ACTIVITIES

Immerse yourself in the enriching International Student Program, where education meets adventure. As an international student studying in the scenic Comox Valley, you are invited to engage in a plethora of organized activities and excursions throughout the school year.

Our program fosters a vibrant community of learners, connecting students from around the globe. With our monthly trips, you don’t just read about places in textbooks, you experience them firsthand. Forge new friendships, create lasting memories, and expand your horizons as you explore the diverse landscapes of Vancouver Island and British Columbia.

Embrace this unique opportunity to blend academic pursuits with cultural exploration in the heart of Canada’s breathtaking wilderness. Dive into the International Student Program and embark on an unforgettable journey of learning and discovery.

Full details and registration for all Activities are hosted through the iCent app.

First Semester Activities
September	Comox Beach Day
September	Mt. Washington Hike & Chairlift
September	Ocean Adventure
October	Victoria
December	Vancouver

Second Semester Activities
February	Whistler
Spring Break	Vancouver & Whistler
June	Tofino
June	Hornby Island

Comox Beach Day Mt. Washington Ocean Adventure Victoria Vancouver Whistler Spring Break Trip Tofino Hornby Island

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Fun in the Sun at Little Mexico

Kick off the fall semester with one of our most popular annual events—our “Fun in the Sun” day at Little Mexico, Goose Spit! Picture this: sparkling ocean, golden sand, and a full day of adventure with your fellow students. Whether you’re looking to try sailing on a catamaran, stand-up paddle-boarding, kayaking, or just want to splash around at the ocean water park, there’s something for everyone. No experience necessary—all you need is a sense of fun!

The adventure begins with a group meet-up at the Comox Marina, where you’ll hop on a boat and head straight to Little Mexico. Once there, you’re free to enjoy the water, relax on the beach, or join in group games and activities. Be sure to bring sandals or water shoes, snacks or a packed lunch, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses—you’ll want to spend every minute soaking up the sun.

After a full day of activity, you’ll return to the Comox Marina by boat. The fun doesn’t have to end there: you’ll have free time to explore downtown Comox, sample tasty bites from local food trucks, or treat yourself to gelato at the beloved Benino Italian Café & Gelato.

This is an affordable, all-in-one experience designed to help you make new friends, try new things, and create lifelong memories. The cost is typically around $25 per student, covering all activities and transportation.

Cost details are confirmed each year based on bookings, and registration always fills quickly. Full activity details and sign-up instructions will be posted through the student iCent App—so be sure to watch for updates and grab your spot as soon as registration opens!

Alpine Hiking Adventure to Lake Helen MacKenzie

Ready to discover the wild beauty of Vancouver Island? Join us for our annual hiking adventure to Lake Helen MacKenzie—a classic trek that’s perfect for all levels and a must-do for anyone who wants to experience the heart of our local landscape. This outing is designed to be friendly and accessible, with a well-maintained trail and raised wooden walkways that make your journey easy and enjoyable.

As you hike toward the lake, you’ll wander through sub-alpine meadows, past sparkling ponds, and along paths surrounded by ancient forests. The plateau is dotted with several beautiful lakes, all just a short distance from the trailhead—so if you’re in the mood for exploring, there’s plenty to see! The round-trip hike to Lake Helen MacKenzie typically takes about two hours, making it a great way to get outside, meet new people, and soak up the scenery without feeling rushed.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. After the hike, you’ll have a chance to ride the chairlift up to the spectacular Alpine Meadows. From the top, take in breathtaking views across the landscape all the way to the distant Pacific Ocean—a perfect spot for photos and a well-earned break.

Ocean Adventure

Get ready for a day that’s all about wild beauty and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Our annual Wildlife and Waterfall Adventure is your chance to explore the breathtaking scenery of the Discovery Passage and surrounding islands, all from the best seat in the house—onboard a high-speed Zodiac or a comfortable covered vessel.

You’ll spend half the day on the water, weaving through remote passages and active tidal zones, surrounded by jaw-dropping coastal views. Keep your eyes peeled! This is prime territory for spotting marine wildlife. Humpback whales, Orcas, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and more are all frequent visitors to these waters. Don’t forget your camera; you’ll want to capture every sighting.

This is a full-day, all-in experience perfect for anyone who wants to make memories, connect with nature, and see a side of Vancouver Island that most people only dream about. The cost is typically around $150-$200 per student.

Victoria City & Malahat SkyWalk Overnight Adventure

Ready to explore the best of British Columbia’s capital? Join our annual overnight adventure to Victoria—a city where history, culture, and west coast beauty meet. This two-day trip is the perfect chance to bond with friends, discover iconic landmarks, and experience something new.

We’ll kick things off with a guided exploration of downtown Victoria. Wander through the gorgeous inner harbour, and step inside the historic Parliament Buildings—built in 1898 and still the heart of provincial decision-making today. From there, you’ll stroll through Victoria’s legendary Chinatown: the oldest in Canada and second only to San Francisco in North America. Don’t miss Fan Tan Alley, famous for being the world’s narrowest street and packed with quirky shops and hidden history.

After a night in a comfortable hotel (with breakfast included), we’ll cap off the trip with a visit to the Malahat SkyWalk. Take a tree walk through the beautiful arbutus forest and ascend the gentle spiral ramp to a breathtaking 32-meter lookout. You’ll be treated to panoramic views of the West Coast you won’t find anywhere else—don’t forget your camera!

Vancouver City Adventure – Three Days of Big City Excitement

Experience the energy of Vancouver on our annual overnight adventure—a three-day trip that’s so popular, we run it twice each year! If you want to make the most of your time in Canada, this is a bucket-list experience you won’t want to miss.

