Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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The turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake near Whistler

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 6 Days

This quick adventure features two of coastal British Columbia's most popular destinations—Whistler and the Pacific Rim. Skipping Vancouver, you'll head straight to Whistler for two days of exploring the mountains, lakes, and stunning outdoor scenery. From there, it's a long day of driving and sailing over to Tofino and the Pacific Rim on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Here, follow trails through coastal rainforest and along storm-swept coastlines or simply relax in your beach-side cottage while enjoying the views. It's also the perfect place to spot whales while sea kayaking to remote islands.

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 7 Days

Follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the resort town of Whistler, your base for two days of outdoor adventure. Explore nearby alpine lakes and mountains by day and enjoy great local restaurants and spas by night. After you've had your taste of the mountains, sail to Vancouver Island for two more nights along the windswept coastline around Tofino, surrounded by coastal rainforest. Finally, head to Victoria for your last night in the city.

Pick from the numerous hiking trails around Whistler

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 8 Days

Base yourself in Whistler and the Pacific Rim to get the most out of your 8 days along the coast of British Columbia. This itinerary is designed for those who love the outdoors and want to immerse themselves in two of the region's most popular destinations. In Whistler, you'll find countless hiking and biking trails along with great restaurants, breweries, and spas. In the Pacific Rim, you'll be surrounded by dense coastal rainforest and island chains only accessible by kayak and floatplane.

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 9 Days

Combine the mountains and the coast on this 9-day road trip. Starting and ending in Vancouver, you'll first head to the mountains and lakes around Whistler where you'll find countless hiking and biking trails. Then, taking the ferry over to Vancouver Island, you'll have a day on the beach before heading to the Pacific Rim, a beautifully rugged stretch of coastline that's famous for both adventure and relaxation. End your trip with a day to explore the great restaurants and neighborhoods of Victoria.

Amphitrite Point Lighthouse near Ucluelet in the Pacific Rim

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 10 Days

With 10 days, you'll have plenty of time to explore the mountains around Whistler and the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island. Starting in Vancouver, follow the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler where you'll base yourself for a few days. From there, take the ferry to Vancouver Island where you can hike, sea kayak, or take day adventures to remote islands and hot springs. Finally, wrap up your adventure in the provincial capital of Victoria.

Fog enveloping the rugged coastline of the Pacific Rim

Whistler & Pacific Rim Road Trip - 13 Days

Visit two of the most popular destinations along coastal British Columbia—the alpine paradise around Whistler and the dramatic storm-swept coastline of Tofino and the Pacific Rim. You'll by following the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Squamish and Whistler before taking the ferry to Vancouver Island. On the island, spend three days exploring the coast by foot and by kayak before visiting Victoria, British Columbia's provincial capital.

The shores of Buttle Lake, Strathcona Provincial Park

Vancouver Island Road Trip: North Island & Pacific Rim - 14 Days

Explore the diverse landscapes of Vancouver Island, where you can easily spend days hiking through the backcountry, paddling endless coastlines, or relaxing at cozy retreats next to the beach. You'll pass through prime wildlife viewing habitats and have plenty of hiking, biking, and sea kayaking opportunities. This is a great route for those looking to experience all that Vancouver Island has to offer without feeling rushed.

Orca swimming in the Johnstone Strait near Telegraph Cove

Vancouver Island Road Trip: North Island & Pacific Rim - 15 Days

This itinerary includes two of Vancouver Island's best wildlife viewing locations as well as a diverse range of landscapes—from islands to rugged mountains to coastal rainforests. You'll have ample time to explore by paddle and by foot and to relax in cozy lodges perched along the coast. Finally, end your trip in Victoria before heading back to Vancouver for your departure.

