BC's central coast is a labyrinth of islands and coastlines, and kayaking in this region blends scenery, wildlife, history and solitude. The landscape is comprised of lush ancient rainforests, deep fjords, clusters of islands, secluded sea inlets, and sandy beaches.
Learn More about Ocean Kayaking in:
Bella Bella
Klemtu
Kayaking in the Cariboo Chilcotin Coast
The central coast contains Princess Royal Island (near Klemtu), home to the elusive and rare white Kermode (spirit) bear, as well as Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area (near Bella Bella), which is the largest provincial marine protected area on BC's coast. A few small communities dot the coast, but the vast majority of the area is undeveloped wilderness.Have you had an ocean kayaking adventure in BC? Let other visitors know about it. Write a blog!
Wildlife Spotting
Wildlife species such as sea otters, eagles, seals, salmon, bears, wolves and a huge variety of sea birds inhabit the central coast. From the village of Klemtu, members of the Kitasoo/Xaixais First Nations guide kayakers into the Great Bear Rainforest in search of the unique Kermode (spirit) bear – a creamy-white coloured subspecies of black bear that is found nowhere else in the world. Unlike many popular kayaking destinations, the central coast remains relatively uncrowded. Kayakers can leisurely and intimately explore coves and inlets, and feel secluded and immersed in the surrounding wilderness.
Guided Kayaking Tours, Ferries and Boats
Guides can provide interpretation about historical First Nations sites, wildlife, and other points of interest amidst the natural settings. Depending on the tour, kayaking trips are often planned to be at least 5–10 days long in order to maximize the time spent visiting remote areas and to allow for changing weather conditions. The ocean kayaking areas in this remote region can only be accessed via floatplane or boat. The Discovery Coast Passage ferry (which travels from Port Hardy to Bella Coola) can even arrange a "wet-launch" for kayakers – no ferry docking required! Floating lodges, motherships (when a larger boat acts as a home-base for kayakers), shuttle boats, or wilderness camping are often incorporated as part of these kayaking tours.
Guided tours for beginner to experienced kayakers are available. If you are unfamiliar with the area, a guided tour is highly recommended. Tour operators will usually supply guests with all the necessary gear, safety equipment, and food needed, or will provide guests with a list of items to bring. Be sure to check in advance. Kayak rentals are available in Klemtu.
Practical Points, Best Times to Kayak and Ocean Safety
- The central coast is an extremely rugged and remote wilderness area.
- The best time to visit is from June to September – ferry service is seasonal, and weather and winds are more favourable during the summer months.
- Proper planning, preparation, clothing and footwear appropriate to the conditions, and an adequate water and food supply are essential.
- Weather can change quickly, and kayakers often get wet through rain, waves, spray or splashing. Be sure to dress in layers. Bring quick dry clothing, such as nylon, polyester, or polypropelene; avoid cotton clothing, as takes longer to dry and does not keep in heat. Wool clothing is also a good option.
- A lifejacket, hat, waterproof jacket, and sunglasses (on a lanyard so you won't lose them) are essential, as is rain gear and a change of dry clothes stored in a watertight container.
- Wear suitable footwear, such as sandals, water shoes, or light running shoes. Watertight cases for personal items (such as cameras) are also recommended.
- Always let someone know your route and destination before setting out on a kayak trip. Be aware that weather conditions can change rapidly, and can affect your itinerary.
- Please leave the area you visit undisturbed and be sure to carry out your garbage. Be aware that bears, wolves and other wildlife inhabit the region. Do not get too close to or attempt to feed wild animals.
- For a comprehensive guide to sea kayaking, read the Transport Canada Sea Kakaying Safety Guide
Highlights
Bella Bella & Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area
Bella Bella and the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservancy Area are located along BC's central coast, 115 km (71 miles) southwest of Bella Coola and some 130 km (81 mi) north of Port Hardy. Hakai encompasses just under 123,000 ha (304,000 ac), making it the largest marine-protected area on the BC coast. This is also the historic settlement area for the Heiltsuk people. Paddling here you may encounter sea bird colonies, whales, sea otters, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. On shore, you can often spot black bears and black-tailed deer. Begin your trip in McLoughlin Bay (Bella Bella). Visit the area's many islands, camping on isolated, sandy beaches. Only very experienced kayakers should attempt Queen's Sound and Goose Island. Going on a guided trip is highly recommended.
There is no road access to Bella Bella or to the Hakai Luxvbalis Conservency Area. To reach the area, take the BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage from Port Hardy to McLoughlin Bay (Bella Bella) or Shearwater. This is a 10-12 hour trip and the ferry does not run daily. Kayakers can also take advantage of the ferry's "wet launch" service. With advance booking, kayakers can be picked up/dropped off between ports along the ferry route.
This is a very remote area. Dangers include strong currents, tidal rapids, ocean swells in open waters and high winds. There is a limited availability of fresh water and limited campsites.
Arranging a flight to Bella Bella is also possible. No kayak rentals are available in the area; kayaks must be rented in Port Hardy and transported to Bella Bella. The approximate time required for this type of trip is 7–21 days; most trips are considered moderate to difficult (depending on the area).
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Klemtu
The area around Klemtu is one of the most expansive - yet isolated - regions of BC's Central Coast. Across a 3-million-ha (7.4-million-ac) area, you'll find only 3,500 people populating seven towns. The area forms part of the Great Bear Rainforest and the historic territory of the Kitasoo people. Over 100 ancient cultural sites can be found here. Kayakers can explore the area's inlets, coves and beautiful sandy beaches. On the way, you'll spot sea birds, whales and other marine mammals as well as bears. Trip highlights include Laredo Sound, Fiordland Conservancy and Princess Royal Island, home to the famous white Kermode (spirit) bear.
Most kayakers launch in Klemtu, located 70 km (38 nautical mi) from Bella Bella. Rentals and multi-day guided tours are also available here, featuring camping or wilderness-hut options. Going on a guided trip is highly recommended. Many trips are 5–10 days long.
There is no road access to Klemtu. Take the BC Ferries Discovery Coast Passage from Port Hardy to Klemtu. This is a 17-hour ferry trip that does not run daily. Kayakers can also take advantage of the ferry's "wet launch" service. With advance booking, kayakers can be picked up/dropped off between ports along the ferry route. This is a very remote area; dangers include strong currents, tidal rapids, ocean swells in open waters and high winds. Many trips in this region are rated moderate to difficult.
Float plane service to Klemtu is also possible.