transportation by land
Getting Here by Land
Vancouver Island can be reached via ferry from Horseshoe Bay, Tsawwassen (Vancouver), Powell River and Prince Rupert. Schedule additional travel information is available via BC Ferries for these specific routes. If you’re coming from the southern border you can hop over to the Island from Port Angeles or Seattle, via the Black Ball Ferry or the Victoria Clipper.
The Island Highway (19) is a scenic and peaceful modern highway filled with stress-free and relaxing views. The Oceanside Route (Hwy 19A) has breathtaking viewpoints and unique attractions for visitors willing to spend more time getting here.
The drive from the north island takes travelers along a winding swath through the rugged mountains and lush rainforests. Small communities welcome visitors with historic landmarks and friendly hospitality, with many scenic lakes and rivers with well-maintained rest stops along the way.
Location
Campbell River is approximately 1.5 hours (153 kilometres / 95 miles) drive north of Nanaimo on Highway 19, and 3 hours (264 kilometres / 165 miles) north of Victoria. See the most of Campbell River by exiting Highway 19 at the Miracle Beach exit, then continue north along Oceanside Route Highway 19A.
If you prefer a fully serviced highway route, follow the starfish along the scenic Oceanside Route, Highway 19A. Look for the official “starfish” signs south of Parksville and at other exits along Highway 19. Try both routes – north to Campbell River on the scenic Oceanside Route 19A, then home via the Inland Island Highway 19!
Inland Island Highway 19
Campbell River is a 3 hour (264 km/165 mile) drive north from Victoria or a 1.5 hour (153 km/95 mile) drive from Nanaimo, where the ferry terminals of Departure Bay and Duke Point are located. Drive Highway 19, the new inland, four-lane expressway. To see the most of Campbell River exit Highway 19 at the Miracle Beach , then continue north along Oceanside Route Highway 19A.
Oceanside Island Highway 19A
If you prefer a fully serviced highway route, follow the starfish along the scenic Oceanside Route, Highway 19A. Look for the official “starfish” signs south of Parksville and at other exits along Highway 19.
By Bus & Taxi
Daily coaches serve Victoria to Port Hardy, and points in between, including Campbell River. Connect to Vancouver Island Connector (Operated by Tofino Bus) from Vancouver via the Departure Bay BC Ferry terminal. Daily bus service connects all parts of Vancouver Island with the Mainland. Throughout the Campbell River & Region, local bus and 24 hour taxi services are provided.
Wavin Flags provides bus service between Port Hardy and Campbell River 6 days a week.
Airport shuttle, limousine services and other private bus and transportation service options are also available. Contact the Campbell River Visitor Centre for more information.
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