Vancouver Island Road Trip: Salt Spring & Pacific Rim - 11 Days

If you love local markets, laid-back island charm, as well as outdoor adventure, this itinerary combines the best of both worlds. First, you'll head to Salt Spring Island (imagine Matha's Vineyard meets the Pacific Coast) where you'll stay in a beautiful B&B and check out the local art galleries, orchards, and wineries. After Salt Spring, head to the Pacific Rim, a wild stretch of coastline interspersed with beaches and backed by coastal rainforest along Vancouver Island's eastern shore. Here, spend your days sea kayaking, hiking, and exploring the coastline.

Day Trip to Santa Barbara: Solvang & Los Olivos Wine Tasting

Take a full day to explore Santa Barbara and its neighboring areas. Taste fresh Danish pastries in Solvang and sip on local wine in Los Olivos. Explore the modern artistic neighborhoods of Santa Barbara and take in the views of its beautiful beaches.

Day Trip to Ojai

This day trip takes you into the small-town life of Ojai. Wander through the local mom-and-pop shops, relax at the outdoor meditation center, and end your day with a wine tasting at a local cellar.

Oak Glen Day Trip

Leave the city behind and spend the day getting a feel for the countryside. With berries in summer and apples in fall, pick some fresh produce, fill up on a home-cooked meal, and soak up the natural scenery of this peaceful setting.

Laguna Beach Day Trip

Get away from the city for the day and unwind in this quintessential SoCal town. Dip your toes in the water of its sandy beaches, marvel at the artisanal products crafted by local artists, and sip on award-winning local wines.

San Diego Day Trip

No stranger to visitors, the sunny city of San Diego has plenty to explore for locals as well. Spend the day hiking through the beautiful scenery of Torrey Pines State Reserve, unwinding with boutique shopping in Del Mar, and enjoying the misty sea breeze at La Jolla Cove.

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 9 Days

This fast-paced road trip takes you across British Columbia on a popular route from Vancouver to Calgary. You'll have 2-3 hours of driving most days, with a couple of free days to immerse yourself in the Okanagan Valley's wine country and Kananaskis Country, the hidden gem of the Canadian Rockies. This itinerary is best suited for those who enjoy great food and wine and want to combine this with outdoor adventures.

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 10 Days

With 10 days, experience the best of British Columbia's wine country and the Canadian Rockies. You'll start in Vancouver and spend the first half of the trip wine tasting and getting out on the great biking and hiking trails of Okanagan Valley. From there, head north into the mountains to some of Canada's most dramatic national parks—ending your trip in the spectacular (and underrated) hiking region of Kananaskis Country.

The lakes and mountains of the Okanagan Valley, British Columbia's wine region

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 11 Days

Follow one of British Columbia's most popular road trips, crossing the province from Vancouver to Calgary. While there are a few different routes to choose from, this itinerary takes you through the wine region and lake country of the Okanagan Valey before finishing your trip surrounded by the epic scenery of the Canadian Rockies. You'll have short driving days for most of the trip so you can maximize your time in the outdoors.

Fall in Kananaskis Country, south of Canmore

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 12 Days

In 12 days, follow this popular drive across British Columbia from Vancouver to Calgary. This particular route focuses on two main regions—the wine hills of the Okanagan Valley and the dramatic mountains of the Canadian Rockies. You'll have ample time to explore both regions, as you'll have two nights in most locations. This drive is best done between May and October.

Town of Revelstoke, one of BC's most popular outdoor destinations

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 13 Days

After a couple of days in Vancouver, head east to the dry interior of the Okanagan Valley, home to hundreds of local vineyards, fruit orchards, and lake parks. Split your days between mountain biking and hiking in the local mountains and visiting the wineries and restaurants in the afternoon. From here, the second half of your trip focuses on the dramatic peaks and alpine trails in the Canadian Rockies before departing from Calgary.

Day Trip to the Upper Keys

You don’t have to leave the States to find a little slice of paradise. Located off the southern coast of Florida, the Florida Keys are a string of islands brimming with indigenous flora and colorful marine life, serving as a tropical vacation destination not too far from home. Explore the Upper Keys to minimize drive time and maximize the amount of time you spend soaking up the sun.

