British Columbia in July: Weather, Travel Tips, and Things to Do

This post is written by Tinashe, the creator behind the Discover BC Blog. He frequently travels across BC and lives in Vancouver.

July is one of the best months to visit British Columbia, with warm weather, long sunny days, and countless outdoor activities.

Whether you’re interested in exploring vibrant cities, scenic landscapes, or peaceful beaches, July offers plenty of options for everyone.

British Columbia in July: Things To Know

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(credit: KimKim)

Planning to visit British Columbia in July? You picked a great time! The weather is really nice and warm, and there’s so much fun stuff to do.

Sure, you’ll see more tourists around and things cost a bit more, but don’t let that stop you. The sunny days are perfect for hitting the beaches in Vancouver, hiking in the mountains, or checking out the cool summer festivals happening everywhere.

The whole province just comes alive in July – from the busy city streets to the peaceful mountain lakes. Here’s a few things you should know about visiting BC during this awesome summer month.

British Columbia Weather in July

July brings summer warmth across the province, making it ideal for all kinds of outdoor adventures. In coastal areas like Vancouver and Victoria, temperatures range from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F), with minimal rain and plenty of sunshine. 

In the interior, such as Kelowna and Kamloops, it’s much hotter, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), perfect for enjoying lakes and vineyards. Northern regions like Prince George are cooler, with temperatures between 12°C and 22°C (54°F to 72°F), but still pleasant for exploring.

Currency

Canada’s official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), symbolized as $ or CAD. Exchange rates vary, but at the time of writing, 1 USD is roughly equal to 1.40 CAD.

How to Get Around British Columbia

British Columbia is a massive province with diverse landscapes, so how you get around will depend on your plans. In cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna, public transit is reliable and easy to use. 

Buses, SkyTrain (in Vancouver), and ferries connect key areas, making it simple to explore city sights without a car.

Things to Do in British Columbia in July

With warm weather and long days, July is packed with outdoor activities, cultural events, and festivals to enjoy.

Hiking and Nature Walks

BC is known for its stunning hiking trails, and July is perfect for exploring them. Try the Grouse Grind in Vancouver, the Joffre Lakes trail near Whistler, or take a walk through Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island.

Beach Days

July is ideal for relaxing on BC’s beautiful beaches. Kitsilano Beach in Vancouver, Rathtrevor Beach on Vancouver Island, and Skaha Beach in Penticton are popular spots to soak up the sun, swim, or try paddleboarding.

Wine Tours in the Okanagan

The Okanagan Valley is a prime destination for wine lovers in July. Take a vineyard tour, enjoy tastings, and explore the scenic wineries in Kelowna, Penticton, and Naramata.

Water Sports

With warm lakes and rivers, July is a great time for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. You can explore False Creek in Vancouver, Okanagan Lake in Kelowna, or Clayoquot Sound near Tofino.

Wildlife Viewing

July is a great time to spot wildlife in BC. Go on a whale-watching tour from Vancouver Island to see orcas and humpback whales, or visit the Great Bear Rainforest for a chance to spot bears, eagles, and other wildlife.

Festivals

BC comes alive with festivals in July. Vancouver hosts the annual Celebration of Light, an international fireworks competition. The Vancouver Folk Music Festival and Whistler Children’s Festival are also popular events to check out.

Where to Go

Vancouver: Enjoy the vibrant city of Vancouver with its beaches, parks, and outdoor cafes. Take a bike ride around Stanley Park, visit Granville Island, or go kayaking in False Creek.

Victoria: Explore the charming capital city with its beautiful gardens and historic sites. Stroll through Butchart Gardens, visit the Royal BC Museum, or take a whale-watching tour.

Whistler: July is perfect for summer activities in Whistler. Hike the alpine trails, go zip-lining, or take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for breathtaking mountain views.

Okanagan Valley: With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, July is perfect for exploring the Okanagan Valley’s vineyards and lakes. Enjoy wine tastings, go boating, or relax at a lakeside resort.

Places to Stay in British Columbia

For a luxurious experience, stay at the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver or the Sparkling Hill Resort in the Okanagan, offering stunning views and world-class amenities.

The Sandman Signature Hotel in Kelowna offers comfort and convenience, while the Oswego Hotel in Victoria provides a stylish stay near the city’s main attractions.

Here’s a summary of the best stays in British Columbia:

British Columbia in July: More Helpful Information

Getting Around

July’s warm weather makes road trips a great way to explore the province. BC Ferries connects you to Vancouver Island and other coastal regions, and public transit is available in major cities like Vancouver and Victoria.

What to Pack

Bring light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days. A light jacket or sweater is also useful for cooler evenings, especially near the coast.

Safety Tips

If you plan to hike or explore the backcountry, be mindful of wildlife, and always carry water. Wildfire season can also start in July, so be sure to check local advisories before venturing into forested areas.

Don’t forget to checkout more of our helpful guides:

• British Columbia in August
• British Columbia in September
• British Columbia in October