Winter Adventures on Quadra Island
Quadra Island is a short 10-minute ferry ride from the heart of downtown Campbell River. The Island is known for its wild nature, artistic residents and laid back vibe. Despite being so close to Campbell River, a trip to Quadra Island is a completely different world and a neighbouring community you don’t want to miss!
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Stay
While you can see a lot of what Quadra has to offer in a day, we recommend taking two days to explore everything to truly get a sense of the Island culture. Taku Resort is located on the eastern side of the island right along the water. Choices range from cozy treehouse suites perfect for two to Beach House Suites ideal for your whole crew and then some! With beautiful oceanfront views, this will quickly become your home base to kick back after a day of adventuring.
Check out other Quadra Accomodations here
Explore
A visit to Rebecca Spit is a must for any trip to Quadra Island. The more than 2 km sand spit is a unique natural feature. The eastern shoreline at Rebecca Spit is also known for its high accumulations of driftwood. This walk takes about an hour to complete, along the way you’ll be treated to views of the coastal mountains and the neighbouring Cortes Island.
Local Tip: Rumour has it a friendly sasquatch has taken up residence on the spit. Take the turn to the 1st parking lot to find where he hangs out.
Adventure
Another must-do on Quadra Island if you’re all about the views. The Chinese Mountain hike has about 300m elevation gain and is 5km round trip. For the work and burn you will feel on this jaunt, the payoff is incredible, once you reach the top you will be treated to panoramic views of the Discovery Passage and surrounding Islands, on a clear day you can see for miles!
Discover
Quadra Island is well known for its vibrant artistic community. There are many studios to visit featuring everything from pottery, jewellery, to paintings. Every year in the spring there is a weekend tour featuring the various artisans, but it is possible to visit many of them year-round. However, it is advised to call ahead and make an appointment! For a full list of artisans click here.
Drink
Enjoy a glass of locally made wine at Southend Farms Winery. Open 12-4 Saturday and Sunday, these guys offer a good selction of red and white wines made from grapes grown right on their Quadra Island farm.
Fun Fact: Southend is the northenmost winery in the Vancouver Island region.
Eat
The Heriot Bay Inn is an iconic spot on Quadra Island. This historic Inn has been around since 1895. In 2008 a passionate group of locals purchased the hotel and have continued its story running it as an Inn, restaurant and gathering spot. The Herons Resturant is a great place to stop for a bite to eat, located right on the waterfront it has some of the best views in town. Also, be sure to check their event calendar, the Inn often has live music throughout the week which are must-attend events if you want to get to know the locals!
P.S If you’re the superstitious type, there are folklore stories of the Inn being haunted.
