We don’t know if you know this, but we’re already about halfway through June. And though summer doesn’t technically start for another 7 days, 21 hours, and 7 minutes (we’re ballparking it), it’s time to start booking those heck-yeah vacation days and making your city escape plans.
Vancouver young professionals are some of the luckiest folk in Canada, with a slew of beautiful islands and areas perfect for a quick retreat or a prolonged vacation. Here, we bring you four of our favourite notable places to getaway not-too-far from Vancouver.
Bowen Island
Where: A quick 20-minute ferry from West Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay to Snug Cove
Why: Quaint cottages, rustic B&Bs, and traditional lodges inhabit this entrancing retreat from city life. Come here to relax and rest before heading back to the daily grind.
What: The Chocolate Suite at Cocoa West Chocolatier for “bed and chocolate” accommodation. Need we say more?
Galiano Island
Where: A short ferry ride of Vancouver from Tsawwassen terminal
Why: Galiano Island is a perfect spot for the young professional who likes an active vacation. Scuba dive, kayak, canoe, explore coves, and golf on your weekend (or week-long) getaway.
What: Hike to high points on the island, where you can see the Coast Mountain Range, Mount Baker, the Gulf and San Juan Islands, Vancouver Island and even the Olympic Peninsula 100 kilometers away.
Golden Ears Provincial Park
Where: Maple Ridge, BC
Why: Nature enthusiasts rejoice, Golden Ears has plenty of trails, creeks, and lakes to explore that showcase the phenomenal country scenery.
What: Keep an eye out for breath-taking waterfalls, mountain tops, and all sorts of Canadian wildlife, from deer to beavers.
Rolley Lake Provincial Park
Where: Maple Ridge, BC
Why: Sixty-four campsites provide ample space for groups of friends looking to hang out in the wilderness and enjoy nights by the campfire.
What: A beautiful sandy beach is where you’ll want to lounge in the sun all day, soaking up some much-needed vitamin D before your triumphant return to office life.