British Columbia in November: 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.

November in British Columbia marks the transition into winter, with colder temperatures, more rainfall on the coast, and the first snowfalls in the mountains.

 It’s a great time to enjoy cozy indoor activities or start embracing winter sports as ski resorts begin to open for the season. 

Whether you’re looking for early skiing or just want to explore the province’s beautiful landscapes, November offers plenty to see and do.

British Columbia in November: Things To Know

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(credit: KimKim)

There’s so much happening in British Columbia in November that it can feel a bit overwhelming. 

This guide has all the details you need to make your trip to BC in November unforgettable.

Before we jump into the specifics, here are a few key things to know about visiting BC during this time of year:

British Columbia Weather in November

November weather varies across the province, but overall, it gets colder and wetter. Coastal regions like Vancouver and Victoria experience cooler, rainy days, with temperatures between 4°C to 10°C (39°F to 50°F). Expect plenty of rain, so pack a good waterproof jacket.

In the interior, such as Kelowna or Kamloops, temperatures range from -2°C to 6°C (28°F to 43°F), and you may see some early snow, especially at higher elevations. In the northern regions like Prince George’s, temperatures drop to between -6°C and 1°C (21°F to 34°F), with snow becoming more common.

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 to British Columbia

Planning Your Trip Last Minute?⏰

By Ferry

If you’re planning to travel to British Columbia by ferry, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from, depending on your starting point.

From Vancouver Island, ferries connect Swartz Bay (near Victoria) with Tsawwassen or Departure Bay (near Nanaimo) with Horseshoe Bay, just north of Vancouver.

By Plane

Flying into British Columbia is easy, with several airports offering connections across the province. 

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the main hub, located in Richmond, just outside downtown Vancouver.

How to Get Around British Columbia

British Columbia is a vast province with incredible diversity in its landscapes, so how you travel depends on your plans. In cities like Vancouver, Victoria, and Kelowna, public transit is a reliable and convenient option.

Buses, the SkyTrain (in Vancouver), and ferries connect major areas, making it easy to explore city attractions without needing a car.

For rural areas, provincial parks, or smaller towns, renting a car is often the way to go, especially during winter. Driving gives you the flexibility to explore iconic spots like the Okanagan Valley’s wineries, the majestic Rockies, or the untouched beauty of Haida Gwaii at your own pace.

Planning an extended stay? Buying a vehicle might even be worth considering. With your car, you’ll have the freedom to truly immerse yourself in BC’s breathtaking natural beauty whenever and wherever you want.

BC Accommodation: 3 Best Hotels

In the table below you can find the best hotels in British Columbia and their locations. Further down in the post, you can read more details about these hotels.

Things to Do in British Columbia in November

November is a great time to enjoy the shift into winter, whether you want to get outside or relax indoors.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Some of BC’s top ski resorts, like Whistler Blackcomb and Sun Peaks, start to open for the season in mid-to-late November. Early snow makes it a perfect time to enjoy less crowded slopes before the winter rush.

Winter Markets and Festivals

November is the start of winter markets across BC. Vancouver’s famous Christmas Market opens in late November, featuring festive lights, seasonal treats, and handcrafted gifts. Many smaller towns also host holiday fairs and craft markets.

Storm Watching in Tofino

November is the start of storm season on Vancouver Island’s west coast, making it a great time for storm-watching in Tofino. Cozy up by the fire and watch powerful waves crash against the rugged coastline.

Indoor Attractions

If the weather is too wet for outdoor activities, November is perfect for visiting BC’s museums, art galleries, and aquariums. Explore the Royal BC Museum in Victoria, the Vancouver Art Gallery, or the Science World in Vancouver.

Wine and Food Tours

November is a quieter time to visit the Okanagan Valley, where you can take wine tours without the summer crowds. Many wineries offer indoor tastings, and some even host seasonal events celebrating the local harvest.

Where to Go

Whistler: With the early ski season in full swing, Whistler is a great place to visit in November. If you’re not a skier, enjoy the village’s cozy cafes, spas, and restaurants.

Vancouver: While it’s rainy, Vancouver has plenty of indoor activities like museums, galleries, and great dining spots. You can also stroll through Stanley Park or visit Granville Island for local food and crafts.

Victoria: The capital city is quieter in November, offering a peaceful time to explore. Visit Butchart Gardens, which begins to transition into its winter displays, or enjoy afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.

Tofino: If you’re looking for a dramatic coastal experience, head to Tofino for storm watching. You can also explore the local rainforests and beaches between storms.

Places to Stay in BC

The Fairmont Chateau Whistler is a great choice for those hitting the early ski slopes, while The Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino offers a cozy retreat with ocean views and storm-watching packages.

Stay at the Magnolia Hotel & Spa in Victoria for a relaxing getaway, or at The Listel Hotel in Vancouver for easy access to the city’s attractions.

BC in November: More Helpful Information

Getting Around

Winter tires are required on many BC highways from October 1 to April 30, so if you’re driving, make sure your vehicle is properly equipped. Public transportation, including buses and ferries, runs reliably year-round.

What to Pack

November is cold and often rainy, so pack warm layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy shoes. If you’re planning to ski or snowboard, bring your gear or plan to rent it.

Safety Tips

If you’re heading into the mountains, be aware of early winter conditions, including snow and ice. Avalanche risks can begin as snow accumulates, so check conditions if you’re venturing into backcountry areas.

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

• British Columbia in December
• British Columbia in January
• British Columbia in February