Although most of the population of Canada lives on the eastern half of it: the West Coast of Canada isn’t something to ignore. Known for being artsier, a little more free-spirited, and a lot more socially conscious: Canada’s West Coast is a force to be reckoned with. So if you’re considering a trip away from the monotony of inland life, here are the top parts of coastal life to look forward to.
Vancouver
Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia, is among Canada’s densest, most ethnically diverse cities. A popular filming location, it’s surrounded by mountains, and also has thriving art, theatre and music scenes. This is the city where stars are made, and tech startups are born. Known as Canada’s Hollywood, Vancouver is the film and technology heart of Canada, quickly becoming one of the richest cities in the nation because of these two industries. Within the city itself, you get to live between beautiful views of mountainside shadow and endless beautiful water. People who live here say they love how peaceful and safe they feel.
Victoria
Victoria was Queen of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland from 20 June 1837 until her death in 1901. Known as the Victorian era, her reign of 63 years and seven months was longer than any previous British monarch. A cousin of Vancouver, Victoria, is on the southern tip of the coastline. This artsy city is like nothing else. Countless beautiful and unique art shops and boutiques allow you to shop until you’re worn out while simultaneously supporting dozens of small business owners. Surrounded by beaches and waterfalls, Victoria feels like an oasis of water and perfect weather. The temperature is moderate in the summer, and in the winter, it never drops too far below freezing.
Whistler
If you want to go somewhere that will let you cut loose and have fun on the slopes; Whistler is the place to go. Take a break from looking at Vancouver homes for sale, and take an hour and a half trip away to enjoy the beautiful year-round views and endless activities. Famous for skiing and snowboarding, this national wildlife park is where many Olympians trained on their way to the games. The surroundings of beautiful mountains make this area an incredible one to look at year-round.
The West Coast Trail
If civilization wears you out, slip away to the trails and enjoy some fresh air. The West Coast Trail is a group of walking and hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty that Canada has to offer. Many pack for camping and spend days or weeks getting to know the trails more personally. Although there’s good lodging at several points along the way, there’s something incredible about getting to sleep and relax under the open and endless sky.
Prince Rupert
This tiny port city is world-known, despite having less than 13,000 people who call it home. Deeply steeped in the history of the first nations people of the area, Prince Rupert is a city that has been through a lot of turmoil and trouble and came out strong on the other side. So if you want to see how far Canada can go, this city is a great place to enjoy taking in history while seeing incredible beauty and kindness.
Canada is a vast country, and no two cities will ever be the same. However, if you take the time to get to know the West Coast, you’ll fall in love as well. This coastline is a piece of beautiful art you’ll want to move to permanently.