Discovery Islands Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, culture, and adventure of the Discovery Islands in British Columbia, Canada with this comprehensive guide that covers everything from where to stay, what to see, eat, and do, to transportation, safety, and local customs.


Discovering the Beauty of The Discovery Islands: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to The Discovery Islands, a collection of small islands located in Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. This remote paradise is a place of stunning beauty, outdoor adventure, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, you’ll find plenty to see, do, and enjoy in The Discovery Islands. This comprehensive travel guide covers everything you need to know, from where to stay and what to eat, to the best hiking and biking routes and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Discovery Islands

The Discovery Island is the perfect destination for travelers looking for adventure and cultural experiences. Here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you love history and culture, you’ll enjoy visiting The Discovery Island’s museums and historical places:

  • Cortes Island Museum and Archives: offers a fascinating insight into the history of Cortes Island and its people.
  • Museum at Campbell River: showcases the history of the city of Campbell River and the surrounding area.

Natural Attractions of Discovery Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For nature lovers, here are some of The Discovery Island’s top natural attractions:

  • Desolation Sound Marine Park: home to abundant marine life and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and hiking.
  • Mitlenatch Island: a wildlife sanctuary that provides an opportunity to see seabirds, seals, and whales.
  • Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park: a picturesque location that offers hiking trails and opportunities to observe marine life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Discovery Islands

The Discovery Islands have excellent hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best:

  • Kwai Lake Trail: A 12.6-kilometer hike through beautiful meadows and ancient forests.
  • Squirrel Cove Trail: a 2.4-kilometer trail through the forest and along the beach, offering stunning views of the ocean.
  • Von Donop Inlet Trail: a 13.2-kilometer hike through old-growth forests, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Best Things to Do in Discovery Islands: Activities and Tours

The Discovery Islands offer plenty of activities and tours for travelers. Here are some of the best:

  • Whale watching: take a boat tour to see orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife.
  • Kayaking: explore the beauty of The Discovery Islands on a kayak tour.
  • Fishing: enjoy a day of fishing for salmon, trout, and other freshwater fish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Discovery Islands

If you have a week to spend on The Discovery Islands, here’s a recommended itinerary:

Day 1 Arrival and Exploration of Campbell River
Day 2 Quadra Island Outdoor Adventures
Day 3 Cortes Island Outdoor Activities
Day 4 Discovery Island Hiking and Exploration
Day 5 Whale Watching and Marine Park Visit
Day 6 Mitlenatch Island and Marine Provincial Park Visit
Day 7 Departure from The Discovery Island

Food and Drink Scene of Discovery Islands

The Discovery Islands have plenty of delicious local food to offer. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Smoked Salmon: a specialty of the area, usually served with cream cheese on toast.
  • Seafood Chowder: a hearty soup made using fresh seafood caught locally.
  • Bannock: a type of bread traditionally made by First Nations people.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: try the award-winning beers of The Beach Fire Brewing and Nonsuch Brewing Company.
  • Wine: visit Island Spirits Distillery and Vineyards to try their excellent wine.

Where to Stay in Discovery Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Discovery Islands offer many accommodations, including hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. Here are some of the best:

  • Whiskey Point Resort: a waterfront resort with stunning views of the ocean.
  • Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge: a luxury lodge inspired by First Nations culture.
  • Discovery Islands Lodge: a comfortable and cozy lodge located in the heart of the Discovery Islands.

What to Buy in Discovery Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Be sure to bring home some souvenirs and local products from The Discovery Islands. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Local arts and crafts: includes pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings made by local artisans.
  • Honey and Jams: try the delicious honey products and jams made using local fruits.

Local Culture and Customs of Discovery Islands

The Discovery Islands are home to a unique culture and customs. Visitors are encouraged to respect these customs, which include:

  • Respect for the environment: visitors are expected to treat the environment with respect and care.
  • Respect for the First Nations: visitors are expected to observe the culture and traditions of the First Nations people.

Best Time to Visit Discovery Islands

The best time to visit The Discovery Islands is between June and September when the weather is milder, and the days are longer. This is also the peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Discovery Islands

Visitors to The Discovery Islands are expected to follow certain etiquette. Here are some things to do and not to do:

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife: avoid littering and disturbing the local wildlife.
  • Observe local customs: visitors are expected to observe the customs and traditions of the First Nations people.

Don’t:

  • Litter: visitors are expected to avoid littering and always use trash cans.
  • Disturb the wildlife: visitors should avoid disturbing the local wildlife.

Safety and Health

The Discovery Islands are generally safe for travelers. However, visitors should take some precautions:

Safety in Discovery Islands

  • Wear appropriate clothing and gear: visitors should wear appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.
  • Avoid hiking alone: visitors should avoid hiking alone and let someone know where they are going and when they are expected to return.

Health in Discovery Islands

  • Stay hydrated: visitors should stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
  • Bring insect repellent: visitors should bring insect repellent to avoid insect bites.

Getting to Discovery Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Discovery Islands are located in Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Visitors can reach The Discovery Islands by air, ferry, or car. Here are some of the transportation options:

Airports Near Discovery Islands

  • Campbell River Airport
  • Comox Valley Airport
  • Nanaimo Airport

Other Options

  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from Campbell River to Quadra and Cortes Islands.
  • Car: Visitors can drive to The Discovery Islands. Parking is available at the ferry terminal.

How to Get Around in Discovery Islands

The Discovery Islands have good road networks, and visitors can use cars, bikes, or public transportation to get around. Visitors can also use water taxis to reach remote locations.

Where to Go Next from Discovery Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

The Discovery Islands are an excellent base for exploring other nearby attractions, such as:

  • Strathcona Provincial Park: a wilderness park that offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities.
  • Tofino: a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches and surfing opportunities.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan your trip to The Discovery Islands. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a cultural experience, or a relaxing getaway, you’ll find it all in The Discovery Islands. Be sure to book your accommodations and tours in advance and respect the environment and local customs. We wish you happy traveling!

Refuge Cove on West Redonda Island Refuge Cove on West Redonda Island View at Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park View at Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park Main Lake Provincial Park on Quadra Island Main Lake Provincial Park on Quadra Island


    Cortes Island
    Outer Islands and Mainland Inlets
    Quadra Island