6 Tofino

Today, you can personalise your day by choosing from one of two excursions.

Overnight in Tofino at Water's Edge Shoreside Suites (or similar)


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Coastal Bear Watch Cruise:

    Search for foraging bears from the comfort and safety of a 24’ Zodiac vessel. Black bears, abundant on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, roam the shores at low tide in search of their favourite delicacy, the rock crab.

OR

  • Whale Watching Cruise:

    Cruise through the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound to take in the stunning scenery and abundant wildlife. Depending on the time of year, you may encounter grey whales, humpback whales, sea lions, seabirds, and resident bald eagles.

Tofino
Tofino | Credit: Destination BC / Johan Lolos

Day 7 Tofino/Ucluelet Victoria

Travel back to the east coast of Vancouver Island and head south to Victoria. En route, stop at the artist community of Chemainus, where you can admire the giant murals that adorn the exterior walls throughout the town, and at Duncan, the “City of Totems.” If time permits, visit the Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village, which offers insight into the lives of the Northwest Coast people (seasonal hours – admission not included).

Overnight in Victoria at Inn at Laurel Point

Tofino/Ucluelet → Victoria
Totems | Credit: Tourism Vancouver Island / Tourism Cowichan, Paige Owen

Day 8 Victoria

Enjoy a personalised experience by picking one of two unique excursions today.

Overnight in Victoria at Inn at Laurel Point


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Butchart Gardens Admission:

    On its 100th birthday in 2004, Butchart Gardens was named a National Historic Site of Canada. Explore 22 hectares (55 acres) of breathtaking gardens on the 53-hectare (130-acre) estate.

OR

  • Eat like a Canadian Food Tour:

    Not many people can define exactly what Canadian cuisine is. From local ingredients to historic dishes, this tour offers the perfect way to experience Canada’s culinary culture. Sip and savour local flavours, explore the iconic Inner Harbour, and meet the chefs and owners who make Victoria such an exciting culinary hotspot.

OR

  • Whale Watch Cruise:

    Get up close with killer whales in the Salish Sea on this guided 3.5-hour whale-watching cruise from Victoria. Climb aboard a covered or open boat equipped with hydrophones to hear the whales and experience the underwater world like never before.

OR

  • High Tea at the Empress Hotel:

    Enjoy high tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, a delightful and traditional experience. Indulge in a lavish array of teas, finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones, served in an elegant setting that enhances the charm of this historic Victoria, British Columbia, landmark.

Victoria
Butchart Gardens | Credit: Destination BC / Local Wanderer

Day 9 Victoria Vancouver

Leaving Victoria, drive north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a 90-minute ferry ride to Tsawwassen. On board BC Ferries, enjoy the scenery of the Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia. From Tsawwassen, continue on to downtown Vancouver, where your Flexidrive ends.

Accommodation

West Coast Wilderness Lodge

Egmont
Located on a wooded cliff in Egmont on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast, West Coast Wilderness Lodge boasts sweeping views of the inlets and nearby coastal mountains. Guests can dine at the acclaimed Inlets Restaurant, enjoying each meal with panoramic vistas from over 5,000 square feet of outdoor decking. From a leisurely breakfast to a sunset dinner, the striking scenery provides an unforgettable backdrop for every experience.

Coast Discovery Inn

Campbell River
Located right across the street from the ocean, Coast Discovery Inn is a storied landmark within the downtown Campbell River cityscape. The hotel is affectionately referred to as “the D.I.” by locals. Unwind in clean, comfy rooms and suites offering free wi-fi, flat-screen TVs and triple-sheeted beds – or splurge on a suite with a jetted tub for the ultimate in relaxation. Pets are welcome here, too!

Water's Edge Shoreside Suites

Ucluelet
Water’s Edge is the only property with access to both the serene Ucluelet Harbour & bordering Marina from every Shoreside Suite. Nestled on a peaceful island joined by a causeway within the Harbour. Nothing else compares. Stunning surroundings, breathtaking views, and open spaces.

Inn at Laurel Point

Victoria
Overlooking Laurel Point Park, this waterfront hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Black Ball Ferry Line and a 10-minute walk from the Royal BC Museum. Featuring private balconies with water views, the airy rooms include flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, plus mini-fridges, and tea- and coffee-making equipment. There's a heated indoor pool, an exercise room, and a Japanese garden, plus a Pacific Rim-inspired restaurant with a patio and harbour views.

Additional information

Official language
French & English
Local currency
Canadian Dollars

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurant or boat staff, etc.
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
  • Car rental rates exclude optional coverage such as Personal Accident Insurance Plus (PAI Plus) and Personal Effects Protection (PEP)
  • GPS rental is not included and can be requested (at an additional supplement paid locally) if required

FAQs

Who are Entire Travel Group?

Welcome to Entire Travel Group. We offer exceptional travel experiences across our extensive range of Entire Holiday Packages, Entire Group Journeys, Entire Rail Journeys, and Entire Cruise Journeys. With our industry-leading Peace of Mind Booking Plan, you can Book Now with flexibility and confidence.

Entire Travel Group is celebrating over 50 years of passionately delivering unique and memorable travel experiences. We are an Australian, family-owned, award-winning business with a friendly team ready to match your expectations to the perfect holiday experience.

Entire Travel Group used to be known by the individual brands shown in the footer of the website. The company has not changed, but we have amalgamated under one brand - Entire Travel Group.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

Is Entire Travel Group Australian owned and operated?

Entire Travel Group is proudly Australian family owned and operated and as it stands today represents 50 years of experience, progress, and evolution. We proudly support the community with our long-term commitment to many important charity organisations. We were awarded the best operator in our class at the most recent National Travel Industry Awards.

Is Entire Travel Group industry accredited?

