Protected from the open Pacific Ocean by Vancouver Island, the Strait of Georgia is home to some of British Columbia's calmest and most picturesque coastline, and separates Vancouver Island from the southern coast of BC's mainland. This relatively sheltered waterway is home to hundreds of miles of coastline, forested islands and a huge variety of marine life, all within easy reach of British Columbia's largest city. The snow-capped peaks of Vancouver Island and the mainland's Coast Mountains can often be seen to the west and east when paddling this scenic, glacier-carved strait.Have you had an ocean kayaking adventure in BC? Let other visitors know about it. Write a blog!
Ocean Kayaking Highlight Areas in Vancouver, Coast & Mountains
Most ocean kayaking destinations in the region are easily accessed from Vancouver, and some, like Jericho Beach, Granville Island and English Bay, are located right in the Vancouver area.
> More about kayaking in Metro Vancouver
Wildlife Spotting
Any kayaking trip in the Vancouver, Coast and Mountains region is likely to include some great wildlife viewing opportunities. The Strait of Georgia is home to Orca whales, porpoises, seals, dolphins and sea lions. Intertidal zones are populated by an abundance of interesting creatures, including sea cucumbers, urchins, crabs, and brilliantly-coloured starfish. Over 200 fish species, 1500 invertebrate species, 500 marine plant species, and a huge variety of seabirds and shorebirds can also be found in and around the strait.
Aboriginal Culture and other Unique Kayak Tours
Those interested in local Aboriginal culture can take an interpretive kayak tour on the Sunshine Coast to learn about First Nations history, ecology and arts. In summer, paddle under the light of a full moon as your guide recounts local First Nations legends and stories. Make a larger boat your home base as you explore Vancouver, Coast and Mountains' lengthy shoreline on a so-called "mothership" kayaking adventure. These multi-day excursions feature day-long guided paddling trips followed by the comforts of a hot meal, a warm bed, and a well-staffed vessel.
Practical Points and Kayak Safety
- The best time for kayaking in the Vancouver, Coast & Mountains region is April through October, but thanks to the region's relatively mild climate it's possible to paddle year-round.
- At Skookumchuck Narrows Provincial Park on the Sunshine Coast, over 757 billion litres/ 200 billion gallons of water flow between two inlets on a 3m/9.8ft tide. While extreme tidal rapids attract the most expert whitewater kayakers, all others should stay well clear of these dangerous spots.
- Kayak rentals are available in and around Vancouver and on the Sunshine Coast. Guided tours and lessons are available for all skill levels. If you are unfamiliar with the area, a guided tour is highly recommended. Guided tours 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.
- Proper planning and preparation, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, and an adequate supply of food and water are essential.
- Always let someone know your route and destination before setting out on a kayak trip. 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 and other wildlife inhabit parts of the region. Do not get too close to or attempt to feed wild animals.
- 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.
- For a comprehensive guide to sea kayaking, read the Transport Canada Sea Kakaying Safety Guide
Highlights
Bowen Island
Bowen Island is one hour from Vancouver - including a scenic 20-minute ferry ride. This urban-rural duality is part of its appeal. The island is beautifully situated at the mouth of Howe Sound so that kayakers are able to weave leisurely around a multitude of smaller islands, each offering its own brand of scenery and wildlife. From Snug Cove – where the Horseshoe Bay ferries dock – paddlers can explore Bowen Island's east side. For views of jagged mountain peaks, head north. To explore the virtually untouched coastline of Apodaca Beach, paddle south. You can also weave through the Pasley Island archipelago to the west, as well Keats Island. Rentals and guided tours are available on Bowen Island.
Attributes: - Rated: easy to moderate
- Approximate time required: 4 hours - 2 days
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Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park
Internationally renowned as a premier cruising and kayaking area, Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park was originally established as a means to protect an isolated area of safe boating waters. Encompassing an astonishing 8,449ha/20,878ac, the park boasts more than 60km/37mi of picturesque shoreline, multiple islands, quaint bays and cozy coves. Visitors will be amazed by the warm crystal waters, perfect for a dip or snorkel after a day of paddling.
The crystal-clear waters make this area a kayaking pleasure. They are frequently so pristine you can see creatures like giant sunflower stars, purple stars, sea cucumbers and urchins on the ocean's floor. Paddle to rushing waterfalls and into inviting lagoons. Transient wildlife includes whales, sea lions, porpoises and dolphins. Seals, otters, sea stars and sea cucumbers call this park's waters home, while deer and cougars roam its shoreline and bald eagles soar overhead. Be aware that the area's wildlife is potentially dangerous; keep a safe distance and do not feed any animal.
The park is located at the north end of the Sunshine Coast, near Powell River, and is accessible only by air or water.
Attributes
- Rated: easy to moderate
- Approximate time required: 4 hours - 4 days
>Desolation Sound Park website
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Gibsons and Howe Sound
Gibsons is just 40 minutes from the metropolis of Vancouver, but it feels a world away. A small town ranged round a quiet coastal harbour, it offers plenty of options for water-based recreation. Area waters are sheltered, with a generous sprinkling of islands and islets—perfect conditions for kayaking. Keats Island (moderate to difficult), just a 30-minute paddle across Shoal Channel from Gibsons, is home to Plumper Cove Marine Provincial Park. The park has a pebble beach and a number of campsites. It takes five to six hours to circumnavigate the island.
Between Gibsons and Bowen Island lies a handful of tiny islands called the Pasley Group (easy to moderate). Most of the islands are privately owned, so inland exploration and camping are not options, but the archipelago does make a wonderful day trip. Popham and Hermit Islands often have large numbers of seals on their shores.
Gambier Island, the largest in Howe Sound, is popular kayaking destination. The launch point for it is at Port Mellon, just a few minutes north of Gibsons.
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Sechelt Inlet
A sheltered inlet located on the north side of the town of Sechelt, this area offers an array of marine parks in a spectacular setting of snow-capped mountains, warm beaches and small creeks. Spend and enjoyable day – or an invigorating week – exploring the relatively calm waters of Salmon and Narrows Inlets, which feed into Sechelt Inlet. Be aware, however, that afternoon winds in mid-summer can be hazardous, and avoid the extremely treacherous waters of Skookumchuck Narrows at the inlet's north end. Wilderness campgrounds and a host of undeveloped beaches en route make shore access easy. An abundance of wildlife including mountain goats, cougars and bears call the area home. Bald eagles soar above, while seals, ducks and blue herons hover in and around the water.
Attributes:
- Rated: easy to moderate
- Approximate time required: 4 hours - 4 days