Superhost

·

Victoria, BC

"Lucy" Retro 1989 VW Westfalia - Vintage Vibes & Modern Comfort

4.9

Excellent

13 reviews

Offers delivery

Pet friendly

21+

Sleeps 4

Say hello to Lucy, a 1989 VW Westfalia with salt in her soul and a map full of stories. She’s not just a campervan — she’s a rolling basecamp for surfers, forest wanderers, stargazers, and slow-road romantics.Mechanical Excellence
This Westfalia stands out for its exceptional mechanical reliability. The engine has been professionally rebuilt and meticulously serviced, ensuring smooth, dependable performance on long trips and mountain climbs alike. The transmission shifts cleanly, and recent upgrades include new brakes, suspension components, and a modern cooling system for consistent, worry‑free operation. Every system — from the electrical to the fuel delivery — has been gone through with care to keep the van road‑trip ready.
Driving Experience
With its steady handling and well‑tuned ride, this vintage van offers the perfect balance between classic VW charm and modern reliability. It’s powered enough for highway cruising yet still delivers that iconic Westy feel behind the wheel.
Park her beside a driftwood beach on Vancouver Island’s wild west coast, pop the top, and let the ocean soundtrack your evening. Or wind her through cedar-lined backroads toward alpine lakes and moss-draped trails. Lucy was built for this kind of magic.
Why Lucy is Different
Lucy isn’t about rushing from A to B — she’s about pulling over when the light hits the water just right.
Iconic 1989 VW Westfalia charm – vintage soul, timeless style
Pop-top roof – sleep under canvas with the sea breeze drifting in
Cozy upstairs + downstairs sleeping – perfect for couples or a small crew
Classic kitchenette – stove, sink, cooler/fridge setup for beachside breakfasts
Compact + nimble – easy to drive, easy to park, impossible not to smile in
Lucy feels right at home exploring: the surf towns and stormy beaches of the west coast hidden forest service roads and waterfall hikes
Gulf Island ferry hops
Sunset picnics overlooking the Salish Sea
Star-filled nights far from city lights
Wake up to mist hanging in old-growth forests. Brew coffee with the back hatch open. Chase tide pools at golden hour. This is slow travel the way it was meant to be.
The Vibe
Think: goose down duvets, sandy feet, enamel mugs, barefoot mornings.
Think: crackling campfires and long coastal drives with the windows down.
Think: freedom with a steering wheel.
Lucy turns heads at every gas station and sparks conversations wherever she goes. She’s nostalgic, photogenic, and endlessly lovable — a true Island icon.Perfect ForRomantic coastal getaways
Creative retreats
Surf missions
Road trips with your best friend
Anyone craving a little more wild in their life
Lucy isn’t luxury — she’s legacy. She’s character. She’s stories waiting to happen.
If you’re ready to trade hotel walls for open skies, Lucy’s keys are waiting.Summer 2026 (Major Festivals)
Several major festivals are scheduled across the region, including the Cowichan Valley Bluegrass Festival (June 19–21, Lake Cowichan), 39 Days of July (June 25 – Aug 2, Duncan), and the Islands Folk Festival (July 24–26, Duncan).
Other notable summer events include the Cultivate Music Festival (July 11–12, Gabriola Island), The Pachena Bay Music Fest (July 17–18, Pachena Bay), and the Filberg Festival (July 31 – Aug 2, Comox).
Sunfest Country Music Festival (July 30 – August 2, 2026): Laketown Ranch, Lake Cowichan.
Coombs Bluegrass Festival (July 31 – August 2, 2026): Coombs.
Mid Island Co-op Beachfest Rocks! (August 7–9, 2026): Parksville.
Nanaimo Blues Festival (August 6–9, 2026): Maffeo Sutton Park, Nanaimo.
North Island Music Fest (August 21, 2026): Port McNeill.
Tofino Events
Key 2026 Tofino Festivals & Events
Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March 14–21, 2026): A major annual festival spanning Tofino, Ucluelet, and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. It celebrates the migration of Pacific Gray Whales with events like the Parade of Whales & Wonders, Chowder Chow Down, and Baleen Bash closing party.
