Quadra Island is one of the world’s premier kayaking destinations. With serene water, calm coves and untamed wildlife you need to see it for yourself!
Quadra Island, nestled in the Discovery Islands across from Campbell River, is stunning.
There’s really no other way to describe it.
From every angle.
Whether you’re sitting atop a mountain, lounging on the beach, or in our case paddling through the water on a Quadra Island kayaking adventure.
It’s breathtaking.
Putting on a life jacket and hopping into an ocean kayak to get out in the water, really gives a perspective unlike any other.
Quadra Island Kayaks provides professional service, guides and equipment to fully outfit all your ocean kayaking needs. During the summer months and even into the Fall, Quadra Island boasts calm waters that are simply perfect for exploring in a kayak.
Discovery Islands has some of the best kayaking in the world!
We were in awe all morning as we kayaked as a family and explored along the shoreline and took in the ocean vistas.
After getting our gear and a quick lesson on proper paddling techniques, our family all hopped in our kayaks and were pushed out to sea. Okay, not really “out to sea” but rather off the dock into the calm harbour waters.
Paddling a kayak is surprisingly easy. You don’t need super strong biceps or great abs. (thank goodness!) You just need to move the blade through the water like your guide tells you to and enjoy looking around. It really is that simple.
So with our paddles cutting through the water, my son and I were off on our Quadra Island Kayak adventure. We worked our way out of the harbour, waving to the resident mama and baby seal sunning themselves on the log, and worked our way out of the Rebecca Spit area.
In no time, the two of us were paddling in perfect unison passed Heriot Bay.
Our guide directed our attention to sea stars and seals. And she gave us a sense of awe and wonder as she herself enjoyed being on the water. Spending time with others who love and appreciate where they live rubs off on you. And sharing the experience with our children helps us all appreciate this lovely area.
The ocean had a peace and serenity about it. But just as I was about to get lost in that serenity, I could hear the barking and groaning of a resident harbour seal colony.
Paddling up to these animals, listening to their communications and watching them interact with one another helps you realize how special this place really is.
And if you’re lucky, a curious seal may just slip into the water and swim by to get a closer look of you in your kayak! That was one of my daughter’s favourite experiences of the whole trip.
You may find it hard to leave the seals, but more islands are calling. In fact, continue paddling because there is just so much more beauty to see.
About halfway through our journey, we stopped at “Turtle Island.”
It’s not technically called this, but the folks at Quadra Island Kayaks gave the land mass this name due to its shape. A stop at Turtle Island brought a surprise for the kids. Sometimes it’s good to not tell them everything just to see their unexpected joy.
We got out of the kayaks and our guide pulled out snacks from her trusty dry bag. And by snacks I mean a quality spread.
I admit, I thought a mid-morning snack would consist of water and some crackers and cheese. But I got a surprise myself when out came veggies, hummus, fruit, iced tea, and cookies! It was a proper little picnic.
But let me warn you. Don’t be content to stay next to the food for too long or you will miss the best view of the day. Walk up the little hill and breathe deeply as you look around at the immense beauty of Quadra and its nearby islands.
It really is breathtaking.
Sometimes we visited, sometimes we paddled in silence. But always we enjoyed the time out on the water as a young family, taking in all we could as time quickly passed.
Quadra Island has so much beauty to offer. So immerse yourself in a world-class Vancouver Island kayaking adventure. You’ll make memories to last a lifetime with or without your family.
It’s just that good.
Traveling Islanders Tips:
Arrive Early
There’s a waiver form to sign, gear to put on, bathrooms to use, etc. You don’t want to miss a moment out on the water.
Bring Your Own Water Bottle
You can easily strap it onto the kayak and it’s nice to take a drink whenever you want.
Use The Bathroom Before You Leave!
Well, that’s just self explanitory isn’t it? But if you don’t arrive early, you’ll forget. Or you’ll forget to remind your kids. And well, once you’re on the water, it gets a bit tougher.
Quadra Island Kayaks
Website: quadraislandkayaks.com
Phone: 1-877-475-8687
Email: [email protected]
Quadra Island Kayaking Tour Options: Multi-day or day tours available
Heading to the Gulf Islands? Salt Spring Island has some amazing kayaking tours too!
Directions To Quadra Island Kayaks
Gowlland Harbour Resort
Spectacular… Breathtaking… Peaceful… Experience the magic of Gowlland Harbour Resort! You'll feel the specialness the moment you step onto the grounds. Escape from the every day and enjoy a world class vacation destination on Quadra Island. Recommended in National Geographic “Canada’s 50 places of a lifetime”.
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