Captivating mountain peaks, lake days, majestic wildlife, vast wind-swept beaches, surf breaks … you’ve started planning your Vancouver Island vacation, but the question remains: where to stay? There are many types of Vancouver Island hotels to choose from, from cozy home-style B&Bs hosted by locals and historic lodges to luxurious oceanfront resorts. And when it comes to Vancouver Island accommodations, start your search in Campbell River.
Oceanfront Resorts
Vancouver Island has several resorts scattered along its coastline and many feature waterfront vistas gracing their rooms, on-site restaurants, and other amenities. In Campbell River, stay at Naturally Pacific Resort with its luxurious spa, two eateries, picturesque common areas, and the Campbell River Golf Club. North of town, Dolphin’s Resort is home to cozy, private cabins nestled in the trees, and a popular on-site restaurant, Angler’s Dining, that showcases west coast cuisine. Fishing is at the heart of Brown’s Bay Resort, which is home to private cabins, hot tubs, and a floating restaurant.
View Campbell River Resorts and Hotels
Other popular resorts on Vancouver Island can be found in Tofino. Long Beach Lodge Resort is steps from Cox Beach, with views over the surf break and storm swells from the Great Room dining room. Pacific Sands Resort, the Indigenous-owned Tin Wis Resort, and Ocean Village Resort also all provide beach access and are perfectly located to soak up Tofino’s downtown, eateries, and surf culture.
Nostalgic Motels Along Coastal Highways
If you’re embarking on a Vancouver Island road trip (which we thoroughly recommend), then you might want to tap into the nostalgia of several Vancouver Island motels. Begin your journey in Campbell River with a stay in Above Tide Motel which has oceanfront views from every room and is right beside the Campbell River Museum. Big Rock Motel is also right across the street from the Rotary Sea Walk and FoggDukkers Coffee and Roasting.
On the west coast of the Island, enjoy the coastal charm of Ucluelet. Book into the West Coast Motel on the Harbour or the recently renovated Wildwood Inn (previously the Ukee Peninsula Motel). At the other end of the peninsula, the Tofino Motel Harborview is walkable from Tofino’s eateries and amenities, with breathtaking views across the water and inlet.
Historic Lodges That Showcase Community Heritage
Vancouver Island is home to lodges that showcase the history and character of each community they’re located in. Some have recently been rejuvenated, while still retaining details and decor that imbue charm and intrigue.
Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River has recently been reopened, much to the delight of locals and returning visitors. Lounge in the cozy common spaces and take in the historic photographs that adorn the walls. Enjoy many meals overlooking Discovery Passage (keep an eye out for whales while you dine), and use amenities like the swimming pool, tennis courts, and the on-site fishing dock! The restaurant will even cook your catch for you. Campbell River is also the gateway to several lodges dotted throughout the Discovery Islands, such as Breakwater Lodge, Dent Lodge, and the lodge-like main house at Blind Channel Resort.
In Victoria, British Columbia, several historic houses have been turned into lodge-like hotels, including The Craigmyle, Abigail’s Hotel, and the James Bay Inn Hotel. Meanwhile, Rosemead House is a living legacy—complete with on-site spa and dining—of the former Old English Inn, originally established in 1906.
Home-style Accommodations Hosted by Locals
Finally, private rental accommodations showcase locals’ love of calling Vancouver Island home. Some private accommodations on Vancouver Island come with a sauna or hot tub, and you can bet that the majority come with spectacular views or quick access to nature.
Recent changes to short term rental policies in British Columbia mean that homes listed on platforms like Airbnb should have a business number and typically only be on the site of primary residences.
