17 Unforgettable romantic BC getaways

Planning a romantic getaway in BC? I don’t blame you, there’s something magical about the beauty of British Columbia and it should come as no surprise that the province’s slogan is ‘beautiful British Columbia’.

After living in BC for six years, any weekend away became a romantic BC getaway since you’re surrounded by beautiful scenery and there’s such an endless list of romantic places to stay in BC.

Whether you’re looking for a mountain getaway in the BC backcountry under the stars, or skiing the slopes of BC’s best ski resorts, a wine-tasting weekend in some of the province’s best wine-growing regions like the Okanagan and Osoyoos, want to just relax and get away from it all on ‘island time’, dream of cozying up in a beautiful BC cabin by the ocean, or want something a relaxing and luxurious spa weekend, this guide to the best BC romantic getaways has your back.

If you’re planning a romantic getaway with your significant other, you couldn’t choose a better destination than BC.

Find the perfect place way to celebrate your anniversary, plan a dreamy honeymoon in BC, or plan a weekend getaway from Vancouver, or elsewhere in the province, where you can spend some quality time together with these ideas. Whether you’re looking for weekend getaways or something longer, this guide has it all.

From oceanfront luxury in Victoria to wine tasting in the Okanagan, from adventure in Whistler to tranquillity in the Gulf Islands, we’ve curated a list of destinations that offer a blend of romance, adventure, relaxation, and of course, breathtaking beauty.

17 of the very best romantic getaways in BC

1. Oceanfront Getaway in Victoria BC

Victoria BC is the capital city of British Columbia although it’s downtown Vancouver that’s often mistaken as the capital.

Victoria is a city full of history and with its English influence has a higher density of heritage architecture than you may expect from a Canadian city.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in BC then Victoria is a great place to go.

Couples can enjoy easy sunset walks to Ogden Point or along the Inner Harbour, enjoy learning about the city’s rich history at the Royal BC Museum, or get a delicious afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel along the harbourfront. That’s just a very short sample of the best things to do in Victoria.

When it comes to where to stay in Victoria BC, there’s a great mix of both cool places to stay in Victoria, as well as luxurious ones. The Fairmont Empress is a classic choice if you’re looking for some luxury during your romantic getaway, as is the more contemporary Oak Bay Beach Hotel with its outdoor pool would be my pick.

Oak Bay Beach Hotel has the most incredible outdoor, oceanfront spa area and they also offer spa treatments which are ideal for a chilled weekend away together.

Victoria Romantic Getaway Hotels

• Oak Bay Beach Hotel
• Fairmont Empress Victoria

2. Touring the Vineyards in the Okanagan

The Okanagan Valley, in BC’s interior, is famous for its wine. This region may get incredibly cold winters, but come summer, it’s a sun-soaked region where the grapes for some world-class wines thrive.

One of the most popular things to do in the Okanagan and the towns within it such as Vernon, Kelowna, and Penticton, is to go on winery tours.

This is a super fun weekend trip for couples who appreciate a fine glass of wine amidst stunning landscapes.

Winery tours (this one goes to 4 vineyards) offer a fun, flavorful way to explore the region, with opportunities to sample award-winning wines, explore vineyards, and learn about the winemaking process.

This Kelowna food tour includes 7 tastings and gets great reviews. It would be a fun thing to do together if you’re both into food (and/or need a break from all the wine tastings!).

If wine isn’t your thing, there’s also a growing number of breweries and meaderies in the region. You can go on cycling trips on the Myra Canyon part of the old railway line in the area, or enjoy boating on the Okanagan lakes.

For a luxurious vineyard stay, look no further than the Spirit Ridge Resort in Osoyoos, which features a winery, restaurant, and spa on-site. The Cove Lakeside Resort, located on the western shores of Okanagan Lake, offers spacious suites and stunning views.

Another fantastic choice is the Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa, perfect for a romantic retreat with its spa services, private balconies, and wine-themed rooms.

Some of the best vineyards in Kelowna are located near the above hotels but if you’re looking for something a little more remote, then take a look at these incredible Okanagan cabins to rent.