Wine vineyards near Penticton in the Okanagan Valley

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 14 Days

With 2 weeks, this itinerary covers the best of British Columbia's wine region and the Canadian Rockies. You'll have short driving days and will base yourself in a number of great locations for multiple nights, where you can immerse yourself in the surroundings. This route is a great option for those looking to combine great wine and food outdoor adventure and dramatic scenery.

Muir Woods, just half an hour's drive from downtown San Francisco

Top Day Trips in the Bay Area - Explore the Best Backroads, Beaches and Towns

The San Francisco Bay Area might be best known for its urban sprawl and technology industry, but it also features amazing natural beauty and countless charming destinations across its many microclimates. You just need to know where to look. These day trips will help you uncover and experience the best of the Bay Area with detailed suggestions on where to stop, what to do, and where to eat.

Day Trip to Pinnacles National Park from the Bay Area

The drive to Pinnacles National Park from San Jose (less than 2 hours) is worth its weight in gold. The drive itself isn't anything special, but the destination makes up for that, and then some. The rock pinnacles that give this park its name are truly spectacular, and hiking on the trails that wind along and between these sheer rocks is an unforgettable experience.

Santa Cruz Mountains and Slow Coast Day Trip

The stretch of coast between Santa Cruz and Pacifica (known to locals as the Slow Coast) is packed with amazing views, charming small towns, and beautiful beaches, yet despite its proximity to San Francisco is much less crowded than Big Sur and other famous sections of California's dramatic coastline. The adjacent Santa Cruz Mountains also contain a number of fun diversions for outdoor lovers, allowing for the creation of a jam-packed day trip loop.

Monterey Peninsula Day Trip: Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Carmel-by-the-Sea

Just over an hour from the South Bay, the cypress trees and cool ocean breezes of the Monterey Peninsula feel a world away. Here's how to make the most of a day trip to this scenic stretch of coast.

East Bay Family Adventure: Mt. Diablo and the Berkeley Hills

Bring the whole family to two of the most fun and scenic spots in the East Bay: Mt. Diablo State Park and Tilden Regional Park, wrapping up with a delicious (yet kid-friendly) local favorite restaurant for dinner.

Vineyards in the foothills of the Santa Cruz mountains

Santa Cruz Mountains Wineries Day Trip

Forget the wineries in Napa or Sonoma: for those that live in the South Bay, the Santa Cruz mountain wine region is much closer and gives its better-known cousins to the north a run for their money. With its mountainous terrain and marine influences, the Santa Cruz Mountains offer ideal soil and growing conditions for world-class distinctive wines.

Dillon Beach Day Trip

Dillon Beach is a quirky beach town about 60 miles north of San Francisco, worth visiting for its coastal small town vibe (think baby cousin of Santa Cruz, with less tie dye), nice beach and great views of the tip of the Point Reyes peninsula.

Naramata Bench with Okanagan Lake in the background

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip: Okanagan Valley & Canadian Rockies - 15 Days

With 15 days, you'll have enough time to explore the hundreds of wineries and fruit farms of the fertile Okanagan Valley and immerse yourself in the dramatic scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, go swimming in freshwater lakes, hike through cedar forests, and drive along some of the most iconic roadways in Canada. Finish your trip by exploring one of the Rockies' most underrated regions in Kananaskis Country.

Mt Tam, Stinson Beach, Muir Woods - Day Trip from San Francisco

Across the Golden Gate Bridge to the north of San Francisco you'll find beautiful and rugged nature in Marin County. In a whirlwind of a day, you'll visit Mt Tamalpais ("Mt Tam") with sweeping views of San Franscisco, the white sand at relaxed Stinson Beach, and the towering redwoods at Muir Woods.

Point Reyes National Seashore Day Trip from San Francisco

Today your destination is Point Reyes National Seashore, located about 1.5 hrs north of San Francisco. We selected the best spots in this large geographic area to give you an immersive experience in just one day.

