Book Now
Skip to main content
250-202-8324
Water Adventures

Kayaking & Paddling in Campbell River

World-class sea kayaking with sheltered waters, abundant wildlife, and stunning coastal scenery.

Why Kayak Campbell River?

World-Class Destination

Discovery Passage is recognized as one of Canada's premier sea kayaking locations with incredible scenery and wildlife.

Sheltered Waters

Protected paddling routes perfect for beginners, with calm conditions along the waterfront and in sheltered bays.

Wildlife Encounters

Paddle alongside seals, watch bald eagles soar overhead, and possibly spot orcas passing through Discovery Passage.

Remote Beaches & Islands

Access pristine beaches and uninhabited islands unreachable by road, including Rebecca Spit and Mitlenatch Island.

Paddle Routes

Popular Kayaking Routes

From gentle waterfront paddles to epic multi-day expeditions.

Best for Beginners

Discovery Passage Waterfront

2-8km Easy 1-3 hours Beginner-friendly

The perfect introduction to sea kayaking in Campbell River. Paddle along the sheltered waterfront in Discovery Passage, watching cruise ships navigate the strait and seals lounging on nearby rocks. The calm waters and spectacular scenery make this an ideal route for beginners and families.

Route Highlights

  • Sheltered waters along Campbell River waterfront
  • View cruise ships passing through
  • Watch seals hauled out on rocks
  • Discovery Pier and marina scenery
  • Protected from wind and waves
  • Easy launch at Discovery Pier

Launch Point

Discovery Pier boat launch or Tyee Spit boat ramp. Both have ample parking and easy beach access.

Best Season

Year-round, but calmest May-September

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Best paddled 2 hours before/after high tide
  • • Watch for ferry traffic near Quadra terminal
  • • Seals most active early morning or evening
  • • Can be combined with lunch at waterfront restaurants

Safety Hazards

Moderate boat traffic during summer. Stay close to shore and be visible.

Scenic Beauty

Rebecca Spit Provincial Park

4-6km loop Easy 2-3 hours Beginner-Intermediate

One of the most beautiful kayak routes in the Campbell River area. Rebecca Spit is a narrow 2km sand formation extending into Drew Harbour. Paddle around the spit, exploring both the calm lagoon side and the more exposed outer coast. Stop for lunch on pristine beaches and search for sand dollars and shells.

Route Highlights

  • Stunning 2km sandy spit on Quadra Island
  • Crystal clear waters and white sand beaches
  • Excellent for beachcombing stops
  • Sheltered lagoon on one side
  • Wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Beautiful photo opportunities

Launch Point

Rebecca Spit Provincial Park parking area. Short carry to beach. Requires 10-minute ferry to Quadra Island ($6/person).

Best Season

Best May-September. Can be windy in winter.

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Lagoon side calmer - good for beginners
  • • Outer side more exposed - intermediate paddlers
  • • Best at high tide for easier beach access
  • • Bring lunch - beautiful picnic spots
  • • Can combine with hiking the spit trail

Safety Hazards

Outer side can have wind and chop. Stick to lagoon if inexperienced.

Advanced

Mitlenatch Island Nature Park

22km return Advanced Full day (6-8 hours) Experienced only

An epic paddling adventure for experienced kayakers. Mitlenatch Island is a remote seabird sanctuary 11km offshore, home to over 12,000 nesting seabirds including rare tufted puffins. The crossing requires advanced skills, but rewards with unparalleled wildlife encounters and pristine natural beauty. This is a bucket-list paddle.

Route Highlights

  • Remote seabird colony sanctuary
  • 12,000+ nesting seabirds (May-July)
  • Puffins, guillemots, cormorants
  • Stunning wildflower meadows (June-July)
  • Incredible wildlife photography
  • Provincial marine park with no facilities

Launch Point

Rebecca Spit or other Quadra Island launch sites. Requires 10-min ferry ($6/person). MUST check marine forecast.

Best Season

May-August only. Winter conditions too dangerous.

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Advanced paddlers ONLY - strong tidal currents
  • • Plan crossing with tide tables and weather
  • • VHF marine radio essential
  • • Go with experienced group or guided tour
  • • Peak seabird activity May-July
  • • Pack lunch and plenty of water

Safety Hazards

SERIOUS HAZARD: Strong tidal currents, open water exposure, changing weather, cold water (8-12°C). Not for inexperienced paddlers.

Epic Journey

Quadra Island Circumnavigation

100km+ Expert 3-5 days Expert multi-day expedition

The ultimate kayaking adventure on Vancouver Island. Circumnavigate Quadra Island over 3-5 days, experiencing remote wilderness, incredible wildlife, and dramatic coastal scenery. This expedition requires expert skills, careful planning, and self-sufficiency. Not to be undertaken lightly - but unforgettable for those prepared.

