That Summer Feeling on Quadra Island

Name a place that gives you “that summer feeling”.  Without hesitation, Quadra Island!

A quick 10-minute ferry ride from Campbell River on Vancouver Island, Quadra Island is part of the Discovery Islands archipelago. It is located along the inside passage, between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia. If you’ve cruised to Alaska through the inside passage, you would have sailed right past, with Quadra Island on your right-hand side and Vancouver Island on the left. It is one of the best known of the Discovery Islands, and the perfect summer outdoor destination.

Stunning natural beauty abounds. Beaches, parks and endless outdoor recreation opportunities call out. One of those places you would like to keep secret. Yet, is too good not to share. I love nothing better than spending a summer day exploring the island. Better yet, escape for a few days, or more. A perfect summer getaway.

For me, it is filled with childhood memories of summer camping trips with family and friends. Vehicles loaded, boats hitched, and the convoy up island began. Adults, kids and dogs, ready for an epic adventure.

The dads dreamed of fishing and catching one of the giant “Pacific Salmon” the area is known for. Us kids couldn’t wait for swimming, raft building, and exploring. You know, all the fun stuff that camping brings. While the moms dreamed of peace and quiet, but may have gotten the short end of the stick. It was a lot of work looking after all of us. Despite this, I know they still looked forward to the yearly trip. How could you not, when presented with its stunning natural beauty.

The excitement grew once we were on the little ferry across to Quadra Island. Shortly thereafter, pulling into our campsite on the beach at We Wai Kai campground. The most beautiful of places bordering Rebecca Spit Provincial Park.

It was a summer spent creating memories for a lifetime.  Quality time with family and friends. No worries, no stress, just lots of outdoor fun. We all look back fondly now with smiles and laughter. Remembering the good times, and those friends that are sadly no longer with us.

The stories have grown, like any good fish story should. Memories have been passed on. New generations have been introduced to, and fallen in love with the island. Many of us still return whenever possible. The little island that is Quadra, will always hold a special place in our hearts. It is the perfect place to find “that summer feeling”.

Looking for something to do on the Island, below are just a few of my favourites.

• Camp beside the ocean at We Wai Kai campsite. Stunning location with a protected harbour. Great for swimming and water activities.
  
• Pack up a picnic and spend the day at Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park. A popular day-use park, it’s perfect for a day of summer fun. The Inside of the Spit overlooks sheltered Drew Harbour, and there are picnic tables nearby. Go for a swim, dip your toes or just enjoy the view. Don’t forget to bring your favourite outdoor games as there is a great grassy area in the middle for badminton, frisbee, bocce, or a soccer game.
  
  The outside of the spit is open water with amazing views across to the other islands. Not for swimming but you can’t beat exploring the huge amount of driftwood that washes up. It’s perfect for fort building, and hiding out. Keep your eyes peeled to the ocean as last time we were there we heard the humpback whales blowing, and then saw them swimming on by. Be sure to take a walk along the trail from the parking lot that leads to the very end of the spit. It is well worth the walk and beautiful scenery along the way.
  
• Cape Mudge Lighthouse.  I have a thing about lighthouses, so this is always a favourite stop.  I love to look at them and wonder what perils they have seen. Standing tall and bright, as they guide ships through the narrow passages between the islands at night.
  
  The lighthouse is located on the southwestern-most coast of Quadra Island. It stands 12 metres (40 feet) tall and was constructed in 1916. The second lighthouse on this site, having replaced the original in 1898. It marks the southern entrance of the Discovery Passage. A wonderful place to sit and reflect, take pictures, and walk along the beach surrounding it. Be extra cautious around the water here, this is not a place for swimming.  The current can be very strong and dangerous through this area.
  
  I’ve recently learned that you can stay at the Lighthouse Cottage on the grounds at Cape Mudge lighthouse which I think would be amazing. It is part of the accommodation which can be booked through Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge (Cape Mudge Resorts).
  
• Tsa Kwa Luten Lodge. Last summer we had the pleasure of having lunch with friends at this secluded ocean front resort. It is truly beautiful and inviting. The lodge features “authentic Pacific Coast native architecture, art and culture based on traditional Kwagiulth historical values”. If you’re here for lunch, be sure to have a wander through to look at the beautiful artwork in the main lobby.
  
  We had lunch on their impressive sundeck with views across the ocean to Campbell River. It was a delightful meal and nice way to spend the afternoon with friends. I could have spent more time just enjoying the view with a drink in hand.
  
• Heriot Bay is a picturesque hub on the east coast of Quadra Island with dramatic views of the mainland coast. Here you can catch the ferry across to Cortes Island, find various services for locals and visitors alike, and visit the historic Heriot Bay Inn. Enjoy the views from the Inn, have a meal, check out the marina, go kayaking or whatever “floats your boat”.
  
• Check out the local artists on the Island. Do a Quadra Island Studio Tour.
  
• Support local. Check out the little shops and eating places that you see along the way.

These are just a few of my favourite activities on Quadra Island. It is a beautiful place to explore. An outdoor enthusiasts delight. You can take your pick from so many activities, do as much or as little as you like. Hiking, biking, Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, fishing, beachcombing, camping, canoeing, sea kayaking, sailing, diving, snorkelling, and so much more. Be as active or as inactive as you like. Plenty of places to just sit and take in the scenery, read a book, or meditate in the serene surroundings. It’s your choice!

Now you can see just a little of why, Quadra Island has “That Summer Feeling.”