With spring’s kinder weather upon us, we turn our thoughts from staying cozy (and dry!) indoors to enjoying the outdoors once again. On the Sunshine Coast, that includes getting out on the water – there’s no shortage of places to adventure with a kayak, canoe, or stand up paddleboard. Let salty ocean spray banish your winter ennui as you traverse the waters between Howe Sound and Desolation Sound, sheltered from the open ocean by Vancouver Island. Or freshwater float in one of the many silky lakes that dot the Coast’s forested landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or dipping in for the first time, the Sunshine Coast’s waterways offer abundant adventure.
Don’t have your own watercraft? No worries, the Sunshine Coast has plenty of convenient rental outfitters. Some even have guided tours so you can experience the water like a local.
THE SCENIC SOUTH COAST
Stretching from Langdale to Egmont, the Lower Coast’s saltwater shoreline is sure to inspire with a landscape of rugged islands and hidden coves. As for wildlife, you might even spot a seal, sea lion or migrating orca whale during the spring season.
So, where should you launch from? The South Coast has many easy-access ocean beaches where you can set off in your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Some spots have their own unique perks: Bonniebrook Beach boasts brilliant sunsets, Roberts Creek Provincial Park Picnic Ground a grassy area and picnic tables, and Porpoise Bay Provincial Park a playground.
For freshwater exploration, the South Coast’s lakes offer scenic splendour without the saltwater spray. Many have picnic areas, sandy beaches, or easy-access docks. Most – like Katherine Lake and MacNeill Lake – offer extra tranquility since motorized watercraft aren’t allowed. All you’ll hear is the dip and stroke of your paddle as you glide through the water.
If you don’t have gear, the South Coast has both sea and freshwater watercraft rentals, complete with safety gear:
Alpha Adventures: Pick up your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard from their stores in Lower Gibsons, Wilson Creek, or Pender Harbour. Alternatively, opt for gear drop-off and pick-up service at your desired location.
Palli Palli: This mobile stand up paddleboard outfitter delivers and collects your paddleboards and safety gear beachside. They also offer guided tours. If you’re new to paddleboarding, they’ll prepare you with brief pre-launch, dry land training. Safety first!
Halfmoon Sea Kayaks: Launch your rental sea kayak, canoe, or paddleboard directly from Porpoise Bay Beach, or car top your gear to explore another stretch of the Salish Sea. Paddleboard lessons and tours are also available.
LAUNCHING FROM THE NORTH COAST
Once you’ve crossed on the ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay, you’re officially on the North Sunshine Coast. If the ocean is calling your name, the North Coast’s ribbon of coastline from Saltery Bay to Lund has several easy-access options for paddling fun. Palm Beach Regional Park and Willingdon Beach Park have what you’d want for a day of both aquatic and land activities: launch your watercraft from the beach, then have a BBQ or picnic. Play frisbee on the grass field and let the kids loose on the playground.
As for freshwater paddling, the North Coast has many remote lakes that offer ultimate serenity. Or you can pair tranquility with testing your mettle by paddling the Powell Forest Canoe Route, a 57-kilometre, eight-lake, five-portage journey that takes about five days. However, spring isn’t the best time to attempt it; June to October is more advisable.
Heads up: most North Coast lakes – like Inland Lake and Lois Lake – require driving on gravelled forest service roads to reach an access point. If you’re not up for that, Mowat Bay Provincial Park in Powell Lake is an effortless drive on a paved street.
Need to rent your watercraft on the North Coast? Hit up Palli Palli’s mobile North Coast service for sea or lake paddleboards, kayaks, and tours. Or try Powell River Sea Kayak for everything from ocean kayak rentals to multi-day tours to a luxe kayaking and wilderness resort experience in Desolation Sound.
With all this in mind, go forth this spring season and explore the Sunshine Coast’s natural grandeur from the water. Have paddle, will travel.
