No Paddler Is An Island. But This Region Is. Here’s How to Best Experience It.
The largest island on the west coast of the Americas, Vancouver Island is a destination that’s usually associated with ocean paddling, but it also offers excellent freshwater opportunities, including one of BC’s best canoe circuits located in a pristine forest northwest of Campbell River. The surf scene in Tofino is legendary here, as is the old-school British charm of the provincial capital of Victoria, but this region also includes the smaller Gulf and Discovery Islands where you’ll find remote beaches, secluded bays, and vibrant artistic communities.
Participating communities from Vancouver Island
Explore pockets of this region by way of specific communities. Get info on the waterways in or near them and meet local paddling professionals.
Cowichan
Bordered by Nanaimo and the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional Districts, Cowichan is located at the southern part of Vancouver Island. It’s a waterfront community perfect for those who love the ocean. Cowichan is also home to many lakes and rivers making it a perfect spot to fit every paddlers needs.
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Nanaimo
Located on Vancouver Island Nanaimo is a great place for paddlers to explore different bays, inlets, and the Pacific Ocean.
A bustling harbour city on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo gets its name from the Coast Salish word “Sney-Ny-Mous,” which means “meeting place.” Appropriate because you’ll definitely want to connect with friends here and go paddling.
Southern Gulf Islands
There are over 300 islands located off the shores of south-eastern Vancouver Island that can be explored by sea kayak, canoe, and paddleboard including the main ones of Galiano, Mayne, Pender, Gabriola, and Salt Spring. Go ahead, take your time.
ExploreMeet the specialists Vancouver Island
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
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Coastal Bliss Adventures Ltd.
Experience amazing sea kayaking tours with Coastal Bliss Adventures.
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Coastal Expression
If you’re looking for a canoe or kayak rental, lesson or guided tour Coastal Expression offers them all!
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Cowichan Bay Kayaking and Adventure Centre
Choose from different kayaking tours or check out their other watersports rental options at Cowichan Bay Kayaking and Adventure Centre.
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Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions
Experience eco excursions on a kayak or paddle board with Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions.
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Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions, Kayak Rentals & Retreats
Providing eco-excursions via guided kayaking and paddle board tours, Dog Mermaid Eco Excursions is a great place to reconnect with nature.
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Island Römer Adventures
Explore the ocean on a guided kayaking tour with Island Römer Adventures.
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Jeff’s Kayak and Bike Rentals
Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards with Jeff’s Kayak and Bike Rentals.
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Kaatza Adventures
With tour and rental options Kaatza Adventures is a great way to explore Cowichan Lake.
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Kayaking Gulf Islands
Explore Mayne Island at our own pace with kayak and paddle board rentals or booked a guided kayak tour to explore the beautiful waters.
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Kayaking Skills Saturna Island
Book a kayak tour, lesson, or rental with Kayaking Skills and explore the Southern Gulf Islands.
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King Fisher
King Fisher offers guided sea kayaking tours along the Great Bear Rainforest, Haida Gwaii, and Northern Vancouver Island.
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Palli Palli Mobile Ebike & Paddle Board Rentals
Rent a paddle board with Palli Palli Mobile Ebike & Paddle Board Rentals.
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Pender Island Kayak Adventures
Pender Island Kayak Adventures is a perfect place to try anything from kayaking to canoeing and even paddle boarding.
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Pristine Paddleboard Adventures
Located on Cowichan Lake Pristine Paddleboard Adventures is the perfect place to rent a paddleboard and explore the lake at your own pace.
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Salt Spring Adventures
Salt Spring Adventures has many tour and rental options available.
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Sealegs Kayaking Adventures
With many kayak and paddleboard rental and tour options Sealegs Kayaking Adventures has something for everyone!
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Sea to Sky Expeditions
Book an unforgettable guided kayaking tour with Sea to Sky Expeditions.
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Shawnigan Surf & Board co
Create your own adventure with paddleboard rentals from Shawnigan Surf & Board Co.
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West Coast Expeditions Kayaking Tours
Experience kayak-fishing and more with West Coast Expeditions.
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Wilderness Kayaking Co
Wilderness Kayaking Co offers many different kayaking tours, lessons, and has many rental options for kayaks and paddleboards.
Learn MoreLearn more about paddling in Vancouver Island
The Search For BC’s Best Lake
Which body of water will win CBC’s Best Lake in BC Contest? We have some suggestions of what to vote for.
How to Start Kayak Fishing in BC
Here are 16 ways to slightly alter our paddling practices and improve our experiences at all of the wild places in BC.
