The Pacific Northwest is known for its breathtaking coastal views, towering mountains, and beautiful mist-covered forests that you need to see to believe, all of which draw nature lovers from around the globe.
Iconic Pacific Northwest destinations like Seattle and Portland offer vibrant cityscapes with easy access to stunning natural wonders, while charming small towns beckon with their historic harbors. But did you know that there are plenty of Pacific Northwest small towns on the Canadian side that are even more charming than the American side?
Tucked away in British Columbia, just north of the border, are some pretty towns that offer a slower pace, stunning scenery, and a touch of history that might make them even more attractive than their U.S. counterparts.
These little towns over the border exude a unique charm, combining natural beauty with a deep sense of community, and are perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the unspoiled landscapes of the Canadian Pacific Northwest.
Related
7 Underappreciated Towns To Visit In The Pacific Northwest
Discover underappreciated towns in PNW with breathtaking landscapes and friendly communities.
7 Gibsons, British Columbia
Beautiful coastal arts and outdoor adventure in the setting of the famous TV show “The Beachcombers”
Nestled on the Sunshine Coast, Gibsons is a charming seaside town that remains largely under the radar compared to busier Pacific Northwest destinations. Originally a logging and fishing hub, Gibsons has transformed into a peaceful retreat with a thriving arts scene and stunning natural surroundings.
Visitors will be captivated by its picturesque harbor, lined with boats and framed by distant mountain peaks. Famous as the setting of the iconic TV show The Beachcombers, Gibsons has plenty of nostalgic spots like Molly’s Reach to discover.
What sets Gibsons apart is its unspoiled charm. Compared to Pacific Northwest destinations like Whidbey Island, Gibsons provides a tranquil escape with less tourist traffic.
|
Top Attractions |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Hike this short, but steep trail for panoramic views of the Sunshine Coast and Howe Sound. |
|
|
Grab a meal or coffee at this beloved restaurant, featured in The Beachcombers. |
|
|
Harbor Front |
Watch boats sail in and out of the marina. |
Related
The Best Itinerary For A Full Day On Whidbey Island
Home to numerous landmarks, Whidbey Island, offers international travelers and locals alike a respite from the bustling Emerald City.
6 Sidney, British Columbia
Waterfront relaxation for book lovers
Known as “Booktown” for its abundance of independent bookstores, Sidney offers a charming seaside experience just outside of Victoria. The town has a laid-back, intellectual atmosphere, with its downtown lined with bookstores.
Sidney’s waterfront is also easily walkable, with scenic parks and a marina perfect for slow-paced exploration. Compared to U.S. counterparts like Bellingham—which is among the many great places in Washington to visit by RV in the summer, Sidney offers a more relaxed and cultured experience and is the ideal destination for those looking to combine nature with a love for history and literature.
5 Pemberton, British Columbia
Outstanding mountain adventures and farm-to-table dining experiences
Surrounded by towering mountains and lush farmland, Pemberton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Known for its agricultural roots, Pemberton has transformed into a destination celebrated for its farm-to-table dining experiences that rival even some of America’s best restaurants.
Adventurers can hike the iconic Joffre Lakes or explore scenic bike trails through the Pemberton Valley. Pemberton’s appeal lies in its authentic mountain town atmosphere, contrasting with neighboring U.S. destinations like the Bavarian town of Leavenworth, which tends to get a lot of foot traffic, especially around Christmas. Pemberton is a must-visit for those looking to truly unwind in nature’s beauty.
Related
Beautiful British Columbia: 18 Pretty Towns To See On Canada’s West Coast
British Columbia’s beauty is not limited to Vancouver: Discover these pretty towns across this coastal province!
4 Ladysmith, British Columbia
Family-friendly fun abounds in this scenic historical seaside town
Ladysmith was a coal mining town in the past and has preserved a huge part of its history with heritage buildings in its downtown. Of course, it also features a blend of shops, galleries, and restaurants, all near Transfer Beach Park, which is perfect for family outings by the water.
With easy access to the outdoors and a peaceful, kid-friendly vibe, all combined with its seaside charm, Ladysmith is a standout destination for your next family vacation.
|
Top Attractions |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Swim, picnic, or play on the beach with your family. |
|
|
Attend the annual Festival of Lights in December. |
|
|
Heritage Downtown |
Stroll through and stop by the Ladysmith Museum to learn about the town’s mining history. |
3 Chemainus, British Columbia
The perfect town for art lovers and history enthusiasts
Once a struggling mill town, Chemainus has reinvented itself as a vibrant art destination, famous for outdoor murals depicting local history and culture. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour of the murals, while the town’s quaint downtown features local shops, cafés, and many galleries and boutique stores.
Compared to U.S. towns like Port Townsend, Chemainus stands out for its focus on public art and theater. The town’s commitment to creativity, its seaside location, and its peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect destination for art lovers seeking an enriching escape, rivaling even the best small art towns in America.
|
Top Attractions |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Outdoor murals |
Take a self-guided tour to explore these famous murals. Don’t forget your camera! |
|
Check the schedule and catch a live performance that showcases local talent and stories. |
|
|
Enjoy the lovely gardens in this scenic park. |
2 Osoyoos, British Columbia
Come for the stunning desert views, but stay for the wine
Vineyards And Lake Osoyoos In The Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Osoyoos is a sunny oasis in the Okanagan Valley, known for its unique desert landscape, warm weather, and thriving wine industry. Located in one of Canada’s few deserts, Osoyoos offers a striking contrast to the rain-soaked towns of the Pacific Northwest.
Visitors can enjoy warm days on the Osoyoos Lake, Canada’s warmest freshwater lake, or explore the region’s award-winning wineries. The town also celebrates its rich Indigenous heritage, so visitors can learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Okanagan First Nations.
Related
Gems Of The Pacific Northwest: 10 Best Outdoor Destinations For Adventurous Travelers
Go for the hiking, stay for the moody atmosphere and picturesque landscapes. Here’s what the Pacific Northwest can offer travelers!
1 Tofino, British Columbia
Amazing surfing and eco-tourism adventures
People holding surf boards in Coxbay Beach, Tofino, Canada
Once a quiet fishing village, Tofino has evolved into a surfer’s paradise and eco-tourism hub, and in the warmer months, it guarantees an unforgettable trip, since it’s one of Canada’s most beautiful small towns to visit in the summer. The town’s small but lively downtown area is home to local art galleries, surf shops, and organic cafés, exuding a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere.
Tofino’s appeal lies in its remote beauty. With pristine beaches, dramatic coastal views, and the remnants of ancient rainforests, this town is perfect for nature lovers. Unlike the more bustling coastal towns on the U.S. side, Tofino offers a serene escape with fewer crowds.
|
Top Attractions |
What to do |
|---|---|
|
Long Beach |
Surf or beachcomb along this 10-mile coastal stretch of Vancouver Island. |
|
Take a scenic hike along the popular Rainforest Trail or Wild Pacific Trail |
|
|
17 miles north of Tofino, relax in some natural hot pools |