Coastal Road Trips in British Columbia: Scenic Routes Along Canada’s Wild Edge
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Posted by on 16 Oct 2025
Planning a road trip through British Columbia’s coastal terrain? Imagine a journey where the ocean meets the forest, highways wrap around inlets, and ferries stitch together the road network. The Infinite Coast isn’t just a place; it’s a route that invites you to explore by car, boat and ferry.
For self-drive enthusiasts, coastal routes like Vancouver to Tofino or Powell River to Prince Rupert offer a mosaic of rainforest, rugged shoreline and small towns. In this guide, we’ll map out must-see stops, scenic ferry crossings, local dining highlights and smart logistics to keep your trip smooth. Whether you’re chasing surf, forest or quiet coastal nights, this is your blueprint.
Trip Highlights
Cross iconic ferry routes (Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo, Earls Cove to Saltery Bay) and enjoy sea-to-road transitions.
Drive Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim Highway to Tofino, passing waterfalls, rainforest and surf beaches.
Cruise the Sunshine Coast Highway (Highway 101) through remote coastal communities and ferry link gaps.
Journey north via Highway 16 and connect outlying coastal towns toward Prince Rupert.
Savour seafood in harbour towns, explore local Indigenous art, and take short detours to lookouts.
Coastal Driving Routes to Know
Vancouver to Tofino: Island and West Coast Drive
This is one of BC’s classic coastal drives. From Vancouver, you first cross to Vancouver Island via ferry (for example, Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo), then traverse along Highway 19 and Highway 4 / Pacific Rim Highway to Tofino.
From Victoria (Swartz Bay ferry) to Tofino takes about 4 hr 40 minutes driving time on Vancouver Island roads.
From Nanaimo’s ferry terminals (Departure Bay or Duke Point), it’s often just under 3 hours to Tofino via Highway 4.
Notable stops include Englishman Falls, Qualicum Falls, Cathedral Grove and then the scenic stretch through Sutton Pass toward Tofino’s wild shores.
The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a marked loop on southern Vancouver Island (approx 263 km) combining scenic coastal roads, forests and shoreline views.
Sunshine Coast / Powell River via Highway 101
The Sunshine Coast Highway (Highway 101) is unique: though on the mainland, it’s not connected by road. Access is strictly by ferry.
From Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver), you take a ferry to Langdale, then drive north along Highway 101.
At Earls Cove, you board another ferry to Saltery Bay, reconnecting land portions of Highway 101 toward Powell River.
Powell River lies about 31 km north ofthe Saltery Bay ferry terminal.
This route threads through quiet coastal hamlets, forested hillsides and ocean views.
Because of the ferry link gaps, this road trip blends sea travel with driving—an ideal reflection of The Infinite Coast’s spirit.
Powell River to Prince Rupert: Northward Coastal Stretch
Taking a full northbound coastal route from Powell River toward Prince Rupert involves multiple segments and connections. The drive from Prince Rupert to Powell River (if driven via road where possible) stretches to about 1,671 km and would take over 23 hours of driving time.
However, the path is not continuous by road alone. Ferry or air segments are essential in many stretches.
To reach Prince Rupert from Vancouver Island, some travellers use the ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert, navigating the coastal west zone.
Once on the mainland, Highway 16 (the Yellowhead Highway) connects Prince Rupert inland toward the east and meets broader highway systems.
This stretch is for seasoned travellers who accept wild roads, ferry segments and remoteness. But the rewards are tremendous: true coastal wilderness and the sense of frontier.
Must-See Stops & Local Delights
Along Vancouver Island & Tofino
Cathedral Grove stands among giant old-growth Douglas fir and red cedar, a striking pause in the drive north.
Long Beach / Pacific Rim National Park offers sweeping ocean views and coastal trails.
Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, just south of Ucluelet, is one of the accessible lighthouses along this wild coast.
In Ucluelet / Tofino, local cafés, oceanfront dining and craft breweries invite stops.
Indigenous art galleries, local markets and forest walks deepen the journey’s cultural layers.
Sunshine Coast & Powell River
Explore Gibsons, Sechelt and smaller coastal villages for art, galleries and local food.
Enjoy kayaking, forest walks and shoreline detours along the coastal edge.
In Powell River, heritage architecture, local food and cultural festivals may await your exploration.
