Pacific Marine Circle Route
Pacific Marine Road, Victoria, British Colombia
Spanning for around 179 miles (289 kilometers), the Pacific Marine Circle Route offers drivers and their passengers the chance to take in some of the prettiest scenery on the southern part of Vancouver Island. Expect to pass by quiet towns, alongside epic stretches of coastline, and through sweeping expanses of old-growth forest.
The basics
The route starts in Victoria, making its way to Sooke, a seaside town known for its "potholes," river pools used as swimming holes in summer. It continues to Port Renfrew and onwards to Lake Cowichan along a rugged former logging route, before continuing to Duncan, known for its large collection of First Nations totems. Then, you can drive down to the quiet maritime town of Cowichan Bay before returning to Victoria or heading to Sidney.
Things to know before you go
Vancouver drivers, as in the rest of Canada, drive on the right and use kilometers not miles.
Electric vehicle charging stations are located in Sooke, Port Renfrew, Lake Cowichan, Duncan, and Mill Bay.
Cell phone service can be spotty on parts of the route, so make sure to download offline maps (or pick up a print map) before you head out.
How to get there
You'll need a car to explore the Pacific Marine Circle Route if you're not visiting as part of a tour. If you're coming from mainland British Columbia or Washington State, you can take your own car on a ferry and head out independently. If you're coming from farther away, your best bet is to fly into Victoria International Airport and then rent a car.
When to get there
Vancouver Island is at its finest in summer, and you'll have the sunniest journey if you come in July or August. Winter, spring, and fall can bring with them less-than-ideal driving conditions, including rain, fog, and ice. If you plan to do the whole loop in one day, get an early start so that you can take your time and enjoy some of the many pullouts along the way.
Mt. Tolmie Park
If you want to take in views but don't have time to drive the Pacific Marine Circle Route, head over to Mt. Tolmie Park near the University of Victoria. This park is accessible by car and city bus (No. 14, which takes you near the base) and has plenty of hiking trails leading to viewpoints. On clear days, you'll be able to see the Gulf Islands, Saanich, and Victoria.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!