British Columbia Travel Guide
The unofficial BC Travel & Tourism Guide

 
The sense of culture, craft, art and First Nations heritage is not only rich on Quadra Island, it has become a lifestyle embraced by those who visit, as well as the residents. The practice of their work and the on going celebrations of the island's history are showcased all year.

Maps for self-guided tours to over thirty artists make for exploration on your own time and allow for relaxation at any of the scenic stops along the way. Visit the studios, galleries or culture centers and you will find clay pottery, painting, glass blowing, fabric & weaving arts, furniture makers, sculptors, mixed media, carvings (silver & wood) or even traditional dance.

The island is quaint and charming in so many ways. There are shops and galleries to see local arts, farmers markets through out the summer, and great places to eat famous west coast sea food. Lodging in areas hidden away from the world are great escapes to plan as a couple or family. By taking a break you can listen to the hypnotizing sounds along the waters while dining al-fresco near the marina and watching the day burn into bright fuchsia colours before becoming night sky full of stars. Absolutely enchanting!

Being outdoors on Quadra Island is irresistible. There are many activities and day tours to experience and view wildlife on land or shore such as; orca whales, porpoises, seals, otters, bald eagles, black-tailed deer, owls and blue heron, all make Quadra Island their home.

Population: 2,500

Highlights:
Mitlenatch Island Provincial Park
Octopus Islands Provincial Marine Park
Rebecca Spit Provincial Marine Park
Morte Lake trail
Main Lake-Yeatman Bay trail
Mt. Seymour trails
Chinese Mountain
Farmer’s markets (May-Oct)

Things To Bring:
Winters can be soggy, bring appropriate attire and footwear for each season.

History:
The Kwagiulth First Nation were the first known inhabitants of Quadra Island. Even today, the Wei-Wai-Kai band still resides at the south end of the island. The island’s abundant food sources and forests provided the materials that the band survived on year round. Along the shores at high tide visitors can find petroglyphs, ancient tribal drawings.

Don Juan Francisco de la Bodega y Quadra (for who the island was named after) first sailed the waters in the 1800’s, along with the more recognizable Captain George Vancouver.

Quadra Island, today, is the largest populated area of all the Discovery Islands along the west coast of British Columbia.

Climate:
Summer average 23 degrees Celsius
Winter average -5 degrees Celsius

 

Quadra Island Accommodations


Quadra Island Things to Do