Kayaking Quadra Island

Have you always wanted to try your hand at kayaking? How about in one of the most beautiful places in the Pacific Northwest?

Whether you are a total novice in a kayak or an experienced paddler, you’ll love Quadra Island’s Discovery Islands Lodge (250-285-2823), a kayak hostel nestled in the Gulf Islands of B.C.

Discovery Islands Lodge is a truly special and unique place, and well worth the trip over much land and water to get to. It’s rustic but comfortable, and set in an incredible natural and remote backcountry landscape. From here you can rent kayaks (for the experienced only – they don’t call it “Surge Narrows” for nothing), or go on a splendid guided tour for a day trip or longer.Enjoying a cup of coffee and watching the sunrise from the dock.

In the lodge, there’s a large common area with cozy sofas and bookshelves lined with books, and a common kitchen for your use with shared fridge space. There are no restaurants around so bring groceries to cook yourself dinner (there are good grocery stores on the island – stop on your way in.) Bring your own sleeping bag for atop the bed, or rent one at the lodge. Most of the lodge’s power is derived from solar and wind renewable sources, so bring a flashlight for backup.

Discovery Islands Lodge is a cheap sleep at $75 (1 person) or $95 (2 people) for a room, which includes a hot breakfast cooked by your hosts in the communal kitchen and served family style. However, there is an additional expense for visiting Discovery Islands Lodge — getting there (the north end of Quadra Island is just a bit remote). Once on Vancouver Island, head to the town of Cambell River where you can catch a ferry that takes you to the south end of Quadra Island. From there, enjoy a winding, scenic drive to the remote north tip of Quadra and the kayak hostel.

Oh, and one very important note. Just because Discovery Islands Lodge is a ‘hostel’ doesn’t mean its not romantic — it is, indeed. We spent a few nights here two years ago during our honeymoon, and agree it was a highlight of our trip.

Lauren Braden’s new book, 52 Ways to Nature, Washington: Your Seasonal Guide to a Wilder Year, is now available

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