Unique Indigenous Places to Stay in British Columbia

Guest post by Rod Charles

One of the best ways to have an unforgettable vacation experience is to meet welcoming people who are keen to share their knowledge and insights of the places they call home.

When it comes to warm hosts, the people of British Columbia’s Indigenous communities are experts. For them, whales, grizzly bears, rivers, artwork, and good food are not just recipes for a successful getaway—they are a cherished way of life.

You can hang out with a sea lion at Kwa’lilas Hotel or step back into history and see petroglyphs at Spirit Bear Lodge. At the end of the day, sit back and tell jokes with your new friends at Hiellen Longhouse Village’s outdoor barbecue or impress your friends back home by purchasing gifts at the Dockside Smoked Fish Store during a stay at House of Himwitsa.

Here are some unique Indigenous experiences to consider for a getaway. Members of Indigenous Tourism BC operate all of these lodges, hotels, and resorts.

Sasquatch Crossing Eco Lodge

Sasquatch Crossing Eco Lodge, east of Chilliwack. Photo: Indigenous Tourism BC

Sasquatch Crossing Eco Lodge, located in Sts’ailes, a 20-minute drive east of Chilliwack, features comfortable accommodations with warm and inviting hosts ready to share their lovely 35-hectare (87-acre) property, complete with peaceful trails and places to meditate.

This gem features a secluded waterfall that provides green energy to the property 10 months of the year. At the end of the day, settle down in one of nine guest rooms (complimentary breakfast included).

Wya Point Resort

Wya Point Resort on Vancouver Island. Photo: Indigenous Tourism BC

Whether your interest is hiking, sitting back and enjoying the stars, or savouring a delicious meal, Wya Point Resort will appeal. Located in Ucluelet, Wya Point Resort offers lodges, yurts, and camping options, fishing charters, whale-watching tours, and the Ucluelet Aquarium. With secluded sandy coves, clear water, and hidden rock pools, the beaches at Wya Point provide plenty of recreational fun. Get acquainted with the Ucluelet First Nation (also known as the Yuu-tluth-aht First Nation) and immerse yourself in their living culture in a beautiful setting.

Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge/Cape Mudge Resort

Tsa-Kwa-Luten, located on Quadra Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River. Photo: Indigenous Tourism BC

Located on Quadra Island, a 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River, Tsa-Kwa-Luten lives in a region teeming with life, Indigenous history, and a strong spiritual presence. Created by the We Wai Kai Nation, this lodge offers authentic Pacific Coast native architecture, art, and culture based on traditional Kwagiulth historical values.

When evening arrives, enjoy a varied selection of gourmet West Coast cuisine. All dining areas offer mountain and ocean views and if you are visiting on a Wednesday, be sure and stick around for Prime Rib Night.

Hiellen Longhouse Village

Located in Tow Hill in Haida Gwaii, Hiellen Longhouse Village features traditional Haida-style cedar, hemlock, and spruce longhouses that provide comfortable accommodations that can easily sleep four. Owned and operated by the Old Massett Village Council’s Economic Development Team, this pet-friendly stop has a gas stove top, an outdoor barbecue, and a wood-burning fireplace. Visitors can hike to Tow Hill, discover Naikoon Park, or rent a car and explore Haida Gwaii.

Header image: A Kermode Bear (Spirit bear) in the Great Bear Rainforest. Photo: Getty Images