Best Day Trips from Victoria (2025 Guide)

Victoria may be a stunning destination in itself, but one of the city’s biggest advantages is its location. Nestled at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is surrounded by charming towns, lush forests, rugged coastlines, and wineries that can all be reached in less than two hours. That means you can enjoy the buzz of downtown Victoria in the morning and be sipping wine in the Cowichan Valley or hiking a rainforest trail by the afternoon.

Day trips are popular among both visitors and locals because they combine convenience with adventure. No need for overnight bags — just hop in the car (or even on a BC Transit bus or ferry) and explore. Each trip showcases a different side of Vancouver Island, whether it’s the culinary delights of a small town, the raw natural beauty of a coastal hike, or the tranquility of seaside villages.

This guide rounds up the top 5 day trips from Victoria in 2025, each chosen for its unique experience, accessibility, and popularity with locals.

Top 5 Day Trips from Victoria

1. 

Sooke (Coastal Adventure)

Just 45 minutes west of Victoria, Sooke is a paradise for outdoor lovers. The area is famous for Sooke Potholes Regional Park, where natural rock pools invite summer swims and picnics. Hikers can explore the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail or take shorter coastal walks with panoramic views. Sooke is also home to craft breweries and cozy restaurants like Sooke Brewing Company and Wild Mountain.

• Distance: ~45 minutes by car
  
  
• Highlights: Sooke Potholes, hiking trails, craft breweries
  
  
• Why it ranks: Perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
  
  

2. 

Cowichan Valley (Wine Country)

Known as the “Napa of the North,” Cowichan Valley is Vancouver Island’s premier wine region. About an hour from Victoria, it boasts a dozen wineries, cideries, and farm-to-table dining spots. Popular wineries include Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Unsworth Vineyards, both offering tastings with spectacular views. Foodies also flock to the area for fresh, locally grown ingredients.

• Distance: ~1 hour by car
  
  
• Highlights: Wineries, cideries, farm-to-table dining
  
  
• Why it ranks: A must-do for wine and food enthusiasts.
  
  

3. 

Sidney (Seaside Charm)

Located just 30 minutes from Victoria, Sidney offers small-town charm right on the water. Browse independent bookstores like Beacon Books, stroll the Sidney Pier, and visit the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, an aquarium and cultural hub. Sidney is also a launching point for whale-watching tours.

• Distance: ~30 minutes by car or bus
  
  
• Highlights: Bookstores, waterfront, aquarium, whale-watching
  
  
• Why it ranks: Close, charming, and packed with activities.
  
  

4. 

Salt Spring Island (Art & Markets)

Hop on a short ferry ride from Swartz Bay and you’ll find yourself on Salt Spring Island, famous for its artistic community, Saturday market, and organic farms. The island vibe is laid-back, with galleries, studios, and cafés dotting the main village of Ganges. Many visitors also enjoy Salt Spring’s cheese farms and scenic hikes like Mount Maxwell.

• Distance: ~1.5 hours (car + ferry)
  
  
• Highlights: Farmers’ markets, art studios, hikes, cheese farms
  
  
• Why it ranks: A creative, bohemian escape from city life.
  
  

5. 

Malahat SkyWalk (Adventure with a View)

Opened in 2021, the Malahat SkyWalk has quickly become one of Vancouver Island’s top attractions. Just 35 minutes north of Victoria, it features a spiraling wooden walkway that leads to breathtaking views of the Gulf Islands, Mount Baker, and even Olympic Mountains on clear days. The 20-meter spiral slide back down is a fun twist for families.

• Distance: ~35 minutes by car
  
  
• Highlights: SkyWalk tower, panoramic views, family fun
  
  
• Why it ranks: Unique, accessible, and perfect for photos.
  
  

SECTION

What’s the easiest day trip from Victoria without a car?

Sidney is accessible by BC Transit buses from downtown.

What is the best day trip for families with kids?

Malahat SkyWalk and Sooke Potholes are both family-friendly.

Where can I taste wine near Victoria?

Cowichan Valley, just an hour away, is Vancouver Island’s wine country.

What’s the most scenic day trip from Victoria?

Salt Spring Island offers ferry views plus stunning island landscapes.

CLOSING

Victoria is a destination that shines on its own, but its location also makes it the perfect hub for exploring Vancouver Island. Whether you’re craving a wine tour in Cowichan, a seaside afternoon in Sidney, or the thrill of Malahat SkyWalk, these day trips add depth and variety to any stay in the city.

 Now it’s your turn: Which of these day trips is your favorite? Vote below or suggest your own go-to getaway from Victoria. Locals often have hidden gems that visitors don’t know about, so your input helps us keep this guide fresh.

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our related guides to Victoria’s Best Beaches, Top Kayaking & Paddleboarding Spots, and Weekend Getaways from Vancouver Island.