Tofino Wine & Dine (June 6–7, 2026): Held on the front lawn of Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort, this event showcases British Columbia's culinary scene, wine, and local beverages.
Feast Tofino (Typically May): A multi-day culinary festival (noted as May 18–June 2 in past, likely similar in 2026) featuring guest chefs and boat-to-table dining.
Tofino Shorebird Festival (Typically Early May): Celebrates the migration of shorebirds with expert-led tours and workshops.
Tofino Public Market (Saturdays, May–September): Local arts, crafts,
and food producers gather, providing a consistent community event.
Tours
The Pacific Marine Circle Route is a 263–300 km scenic loop on southern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, starting and ending in Victoria. This 1–3 day journey (usually driven counter-clockwise) covers Highway 14, Pacific Marine Road, and Highway 18, featuring rugged coastal landscapes, old-growth forests, beaches near Sooke, and the Cowichan Valley.
This is one of my favourite routes and there is lots of camping along the way. I always stop at Shirley Delicious for great food and vibes and then a stop at Sandcut beach for the waterfall on the beach to the left at the bottom of the trail. If you like surfing the next stop is Sombrio beach and then up to Port Renfrew where I love to camp on the beach. If the tide is low Botanical Beach is the best for underwater sealife in the tidal pools.Best camping is at Pacheedaht Campground
Address: 305 Pachidah Rd, Port Renfrew, BC V0S 1K0
There is also camping at Fairy Lake where you can use the SUPs.
Next stop is Gordon Bay Park with a sandy beach on Lake Cowichan perfect for camping.
If you are taking your time Lake Cowichan rents out inner tubes to float the day away on the Cowichan river.
From Lake Cowichan I head south to Duncan and always stop at The Garage for some delicious food and in the summer across the street is live music.
Goldstream has camping as well as Bamberton if you want to spend one last night before hitting Victoria.
Lots of hiking in Goldstream Park.
Sooke to Port Renfrew (Hwy 14 - West Coast Road): Known for "where the rainforest meets the sea," including stops at Sooke Potholes, French Beach, China Beach, and Botanical Beach.
Port Renfrew to Lake Cowichan (Pacific Marine Road): A paved, winding, and scenic route through forests that connects the west coast to the inland lakes.
Cowichan Valley to Victoria (Hwy 18 & Trans-Canada Hwy): Features wineries, cideries, the town of Duncan, and the Cowichan Bay area.
Duration: While possible in one long day, a 2-3 day itinerary allows for enjoying the scenery and hiking trails.
Important Tips
Drive Time: The route is approximately 255-289 km long.
Preparation: Stock up on supplies (gas, food) in Sooke, as options are limited between Sooke and Port Renfrew.
Best Time: The route is enjoyable year-round, though popular in spring and summer.
What's includedPillows, sheets, goose down duvets, towels, robes & sandals
Ear plugs & face wipes
Full kitchen: stove, fridge, sink, cookware, dishes, utensils, spices
Coffee, tea, French press, kettle
Cleaning supplies & compostable bags
Solar power + inverter for device charging
First aid kit
Curtains for privacy
Hammock, lantern, headlamp, fire starter
Two chairs & indoor dining table
Heating & ceiling fan
Bear spray & binoculars
Hatchet
Roadside assistance
Fast 45-min check-in + quick, easy return
RecommendationsExplore Vancouver Island’s top highlights: Tofino and Ucluelet beaches, Juan de Fuca Trail, Mystic and Sombrio Beach, Cathedral Grove’s ancient forest, Sooke Potholes, Cowichan wineries, East Sooke Park and Victoria’s Inner Harbour. If you need a place to stay before or after your campervan adventure, your host also manages a cozy, high-rated Airbnb suite in Victoria, perfect for relaxing before hitting the road.Other things to noteLucy is a 1989 manual Westfalia—she must be driven with patience and a light hand. Always release the parking brake before driving. The awning must be tied down securely to avoid wind damage. Please return Lucy with full gas and propane; the station at Hillside & Shelbourne offers propane refill. No smoking inside the van.
The van is picked up at Menzies & Superior in the large parking lot.

