While I’ve been passionate about supporting Canadian for longer than I can remember, these days I’m feeling the pull to support local more than ever. If you know me, you know that travelling is one of my very favourite things to do with my family and friends, and there is nothing better than exploring your own backyard! I thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to round up some of my favourite hidden (or not so hidden … LOL!) gems for YOU to visit this summer in British Columbia! If you’re looking for a weekend getaway, here are some of my favourite spots that you need to check out, ranked from most to least expensive!!
Nimmo Bay
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Nimmo Bay is not your ordinary run-of-the-mill destination. It’s an investment. However, this resort is like nothing I’ve experienced before. It is pure magic, and I want to share with you today what makes it so unique and separates it from other destinations (hence the price tag!). We took the kids here on a family trip with my cousin Tori and her family, and it is still, to this day, the kids’ favourite trip of all time! Check out this recap of our trip back in 2023.
This resort is located in the Southern Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia. The area is so remote that it is only accessible by air or sea, which means that along with you, everything from food, supplies, and anything they cannot purchase locally has to be chartered in!
We’ve been lucky enough to visit a couple of times, and every time I’ve been, their team makes it a priority that you feel taken care of during your entire stay. From the moment you arrive, it is evident just how special this place is.
If you know me, you know I’m a huge foodie, and what took our experience to the next level was the food and drinks! Nimmo Bay is home to an award-winning chef, who cooks the most decadent meals. The overall experience can be curated and customized for each guest, with amazing excursion opportunities, a floating sauna, massages, meditations, hikes, fishing… You name it. The entire team is excellent and is committed to making this a once in a lifetime experience!
Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a graduation trip for your child, a bachelor/bachelorette party or a family vacation, I highly recommend Nimmo Bay.
If you have the chance to visit this resort, I can assure you, it will be an unforgettable experience.
Four Seasons Whistler
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Whistler holds a very special place in our hearts as a family. When Justin and I first started dating, he was living here as a Pro Snowboarder, and we came for a family trip with Nacho while I was pregnant with Leo. We also hosted Sammy’s bachelorette party here… so it’s safe to say that we have some very fun memories here in Whistler LOL!
A few weeks back, we stayed at the Four Seasons Private Residences on our first family trip without Nacho, and made the most precious memories together. I just started skiing again this winter, and it was so fun to get out on the hill with Justin and the kids. I cannot say enough about the food, drinks, concierge and rental services here. It’s definitely an investment, but if you’re on the hunt for a luxurious vacation… look no further!
Pacific Sands Beach Resort
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Tofino is one of my favourite places to visit. The best part is, there’s no bad season to go!!! The waves are great year round and the town is just as amazing in the storm season as it is in the summer. Depending on what you like to do i.e.: hunker down inside with loved ones or go outside and explore, there’s something for everyone.
My top recommendation on where to stay in Tofino is Pacific Sands Beach Resort. We’ve stayed here many times over the years. We rented the cabin called the Sunset House at Rosie Bay a few times, and it is so amazing. It comfortably sleeps 10… there is A LOT of room for fun in that house!!! The view of the sunset definitely lived up to it’s name and waking up to the sound of waves was so relaxing. It was cozy and perfect for spending quality time with loved ones. Not to mention, the breakfast in bed was the cherry on top. I will definitely be staying here again and recommend it for any larger groups or families.
While you’re in Tofino, be sure to check out these restaurants!
- Wolf In The Fog – for breakfast, lunch or dinner this place is by far my fav! They use all local and fresh ingredients and the atmosphere is so cozy.
- Shelter Restaurant – fun, laid back, relaxing spot for dinner with great food and drinks
- Tacofino – the best taco’s from an adorable food truck
Fairmont Pacific Rim
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The Fairmont Pacific Rim is my home away from home whenever I’m in Vancouver. It’s the perfect place to stay if you’re looking to spoil yourself. They recently renovated their Gold Floor and it is BEAUTIFUL. The best part about Fairmont Gold is the unparalleled guest experience with tons of amenities, including a dedicated 24/7 concierge team, an immersive local culinary and cocktail activations to wellness-focused treatments.
Also… the Willowstream Spa is a MUST while you’re staying at the Fairmont Pacific Rim. I would come to this hotel for just the spa alone, that’s how good it is. They recently added a cold plunge and sauna experience as a seasonal activation, and I cannot recommend it enough!
The Cove Lakeside Resort
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If camping isn’t your thing, The Cove is an amazing resort nestled right along Okanagan Lake, surrounded by beautiful gardens, it’s just a hop away from downtown Kelowna! Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or a romantic getaway, The Cove has something for everyone. I love the amenities here; there is a fun splash pad for the kids, the food is great, and it’s close to home!
Chute Lake Lodge
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We’ve been to Chute Lake Lodge a few times over the years; most recently for Sammy and Dustin’s birthdays, and we had a BLAST. They offer everything from hiking, fishing, and e-biking! Not to mention, they are super close to the beautiful Naramata Bench, which means you can enjoy some Okanagan wine tasting!
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, it does. The team at Chute Lake also cooks delicious meals for you, and you have the choice to stay in a cozy cabin, a yurt, or better yet, you can GLAMP! This getaway is the perfect vacation if you’re looking for something quiet and quaint amidst the wilderness and close to home. They book up fast, so if this is something that you may be interested in, make sure to reach out as soon as possible! It also makes for the perfect escape in the Fall and Winter, too!
Last time we were here, we rented the big cabin with a sauna and we LOVED it. There’s a super cute bar that has amazing food and drinks… I cannot recommend this place enough!
Watermark Beach Resort
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Watermark Beach Resort will seriously make you feel like you’ve just stepped out of Canada and walked right into a tropical destination. This resort is not only situated steps away from Osoyoos Lake, but it’s also right in the heart of downtown in Osoyoos, BC. You’ll want to pack your bags for at least three days, as there is an unlimited variety of things to do and areas to explore!
We’re heading here for a team retreat this summer, and I cannot wait. I’ll be sure to share more about our experience afterwards!
Camping in Fintry
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If you’ve followed me for a long time, you’ll know that before we bought the farm, we used to go camping almost every weekend in the summer! We loved packing up the camper and heading to Fintry with Tori, Charles, Sammy and Dustin and the kiddos.
Camping is such a great opportunity to unplug and spend time in nature with your loved ones. If you’re looking for an affordable getaway this summer, I recommend checking out Fintry Park; we’ve made SO many incredible family memories here over the years!
Tip: Try to get a campsite on the lake, if you can!
Well, there you have it! My top 8 places to visit in Canada this summer, or seriously any time of the year, they’re all great destinations! Do you have any plans to travel within Canada this summer? Let me know in the comments below!
xo
Jilly
