Quadra Island Travel Guide

Plan your next trip to Quadra Island with our helpful travel guide! Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Quadra Island

Nestled in the heart of the Discovery Islands, Quadra Island is a must-visit destination in Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This hidden gem offers something for everyone – from the culturally rich museums and historical landmarks to the natural beauty of the great outdoors. Home to just over 2,500 residents, Quadra Island welcomes visitors with open arms and showcases the best of British Columbia’s stunning coastal landscapes.

List of Places to Visit in Quadra Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Quadra Island boasts a fascinating past that is still evident today in its historical landmarks and museums. Here are the top places to visit in Quadra Island for a cultural experience:

  • Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre – The cultural hub of Quadra Island, this center is dedicated to preserving the stories and artifacts of the island’s First Nations people.
  • Kwagiulth Museum & Cultural Centre – Learn about the Kwagiulth people and explore their history, art, and culture.
  • The Old Quadra Island Post Office Museum – An essential stop for all history buffs, this museum displays artifacts from the island’s earliest settlers.
  • The 720 Market – This charming market is a great place to discover locally made art, jewelry, and other products.

Natural Attractions of Quadra Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Quadra Island offers an abundance of stunning natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Here are some of the top places to visit in Quadra Island for a memorable outdoor adventure:

  • Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park – A must-visit spot for its picturesque sandy beaches, scenic hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Cortes Island – A neighboring island accessible by boat and has a wide range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
  • Quadra Island Kayaks – Explore the island’s incredible coastline by kayaking with a guided tour from Quadra Island Kayaks.
  • Mt. Seymour Provincial Park – A popular hiking spot in Quadra Island, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Quadra Island

Quadra Island’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions make it the perfect place for a hike or bike ride. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Quadra Island:

  • Morte Lake Trail – A moderately easy hiking trail that loops around Morte Lake and passes through old-growth forest.
  • Rebecca Spit Loop Trail – An easy loop trail that takes you through the forests and along the beach at Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park.
  • Mount Seymour Trail – A challenging but rewarding hike that offers views of the surrounding mountains and islands.

Best Things to Do in Quadra Island: Activities and Tours

With so much to see and do, you’ll never run out of exciting activities to enjoy in Quadra Island. Here are the best things to do in Quadra Island:

  • Quadra Island Whale Watching – Embark on a wildlife adventure with Quadra Island Whale Watching and spot humpback whales and orcas in their natural habitat.
  • Quadra Island Golf Course – Relax and enjoy a round of golf on this stunning 9-hole course.
  • Shellfish Farms Tour – Enjoy fresh oysters, clams, and mussels right out of the ocean with a tour of the island’s thriving shellfish farms.

Week-Long Itinerary for Quadra Island

To fully experience everything that Quadra Island has to offer, we recommend the following itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park and enjoy the stunning views
Day 2 Visit Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre and Kwagiulth Museum & Cultural Centre to learn about the island’s First Nations people
Day 3 Take a hike up Mt. Seymour Provincial Park and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area
Day 4 Go kayaking with Quadra Island Kayaks and explore the island’s incredible coastline
Day 5 Relax and enjoy a round of golf at Quadra Island Golf Course
Day 6 Embark on a Shellfish Farms Tour and treat yourself to fresh oysters, clams, and mussels
Day 7 Check out the local shops and markets for souvenirs and locally made products

Food and Drink Scene in Quadra Island

Quadra Island is home to a thriving food and drink scene that showcases the island’s best local fare. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages of Quadra Island:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fresh Seafood – From fresh oysters to Dungeness crab, Quadra Island offers some of the best seafood around.
  • Wild Berries – Berry picking is a popular activity in Quadra Island, and the berries can be used for jams, pies, or eaten fresh.
  • Bison Burgers – Quadra Island is home to a bison farm, and their burgers are a must-try for meat lovers.

