We are also in our late 50's and very active. Our itineracy sounds very similar. Was it expensive to take ferry out of Seattle? We also want to add on a trip to the other side adn go to Nanimo and parksville and maybe to Stratemore National park for some hiking. We are planning on staying for one week and also thought we could add the beaches on the south end. SOme islands also sound great like HOrns Island an old Hippie place. Does this sound too much for 8 days?

What about Tofino and Pacific Rim National Park? They are absolutely beautiful and have great hiking plus lovely places to stay and good restaurants.

yes we are planning on spending three days and two night there..forgot that...read thru forums that it is alittle crowded and touristy there is that true? What do you know about day hikes at Strathmore?

Were you thinking of the passenger-only ferry from Seattle to Victoria? I ask only because your stated areas of interest on Vancouver Island involve driving.

We spent a week in Tofino - we loved it. It was a perfect little family vacation with lots of wonderful photos and beach walks. The getting to and from was a bit interesting (planes, trains and automobiles). Definitely recommend.

We visited Tofino last July and didn't find it to be crowded or touristy. We were completely alone on the hikes we did. I'm sure it is much more developed than it used to be, but in comparison to American national parks, it felt desolate.

As this is in Canada, it would be appropriate to post your

question on the Canadian branch, too. (sorry about the format)