British Columbia offers some of the best paddling experiences in the world, with a variety of options from sea kayaking and canoeing to whitewater rafting and river surfing. Explore the province’s diverse waterways, including over 20,000 lakes, 27 million kilometers of coastline, and countless rivers and creeks, to find the perfect spot for your paddling adventure.
Every corner of the province has something unique to offer all paddlers, from novices to experts.
From rafting to canoeing, we have everything needed to “wet” your appetite.
The Cowichan Valley spans 3,500 square kilometres in southern Vancouver Island and is home to communities like Ladysmith, Duncan, and Chemainus. It’s a paddler’s paradise, offering everything from peaceful SUP sessions on Lake Cowichan and saltwater kayaking in the Saanich Inlet to adrenaline-pumping whitewater canoe runs on the Cowichan River. Off the water, the region serves up a feast of local flavours with its farmers markets, wineries, cideries, farm-to-table restaurants and some great brewpubs.
Located on the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island, Ucluelet means “people of the safe harbour” in the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ language. The small community of about 2,000 residents is nestled on an eight-kilometre-long peninsula that forms a natural barrier between the calm inner harbour and the open ocean. It’s the perfect launch point for beginner-friendly paddles and a fun town in which to enjoy aprés. If you only have three days, this paddling itinerary I enjoyed in Ucluelet is what I’d recommend.
Whether you’re drawn to swift water, calm exploration, or rugged backcountry nights, Kitimat offers a bit of everything. It’s untouched, wild, and waiting. Here’s a full itinerary of our trip to this undiscovered paddling paradise.
Only 30 minutes from the largest city on Canada’s West Coast, Vancouver’s North Shore is a magical area that boasts serene, secluded paddling.
Embark on a scenic 3-day paddling trip through the heart of the Kootenays, exploring the stunning waterways around Castlegar, British Columbia. This adventure blends gentle river currents, serene lakes, and breathtaking mountain views for a relaxing, yet immersive, outdoor experience.
Experience the best of Nelson and Kootenay Lake on a three-day adventure filled with paddling, mountain views, and local flavour. From coffee at Oso Negro and shoreline paddles in Nelson, to soaring with Kokanee Mountain Zipline, ferry rides across the world’s longest free crossing, and hikes to the Pilot Bay Lighthouse, each day blends outdoor adventure with unforgettable dining—ending with a sunset meal at the historic Kaslo Hotel.
Vancouver’s North Shore blends coastal adventure with urban charm, offering a journey where paddlers, food lovers, and culture seekers all find connection.
Comox Valley offers an accessible yet unforgettable paddling experience — the perfect blend of convenience, community, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or new to paddling, the region’s protected waters and stunning scenery make it a must-paddle destination on Vancouver Island.
Whatever type of paddling you prefer, here are the events you’ll want to take part in around the province.
The Kicking Horse Paddle Festival is an annual event that recognizes and appreciates the beauty of the Kicking Horse River…
A three-day event that’s the longest-running kayak festival in the province’s interior. It includes the "Adreian Kiernan Boatercross Race," which…
Northern Vancouver Island is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring sea-kayaking areas. It’s a place where deep green forests meet swirling currents and a maze of wild islands. From the sweeping waters…
Paul Verchere is the first person to circumnavigate Vancouver Island in one journey. This is his story.
British Columbia isn’t just a playground for paddlers. It’s home to a thriving community of craftspeople, designers, and manufacturers building the boats, boards, and gear that shape how we explore lakes, rivers…
The Arrow Lakes / Slocan Valley region is the only Canadian destination named in BBC Travel’s “20 Best Places to Travel in 2026.”
It’s easy to see why when you consider the incredible paddling on crystal-clear lakes and winding rivers between majestic mountains and past soothing hot springs. Add to that the inviting charm of tiny mountain towns and you have a paddling destination that can’t be beat.
➡️ For more about where to paddle in the Arrow Slocan region, visit the link in our bio.
📸 All images by paddler extraordinaire @naomipaddles.