Entire Travel Group is both ATAS and CATO Accredited. ATAS is actively administered by the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA). The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) is the trade association representing the land supply sector of the Australian Travel Industry.

Does Entire Travel Group have industry awards?

Entire Travel Group was honoured at the 2023 National Travel Industry Awards with Most Oustanding Wholesaler - Product / Service.

As our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, it was exciting to have this acknowledged with the highest recognition. The award is also a testament to the quality of our partners around the globe, and we take this opportunity to thank them for their tremendous support of our customers.

Are the Entire Travel Group holiday packages exclusive?

In some cases, we are the sole representative in Australia for the overseas travel operator. In other circumstances the product developed has been exclusively built for Entire Travel Group and can’t be found elsewhere.

What’s unique about Entire Travel Group Holiday Packages?

  • They are not group tours with set departures - they are pre-designed, purpose built, independent holiday packages full of unique and memorable experiences.
  • Our holiday packages have been exclusively built for us in collaboration with our handpicked suppliers, who also offer full on-ground support for the clients.
  • We are offering unique travel experiences which cannot be found elsewhere.
  • Many packages include our “Freedom of Choice” options which allow you to tailor the holiday experience. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.
  • They include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan.
  • A wide selection of our packages are compliant with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Covid Safe Travels.

Our motto for Independent Holiday Packages is start your holiday when and with who you want!

Our Independent Holiday Packages are NOT group tours with set departure dates. Group Tours have specific set departure dates, and of course, you are travelling with unknown passengers in a coach. These tours are great for certain travellers and there are many reputable tour operators providing a wide range of options around the world.

At Entire Travel Group, our focus is Independent Holiday Packages. Available daily, they are pre-designed, purpose built, packaged itineraries full of memorable experiences delivered by our hand-picked local partners.

Our holidays suit every demographic, from couples to singles, to retirees to families and everyone else in between.

Why travel with Entire Travel Group?

Of Entire Travel Group's attributes, we have settled on "When Experience Matters" as the quality we believe adds the most value to our customers. We have the experience to ensure your itinerary makes the dream holiday possible. Our continually enhanced technology allows our team to provide a quality customer service experience, and our partnerships with outstanding operators ensure we are confident of the on-ground experience for our customers.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

How does the Peace of Mind Booking Plan work?

Our Peace of Mind Booking Plan allows you to book with confidence in the new international travel environment. With low deposits, a cooling off period and a flexibility period where you can cancel and rebook later, we really do have you covered.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

Is there a cooling-off period?

Look for packages with our Peace of Mind Booking Plan logo on the website.

  • We understand that occasionally plans may change, so we give you the confidence to proceed with a cooling off period.
  • You may cancel for any reason within 7 days, where you will receive a 100% refund of your $100 per person deposit.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

What is Freedom of Choice?

At Entire Travel Group we understand that our customers have their own personal tastes and interests - so throughout our packages look for “Freedom of Choice” which gives you the ability to tailor your holiday from the various experiences offered on selected days. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.

The Freedom of Choice options are included in the package price, and the price remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days in the itinerary.

  • Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day in the itinerary.
  • The price of the package remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

For more details please visit - Freedom of Choice | Entire Travel Group

What is Book Now?

Book Now offers you the ability to make a reservation on our website for Holiday Packages that include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan. But it’s not just a static offer – you have complete flexibility from travel dates, passenger numbers, single supplements, room upgrades, optional extras, flexible booking terms and more.

  • Our team will contact our overseas suppliers and confirm all arrangements.
  • A Confirmation from our reservation system will be sent in the coming days.
  • The Booking Number on this confirmation supersedes the website reference.

How secure is the Entire Travel Group's on-line payment portal?

  • Entire Travel Group have partnered with TravelPay to ensure secure on-line credit card payments.
  • TravelPay is a level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which gives you peace of mind that your payment card data is in safe hands.
  • Entire Travel Group does not store any credit card information.

For more details please visit - Security and Compliance - TravelPay

What forms of payment can be used at Entire Travel Group?

  • To confirm a booking using our on-line Book Now process, a credit card must be used to pay the refundable deposit.
  • For additional payments on the booking, Entire Travel Group supports bank transfer, credit card, TravelPay B2B, PaymentGate.
  • For further details please visit our Payments page.

Can you book my international airfares?

On some Islands Holiday Packages (e.g. Fiji), it is practical to include flights, so where we have done this it is indicated by the plane icon.

However, on the majority of our Holiday Packages, we do not include international flights.

We found that many customers may prefer to:

  • Travel on a specific airline of their choice
  • Have the flexibility to book flights with Frequent Flyer points
  • Select flight dates that may be different to our Holiday Package start/end dates
  • Use a Travel Credit already held with the airline
  • Use their travel agent for this service

We are able to assist with flights on any Holiday Package, so please just notify us during the Book Now process or contact our team.

Should I take travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. During the Book Now process please confirm you require assistance, and our team will be in contact with you.

What should I do before travelling?

Before you travel it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate documentation including visas. If you are travelling on a passport other than Australian or New Zealand, you will require a permit to re-enter Australia. It is your responsibility as the traveller and/or travel booker to meet all government entry requirements.

For more information please visit - Before you travel | Entire Travel Group

How does a Travel Agent make a booking?

Please visit the Entire Travel Group's Agent Portal. We are here to support our industry partners with a range of informative updates, marketing collateral for campaigns and a reward & recognition program.

How do I start a Booking?

  • On any page that has Book Now simply follow the booking process.
  • You must select the Travel Agent tick box and provide correct details.
  • To confirm a booking only the refundable deposit is required.
  • An agency credit card must be used for this initial payment.

How do I contact Entire Travel Group?

For more information please visit - Contact us | Entire Travel Group

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