Northern Coastal & Inland Corridor
On Highway 16, small towns like Terrace, Smithers or Kitimat provide respite and services.
Use local lodges or wilderness outfitters as gateways to remote coastal adventures.
Be alert to wildlife, river valleys, and scenic lookouts along rivers and mountain passes.
Expert Travel Tips
Plan your schedule carefully. Ferry reservations are essential, especially in summer and for popular crossings (e.g. Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo, Earls Cove to Saltery Bay).
Allow buffer days. Coastal weather, ferry delays or tides may shift plans.
Stay overnight in smaller communities, as this deepens the journey and reduces pressure.
Fill up fuel early. Remote coastal stretches often have long gaps between gas stations.
Respect local and Indigenous customs. Ask before photographing, support local artisans and follow signage.
Sample Itinerary: A 14-Day Coastal Explorer
Day | Region | Highlight Drive / Stops |
1 | Vancouver → Nanaimo | Ferry to Vancouver Island, begin north via Island Highway |
2 | Nanaimo → Tofino | Drive via southern island, stops at falls, forest |
3 | Tofino / Ucluelet | Beach walks, rainforest trails |
4 | Tofino → Campbell River | Scenic return east, forested valleys |
5 | Campbell River → Port Hardy | Drive Highway 19 north |
6 | Port Hardy → Prince Rupert (ferry/leg) | Northbound ferry segment to coast or direct sea crossing |
7 | Prince Rupert | Explore town, local culture |
8 | Prince Rupert → Terrace | Enter inland Highway 16 corridor |
9 | Terrace → Smithers | Mountain passes, river valleys |
10 | Smithers → Powell River region | Travel via connecting routes toward coastline |
11 | Powell River | Rest and coastal exploration |
12 | Powell River → Sunshine Coast | Drive Highway 101 segments and ferry links |
13 | Sunshine Coast exploration | Coastal villages, forest trails |
14 | Return to Vancouver | Final ferry leg and coastal drive |
Traveller Stories
“I didn’t expect the ferry crossings would feel part of the drive—each sea leg felt like a chapter in itself.” — Sarah J., 2022
“Driving into the rainforest, pausing at waterfalls, ending the day in a small harbour town—this trip felt layered.” — Marcus W., 2021
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for a coastal road trip?
You’ll want at least 10 to 14 days to meaningfully explore Vancouver Island, Sunshine Coast and northern corridors without rushing.
Do I need to book ferries in advance?
Yes, you should reserve ferries (especially vehicle crossings) well ahead in peak season.
Are all roads continuous along the whole coast?
No, some stretches require ferry or air links. Coastal BC blends road and marine segments.
What’s the best time to drive the coast?
Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers best weather, daylight and road access.
Do I need a visa to visit Canada?
Most Australian travellers don’t need a traditional visa but must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before flying to Canada. Apply online through the Government of Canada website.
How far is Powell River from Vancouver?
Powell River lies up the Sunshine Coast via ferry and driving segments, approximately 156 km along Highway 101 (including ferry links).
Can I drive from Vancouver Island to Prince Rupert entirely by road?
Not continuously. Many legs require ferry or boat connections. Use coastal ferries and plan for marine segments.
Do I need special permits or road passes?
Generally no, for highways. Some parks or remote regions may require bookings, permits or guided entry.
What about safety in remote areas?
Travel with a well-equipped vehicle, good maps, extra supplies and reliable accommodation plans. Mobile reception may be sparse.
Where can I check BC ferry schedules?
Visit BC Ferries official site for route maps and schedules.
References
Discover British Columbia’s Infinite Coast by Road
Every turn along British Columbia’s coastal highways brings a new perspective — a stretch of ocean glinting under the sun, a ferry gliding between forested islands, a mountain backdrop rising beyond the mist. These roads are more than routes; they are invitations to experience the untamed heart of The Infinite Coast at your own pace.
Driving from Vancouver to Tofino, weaving through Powell River and the Sunshine Coast, or tracing the rugged path toward Prince Rupert, each kilometre reveals why Canada’s western edge is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives.
At Entire Travel Group, we craft road trip itineraries that combine independence with local insight. From securing ferry reservations and accommodation to recommending the best lookouts and coastal cafés, we handle the details so you can focus on the journey itself.
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