two women enjoy wine at caprio cellars
Wine tasting on the patio at Caprio Cellars in Walla Walla
The beautiful patio at Caprio Cellars in Walla Walla offers stunning views of the region — a perfect place to sample and savor a glass of vino.

It’s not convenient from anywhere. A 4.5-hour drive from Seattle, Washington, and a 3.5-hour drive from Portland, Oregon — Walla Walla isn’t a pop-over destination. (Unless, of course, you’re catching a Seattle to Walla Walla charter flight.) But the renowned Walla Walla wineries are well worth the trek.

Kenmore Air’s Pilatus PC-12 seats up to 6 guests with luggage and cruises from Boeing Field or Paine Field to Walla Walla Regional Airport in 1 hour.

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Washington State, Walla Walla wine country spans nearly 3,000 acres. It stretches into the northeasternmost tip of Oregon. And, it offers the ultimate girls’ weekend destination for those who want to unwind, relax, and sample some of the best wine in Washington.

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Victoria, B.C. Parliament Buildings
Carriage rides in Victoria BC

As the days grow longer and the weather turns from cold to sun-filled, the BC capital wakes up. Hanging baskets once again take their stand throughout the city. Foot traffic increases, though not so much as to be overwhelming. The longer days mean more time spent enjoying meals outdoors, exploring parks, and savoring views. 

Depending on who you ask, spring in Victoria may very well be the best time to visit. Discover 75 flower-filled, thrilling, and unique things to do in Victoria, BC, this spring. 

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spring day on Orcas Island
Orcas Island Spring

The San Juan Islands span 172 named islands and reefs, however just three are served by regularly scheduled flights from Seattle; San Juan Island, Orcas Island, and Lopez Island. Best known for their epic views, untouched wildlife, and regionally-inspired cuisine, the San Juans offer a wide range of things to do for families, couples, and friends.

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Nestled on the edge of Vancouver Island’s wild, rugged coast, Tofino, BC is a haven for adventurers and those seeking serenity. With its towering rainforests, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend escape from Seattle. Fold in a stay at the luxurious award-winning Wickaninnish Inn and your experience becomes an unforgettable retreat where nature, relaxation, and fine dining blend seamlessly.

Getting there is part of the adventure, with Kenmore Air offering exclusive PC-12 turboprop or seaplane charters from Seattle that land you in Tofino in as little as an hour and a half. The breathtaking aerial views of the Pacific Northwest coastline set the tone for a weekend of indulgence, exploration, and reconnection with nature.


Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Here’s how to make the most of a luxurious weekend getaway from Seattle to Tofino.

Arrival via Kenmore Air’s PC-12 turboprop aircraft to Tofino Long Beach Airport.

1:00 PM – Arrive in Tofino via Kenmore Air Charter

Your weekend escape begins with a scenic flight from Seattle aboard a Kenmore Air PC-12 charter flight departing from Boeing Field or a seaplane charter flight departing from Kenmore. As you soar above the Salish Sea and Vancouver Island, the rugged coastline, verdant forests, and the Pacific Ocean unfold beneath you. Upon arrival in Tofino, you’re a quick taxi or rideshare from Long Beach Airport or Tofino’s harbor dock to the iconic Wickaninnish Inn.

The rugged west coast of Vancouver Island is on full display from the award-winning Wickaninnish Inn.
Breathtaking views of waves crashing the shoreline await from a Premier Room at The Wick.

3:00 PM – Check-in at the Wickaninnish Inn

Perched on the rocky shores of Chesterman Beach, the Wickaninnish Inn is a masterpiece of luxury in the wilderness. Known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding temperate rainforest, the Inn offers a serene escape that embraces nature’s beauty. Check in to your ocean-view room and take a moment to breathe in the salty air and listen to the waves crashing below. The room’s expansive windows, cozy fireplace, and deep soaking tub set the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Surfers take to the waves daily along Chesterman Beach located adjacent to The Wick.

4:00 PM – Afternoon at Chesterman Beach

With a full afternoon ahead of you, take a leisurely walk along Chesterman Beach, just steps from your hotel. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for beachcombing, tidepool exploring, or simply soaking in the beauty of the rugged coastline. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard from a nearby shop and try catching a few waves in one of the best surf spots in the Pacific Northwest. Chesterman’s expansive shores also offer a serene backdrop for reflection and relaxation.

On The Rocks, located adjacent to The Pointe Restaurant, is the perfect spot for an evening handcrafted cocktail.