Sparkling Hill Resort and Spa in Vernon is a great choice for adults-only resorts BC offers.

Best Okanagan Romantic Hotels

• Sparkling Hill Resort and Spa
• The Cove Lakeside Resort
• Spirit Ridge Resort in Osoyoos
• Summerland Waterfront Resort & Spa

3. A Luxurious Whistler Stay

Whistler is a great romantic destination whether you’re planning a weekend away in either summer or winter. It’s one of my favorite romantic getaways in British Columbia as it combines some fancier places with beautiful scenery.

Whistler winter activities tend to center around skiing and getting out to enjoy the snow. You could head out downhill skiing on Whistler Blackcomb together, chill out at one of Whistler’s spas such as the Scandinave Spa, enjoy some of Whistler’s best restaurants and cocktails, or take a romantic snowshoe in the Callaghan Valley or an exhilarating snowmobile tour in Whistler instead.

Come summer in Whistler, hiking and mountain biking are typically on the agenda. But, if that’s too active for your romantic weekend getaways BC, book a luxurious stay at the Four Seasons Resort in Whistler or the Fairmont Chateau in Whistler to enjoy luxury and excellent service as well as spa facilities.

The Nita Lake Lodge on one of Whistler’s best lakes is another top place to stay in Whistler and is my recommendation for a beautiful setting and gorgeous rooms.

Best romantic hotels in Whistler

• Nita Lake Lodge
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler
• Fairmont Chateau Whistler

4. Relax on Island Time in the Gulf Islands

The Gulf Islands of BC are just off the coast of mainland BC and sit closer to Vancouver Island. They’re artsy, full of great food and things tend to move at a slower pace here; that’s just what makes them perfect for a relaxing romantic getaway for couples in BC.

Salt Spring Island is ideal for foodies with so many local food companies such as Salt Spring Island Cheese and Salt Spring Coffe.

If you’re looking for peaceful walks in nature, head to Galiano Island. For interesting rock formations and the chance to see bioluminescence check out Gabriola Island and visit Little Hawaii, or Hornby Island for some of the most incredible beaches you’ll find in BC. Visiting Pender Island BC is another island with so many awesome things to check out too.

The islands are ideal for a romantic getaway from Vancouver for outdoor hikes and easy walks, beautiful (often deserted) beaches, kayaking and paddle boarding, and exploring art galleries and farmer’s markets.

These islands typically don’t have many hotels, but they are home to some of the best cabins in BC which are some of my favorite places to stay on a couples weekend away.

Alternatively, Salt Spring Island’s Hastings House is a country hotel located in a peaceful setting with ocean views, a gourmet restaurant, and a spa. On Galiano Island, the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa give a luxurious island experience with its ocean-view suites, on-site spa, and local cuisine. And, for a really unique stay, consider a romantic yurt or cottage on Mayne Island at the Mayne Island Resort.

5. Escape to Bowen Island

Just a short ferry ride from Vancouver, Bowen Island is a peaceful island that feels worlds away from city life making it the perfect romantic vacation in BC.

This island offers beautiful beaches, stunning hikes, and cute artisan shops, making it perfect for couples in search of a peaceful getaway.

Stroll around Snug Cove, hike up to the viewpoint at Mount Gardner, enjoy a delicious tapas dinner at Barcelona Restaurant on Bowen, get tasty cocktails from Bowen Island Spirits, or simply relax by the sea.

I’ve been to Bowen Island many a time and my favorite place to stay on Bowen Island is the Wildwood Cabins (pictured above). These cabins sleep two people and have a kitchen and log burner with all wood supplied. You can also use the on-site wood-fired sauna which I highly recommend and there’s a beautiful sunset spot just a short walk uphill from the cabins too.

Use my guide on what to pack for a cabin trip to make sure you’ve got everything you need for a cozy couple’s weekend.

Other great Bowen Island accommodation for couples includes Artisan Suites near Snug Cove and the Hummingbird Oceanside Suites.

6. Harrison Hot Springs

Couples seeking a combination of relaxation and outdoor adventure will love Harrison Hot Springs, known for its therapeutic hot springs and stunning views of Harrison Lake.

