British Columbia in September: 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.

September is a wonderful time to visit British Columbia, as the province transitions from summer to early autumn. 

The weather is still pleasant, but the crowds from the busy summer months start to thin out, making it a great time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring BC’s natural beauty.

British Columbia in September: Things To Know

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(credit: KimKim)

Visiting British Columbia in September? This is when the summer crowds start heading home, but the weather often stays beautiful – think sunny days with just a bit of fall crispness in the air.

It’s what many locals call the “secret season.” The forests start putting on their fall colors, salmon are running upstream, and you might catch some amazing deals on hotels.

Plus, September is harvest time, so you can taste fresh local apples, visit wineries during grape harvest, and enjoy food festivals all over the province.

Whether you’re hoping to spot grizzlies catching salmon, hike peaceful trails, or explore Vancouver without the summer tourist rush, September could be your perfect time to visit BC.

British Columbia Weather in September

In September, temperatures across British Columbia remain mild and comfortable. Coastal cities like Vancouver and Victoria see temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), with occasional rain showers. 

In the interior regions like Kelowna and Kamloops, it’s warmer, ranging from 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F), with sunny days perfect for enjoying vineyards or lakes. Northern areas, such as Prince George, start to cool down with temperatures between 5°C and 17°C (41°F to 63°F), signaling the onset of fall.

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 September

September is one of the best months to enjoy BC’s outdoor activities and cultural experiences, as well as the early signs of autumn.

Hiking and Nature Walks

September is perfect for hiking, with cooler weather and stunning views as the leaves start to change color. Explore trails like the Stawamus Chief in Squamish, Garibaldi Provincial Park near Whistler, or the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island.

Harvest Season and Wine Tours

September marks the grape harvest in the Okanagan Valley, making it an ideal time for wine tours and tastings. Many wineries host special events, and you can also enjoy fresh local produce at farmer’s markets.

Fishing and Boating

With summer crowds gone, September is a peaceful time to enjoy fishing and boating. Head to the Fraser River for salmon fishing or take a boat trip in the Gulf Islands for some relaxing time on the water.

Fall Festivals

September brings a range of fall festivals across the province. The Vancouver International Film Festival kicks off in late September, and the Feast of Fields event in Kelowna celebrates local food and farming.

Whale Watching

September remains a great time for whale watching on the coast, especially around Vancouver Island. Orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife can often be spotted in areas like Tofino, Ucluelet, and Victoria.

Where to Go

Vancouver: With cooler weather and fewer tourists, Vancouver is perfect for exploring Stanley Park, visiting museums like the Vancouver Art Gallery, or cycling along the Seawall.

Kelowna: Enjoy the Okanagan Valley’s wine season in full swing. Visit local vineyards, relax by Okanagan Lake, and enjoy farm-to-table dining experiences.

Tofino: September is a quieter time in Tofino, making it perfect for beach walks, storm watching, and relaxing in nature. Visit Pacific Rim National Park for hiking and scenic coastal views.

Whistler: While ski season hasn’t started yet, Whistler is still buzzing with activity in September. Enjoy mountain biking, zip-lining, or simply soak in the beauty of the mountains without the summer crowds.

Places to Stay

The Fairmont Empress in Victoria offers historical charm and waterfront views, while Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature.

The Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna is a great option for exploring the Okanagan, and The Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver offers comfortable stays near Stanley Park.

The Samesun Whistler Lodge is a budget-friendly option for adventure seekers, and HI Vancouver Jericho Beach Hostel provides affordable stays close to the city and the beach.

Here’s the best stays in BC:

British Columbia in September: More Helpful Information

Getting Around

September is ideal for road trips, especially along the Sea-to-Sky Highway or through the Okanagan Valley. Public transit is also readily available in larger cities, and BC Ferries connect Vancouver to Vancouver Island.

What to Pack

Bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate, especially in the mountains and northern areas. A light jacket, comfortable shoes, and a raincoat are recommended for the coast. Don’t forget sunscreen for sunny days.

Safety Tips

September can still have some wildfire risks, particularly in the interior, so stay updated on local advisories. If hiking or exploring remote areas, bring plenty of water and navigation tools, and be aware of changing weather conditions.

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

• British Columbia in October
• British Columbia in November
• British Columbia in December