Exotic Travel Destinations Within Canada

As many are aware, the United States has entered a period of tension with its neighboring countries, including Canada. This shift has made some people reconsider travelling to our southern neighbour. While that might mean missing out on destinations like Hawaii, New York City, or the Grand Canyon, I hope this article will inspire you to explore some of Canada’s most exotic and breathtaking locations—proving that the perfect getaway might be closer than you think.

Tofino

Canada may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a beach getaway, but it’s home to many surprisingly stunning beaches and coastal towns. On the west coast of Vancouver Island lies one of the most breathtaking examples: Tofino. Situated within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, Tofino is known for its natural beauty and laid-back, beachy vibe. It attracts visitors year-round for all kinds of reasons—surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, hiking, and even storm watching. The town offers a wide range of accommodation; whether you're looking for a luxurious stay at the Wickaninnish Inn or a more nature-immersed experience at one of the many nearby campgrounds, you’ll find the perfect fit. Tofino is truly the ultimate destination for beach lovers seeking a unique and unforgettable getaway within Canada.

Salt Spring

For more island getaway ideas, consider Salt Spring, a remote island off the south eastern point of Vancouver Island. It is accessible by ferry from the Tsawwassen Terminal and is home to a wide variety of activities that accommodate all sorts of interests.  It is known to be a great place for a cultural experience, with many art galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists, as well as a foodie’s delight with farmer’s markets, cheese farms and wineries. For an outdoorsy feel, many like to hike the trails in Mount Maxwell, Ruckle and Mount Erskine Parks. It also has many beaches with amazing views. With its many attractions, Salt Spring is the perfect place for a relaxing and beautiful trip. 

Jasper & Banff       

While beaches are a popular choice for vacation, many are even more drawn to the mountains - and that is something that Canada is known for.  Just a couple hours up the Sea to Sky highway is Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort that attracts year round visitors from across the globe. But that is only the beginning. 

The Canadian Rockies, with their gleaming white glaciers contrasting with jagged peaks, and turquoise lakes glowing at their bases, are astonishingly beautiful and promise to be the highlight of any vacation. Jasper and Banff, two iconic mountain towns nestled in the Rockies in Alberta, offer endless opportunities for adventure. In Jasper, explore scenic hiking trails like the Moose Lake loop, where you can admire the lake’s vivid color, or the Sulphur Skyline trail, where the views make you feel as tall as the peaks themselves.  In Banff, not only will you find stunning hikes like Jasper, but only a short drive away you can find Lake Louise Ski resort.  

Accommodations vary, from the Fairmont Hotel in Banff for those seeking luxury within mountain peaks, or the Wapiti Campground in Jasper, for keen hikers ready to spend their whole trip immersed in nature. Together, Banff and Jasper are unforgettable destinations nestled in the Rockies, where you can chase high-adrenaline adventure or simply take in the raw, peaceful beauty of Canada’s landscapes. 

View from the Moose Lake loop in Jasper:

View from one of many hikes in Banff:

Garibaldi Lake

If you're looking for beautiful mountains but want something a little more local than the Rockies, a drive and a scenic hike to Garibaldi Lake is the perfect choice. Located between Squamish and Whistler, most visitors start their adventure from the Rubble Creek parking lot, just off the Sea to Sky Highway. The natural beauty of this lake and its surrounding peaks makes the effort of the hike completely worth it. The serene, turquoise-blue water perfectly mirrors the awe-inspiring mountain range, creating a view that you’ll always remember.

Toronto

While some people head for beaches and others escape to the mountains, there are always those who crave the hustle, crowds, and energy of a world-class city, and while Vancouver is amazing, it's always exciting to discover something new. Toronto, the most populous city in Canada and the fourth most populous in North America, is the perfect urban getaway. Known for its vibrant culture, Toronto is a major hub for music and theatre, and, along with numerous other attractions, is home to the iconic CN Tower—once the tallest free-standing structure in the world. With over 47 million visitors each year, the city delivers that buzzing, big-city atmosphere many travelers seek. From shopping and sightseeing to visiting museums and galleries, Toronto offers a dynamic and unforgettable experience.