6:30 PM – Cocktails at The Rocks Bar

Before dinner, head back to the Wickaninnish Inn and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails at On The Rocks Bar. The cozy, wood-paneled bar offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it the perfect place to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail. Sip on a signature drink like the “Wickaninnish Negroni” or a local craft beer while watching the sun dip toward the horizon.

7:30 PM – Dinner at The Pointe Restaurant

The Pointe Restaurant, the crown jewel of the Wickaninnish Inn, is your dining destination for the evening. With 240-degree ocean views and a menu that highlights local and sustainable ingredients, dining here is a feast for the senses. Begin with a delicious smoked salmon plate or Dungeness crab, and move on to entrées like poached steelhead trout or roasted beef tenderloin. The sommelier-curated wine list features exceptional British Columbia wines that perfectly complement the menu. End your meal with a decadent dessert while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean outside.

Day 2: Adventure and Exploration

Breakfast and dinner views are exceptional from the 270 degree vantage at The Pointe Restaurant.

8:00 AM – Breakfast with a View

Start your day with room service or breakfast back at The Pointe Restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries, gourmet eggs benedict with local smoked salmon, or a hearty bowl of oatmeal as you watch the morning waves. The Wickaninnish Inn’s attention to detail and dedication to local, organic ingredients make breakfast here as much of an experience as dinner.

9:30 AM – Bike Ride to Ucluelet

Rent a bike from Tofino Bike Company and ride along the scenic Pacific Rim Highway toward Ucluelet, about 40 kilometers south of Tofino. The ride takes you through the majestic old-growth rainforest and offers glimpses of the wild coastline. Once you arrive in Ucluelet, park your bike and head to the Wild Pacific Trail, a stunning coastal hike that takes you along dramatic cliffs, through dense forest, and past crashing waves. The trail’s vistas offer unforgettable views of the rugged coastline and the open ocean beyond.

1:00 PM – Lunch at Tacofino

After settling in, make your way to the local favorite, Tacofino, for a casual yet delicious lunch. Known for its fresh, vibrant flavors, Tacofino’s Tofino truck serves up mouthwatering tacos made with locally sourced ingredients. Try the Baja-style fish taco, or opt for the pork gringa with a side of their famous chocolate diablo cookie. The laid-back, surf-town atmosphere makes this an ideal spot to rub elbows with locals.

Oceanside couples massages and treatments make for a perfect relaxing afternoon at Ancient Cedars Spa located onsite at The Wick.

3:00 PM – Massage at Ancient Cedars Spa

After a day of outdoor adventure, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage at the Ancient Cedars Spa, located at the Wickaninnish Inn. Nestled among towering trees with views of the ocean, this spa offers an array of treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Opt for the Lomi Lomi treatment, which weaves together passive movement, stretching and full-body massage to release tension in a traditional style used by Hawaiian shamans and healers.

Enjoy a sunset stroll or bonfire along Chesterman Beach.

6:00 PM – Bonfire on Chesterman Beach

As evening falls, gather around a bonfire on Chesterman Beach. The Wickaninnish Inn provides all the essentials—blankets, marshmallows, and firewood—so you can enjoy the warmth of the fire while listening to the sound of the waves. This intimate experience is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration, with the stars twinkling above and the ocean breeze gently rolling in.

Day 3: A Day of Leisure

9:00 AM – Morning Walk in the Rainforest

Wake up early for a peaceful walk-through Pacific Rim National Park’s lush temperate rainforest. The park’s Rainforest Trail is an easy, scenic loop that takes you through a dense forest of towering cedars, ferns, and moss-covered trees. The quiet serenity of the forest, combined with the fresh ocean air, is the perfect way to start your final day in Tofino.

Upscale casual is the name of the game at Driftwood Cafe, located at The Wick.

12:00 PM – Lunch at Driftwood Cafe

For your last meal in Tofino, return to The Wick for a casual bite at the Driftwood Café. Perched on the rugged edge of Chesterman Beach, enjoy a delicious soup and salad with a glass of wine as you soak in the unbeatable ocean view. With its relaxed atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the crashing waves, you’ll enjoy wild beauty while indulging in comforting, thoughtfully prepared fare.

2:00 PM – Free Time to Explore Tofino

Spend your final afternoon strolling through the town of Tofino, visiting its eclectic mix of shops and galleries. Pick up locally made souvenirs at Roy Henry Vickers Gallery, grab an afternoon coffee from Rhino Coffee House or if you’re up for more adventure, rent a kayak and paddle around Clayoquot Sound, taking in the beauty of the islands and inlets.

