Pacific Marine Circle Route

The basics

There are two ways to explore the Pacific Marine Circle Route: independently by car, or by tour. For visitors who are interested in driving the loop, it’s possible to take your own car on the ferry (if coming from mainland British Columbia or Washington State) or rent a car in Victoria. For those who would rather admire the views than drive the curves, tours provide a convenient alternative.

Things to know before you go

• The Pacific Marine Circle Route is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Cell phone service can be limited along the route, so download maps and prepare ahead of time.

• There are several electric vehicle charging stations along the loop.

• The loop itself is wheelchair accessible, though not all the stops, such as hiking trails, are accessible.

How to get there

Once you’ve reached Victoria (by ferry or plane), you’ll need to drive or take a tour to see the Pacific Marine Circle Route. You can travel in either direction around the loop; popular stops include Sooke, home to the Sooke Potholes (a scenic shoreline walk), Port Renfrew (with excellent hiking trails), Lake Cowichan (a lakeside town and tubing access point), and Duncan (check out the Saturday farmers market).

When to get there

Prime time on Vancouver Island is the summer season, with sunshine and lovely temperatures, though that time period also coincides with the most visitors of the year. Weather can be mixed during the spring or fall, while a winter visit may bring challenging driving conditions, such as ice and fog.

Adventures along the loop

Some visitors will be focused on the scenic views, while others may be seeking adventure. Options for outdoor fun include ziplining, heading out on a fishing excursion, and tubing down the Cowichan River. On a rainy day, fun things to do include visiting a local distillery, checking out art galleries, or learning about local culture at landmarks like the Shawnigan Lake Museum.