By Aaron Schulze

Two Vancouver Island towns among Canada’s top-rated vacation destinations

May 18, 2018 | 4:33 PM

NANAIMO — Vancouver Island received more love from tourists than most provinces.

Ladysmith and Chemainus were named two of the top 15 rated vacation destinations in Canada, according to a list on Expedia.ca, with Gibsons being the only other B.C. town to make the cut.

While both towns got props for their beaches, Expedia listed kayaking as a popular activity in Ladysmith, while Chemainus was recognized for its attractions such as the Chemainus Theatre and Waterwheel Park

Denise Le Gal from Tourism Vancouver Island’s told NanaimoNewsNOW she’s not surprised to see smaller towns on the island make the list, even over notable tourist stops such as Victoria and Tofino.

“On return trips is when (tourists) really start to explore more of the other communities,” Le Gal said. “The first time people are here they don’t necessarily realize just how much there is to see or do on Vancouver Island. I think it’s great that Ladysmith and Chemainus are getting this recognition, it’s well deserved.”

On the Lake

Training, fundraising take precedence in winter months for Nanaimo Rowing Club

21h ago

clean-up

Locals plan to remove shoreline hazard in Qualicum Beach

Dec 13, 2025

Wings Clipped

Seguin-Lescarbeau and Rimmer lead Clippers to Teddy Bear Toss win

Dec 13, 2025

The list focused only on Canadian spots with 4-star and higher ratings on Expedia in categories such as friendliness, cleanliness, comfort and overall quality.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW