OP HERE:
Seems to be so much to see so little time. We are a young family with kids under 10 however we try to not let that stop us from doing things. We will be traveling this summer Jun-July.
So after the suggestions on here and other places I am starting to come up with some ideas. I am sure it is ambitious, seeing I am sure I do not understand the magnitude of the island and Vancouver. We do not mind driving as that is inevitable on a trip outside of a resort type vacay. Here a couple things I would like to see and do.
-Victoria (1- 1 and half days) not really a museum vacay kind of person but would like to see British Royal. Walk around the harbor and feed the seals (Thanx for suggestion). That is about all I have. The gardens sound nice but not sure I want to put the $$ and time in it. Is it a must see? The lighthouse looked neat as well as the Maritime museum but not high on priority list.
Nanaimo- (2 days) This is where the wedding is or in the vicinity. I think Coombs was close so perhaps see the goats on the roof or some hiking for a bit if there is time.
Tofino- (3 days) I really want to hit this spot! I would love to try the surfing there as my older ones want to take lessons. I would like to see the rainforest. I also was looking at a Hot Springs tour. Ziplining is also something that is something Dh and oldest might try. This really could be done somewhere else but looked cool there.
Port Mcneil-(2 days) Whale watching day 1 then about a half day or so on ferry to Alert bay to see the culture stuff. Then back to Nanaimo for the ferry to Vancouver.
That is all I have for Vancouver Island. I want this to be an adventure trip. We really want to see as much as we can. Still planning the other leg which would be Whistler, Vancouver, or Seattle (Mt Ranier) etc. So tell me how crazy I am or where there are holes in my ideas. TIA