Fremont Peak State Park and San Juan Bautista - SF Bay Area day trip

About 60 miles (1 hours and 10 minutes driving time) south of San Jose you'll find an under-appreciated gem of Californian history and natural beauty, Fremont Peak. This peak, formerly Mexican territory, was named after General John C. Frémont after he raised an American flag there in 1846 in defiance of the local Mexican authorities.

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 20 Days

With 20 days, get ready for a true adventure into the remote and sparsely populated landscape of the Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest. After taking the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway north into Gold Rush Country, you'll veer west on Highway 20 for one of the most memorable drives of your life. Here, the frontier spirit converges with one of the best-preserved and most densely populated wildlife habitats of the Pacific Northwest. Finally, end your trip at one of the cozy coastal lodges along the Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island.

The dramatic coastline around Bella Coola

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 13 Days

With 13 days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to explore the wild and remote Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest without feeling too rushed. Take your time following Highway 20 to Bella Coola along a narrow ribbon of asphalt that winds its way through a sparsely populated wilderness scattered with lakes, historic ranches, and prime grizzly bear and wildlife habitat. Here, you'll discover one of the most unspoiled and spectacular landscapes in North America. Finally, end the trip with a couple of days of relaxation on Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim.

Explore the beautiful coastline around Bella Coola

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 14 Days

Two weeks is just enough time to complete a road trip through the vast Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest without feeling too rushed. With relatively short drives each day, most of your time will be spent in the outdoors, where you can truly appreciate this unique and dramatic corner of British Columbia. This route is best suited for those who are looking for an adventure away from the crowds.

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 15 Days

This itinerary takes you through four regions in 15 days, with the bulk of your time spent exploring the vast wilderness of the Chilcotin Plateau and the Great Bear Rainforest. Designed for those seeking to get away from it all and have a truly memorable experience, you'll pass through some of the most diverse and unique landscapes of British Columbia that are largely devoid of human settlement. Finally, end the trip with a couple days of relaxation in the famous Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island.

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 16 Days

Spend 16 days driving through some of the most unique and remote wilderness in southern British Columbia. After a quick visit to Vancouver and Whistler, you'll slow down the driving as your make your way on Highway 20 from Gold Rush Country to the coastline of the Great Bear Rainforest. En route, hike, raft, go horseback riding, and take to the sky to fly over one of Canada's largest waterfalls. End your trip with some relaxation and comfort in the Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island.

Adult Grizzly Bear spotted at Knight Inlet in the Great Bear Rainforest

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 17 Days

With minimal time in the city, this itinerary focuses on the unique beauty and diverse landscapes of the wild Chilcotin Plateau and the Great Bear Rainforest. After following the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, you'll head north for a true Canadian adventure across a vast, sparsely populated landscape. From there, it's a full day's ferry sailing to Vancouver Island, where you'll end your trip along the wild coastline of the Pacific Rim.

An old, abandoned cabin near Bella Coola in the Great Bear Rainforest

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 18 Days

This epic road trip takes you into the heart of British Columbia's ranchlands and coastal rainforest, through some of the most accessible remote wilderness from Vancouver. After passing through Whistler and Gold Rush Country, you'll head west along Highway 20. Here, you'll spend less time driving and more time exploring the vast Chilcotin Plateau and trails of the Great Bear Rainforest. Finally, end your trip on Vancouver Island's rugged pacific coast before returning back to Vancouver.

Great Bear Rainforest & Chilcotin Coast Road Trip - 19 Days

Get ready for a road trip adventure of a lifetime. This route takes you away from the crowds through the remote Chilcotin Plateau and Great Bear Rainforest before ending with some relaxation and comfort on Vancouver Island's west coast. Pass through a vast, raw wilderness dotted with lakes and historic ranches that transforms into dense temperate rainforest that has one of the world's highest concentrations fo grizzly bears.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 10 Days

With 10 days, you'll have just enough time to drive across British Columbia without feeling too rushed. You'll start with a few days of exploring the iconic Canadian Rockies before heading into the heart of the Kootenay Rockies, famous for its beautiful mountain towns and historic communities. End the trip with a couple of days of wine and relaxation before departing from Vancouver.