#exploreBC #paddlebc #britishcolumbiacanada @visitarrowslocan
Check out this incredible video captured by Douglas Thistle-Walker of an orca pod playing in the Salish Sea. He was standing on the bluffs on Galiano Island at the time.
Imagine being in a sea kayak or on a SUP and witnessing a display like this? It has happened before to those who paddle the waters around the Southern Gulf Islands in British Columbia.
➡️ For more info about paddling the Southern Gulf Islands, visit the Regions link in our bio.
@southerngulfislands
#paddlebc #explorebc #orcas
Jo-Anne Johnson of @islandwildphotography shared this photo with us from a recent paddle around the beautiful Discovery Islands.
Located along the Inside Passage, near the Vancouver Island city of Campbell River, the Discovery Islands are an archipelago renowned for marine wildlife and peaceful paddling. The main hubs are Quadra and Cortes islands and both can be accessed via ferry. On calm winter days, when the sun is shining, kayakers and paddleboarders can still be found plying the waters here.
#paddlebc #explorebc #seakayaking
Looking for a last-minute gift idea? 🎁
There are many paddlesport gear manufacturers based in British Columbia, from famed sea kayak company @deltakayaks in Maple Ridge and Nelson-based maker @hellmancanoes_kayaks to @nimbus_paddles on Quadra Island and @kahunapaddleboards in Whistler.
🔗 Discover more about who’s shaping BC’s paddling scene via the link in our bio.
#paddlebc #madeinbritishcolumbia
🌊🛶 Historic Adventure Alert!
This past summer Paul Verchere (@mountainmanyoga) became the first person ever to circumnavigate Vancouver Island on a stand-up paddleboard — and he did it quietly, without livestreams, sponsors, or fanfare.
Setting out from Ladysmith on June 25, 2025, Paul spent 40 days battling wind, waves, wildlife, and wild seas to complete his epic journey. From three-storey swells at Cape Scott to whale sightings and 3am wake-up calls, his adventure inspires deep respect for both nature and human grit.
🔗 To read his entire tale of perseverance visit the link in our bio.
#paddlebc #vancouverisland #SUP
Many sea-faring mammals such as humpback whales and white-sided dolphins migrate south during the winter months. Those who stay in BC waters have thick layers of blubber to help keep them warm. But what about the sea otter?
We recently had someone ask us whether sea otters migrate. They don’t, but nor do they have blubber. So how do they manage the chilly waters? Firstly, they have the densest fur of any mammal on earth. But that’s not enough. A few years ago scientists discovered that they also have a superpower: their muscles leak metabolic heat, helping them stay toasty even while floating in cold seas.
This high metabolic rate comes at a cost, though. To obtain enough energy to fuel the high demand, sea otters must eat more than 20% of their body mass in food each day. [In comparison, humans eat around 2% of their body mass.]
That means constantly chowing down on sea urchins, crabs, mussels, clams and other shellfish.
For more about sea otters and other animals found around BC, visit the wildlife safari link in our bio.
#paddlebc #seaotters
Did you know the world``s first and longest running women`s stand up paddleboard company is located in Vancouver, British Columbia?
@paiwensup has been around since 2009 hand-crafting bamboo paddleboards that are light yet rigid and specifically designed for women.
Learn more about them at paiwenboards.com.
#paddlebc #paddleboards #SUP
📸 Join photographer and storyteller @ccracken at the @bcmarinetrails AGM tomorrow (Nov 29th, 11am PT) for an inspiring visual journey through his new book called "Átl’ḵa7tsem / Howe Sound: From Sea to Sky."
During the presentation we`ll explore the coastlines, mountains, and communities of Howe Sound and Connor will share stories from his 4-day paddle of the Sea to Sky Marine Trail. During that trip he experienced first-hand the BC Marine Trails` dedication to connect safe, accessible campsites while fostering stewardship along this remarkable stretch of coastline.
🔗 RSVP for the AGM and free presentation via @bcmarinetrails bio link.
#paddlebc #bcmarinetrails #britishcolumbia
