These small cities & towns have some of the warmest winters in BC

While Vancouver already experiences pretty mild winters compared to the rest of Canada, we’re on the hunt for some of the warmest and sunniest winter destinations in British Columbia, and we’re taking you along on the journey. So if you’re gearing up for the colder months but still want to get out and explore, this is for you. From the Okanagan to the Sunshine Coast, here are a handful of small cities, towns, and villages in BC with some of the warmest winters in the province.

Kelowna

We’re starting with a couple of picks in the Okanagan, a region that’s known for having less rain than the coast, but occasionally more dramatic in temperature range. That being said, Tourism Kelowna says that while the small city is a four-season destination (offering great ski and snowboarding options), its winters are considered mild.

Where: Okanagan Valley

Osoyoos

Winters in Osoyoos are known for being mild and dry, making it a great road trip pick if you’re hoping to escape the Raincouver weather. According to Destination Osoyoos, visitors and residents enjoy “pleasing temperatures” from October to April every year, with an average annual snowfall of only 5.4 cm (2.1 inches).

Where: Okanagan Valley

Cranbrook 

While this pick is a slight deviation from the ‘mildest winter’ category, we definitely think BC’s sunniest city is worth a visit this upcoming season! According to Environment Canada and Tourism Cranbrook, the charming, small city experiences the most sunny days out of anywhere else in the province. So trade your rain boots and gear for cozy layers and snowshoes here.

Where: East Kootenay

Sidney 

If you’re not one too shy away from all the rain, Vancouver Island is your ideal wintertime destination. As opposed to frigid, freezing temperatures seen elsewhere across Canada, you’ll experience warmer, rainy winters along most of the coast. This includes the quaint seaside town of Sidney, which is known for its moderate climate and pedestrian-friendly downtown with a variety of specialty shops and local breweries.

Where: Vancouver Island, South

Victoria 

It’s only right that we follow suit with our provincial capital, which experiences some of the mildest year-round weather in Canada. Whether you want to explore one of North America’s oldest Chinatowns or curl up at a local coffee shop, restaurant, or pub, there’s plenty to do in Victoria no matter when you choose to visit.

Where: Vancouver Island, South

Sechelt

Winters on the Sunshine Coast are especially mild compared to the rest of BC, with daytime ranges typically between 2 and 10 degrees Celcius, according to Sunshine Coast Tourism. And Sechelt is one of the best places to explore if you’re looking to do some beachcombing, island-hopping, and paddling year-round!

There’s even a year-round farmers’ market, which moves indoors during the colder months.

Where: Sunshine Coast

And that’s a wrap on some of the destinations with the mildest winter weather we’ve found in BC. So all that’s left to do is mark your calendars and visit!