Hidden in a secluded cove just southeast of Port McNeill is Alder Bay, a true hidden gem on Northern Vancouver Island.

Next to the famed Beaver Cove, formerly known as the Wood & English Logging company, Alder Bay is the gateway to a variety of west coast adventures.

RVers are catered for at Alder Bay RV Park, next to the waters of Johnstone Straight. The Resort here is a launching point for whale watching adventures to see orcas, humpbacks, Minkie or Sperm whales. White sided dolphins and porpoises roam the waters next to Johnstone Strait, and you may be able to observe stellar sea lions and bold eagles in the calm waters of the Strait.

Participate in a guided one day kayak expedition and explore the many small bays inhabited by seals and blue herons. You may be lucky enough to kayak with the killer whales for an unforgettable west coast experience. Or, pick up a fishing rod and let a professional guide help you to catch your evening meal.

If you feel more like exploring this coastal paradise on foot, daily beach and rainforest guided hiking trips originate here, allowing you to set foot on the nearby beach of St Josef Bay. Take a 45 min drive south along the shores of Nimpkish Lake and explore 15 different caves in Little Hudson Cave Park.

Spend a day or two in a remote wilderness Lodge and perhaps participate in an eco tour and grizzly bear viewing adventure. Explore Knight Inlet and the famous Blackfish and Thompson Sounds. Take a water taxi and visit Alert Bay, home of the Namgis First Nations. Drop by the Cultural Centre which houses the Native Masks and Artefacts. Next to the Cultural Centre are the burial grounds with the impressive Totem Poles, in memory of the ones who passed away. Only a 15 minute side trip off the main highway heading to Port Hardy, Alder Bay is worth a visit.

Top 5 Things to Do

  • Whale Watching
  • U'Mista Cultural Centre
  • Telegraph Cove
  • Namgis original burial grounds
  • Alert Bay ecological park

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Video courtesy of Tourism Vancouver Island

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