Sunrise over Bow Lake, Banff National Park

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 11 Days

Spend the first half of your trip exploring the mountains and lakes of the Canadian Rockies before veering south through the beautiful wine region of the Okanagan Valley. Here, hit the bike trails, beaches, and check out the great local wineries in this desert-like region of Canada. Finally, end your trip with a couple of days to shop and eat out in Vancouver.

Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Banff, Revelstoke, Nelson, & Osoyoos - 12 Days

This route takes you through the best of the Canadian Rockies to the wine country of the Okanagan Valley, where you can relax and unwind after your adventures in the mountains. Along the way, you'll pass through historic communities and the natural hot springs around Nakusp, Kaslo, and Nelson. Finally, end with a couple of days to explore Vancouver's great dining scene and local neighborhoods.

Scenic Peninsula Coastal Mountains: Woodside, La Honda and Pescadero

This day trip covers approximately 60 miles of scenic, windy roads and leads you to charming small towns, impressive redwoods and Pacific beaches. You’ll also pass through many of the Bay Area's micro climates and see diverse vegetation. Total driving time is a little over 2 hours, but plan for half a day to a full day in order to relax and enjoy the various stops along the way.

Kootenay Rockies: Hot Springs Circle Route - 9 Days

Starting with a few days in the Canadian Rockies, venture south through the peaceful communities and impressive landscapes of the Kootenays. After long days in the outdoors, head to local hot spring resorts or backcountry pools where you can soak away the fatigue. This route covers a vast distance and involves driving most days, so is best suited for those who don't mind a faster-paced adventure.

Abandoned train bridge turned biking trail near Slocan

Kootenay Rockies: Hot Springs Circle Route - 10 Days

Discover the best of the Kootenays and the Canadian Rockies on this 10-day circuit. You'll have time to explore the mountains or paddle the lakes and rivers as you pass through some of British Columbia's most spectacular parks. In the evenings, head to the local hot springs and enjoy the peaceful vibe of the smaller lakeshore communities. This route is perfect for those looking to combine both adventure and relaxation.

McDonald Creek Provincial Park near Nakusp

Kootenay Rockies: Hot Springs Circle Route - 11 Days

Explore the spectacular mountain scenery of British Columbia’s southeast corner, dotted with alpine towns and lakeshore communities. Besides a couple of long days of driving near the end, the majority of your trip will be spent on mountain trails or soaking in the highly-mineralized springs of resorts and riverside pools. You'll also learn about the region's rich mining and railway history which attracted early settlers.

Tokkum Creek flowing through Marble Canyon, Kootenay National Park

Kootenay Rockies: Hot Springs Circle Route - 12 Days

In 12 days, combine the best of the Canadian Rockies with the hot springs and lakeshore communities of the Kootenays. This route is perfect for those looking for an active holiday with time to relax and sit back, as well, without too much driving. You'll pass by numerous hot springs, historic communities, and lake valleys surrounded by dramatic peaks. You can undertake this route year-round, given the numerous winter and summer mountain resorts en route.

Kootenay Rockies: Hot Springs Circle Route - 13 Days

Starting and ending in Calgary, this loop covers the entire Kootenay Rockies, which combines dramatic mountain landscapes with lakeshore communities and plenty of hot springs. You'll begin with a few days in the Canadian Rockies before heading south to the hot springs and lakes of the Kootenays. Finally, you'll have a couple of days in Canmore to explore the underrated gem of Kananaskis Country.

Vancouver to Calgary: Whistler, Wells Gray, & the Canadian Rockies - 9 Days

With 9 days, this is the minimum amount of time you'll want to make the journey across British Columbia without feeling too rushed. After having a couple of days to explore Vancouver and Whistler, you'll head east to the impressive mountains, rivers, and waterfalls of the Canadian Rockies where you'll have shorter driving days and more time outdoors. This route is designed for nature lovers, focusing on the best parks, hidden gems, and ways to avoid the crowds.

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