The journey begins with a scenic ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia, a must-do for anyone living in the Comox Valley. Keep your eyes on the water—you might spot whales, sea lions, and a dazzling variety of marine life as we cross one of the world’s most vibrant coastal ecosystems.

Once we hit the city, get ready for non-stop excitement. You’ll explore Stanley Park on a walking tour and take flight at the thrilling FlyOver Canada experience—a coast-to-coast virtual journey that’s as fun as it is breathtaking. In the evening, we’ll be amazed by the world-famous Cirque du Soleil, where jaw-dropping acrobatics and artistry bring unforgettable stories to life.

The adventure continues with a chance to catch a Vancouver Canucks hockey game or a Whitecaps soccer match—an electric way to get a true taste of Canadian sports culture. And, of course, no trip to Vancouver is complete without shopping on Robson Street, famous for its fashion, dining, and the city’s luxury boutiques. You’ll have plenty of time to find the perfect gifts or treat yourself before the holidays.

Whistler Ski & Snowboard Getaway

Get ready for the ultimate winter escape with our annual three-day, two-night trip to Whistler, BC—one of North America’s premier ski and snowboard destinations, and a former host of the Winter Olympics. This adventure is designed for all skill levels, so whether you’re brand new to the slopes or a seasoned rider, you’ll find the perfect mix of excitement, learning, and fun. Students will spend two full days on Whistler Blackcomb, taking part in small-group lessons led by certified instructors. You’ll be grouped by ability, so everyone can feel confident and supported as they explore the mountain.

Your home base for the trip is the Whistler Athletes’ Village, where you’ll enjoy cozy accommodations in the same spot that once hosted Olympic competitors. After a day on the slopes, unwind with friends, share stories, and soak in the Olympic spirit. You’ll also have free time to discover Whistler Village, famous for its unique shops, inviting cafés, and delicious restaurants nestled right in the heart of the mountains.

This all-inclusive getaway covers round-trip transportation (including ferry fees), two nights of accommodation, daily breakfast and dinner at the Village, two days of mandatory ski or snowboard lessons with equipment rental, and lunch vouchers for each day. It’s the perfect way to experience the thrill of Whistler with everything organized for you, so you can focus on making memories.

Spring Break: Sea to Sky Adventure

Looking for an unforgettable way to spend Spring Break? Our annual Sea to Sky Adventure packs three days with iconic West Coast experiences, from the dramatic mountain views of Whistler to the bright lights of Vancouver. The journey begins with a scenic ferry ride across the Strait of Georgia, followed by a ride up the Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish—offering panoramic views over mountains, forests, and ocean. In Whistler Village, you’ll have time to explore charming shops and vibrant streets before we head to Vancouver for two nights in the heart of downtown.

Your stay includes comfortable hotel accommodations and a delicious brunch at one of Vancouver’s favourite spots, Frankie’s Italian Kitchen. There’s plenty of free time for shopping, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the city’s energy. The excitement continues with a live Vancouver Canucks hockey game at Rogers Arena, where you’ll feel the adrenaline of Canada’s favourite sport. Before heading home, you’ll experience the thrill of FlyOver Canada—a virtual flight across the country that’s as fun as it is breathtaking.

This all-inclusive adventure covers round-trip coach transportation, ferry fares, two nights’ hotel accommodation, brunch, admission to FlyOver Canada, and your Canucks game ticket. The cost is typically around $500 per student, making it an unbeatable way to experience the best of the Sea to Sky corridor with friends.

Tofino Coastal Adventure

Ready for the ultimate West Coast escape? Our annual three-day, two-night trip to Tofino is your chance to surf, explore, and relax in one of BC’s most stunning destinations. Nestled on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island and right next to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Tofino is famous for its rugged scenery, ancient rainforests, and world-class beaches. Whether you’re looking to ride your first wave or just want to soak in the laid-back coastal vibe, this adventure has something for everyone.

You’ll kick things off with a half-day surfing lesson at one of Tofino’s iconic beaches, led by professional instructors who make learning fun and accessible for all levels. After a day in the surf, unwind at the funky, retro-inspired Hotel Zed Tofino—complete with a relaxing jacuzzi and beautiful natural surroundings. During your free time, you can wander Tofino Village, discovering local shops, art galleries, and incredible restaurants that capture the unique spirit of the coast.

The trip includes two nights’ accommodation at Hotel Zed, round-trip coach transportation, two group dinners, a quick bagged breakfast to fuel your morning, and your surfing lesson with certified pros. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and community—an unbeatable way to make memories with friends and experience the best of Vancouver Island’s wild side.

Hornby Island Adventure

Looking for the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation? ISP students are invited on a free day trip to the stunning Hornby Island—a true hidden gem just off the east coast of Vancouver Island. Known for its natural beauty, sandy beaches, and scenic hiking trails, Hornby Island is the ideal spot to unwind and experience the best of the West Coast.

The day kicks off with a hike through Helliwell Provincial Park, where you’ll stroll along dramatic oceanfront bluffs and take in panoramic views of the Salish Sea, Gulf Islands, and the distant Coastal Mountain Range. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike, with every turn offering a new, breathtaking vista. After your morning adventure, you’ll head to Big Tribune Bay Beach for an afternoon of pure relaxation. With its soft white sand and warm, crystal-clear waters, Tribune Bay is famous for swimming, beach games, or simply soaking up the sun with friends.

This all-inclusive outing includes round-trip transportation and is completely free for ISP students. All you need to bring is a packed lunch, snacks, water, your beach essentials, and a sense of adventure. Spots are limited and fill up quickly every year.

To apply to the Comox Valley’s International Student Program, click the button below

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