Why choose North Vancouver Island? Picture-perfect landscapes, abundant wildlife, and peaceful retreats await those seeking a unique travel experience.
Escape the tourist crowds of Vancouver Island and discover the less traveled region of North Vancouver Island. Nestled in the pristine northern reaches, North Vancouver Island offers untouched wilderness, rugged coastlines, and a chance to experience authentic island life.
Explore ancient forests, embark on thrilling whale watching tours, and indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries. Whether hiking the North Coast Trail or simply relaxing on the deck of your ocean view cabin, North Vancouver Island promises a tranquil retreat off the beaten path, where adventure and serenity converge uniquely on Vancouver Island.
8 Reasons Why North Vancouver Island Should Be On Your Travel Radar:
1. Choosing Tranquility: North Vancouver Island Over Crowds
![Telegraph Cove, Killer Whale Cafe, Old Saltery Pub, North Island](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_6862-1200x900.jpeg)
Unlike the bustling more popular tourist destinations on Vancouver Island, North Vancouver Island offers tranquility and serenity. Here, you can reconnect with nature, unwind in peaceful surroundings, and explore without the crowds. Whether you’re seeking solitude on a quiet beach or admiring breathtaking vistas from a mountaintop, North Vancouver Island promises an authentic and rejuvenating escape.
2. Prince of Whales Whale Watching: Meet Giants of the Sea
![Mark Malleson, Whales, Whale Watching.](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Humpbacks-Mark-Malleson-1-1200x801.jpg)
For an encounter with another kind of giant, head out with Prince of Whales Whale Watching from Telegraph Cove. North Vancouver Island is a hotspot for orca and humpback whale sightings, especially during the summer months. Imagine cruising through emerald waters and witnessing these magnificent creatures breach and play in their natural habitat. It’s a marine adventure that promises exhilaration and a deep appreciation for ocean conservation. See our personal experience and learn more…
3. North Island Kayak: Paddle Through Pristine Waters
![North Island Kayak, Kayaking](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_6912-1-1200x774.jpeg)
If you prefer a more intimate experience with nature, North Island Kayak offers guided kayak tours that let you explore secluded coves, rugged coastlines, and serene waters teeming with marine life. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned paddler, these tours provide a unique perspective of North Vancouver Island’s coastal beauty and give you a chance to spot seals, eagles, and maybe even dolphins swimming alongside your kayak. See our experience and learn more…
4. Telegraph Cove Resort: Quaint Charm in a Coastal Setting
![Telegraph Cove, Killer Whale Cafe, Old Saltery Pub, North Island](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/IMG_6872-1200x900.jpeg)
Nestled in a picturesque inlet, Telegraph Cove Resort is a historic boardwalk community that offers cozy waterfront cabins and a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring nearby wildlife tours, kayaking adventures, and scenic hikes. Plus, the sunsets over Johnstone Strait are simply breathtaking—ideal for winding down after a day of exploration. We spent 4 nights here and Telegraph Cove is one of our all time favourite places on Vancouver Island! Two nights in a row we saw whales breaching right from our cabin. Watch the video below to learn more!
5. Tide Rip Grizzly Tours: Get Up Close with Grizzlies
![Great Bear Rainforest Tide Rip Grizzly Adventures](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/MG_5239.jpg)
Ever dreamed of encountering majestic grizzly bears in their natural habitat? Tide Rip Grizzly Tours in Telegraph Cove offers you the chance to witness these awe-inspiring creatures up close. Led by knowledgeable guides, these tours take you through the Great Bear Rainforest, where you can observe grizzlies fishing for salmon in pristine rivers. It’s an unforgettable wildlife experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s power and beauty. We had an unforgettable family adventure! See our experience and learn more…
6. Bear Cove Cottages: Retreat to Coastal Serenity
![Bear Cove Cottages, Bear Cove Cabins, North Island cottage accommodations, North Island cabins, North Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island accommodations](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Bear-Cove-Cottages-4-1200x778.jpg)
Unwind at Bear Cove Cottages near Port Hardy, where cozy accommodations blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, stroll along secluded beaches, and savour moments of serenity as you reconnect with nature in this idyllic coastal retreat. Check out our cabin we stayed in!
7. Café Guido: Fuel Up with Local Flavors
No adventure is complete without good coffee and hearty meals. Café Guido in Port Hardy is a local favourite known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious coffee. Whether you need a caffeine boost before hitting the trails or a comforting meal after a day of outdoor activities, Café Guido serves up freshly brewed coffee and homemade treats that hit the spot every time.
8. Cove Adventures Hiking Tours: Trek Through Untamed Wilderness
![Bear Cove Cottages, Cove Adventures, North Island Hiking, North Island, Vancouver Island, Vancouver Island trees, Giant Spruce Tree, Telegraph Cove, Port Hardy, Cape Scott Trail, Cape Scott, Vancouver Island travel, Vancouver Island vacation](https://www.travelingislanders.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/North-Island-giant-Spruce-Cove-Adventures-1200x780.jpg)
Last but certainly not least, lace up your hiking boots and join Cove Adventures Hiking Tours for a journey into North Vancouver Island’s untamed wilderness. From lush rainforests to panoramic mountain vistas, these guided hikes cater to all skill levels and offer insights into the region’s unique flora, fauna, and Indigenous heritage. It’s a chance to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We had an incredible tour! Check out our experience and learn more…
Ready to Explore North Vancouver Island?
Whether you’re seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, serene kayaking excursions, or tranquil moments surrounded by breathtaking scenery, North Vancouver Island has it all. Each experience—whether it’s watching grizzlies in their natural habitat, paddling along secluded shores, or savoring local cuisine—immerses you in the beauty and wonder of this coastal paradise.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, set your compass northward, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime on North Vancouver Island!
Remember to check local travel guidelines and tour availability before planning your trip. Check out our Vancouver Island interactive travel map to help you plan your vacation and keep dreaming – Happy travels!
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