There are plenty of things to do in Harrison Hot Springs, from hiking and biking to boating and golfing, and after a day of exploration, nothing beats a soothing soak in the hot springs.

To visit the hot springs at Harrison Lake you must be a guest of the Harrison Hot Springs Resort which is why I recommend it as the place to stay during your weekend here.

However, it doesn’t get the best reviews, so below I’ve included some other places to stay near Harrison Hot Springs. These won’t get you access to the springs, but many of them have their own pools, hot tubs, or beautiful outdoor areas to relax in.

Places to stay in Harrison Hot Springs

• The Rockwell-Harrison Guest Lodge
• Royal Harrison Retreat
• Bramblebank Cottages
• The Lodge on Harrison Lake

7. Enjoy a Date in Vancouver

I moved to Vancouver when we moved to Canada and I love this city.

Whether you’re from Vancouver and looking for a Vancouver date idea, or are from elsewhere and planning a romantic stay in Vancouver, you’ll find plenty of options.

This multicultural city has many awesome restaurants. In my view, some of the best Vancouver restaurants are in Gastown. Book a table at a romantic Vancouver restaurant like St. Lawrence which celebrates Quebecois food for a special night. Join their email list to know when their bookings go live since they book up quickly!

If you only have one day in Vancouver, spend it biking the Stanley Park Seawall, strolling through the markets on Granville Island, and watching the sunset from Sunset Beach and English Bay in the city’s West End before grabbing a drink on one of the rooftop patios in Vancouver.

For something extra special, head to the sunset platform at Horseshoe Bay and watch the sun come down over the ocean as the ferries come in and out of the port.

Given Vancouver is a fairly large city by Canadian standards, there’s no shortage of great places to stay in Vancouver.

Three accommodation options that stand out for their romantic feel include the Fairmont Pacific Rim with its luxurious suites and rooftop pool, the boutique Rosewood Hotel Georgia, and the Pan Pacific Vancouver, which offers panoramic views of the city’s harbor, mountains, and Stanley Park.

Looking for more things to do in Vancouver and nearby? Check out my Vancouver travel guides which are full of information on the best things to do in Vancouver, the best Vancouver restaurants, and detailed guides for each of the main neighborhoods.

8. Go Biking in the Chilcotins

If you and your partner love adventure and being in the wild, a biking trip to the Chilcotin Mountains should be on your list.

The region’s rugged, untouched terrain offers fantastic biking trails with breathtaking views and barely anyone else around.

The South Chilcotin Mountains Park is a bikers’ paradise, with over 200 km of trails to explore. Moreover, the isolated wilderness provides a unique opportunity for couples to connect deeper with each other and with nature.

Stay at the Tyax Lodge & Heliskiing, a luxury wilderness resort that provides guided bike tours. If you decide to do more biking in the Chilcotins, staying at the Spruce Lake Camp run by Tyax is where we stayed and we had a great time.

Make it extra special by booking a floatplane to drop you off at one of the lakes to avoid the grueling bike into the prettiest spots in the park.

9. Camp Under the Stars

There’s something inherently romantic about cuddling up under a star-filled sky with the one you love.

British Columbia is home to a multitude of stunning camping spots, from coastal beaches to forested campsites. Camping allows you to disconnect from your daily routine and immerse yourself in nature together.

For backcountry camping in BC, hike out to Garibaldi Lake or Elfin Lakes in BC’s coastal mountain ranges or enjoy backpacking near Revelstoke and Golden in places like Glacier National Park. The Eva and Jade Lakes hike in Revelstoke is perfect for a backcountry camping trip.

Otherwise, make things a little bit more luxurious by trying glamping at the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, or book a front country campsite (where you can drive to the camp spot) at Porteau Cove or Alice Lakes.

Remember to book in advance online so you don’t turn up and find there are no spots available!

The best thing about camping is that it’s the best way to have a cheap weekend getaway in BC, especially if you already have all the gear.

Personally, Mt Seymour will always feel like a romantic campsite to me since it’s where we got engaged!

10. Storm Watching in Tofino and Ucluelet

Tofino and Ucluelet, on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, are two of the most popular places to visit on Vancouver Island, especially if you’re looking for a special getaway.

