7 days in Vancouver Island: A Travel Diary

If you read the last blog entry in May, you’ll know that I went adventuring recently, which is no surprise considering who I am as a person. Sometimes, I feel I can hardly stay in one place for too long, but adulting comes with so many “perks,” doesn’t it?

On another note, have you ever experienced an adventure (it could be a vacation, hike, or travel for travel's sake or for curiosity) that was so good that you felt conflicted about sharing it or not sharing it with others? You kind of lean more on it being yours and yours alone?

Well, I opting to share because I find it quite inspiring or let’s say informative to read about the experiences of others with life related things (particularly when it comes to adventures, , thoughts on a topic, travel, food and life hacks).

I started my trip to Vancouver Island by landing in Victoria, a beautiful Canadian city known for its lovely gardens, stunning totem poles, rich history, and lively atmosphere.

Day 1 - April 27, 2023

Considering there was an issue with boarding my connecting my flight the previous day, I really wanted to maximize the day by waking up early and diving into the plan for the day.

Light Breakfast

A stone's throw away from the gorgeous condo a dear friend of mine offered for our (my partner came along) stay in the Langford area was Origin Bakery and Cafe. It quickly became the go-to cafe, carrying everything from coffee/tea to baked goods. As I wanted to explore the Langford area, I opted to chow down all the goodies in the car.

Activity of the Day

Okay, hear me out! The best way to take in a new city is to take a bus tour. I know it sounds touristy (especially if you want to blend in - something I tell myself) but worth it! A bus tour takes you to all the hit spots you probably would not think of going either just because or because of time constraints. We hopped on a tour bus that allowed us to freely get on and off at different stops while exploring Victoria. The tour lasted three hours, and we also learned some fascinating historical facts along the way.

Food Indulgences I recommend (Because I tried it, okay?!)

Day 2 - April 28, 2023

One cannot visit Vancouver Island without going to Tofino (I thought), but you can (no shade intended). The drive to Tofino was magical and scary with the windiness of the road, beautiful tall trees and sneaking ocean views.

Wonderings

While we were in a rush to get to point B from A, we stopped by the Steam Punk Café in Port Alberni to pick up some tea snacks to munch on while car camping at Surf Grove Campground (highly recommended, although they have a curfew for those who wish not to be restricted).

Day 3 - April 29, 2023

Breakfast

Common Loaf Bake Shop is a must-visit for breakfast/Brunch if you ever find yourself in the Tofino area. It can get chaotic during the tourist season but do not worry. There are very efficient in making sure you get your order on time! I was surprisingly impressed with how the team worked so well without exchanging words. They just knew what to do and when.

Tofitian Cafe is another great quick breakfast pickup and coffee shop.

Whenever I am in a new place, I aim to look for great London fogs. Both Common Loaf Bake Shop and Tofitian Cafe delivered on their London fogs!

Activity of the Day

I personally have ever been on a zodiac. When booking a whale watching tour, Jamie's Whaling Station advertised the whale watching tour on the zodiac as e fast-paced, exciting, real connection to the elements and local wildlife - SOLD!

It was really all of that! Got to see two grey whales, sea otters and taste the ocean’s (North Pacific) saltiness.

Food/Desert Indulgences I recommend (Because I tried it, okay?!)

Chocolate Tofino (if you are craving gelato and/or chocolates, they got you)
Al'oha Poke & Tostada

Day 4 - April 30, 2023

Light Breakfast

Quick stop at Tofitian Café, because why not?!

Activity of the Day

Because of how Touristy Tofino can be, I was craving for more of a slower environment. This day, exploring Ucluelet was fitting but first, stopped by Picnic Charcuterie, a very hidden gem of Tofino, to pick up a box for 2 for lunch.

While wandering around Ucluelet, I realized that I wanted a regular bed to sleep in for the night and lodging in Ucluelet (with the exception of camping) is not $350 a night like in Tofino.

We opted for a 1-night (last night in the Tofino-Ucluelet area) Airbnb at Molly and CJ’s Sounds of the Sea (Highly recommended if you are ever in the area!)

Dinner

I set out to the West Coast with hopes of eating seafood till I pass out but got disappointed. I have no qualms with fish and chips but in my opinion, it gets old when I can find it on almost every pub/restaurant. However, I do admit Wolf in the Fog’s halibut dish and fresh oysters came through!

Day 5 - May 1, 2023

Brunch

Quick stop at the Blue Room, A West Coast Bistro for some fluffy pancakes and hearty breakfast.

While I did not check them out, the Barkely Café, Thay Tea and Foggy Bean Coffee seemed worth a try too. Check them out at your own risk!

Activity of the Day

Settled in for the 5-hour drive back to Langford but not without stopping and checking out Nanaimo. The long drive as you can tell became longer but is that not the whole point of road tripping - making stops and snooping?

Day 6 - May 2, 2023

High Tea for Breakfast/Lunch

You can’t be in Victoria without dressing up and going for high tea. Especially if its your first time (like me). High tea on this trip was scheduled for actually the day we were supposed to land in Victoria but Westjet, had to just show their true colors.

High tea at the Empress Hotel was really an EXPERIENCE.

Activity of the Day

Hiking the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail was a must on my list. Not all of it this day, but a girl can dream. The Marine Trail comprises four trailheads: Juan de Fuca East (China Beach), Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek and Botanical Beach.

As time was limited, I picked to do the shortest one, which was the Juan de Fuca East. It was a wonderful hike down until it came time to come back up, and I realized how unfit I was. OMG!

With frequent stops and breathing hard, I made it through!

On the drive back from Juan de Fuca, it was nice to make stops and take in the beautiful views of the ocean before leaving it all behind for now.

A fantastic find I will come back to for car camping is the Jordan River Campground.