6:00 PM – Departure with Kenmore Air

As your weekend getaway comes to a close, return to Long Beach Airport to catch your Kenmore Air PC-12 charter flight or Tofino’s harbor for your seaplane flight back to Seattle. The journey home offers one last chance to admire the stunning Pacific coastline from the air, bringing your unforgettable Tofino adventure full circle.

kenmore air seaplane flying into victoria inner harbour
kenmore air flying into victoria inner harbour

While Victoria is closer to American soil than its British Columbia mainland, it feels a bit like traveling to Europe. (It’s 75 miles from the Emerald City and just 28 miles from the closest US town, Friday Harbor.) Sure, the watery border can make you think twice about the best way to get to Victoria BC. 

But if you know your options, getting there can be just as much fun as being there. The following outlines the five top ways to travel between this Vancouver Island metropolis and Washington’s high-tech hub — including a scenic seaplane flight!

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Hiking at sunset. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang
A couple on a hike during sunset at Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang.
A couple on a hike during sunset at Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang.

Thanks to its old-world elegance, walkable streets, and temperate weather — Victoria oozes romance. Here, mundane tasks, like grocery shopping, can feel like a date. But it’s not just the city’s day-to-day living that’s filled with couple-worthy activities. There’s an impressive selection of romantic things to do in Victoria, BC.

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Kenmore Air Otter and Cattle Point Lighthouse
Kenmore Air de Havilland Otter flying past Cattle Point Lighthouse

Though the quaint archipelago tucked within the Salish Sea is technically part of Washington State, it feels a bit like its own country. Heck, some of its rocky inlets are closer to Canada than they are to the American mainland. But the 172-plus islands in the Olympic Rainshadow don’t require a passport and are relatively easy to access — if you know what you’re doing. 

The following outlines 9 ways to travel from Seattle to the San Juan Islands. But at its most primitive level, there are only two ways to get here: by boat or plane. The nature of being surrounded by water on all sides makes this remote destination exactly that, remote. That’s part of the charm, part of what keeps this paradise a destination worthy of visiting year-round.

And the great news is, whether you’re flying from Boeing Field to Friday Harbor or catching a seaplane from Lake Union to Roche Harbor — the views are endless and check-in is a breeze!

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Mineral Pools at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel
Oak Bay Beach Hotel Mineral Pools

There is a reason Victoria remains one of the most romantic and refreshing destinations on the West Coast. Its coastal views and temperate weather offer an elegant reprieve from the drizzle that often plagues the Greater Seattle area. Historic charm abounds in the BC Capital, as does a thriving food scene that’s rooted in farm-to-table cuisine. Here, a commitment to whole-body wellness is matched with an often unmentioned friendliness. It’s a dynamic combo that has made Victoria a haven for those looking to rest and refresh. And no place speaks to this epic sense of retreat more than the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. 

Voted #7 Hotel in Western Canada by the Condé Nast Traveler’s 2023 Reader’s Choice Awards, Oak Bay Beach Hotel in British Columbia offers the ultimate wellness weekend experience. 

And what’s more, it doesn’t take all day to reach with a convenient, direct flight to Victoria Inner Harbour or Victoria International Airport. Kenmore Air also provides service from San Juan Island’s Friday Harbor Marina direct to Victoria Inner Harbour!

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Friday Harbor Golden Hour. Photo by BrendanHunter
Friday Harbor Golden. Photo by BrendanHunter

Washington’s gourmet archipelago is undoubtedly known for its sun-filled summer days and fruit-laden farmers markets. But don’t assume this sweet little paradise closes up shop during the winter. While some businesses and residents like to hibernate until spring, there are still plenty of relaxing things to do on San Juan Island during the holidays. 

In fact, visiting the San Juan’s during the winter might even be your favorite! The slower pace and lack of crowds give you more freedom to linger and enjoy your getaway. Not to mention, getting to San Juan Island from Seattle is as easy as catching a 45-minute scenic flight from Boeing Field!

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Seattle Skyline
Seattle Skyline

Published Nov. 7, 2019 | Last Updated November 23, 2024

Sure, Seattle gets the ‘occasional’ rainy day during the winter. But natives have long since learned that the grey skies aren’t a reason to write off the Emerald City. In fact, with its plethora of cozy refuges, lively winter events, and inspiring museums, you’ll never be short of unique things to do this winter in Seattle.

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