Whether you’re visiting in summer to enjoy Tofino hikes and walks, or in late autumn and winter for the storm-watching season, there’s never a bad time to visit Tofino.

However, I must say I have a preference for the fall when the powerful Pacific storms roll in and put on a show of nature’s raw power. There’s nothing quite like watching the storm and the waves from your oceanview hotel room at Cox Bay Beach Resort.

Besides storm watching, enjoy beach walks, forest hikes, great food, and cafes. It’s the perfect ideal for romantic getaways Vancouver Island.

Stay at the luxurious Wickaninnish Inn or the Pacific Sands Beach Resort, both in Tofino, offering stunning ocean views. In Ucluelet, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is designed for storm watching with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the ocean.

11. Take a Romantic Ski Break in BC

A ski break in BC is a chance to enjoy world-class slopes, stunning mountain scenery, incredible powder snow, and the romance of a mountain lodge.

Resorts like Whistler Blackcomb or Sun Peaks offer not just great skiing and snowboarding, but also snowshoeing, tubing, and dog sledding which is a must-do activity and great fun for couples!

There’s also SilverStar Mountain Resort near Vernon, Big White which has more of a party vibe, Revelstoke for some extreme skiing, and popular ski towns like Fernie and Nelson in the east of the province.

After a day on the slopes, there’s nothing like a warm fireplace or a hot tub to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

In Whistler, the First Tracks Lodge offers luxury accommodation with a large outdoor heated pool and hot tub. We rent out a condo in Sun Peaks. I’m biased, sure, but I think it’s a great option for romantic getaways with private hot tubs in BC.

For an idyllic mountain hideaway, try the Island Lake Lodge in Fernie, tucked away in the Lizard Range of the Rocky Mountains.

12. Experience the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast BC is a short ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay in Vancouver and is an idyllic place to go to relax and get away from the stresses of city life or enjoy some lake and oceanside living for a bit.

The Sunshine Coast is split into two sections, the Lower Sunshine Coast where you’ll find the towns of Sechelt, Gisbons, and other small communities, and the Upper Sunshine Coast which is more remote with the small village of Lund and the town of Powell River. This part of the coast is a popular starting point for people kayaking Desolation Sound.

Whichever part of the coast you decide to visit, you’ll find beautiful lakes, secluded beaches, forested trails, artisan studios great breweries and cideries and so much more.

The Skookumchuck Narrows is one of our favorite places to go on the coast. Here you can watch the spectacular tidal rapids and see kayaks surf on the river as the tide changes. It’s super cool!

Of course, there are plenty of other things to do on the Sunshine Coast too.

Pender Harbour Resort & Marina offers romantic cabin getaways in BC as well as yurts, perfect for a romantic escape. The Rockwater Secret Cove Resort in Halfmoon Bay is renowned for its luxury tent-house suites with stunning ocean views and the Painted Boat Resort Spa & Marina, in Madeira Park, offers luxury villas and a full-service spa for the ultimate romantic retreat.

13. Take a BC Road Trip

British Columbia is a province meant for road trips!

Its varied landscapes, from coastal rainforests in the far west to the desert valleys in the interior and the incredible Rocky Mountains as you approach the BC-Alberta border, create a dramatic backdrop for a romantic drive.

Explore the Sea-to-Sky Highway, which offers views of mountains, ocean, and forest, and stop in Squamish for a gondola ride up to beautiful panoramic views, or hike up the Stawamus Chief. Or, enjoy a Kootenay Hot Springs road trip in the east, where you’ll visit cute mountain towns and get to explore numerous hot springs along the way (both natural and manmade).

14. Visit the Great Bear Rainforest in BC

The Great Bear Rainforest, one of the largest coastal temperate rainforests in the world, offers a truly unique experience for adventurous couples.

This remote wilderness offers lush landscapes, breathtaking fjords, and a chance to see the rare white ‘Spirit Bear’.

Explore the rainforest on a guided tour, go whale watching, and experience First Nations culture in this remote romantic destination.