Quick summary

AI generated

  • Embrace nostalgic slow travel in 'Lucy', a charming and reliable 1989 VW Westfalia.

  • Her classic pop-top and solar power offer true freedom for off-grid adventures.

  • Fully stocked with essentials and cozy comforts, just bring food and manual skills.

  • Perfect for memorable coastal escapes and star-filled nights, meticulously maintained.

1989 Volkswagen Westfalia

Length

16 ft

Transmission

Manual

Fuel Type

Gasoline

Tank Size

15 gal

Gross Weight

3,527 lbs

Sleeps

4

Seatbelts

4

Sleeping arrangements

2 beds

Cozy RV rental bed overlooks a stunning lake and mountain view, offering a serene escape.. Volkswagen Westfalia 1989
Enjoy van life with an RV rental! A person relaxes in a cozy, lit camper van at night. A warm fire and awning await outside.. Volkswagen Westfalia 1989

Full bed

1

Bunk bed

1

Host add-ons

Airport Pickup YYJ

A$98.80 each

See details

Camping chairs

A$31.20 each

See details

Early Pickup

A$78.00 each

See details

Extra Bedding Set

A$31.20 each

See details

Late Drop Off

A$78.00 each

See details

Pet Cleaning Fee

A$78.00 each

See details
"Lucy" Retro 1989 VW Westfalia - Vintage Vibes & Modern Comfort

Dates

Guest reviews
4.9

Excellent

13 reviews

Overall rating

5

4

3

2

1

Communication

4.7

Cleanliness

4.7

Maintenance

4.6

Value

4.9

Listing accuracy

4.8

Review summary

W
A
B

Friendly, communicative, helpful host

Cyrus is consistently praised for being friendly, communicative, and helpful. He ensures smooth pickup/drop-off and clearly takes pride in his van's maintenance.

Drives better than expected

Guests note it drives surprisingly well, handling great on highways and scenic roads. 'Lucy' is clean, well-maintained, fully stocked with a kitchenette, cozy bed, and solar power for off-grid camping.

W
Wolfgang E.

September 2025

5.0

Ein cooler kompetenter Service und ein super Camper

B
Brad J.

August 2025

5.0

The van exceeded our expectations. Was fully stocked and everything in fabulous shape. It drove way better than expected for a first time Westie user. Will rent 'Lucy' again.

N
Nicole J.

June 2025

5.0

We had an amazing experience renting the Westfalia! From the moment we picked it up, everything was smooth and easy. The van was clean, well-maintained, and had everything we needed for a comfortable road trip. From a cozy bed setup to a fully equipped kitchenette. Driving it felt like a nostalgic adventure, and it handled great on both highways and winding scenic roads. Cyrus was friendly, communicative, and clearly takes pride in keeping the van in top shape. We would absolutely rent this Westfalia again for another trip and it added a ton of character and charm to our getaway!

Guest Photos

Review photo 1
Review photo 2
Review photo 3
Features
1989 Volkswagen Westfalia
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 seatbelts
  • Fresh water: 13.2 gal
  • Fuel type: Gas
  • Fuel capacity: 15 gal
  • Manual transmission
Amenities
  • Bath towels
  • Toilet paper
  • Solart
  • Electric hookup
  • Audio Inputs
  • Radio
  • Stove
  • Refrigerator
Nearby places to stay
Rules and policies
Lucy is a classic 1989 manual Westfalia—drive gently and shift smoothly. Manual transmission: 2+ years experience required. Paved roads only; no gravel, forest service, or off-road terrain. Always release the parking brake before driving. Tie down the awning securely; Refill gas and propane before returning the van. No smoking inside the van. Return the van clean and remove garbage. Treat Lucy with care—she’s vintage and full of charm.
  • 12 am start time
    12 am end time
  • Pet friendly
  • Music festival friendly
  • Tailgating friendly
  • No smoking
  • Unlimited mileage
  • No generator
Cancellation: Moderate
Frequently asked questions

Q.

Can Lucy go on gravel roads?

A.

No. Lucy must stay on paved roads only. No gravel, forest service, or off-road terrain.

Q.

Do we offer pick up from the airport?

A.

Yes for a minimal charge we can pick you up and bring you into Victoria where you will have your walk through before heading off.

Q.

Can the van attend festivals?

A.

Yes—festivals are allowed as long as they are on Vancouver Island.

Q.

Do you provide a walkthrough?

A.

Yes—every rental includes a detailed 45-minute walk through at pickup.

Meet your host, Cyrus

Superhost • Member since 2024

Cyrus is a Superhost

Superhosts are highly-rated and experienced, ensuring you have a fantastic outdoor experience.

Hi I am Dianne your front end person and Cyrus is my back end person. My passion for VW campervans began as soon as I was old enough to drive. I bought my first Volkswagen bus in 1967 and drove straight to California, starting a lifetime of van-life adventures. Since then, I’ve crossed Canada six times, explored the U.S. from coast to coast, driven throughout Mexico, and even shipped my van to Hawaii, where I lived for several years. In 2019 I shipped my Westfalia from Vancouver BC to Rotterdam and traveled across Europe and the British Isles for 5 months and in 2023 I rented a campervan in Brussels and wild camped with my two pups all over Europe for three months.. My vans have also been to Burning Man seven times, still carrying a bit of desert dust as a reminder of the memories made. My next dream adventure is to drive off-road through the Baja Peninsula. For now I am doing short trips around Vancouver island where there is so much to discover.

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