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 Port Hardy is a major-league outdoor adventure destination. The cold waters of the Queen Charlotte Strait are renowned for saltwater fishing and scuba diving. The primary land-based activity here is hiking, and the trail selection ranges from easy riverfront strolls to epic, multi-day treks to Cape Sutil (the island's northernmost extreme). Shopping and dining options abound for those enjoying a pleasurable few days in town before or after their trip aboard the Prince Rupert ferry.
Water Activities The sheltered waters found elsewhere on Vancouver Island's east coast begin to take on a wild quality near the Port Hardy region as the open Pacific exerts its stormy influence. The tidal race is ideal for a spectacular array of underwater marine life, and scuba pros rate the cluster of islands that comprise God's Pocket Marine Provincial Park among the top dive sites in the world. Kayakers trace the rocky coastline and paddle the sheltered waters of Hardy Bay; Odyssey Kayaking in town offers rentals, tours and lessons. Charter fishing boats head out routinely in pursuit of salmon and halibut. Swimmers of all ages wade in at Storey's Beach east of town or dive into wilderness lakes. Surfers and boogie boarders ride the big surf at Raft Cove and San Josef Bay. And boaters tie up overnight at the marina while making their way back and forth along BC's Inside Passage and Discovery Coast Passage. Random wildlife sightings of whales, seals, otters, and myriad seabirds are bonuses. Land Activities Three wilderness provincial parks – Cape Scott, Marble River, and Raft Cove – are within an easy (if bumpy in cases where unpaved forestry roads are involved) drive of Port Hardy. Hikers can embark on a mix of gentle, moderate, and challenging daytrips and overnight adventures. Backpackers are lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean while camping on beaches. Steelhead trout are a prime catch for freshwater fishermen. Spelunking (caving) is popular in a landscape riddled with deep limestone karst formations. Little Huston Lake Arches and Caves (south of Nimpkish Lake) is easily accessible. The Visitor Centre can provide leads to experienced guides for challenging trickier spots like the Devil's Bath (an eerie sink hole near Port Alice that some believe is bottomless) and Artlish Caves Provincial Park. Golfing, Cycling, and a Heritage Garden Mountain views frame most of the fairways at Vancouver Island's northernmost golf course, the nine-hole Seven Hills Golf & Country Club (just off Highway 19 on the road to Port Alice). Cyclists and mountain bikers are also well served in the region. The green-thumb set can visit Ronning's Garden, a Holberg-area homestead whose lavish grounds (complete with dozens of imported trees, included a pair of monkey puzzles) have been restored to their circa 1910 glory.
Aboriginal Culture, Galleries, and Shops  For a taste of history in the raw, visit the Fort Rupert remains of a Hudson Bay Company (HBC) fortress. The area is the traditional home of the Kwakiutl First Nation, and their oceanfront band lands is worth a visit for its totem poles and historic cemetery. The Copper Maker Gallery here is a must-stop for art collectors, who can also pick up vivid First Nations work at the Port Hardy Museum and several downtown galleries. Dozens of talented local artists and artisans are showcased at the West Coast Community Craft Shop, a friendly, one-stop art superstore above Café Guido on Market Street downtown. Local shopping highlights include the smoked and candied salmon at the Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish factory store, new and used titles at the Book Nook and homemade bon-bons from Kelley's Chocolates. Festivals Filomi Days (third weekend in July) in downtown Carrot Park is the town's leading summer festival. A fishing derby, boat-building contest, parade, children's activities, and fireworks display create a fun atmosphere. Canada Day is celebrated with a beach party and more fireworks at Storey's Beach. Grinning Jack-O'-Lanterns line the downtown seawall and main street sidewalks during the annual Pumpkin Walk each Halloween.
Where to Begin? Stop by the Port Hardy Visitor Centre (at the junction of Market Street and Hastings Street) for more information, maps, brochures, and the definitive Things to See and Do in Port Hardy guide.
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