Local Beverages

  • Sea Cider – An artisanal cidery that uses local, organic ingredients to produce delicious ciders.
  • Quadra Island Wine and Beer Company – A small, family-owned business that produces a variety of wines and beers using locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Quadra Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Quadra Island offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any traveler’s budget and style. Here are our top picks for the best places to stay in Quadra Island:

  • Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge – A luxurious lodge with ocean views, fine dining, and eco-tours.
  • Quadra Island Harbour House B&B – A charming bed and breakfast with stunning ocean views and great hospitality.
  • Heriot Bay Inn – A boutique hotel with a rich history and a variety of rooms to choose from.

What to Buy in Quadra Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Make sure to take a piece of Quadra Island home with you by checking out the local shops and markets. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Quadra Island:

  • Quadra Island Honey – Fresh, delicious, and locally made honey.
  • Quadra Island Pottery – Beautifully crafted pottery with a unique and natural feel.
  • Local Art – From paintings to jewelry, Quadra Island has a thriving art community with many local artists selling their creations.

Local Culture and Customs of Quadra Island

Quadra Island’s rich cultural history is still alive and well today, with the island’s First Nations people playing a major role in the community. Visitors are encouraged to show respect for the local customs and traditions, and to be mindful of the island’s delicate ecosystem and wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Quadra Island

The best time to visit Quadra Island is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, visitors should be prepared for occasional rain and chilly evenings, even during the summer season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Quadra Island

To ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to Quadra Island, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions of the First Nations people.
  • Be mindful of the island’s delicate ecosystem and wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Take advantage of the island’s outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Feed or disturb the island’s wildlife.
  • Remove or damage any plant life or natural features.
  • Ignore local customs or regulations.

Safety and Health in Quadra Island

Quadra Island is generally a very safe and welcoming place to visit. However, visitors should still take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and health, such as:

Safety in Quadra Island

  • Be aware of the currents and tides if you plan on swimming in the ocean.
  • Take precautions against bears and other wildlife on hiking trails.
  • Always follow the park rules and regulations when visiting provincial parks.

Health in Quadra Island

  • Be prepared for occasional rainy and chilly weather, even during the summer months.
  • Drink plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun to avoid dehydration and sunburn.

Getting to Quadra Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Quadra Island is accessible via ferry, airplane, or car. Here are the transportation options available to visitors:

Airports Near Quadra Island

  • Campbell River Airport is the closest airport to Quadra Island, located just 10 minutes away from the ferry terminal.

Bus Stations Near Quadra Island

  • Greyhound Bus Lines offers daily bus service from Vancouver to Campbell River, which is just a short ferry ride away from Quadra Island.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also drive to Quadra Island by taking the Vancouver Island Highway to Campbell River and hopping on the ferry to Quadra Island from there.

How to Get Around in Quadra Island

Visitors can get around Quadra Island by car, bike, or on foot. Most of the island’s main tourist attractions are within a short drive or bike ride of each other, making it easy to explore at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Quadra Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Quadra Island’s central location in the Discovery Islands makes it the perfect jumping-off point for exploring nearby attractions and destinations. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to check out:

  • Discovery Islands Kayaking Adventure – Embark on a multi-day kayaking adventure through the stunning Discovery Islands.
  • Strathcona Provincial Park – Located just a short drive away from Quadra Island, this provincial park offers some of the most beautiful hikes in British Columbia.
  • Campbell River – Just a short ferry ride from Quadra Island, Campbell River boasts incredible fishing opportunities, exciting adventure tours, and plenty of dining options.

Conclusion

From the outstanding natural beauty to the rich cultural history, Quadra Island is truly a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vancouver Island, British Columbia. With so much to offer, visitors are sure to have a memorable and enjoyable stay on this stunning island. Plan your next trip to Quadra Island with this comprehensive travel guide and make the most of your adventure to this hidden gem on the west coast of Canada.

A totem shelter at Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre A totem shelter at Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre Beachfront accommodation on Quadra Island Beachfront accommodation on Quadra Island