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Telegraph Cove

Whale Watching, Jeremy Ferguson photo
Whale Watching in Telegraph Cove, Jeremy Ferguson photo
Small, compact and nestled between ocean and rainforest in the northern Vancouver Island wilderness, Telegraph Cove (population around 20) seems to have jumped through time. The boardwalked resort with its preserved historic buildings recalls a rustic past in which the cove harboured a lumber mill and salmon saltery. Nature beckons travellers to a slew of outdoor activities including whale watching, bear watching, fishing, ocean kayaking, caving, diving, hiking, walking and Aboriginal cultural touring.

Climb out of bed and jump into a fishing boat, kayak, whale watching boat or bear watching craft. It really is that simple.

Where to Stay & Eat

Simplicity is one of its greatest charms. Accommodations are two modest resorts. Telegraph Cove Resort, shows character, a scattered collection of 14 mostly 1940s buildings, many on stilts. Each resort has a place to eat, but diners can find greater choice half an hour away in Port McNeill. The Cove is a sanctuary in which to unwind at the end of an action-packed day. It bustles through summer, when visitors number 120,000.

Whale Watching

Most famously, Telegraph Cove is about the great Orca, Minke and Humpback whales that frolic in the Johnstone Strait and Broughton Archipelago. Stubbs Island Whale Watching, launched in 1980, was the first whale watching outfit in BC and on Canada's west coast. It was a landmark endeavour. It's still regarded by many as the best whale watching venture in BC.

Telegraph Cove Activities

Bear fans should contact Tide Rip Adventures for watching grizzlies in Knight Inlet on the mainland, North Island Kayak Rental & Tours for ocean kayakers and the excellent Whale Interpretive Centre. Consider the latter an essential companion experience to the whale watching adventure. Don't miss it.

For information and brochures, drop by the Visitor Centre at the Telegraph Cove Resort.