Options for accommodation in or near the Great Bear Rainforest include the Great Bear Lodge, a floating lodge that provides guided bear-viewing tours. The Spirit Bear Lodge in Klemtu, run by the Kitasoo/Xai’xais First Nations, provides culturally immersive stays. For a luxury wilderness retreat, the Nimmo Bay Resort offers cabins with stunning water views and gourmet dining.

Great Bear Rainforest a bit too far away? Book a grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island instead!

15. Relax in a BC Hot Spring

Nothing quite says romance like a relaxing soak in a hot spring in BC, surrounded by stunning landscapes.

Visit the rustic natural pools at Lussier Hot Springs in Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park, the charming cave at Ainsworth Hot Springs, or the tranquil pools at Halcyon Hot Springs, all with beautiful settings.

Radium Hot Springs is also worth visiting and you can enjoy some other activities like tubing on the river and going white water rafting.

Halcyon Hot Springs has luxurious chalets and cottages on the shores of Upper Arrow Lake. The Sentinel near Ainsworth Hot Springs is an absolute must-stay. Or, for a more remote experience, consider staying at the Whiteswan Lake Lodge, which offers rustic caimages near the Lussier Hot Springs.

16. Plan a Weekend in One of BC’s Best Cabins

Cabins offer the perfect setting for a cozy romantic retreat, and BC has plenty to choose from.

Whether you prefer a waterfront view, a mountain backdrop, a secluded forest setting, or unique BC getaways there’s a cabin for you.

Enjoy outdoor activities during the day, then relax in the evening by the fireplace, or stargaze from your private deck.

Check out these beautiful cabins in the Okanagan, or this list of cabins near Vancouver.

If you’re looking for cabins in the east of the province, the cabins at Emerald Lake Lodge in Yoho National Park give you stunning mountain and lake views while also feeling like you’re in the forest.

There are also some great hidden romantic getaways Vancouver Island in my cabin guide listed above where you can stay in places like Jordan River, or outside of Sooke with ocean views, private hot tubs, and clear night skies.

17. Head up to Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off BC’s north coast, offers a tranquil escape with its beautiful beaches, ancient rainforests, and rich Indigenous culture.

For, special anniversary getaways in BC this has to be up there.

Explore the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, visit the Haida Heritage Centre, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet on these isolated islands.

Haida House at Tllaal offers a cultural tourism package that includes guided tours, meals, and accommodations that sets couples up for a great adventure together.

For a luxury wilderness stay, consider the Ocean House at Stads K’uns GawGa, a floating lodge that offers cultural tours, wellness activities, and gourmet dining. If you’re looking for a more traditional lodging experience, check out the Copper Beech House, a charming bed and breakfast in Masset.

How to plan a romantic BC weekend getaway

Planning a romantic getaway in British Columbia is about identifying what type of experiences you and your partner will enjoy and finding the perfect location to suit your needs.

Here is a guide on how to plan a romantic getaway in BC:

• Identify both of your interests: Start by identifying what both of you love doing together. Is it exploring the outdoors, going on food and wine tours, relaxing by the beach, visiting museums and cultural sites, or seeking adventure activities? The answer to this will help guide where in BC would be most appealing for your getaway.
• Choose a location: BC is vast, with varied landscapes and experiences. Choose a location based on your interests. Cities like Vancouver and Victoria offer cultural experiences, gourmet food, and beautiful parks. Locations like Tofino and the Gulf Islands provide beautiful beachside getaways. For wine lovers, the Okanagan is a must-visit, while adventure seekers might enjoy Whistler, the Great Bear Rainforest, or the Chilcotin Mountains.
• Decide on accommodation style: BC offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury resorts and boutique hotels to rustic cabins and beachside campgrounds. Choose something that fits your style and budget. Consider amenities like in-house restaurants, spa services, or outdoor activities.
• Make Reservations: Once you’ve decided on your location and accommodation, make your reservations. Popular spots can book up quickly, especially during peak seasons, so it’s best to plan ahead.
• Pack Appropriately: BC’s weather can be varied depending on the region and time of year, so make sure to pack accordingly. Also, if you’re planning activities like hiking or skiing, ensure you have the right gear.
• Set the Mood: Part of a romantic getaway is setting the mood. Consider packing a few extras like a bottle of local BC wine, a playlist of your favorite songs, or some candles or fairy lights to help create a romantic atmosphere.
• Enjoy Your Time: Once you’re on your getaway, take the time to disconnect from your daily routine and focus on each other. Make the most of your time together, whether that’s adventuring in the BC wilderness, dining at a gourmet restaurant, or just relaxing in your hotel room.

