Canada, our friendly northern neighbor, boasts extraordinarily diverse geography, from tall Rocky Mountain peaks to expansive flat prairie land and seaside communities on both coasts. With a smaller national population than that of California, it’s perhaps unsurprising that Canada is also full of charming small towns and welcoming rural communities worth planning a trip around. You’ll find salty little enclaves, graced by orcas and world-class surfers in British Columbia; tiny mountain towns with Gold Rush history in the Yukon’s Grizzly country; and, of course, flannel-filled hubs for outdoors lovers who want to bike and hike in the country’s dramatic national parks. What links them together, though, is that small town spirit, and undeniable charm. (Don’t be surprised if your small town trip warrants big time vacation days—please like these are never easy to leave.)
For your next adventure north, here are some of the best small towns in Canada to explore, no matter what time of year you’re traveling—or what type of trip you’re chasing.
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Tofino, British Columbia
Set on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a surfer’s paradise and a nature-lovers retreat. This small, seaside town is located on the land of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations and is surrounded by a UNESCO reserve with over 21 miles of beach break—meaning the water’s edge is never more than a short walk away. Tofino has also become a culinary destination with travelers venturing to try creative local dishes at the acclaimed Wolf and the Fog or live-fire dining at ROAR. For a more interactive dinner, you can also book time on a chartered boat through the Tofino Resort and Marina to participate in the Cook Your Catch experience.
Where to Stay: The Wickaninnish Inn
Osoyoos, British Columbia
The town of Osoyoos in the South Okanagan is known for its arid desert landscapes that creep onto pristine lakefront beaches. While this region is known for its many wineries, there are plenty of outdoor adventure activities to enjoy, too, from South Okanagan E-Bike Safaris to Wakepilot boat rentals, as well as artistic and heritage experiences at the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre. Begin your wine-tasting adventures at the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America, Nk’Mip Cellars, and continue on to other locally-owned wineries like Covert Farms Family Estate Winery, Kismet Estate Winery, and vinAmité Cellars. If you’re more of a pint person, don’t miss North Basin Brewing Co., the first brewery in Osoyoos.
