2-Day Family-Friendly Vegetarian Trip to Vancouver Island: East Coast, Nanaimo, and Tofino

Day 1: East Coast and Nanaimo Highlights

Parksville, Nanaimo, BC on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at MorningStar Café, Parksville

Start your day with a wholesome vegetarian breakfast featuring locally sourced produce in a cozy, family-friendly venue.
CAD20, 1h

9:15am

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Enjoy a gentle, scenic walk along wide, flat beach trails suitable for toddlers and grandparents, with beautiful ocean views and picnic-friendly spots.
CAD8 per vehicle, 1h30m

11:00am

Travel to Nanaimo (approx. 30 min drive)

Head south to Nanaimo to visit a uniquely memorable family-friendly attraction nearby.
Free (travel cost only), 30m

11:45am

Visit the Nanaimo Malaspina Galleries and Harbourfront Walkway

Explore the accessible waterfront walkway with stunning views, and pop into the Malaspina Galleries showcasing local Indigenous and contemporary art suitable for all ages.
Free, 1h15m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Vault Café

Savor a variety of vegetarian options including fresh sandwiches, salads, and baked goods in a quaint setting in downtown Nanaimo.
CAD20, 1h

2:15pm

Pipers Lagoon Park

Visit this serene and easily accessible coastal park with tide pools and gentle walking trails, perfect for grandparents and toddlers to explore nature safely.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Parksville and visit Milner Gardens & Woodland

Relax amid spectacular gardens featuring easy walking paths and beautiful woodland perfect for a calm, sensory experience for all family members.
CAD10, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at The Green Cuisine, Qualicum Beach

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a fully vegetarian menu that highlights organic, seasonal local ingredients in a warm atmosphere.
CAD30, 1h30m

Day 2: Tofino Coastal Relaxation

Tofino, BC on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Rhino Coffee House, Tofino

Enjoy fresh, vegetarian and vegan-friendly breakfast options ideal for families in a relaxed, welcoming café.
CAD18, 1h

9:15am

Tofino Botanical Gardens

Wander through beautiful, easy walking trails featuring native plants and peaceful garden spaces suitable for toddlers and seniors alike.
Donation-based, 1h30m

11:00am

Chesterman Beach

Spend time on this wide, sandy beach with gentle waves, perfect for family beachcombing, toddler play, and relaxed picnicking.
Free, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Shelter Restaurant

Taste creative vegetarian dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, family-friendly setting near the beach.
CAD30, 1h

2:00pm

Tofino Art Galleries

Visit small, calming art galleries featuring Indigenous and local artwork, providing a culturally rich experience for all ages indoors.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Relaxation at Accommodation or Local Park

Enjoy quiet downtime at your accommodation or nearby park with accessible amenities suitable for toddlers and seniors.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Dinner at Wildside Grill

Conclude your day with a satisfying vegetarian dinner offering diverse options and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for the entire family.
CAD35, 1h30m