What to consider when planning your romantic BC getaway

To get the most out of your romantic BC vacation, there are some additional things to consider when planning it.

Seasonal Considerations

British Columbia is a year-round destination, with each season offering a unique set of experiences that can make your romantic getaway truly memorable.

In the winter, the mountains of BC transform into a paradise for snow lovers. Whistler, in particular, is renowned worldwide for its ski slopes. Off the slopes, Whistler winter activities include romantic winter walks, cozy fires, and relaxing spa visits. Romanticfavoritestaways BC are some of my favourites since we both love skiing.

Spring in BC is a time of renewal, as cherry blossoms and tulips fill the parks and streets, particularly in the cities of Vancouver and Victoria. The milder weather is ideal for city exploring or early-season hiking. It’s also a great time to visit vineyards in the Okanagan, as they start to reopen after a harsh winter and come back to life.

The warm summers in BC are perfect for exploring the stunning coastline, visiting the beach towns of Tofino and Ucluelet, or enjoying water activities in the Gulf Islands. The summer is also prime time for wildlife viewing, including whale watching off the coast.

Autumn offers a spectacular display of fall colors, particularly in areas like the Okanagan. It’s also harvest time in BC’s wine country, a perfect season for wine lovers to tour the vineyards and taste the local produce.

Getting Around BC

Traveling around British Columbia is part of the adventure, with stunning scenic routes and efficient transport options.

Driving around BC offers the most freedom and flexibility, with well-maintained highways and scenic routes like the Sea-to-Sky Highway and the highway between Whistler and Kamloops. Car rental is widely available in major cities and airports. Remember to keep the local wildlife in mind and drive safely.

If you’re traveling on mountain roads in winter, you’ll need to make sure your car is equipped with winter tires or all-season tires (often shown by an M+S logo on them). This is a legal requirement from October to March and is much, muTwitterr when driving.

Drive BC on twitter and their interactive map online is the best way to find out about road closures and traffic as you drive.

BC’s coastal destinations, such as Victoria, the Gulf Islands, and Haida Gwaii, can be accessed by ferry services from BC Ferries.

For travel within Vancouver, public transit, including buses, SkyTrain, and ferries, are efficient and reliable. Many visitors to Vancouver don’t need a car.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Local Cuisine and Dining

British Columbia’s diverse food scene is a foodie’s dream, offering a mix of fresh local ingredients, multicultural influences, and innovative chefs. Seafood is a highlight, with fresh salmon, halibut, and spot prawns often featured on menus. Savor Dungeness crab in Tofino, or enjoy sushi in Vancouver, known for its exceptional Japanese cuisine.

BC’s fertile valleys towards the interior and the Fraser Valley produce tonnes of fresh fruits and vegetables. Visit a local farmers’ market to sample seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, and local crafts. The province is also famous for its wine, particularly the vineyards in the Okanagan Valley, where you can sample award-winning Pinot Gris and Merlot.

FAQs about romantic getaways in BC for couples

Final thoughts on these romantic BC getaways

A romantic getaway in British Columbia is not just about the destination, but also about the journey.

There are lots of romantic places to visit in BC, whether it’s a cozy cabin in the mountains, a beachfront retreat, a vineyard tour in the Okanagan, or an urban escape in Vancouver. It’s about exploring together, experiencing new things, and making memories.

Hopefully, this list has included some new or hidden romantic getaways BC offers that you might not have considered before. If you’re looking for more romantic getaways for couples, this guide to romantic places to visit in Ontario could be just the ticket.

Plan your getaway, pack your bags, and get ready to fall in love with each other and with British Columbia all over again.

Last Updated on February 18, 2024 by Hannah