Vacation rentals in British Columbia

In a geographic space the size of New Zealand, British Columbia features a diverse landscape defined by its spectacular location between the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. From lively pursuits on land, at sea, and in the air, Canada’s westernmost province is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts who can make their dream of skiing in the morning and kayaking in the afternoon a reality.

But it isn’t all active adventures here: rich Indigenous cultural experiences abound, and wildlife teems in the ocean, rivers, and mountains of the province. Visitors can appreciate cultural and culinary experiences in historical districts, ride horseback through seas of grassland, or enjoy secluded beaches populated by seals and cold water. Wherever you travel in beautiful British Columbia, expect to encounter vibrant urban centres, delicious global cuisine, bucolic islands, and wide-open backcountry spaces with room to roam under starlit skies.

British Columbia’s busy seasons vary based on location and time of year. Its summer season runs from May to August. This peak visitation period coincides with the province’s best and sunniest weather, when temperatures reach into the high 20s Celsius. Fall is a lovely time to stay in one of the area’s cabin rentals for sunny days and fewer crowds, and humidity is rare thanks to the ocean breezes along the coast. In the mountains, the temperature can be cool due to the higher altitude. The winter snow sports season is at its peak from November to March in mountain resort towns like Whistler and Golden. In the northern and mountainous areas of the province, cold temperatures and snowy weather mimic the winter season found in the rest of Canada. In coastal areas of the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island, the cooler rainy season begins in November and lasts into March, and snow is rare.

Vancouver

A walkable urban core, large verdant spaces, a lively cultural scene, and an array of excellent cuisines are just the beginning in this city by the sea. From a dense downtown peninsula anchored by Stanley Park, the city gives way to vibrant neighbourhoods accessible by cycling and walking paths, while leafy parks offer spaces for nature appreciation and stunning city views.

Whistler

As Canada’s largest and most popular ski area, the village of Whistler has grown into a bustling four-season resort featuring on- and off-slope attractions in the shadow of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. In winter, snow sports such as skiing, ice fishing, and snowshoeing rule, while summer features mountain biking, hiking, and paddle boarding, rounded out with a lively après-ski, wellness, and dining scene.

Gulf Islands

Gulf Islands is the umbrella name for the 200 islands in British Columbia located in the Salish Sea between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. Among all the wildlife and natural beauty you’ll find the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, a collection of land pockets on more than a dozen of the islands, including small islets and reefs. If you’re looking for forested places to play here, head to Pender, Galiano, Hornby, Gabriola, and the largest, Salt Spring, famous for its artisanal food producers and arts and culture scene.