British Columbia in April: 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.

Spring is here, and you’re probably wondering what to see, what to wear, and how to make the most of your visit. It might feel like a lot to plan, but don’t sweat it—we’ve got you covered.

April is one of the best times to visit British Columbia. The province comes alive with blooming cherry blossoms, green forests, and milder weather. 

Imagine strolling through Victoria’s Butchart Gardens in full bloom, or sipping wine at a sunny vineyard in the Okanagan. Spring in BC is all about fresh experiences and vibrant landscapes.

Sound exciting? Keep reading for all the must-know details—weather advice, can’t-miss activities, and tips to make your April trip unforgettable.

British Columbia in April: Things To Know

• Save

(credit: KimKim)

There’s so much happening in British Columbia in April that it can feel overwhelming. 

Maybe you’re curious about the weather, searching for top travel destinations, or just hunting for the best places to eat.

This guide has all the details you need to make your trip to BC in April 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 April

In April, the coastal regions, including Vancouver and Victoria, see mild temperatures between 8°C and 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with occasional rain showers. This is the perfect time for exploring gardens, parks, and city attractions. 

In the interior areas like Kelowna and Kamloops, temperatures range from 5°C to 14°C (41°F to 57°F), and while the snow is mostly gone, it’s still cool enough for outdoor adventures. In the northern regions, such as Prince George, expect cooler weather between 1°C and 10°C (34°F to 50°F), with the possibility of lingering snow in some areas.

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

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.

For travelers coming from the U.S., ferries from cities like Seattle and Port Angeles provide easy access to BC ports, including Victoria and Tsawwassen.

The journey itself is part of the adventure! You’ll enjoy stunning views of the Gulf Islands, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot seals or whales along the way.

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. 

For those exploring northern or interior BC, you can also fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ), Kelowna International Airport (YLW), or Prince George Airport (YXS).

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.

Name	Location	Price	Rating	Book
Four Seasons Resort	Whistler	CAD 430	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Click Here
Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa	Whistler	CAD 212	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Click Here
Rosewood Hotel Georgia	Vancouver	CAD 560	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	Click Here

Things to Do in British Columbia in April

April offers a mix of spring activities, festivals, and outdoor adventures across the province:

Cherry Blossom Viewing

April is the peak of cherry blossom season in Vancouver and Victoria. Stroll through neighborhoods and parks to see these pink blooms. Vancouver even hosts a Cherry Blossom Festival with events, performances, and art.

Spring Hiking

Trails that were snowed over in winter start to clear, making it a great time for hiking. Try trails in Lighthouse Park or Garibaldi Provincial Park for stunning coastal or mountain views.

Gardens in Bloom

Places like Butchart Gardens in Victoria and VanDusen Botanical Garden in Vancouver burst into life with tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers. These gardens are perfect for a peaceful walk and soaking in spring colors.

Wine Tasting in the Okanagan

The Okanagan Valley starts warming up in April, making it a great time to explore wineries and vineyards before the busy summer season.

Whale Watching

April is a prime time for whale watching along the coast, especially near Vancouver Island, where gray whales and orcas are often seen.

Where to Go in British Columbia in April

Vancouver: With mild weather, Vancouver is ideal for exploring Stanley Park, cycling along the Seawall, or visiting Granville Island’s public market.

Victoria: Visit Victoria for its historic charm and beautiful gardens. Don’t miss the blooming Butchart Gardens or a scenic walk along the Inner Harbour.

Whistler: While the ski season is winding down, you can still hit the slopes or enjoy Whistler’s vibrant village atmosphere, filled with shops, restaurants, and hiking options.

Okanagan Valley: For those looking to relax and enjoy BC’s wine country, April is perfect for touring the wineries and enjoying the lake views.

Places to Stay in British Columbia

Whether you want luxury, a mid-range option, or something budget-friendly, BC has plenty of great places to stay.

The Fairmont Empress in Victoria offers elegance and historic charm, while Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler provides a peaceful mountain retreat.

Stay at the Coast Capri Hotel in Kelowna for easy access to wineries, or the Sylvia Hotel in Vancouver, which offers beautiful views of English Bay.

Samesun Kelowna offers affordable accommodations close to vineyards and the lake.

Here’s a summary of the best places to stay in British Columbia:

Name	Location	Rating	Price	Book
Four Seasons Resort	Whistler	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 500	Click Here
Rosewood Hotel Georgia	Vancouver	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 698	Click Here
Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa	Whistler	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 212	Click Here
Pangea Pod Hotel	Whistler	⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 98	Click Here
Delta Hotels by Marriott	Whistler	⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 309	Click Here
Hotel Grand Pacific	Victoria	⭐⭐⭐⭐	CAD 142	Click Here
HI Whistler	Whistler	⭐⭐⭐	CAD 207	Click Here
The Cambie Hostel	Vancouver	⭐⭐⭐	CAD 80	Click Here
Royal Scot Hotel & Suites	Victoria	⭐⭐⭐	CAD 159	Click Here
YWCA Hotel	Vancouver	⭐⭐⭐	CAD 138	Click Here

BC in April: More Helpful Information

Getting Around

Spring is a great time to explore BC’s cities and nature spots. While most areas will have clear roads, be cautious in higher elevations where snow may still be present.

What to Pack

Layers are key in April as temperatures can fluctuate. Pack a light waterproof jacket for the occasional spring rain and comfortable shoes for walking or hiking.

Safety Tips

If you plan on hiking in the mountains, check trail conditions as some paths might still have snow or be muddy.

BC in April: In Conclusion

I hope you found this post helpful and if you’re traveling to BC in April,  I hope you will enjoy your trip. British Columbia is a beautiful province and won’t disappoint you!

If you have any questions, leave a comment below or send us a message.

Check out more helpful guides:

• British Columbia in May
• British Columbia in June
• British Columbia in July