Route Highlights

  • Complete circumnavigation of Quadra Island
  • Remote beaches and wilderness camping
  • World-class scenery and wildlife
  • Includes Seymour Narrows passage
  • Self-supported expedition paddling
  • Ultimate Vancouver Island kayak challenge

Launch Point

Various launch points on Quadra Island. Requires ferry crossing. Multi-day camping gear required.

Best Season

July-August only for best conditions.

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Expert paddlers ONLY - serious expedition
  • • Requires wilderness camping skills
  • • Must be comfortable in tidal currents
  • • VHF radio and emergency beacon essential
  • • Check Seymour Narrows current timing carefully
  • • Go with experienced group strongly recommended
  • • Permits may be required for camping
  • • Plan for weather delays

Safety Hazards

EXTREME HAZARD: Seymour Narrows has some of world's strongest tidal currents. Remote areas with no cell service. Cold water, changing weather, wildlife. Life-threatening if unprepared.

Gentle Float

Quinsam River

5-10km Easy 2-4 hours Beginner-friendly

A peaceful river paddle through lush rainforest. The Quinsam River offers calm, sheltered paddling perfect for beginners and families. In late summer and fall, watch salmon returning to spawn. Eagles, herons, and other wildlife are commonly spotted along the banks.

Route Highlights

  • Calm river paddling - no ocean exposure
  • Watch salmon spawning (September-October)
  • Excellent wildlife viewing
  • Sheltered from wind
  • Beautiful forested scenery
  • Great for families

Launch Point

Various river access points. Check with local kayak shops for current recommendations.

Best Season

May-October. Spring runoff can be too fast for beginners.

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Best salmon viewing September-October
  • • River level varies - higher in spring
  • • No tidal concerns - pure river paddling
  • • Mostly downstream float - arrange shuttle
  • • Bring waterproof bag for cameras

Safety Hazards

Minimal hazards. Watch for submerged logs. River can be swift during spring runoff.

River Adventure

Elk Falls to Campbell River Float

12km downstream Intermediate 3-4 hours Intermediate river paddling

An exciting river journey from Elk Falls Provincial Park downstream to Campbell River. This route includes gentle rapids and swift current sections, offering fun moving water experience for intermediate paddlers. The scenic journey passes through canyon sections and lush forest before reaching the ocean.

Route Highlights

  • Downstream river float
  • Canyon scenery and forest views
  • Class I-II rapids sections
  • Ends at Campbell River waterfront
  • Fun moving water experience
  • Shuttle required

Launch Point

Elk Falls Provincial Park area. Ends at Campbell River waterfront. REQUIRES vehicle shuttle or pickup.

Best Season

June-September for best conditions. Avoid spring runoff.

Location Map

Paddling Tips

  • • Check water levels before going
  • • Scout rapids if unsure
  • • Wear helmet for safety
  • • Arrange shuttle or pickup in advance
  • • Spring runoff can make this too dangerous
  • • Go with experienced paddler first time

Safety Hazards

Rapids sections require skill. Too dangerous during high water. Cold water year-round.

Rentals & Tours

Kayak Rentals & Guided Tours

Local outfitters offering kayak rentals and guided paddling experiences.

Local Kayak & SUP Rentals

Single and tandem kayak rentals, paddleboard rentals, safety gear included

Check Campbell River waterfront area for current operators

Quadra Island Kayak Rentals

Sea kayak rentals, guided tours, multi-day expedition support

Located on Quadra Island - requires ferry crossing

Discovery Pier Outfitters

Hourly and full-day rentals, beginner instruction, local route advice

Convenient waterfront location with easy launch access

Finding Current Operators

Kayak rental operators and tour companies can change seasonally. Check with the Campbell River Visitor Centre (250-287-4636) or search online for "Campbell River kayak rentals" for the most current options. Many operators are located along the Discovery Harbour waterfront.

Critical Safety Info

Kayaking Safety Guidelines

Sea kayaking can be dangerous. Know before you go.

Cold Water Danger

  • • Water 8-16°C (46-61°F) year-round
  • • Hypothermia risk within minutes
  • • ALWAYS wear proper PFD (lifejacket)
  • • Dress for the water, not the air
  • • Wetsuit or drysuit recommended
  • • NO cotton clothing - deadly when wet

Tidal Currents

  • • Discovery Passage has strong tides
  • • Seymour Narrows: world's strongest currents
  • • ALWAYS check tide tables before paddling
  • • Paddle within 2hrs of high tide for beginners
  • • Download Canadian Tide Tables app
  • • Advanced routes need careful timing

Essential Safety Gear

  • • Properly fitted PFD (mandatory)
  • • VHF marine radio (Channel 16)
  • • Paddle float and bilge pump
  • • Spare paddle
  • • Waterproof bags for phone/wallet
  • • Whistle (3 blasts = distress signal)

Check Marine Weather

ALWAYS check the marine forecast before heading out. Conditions can change rapidly.

Environment Canada Marine Weather

Check Tide Tables

Tide timing is critical for safe paddling. Know the current and predicted tides.

Canadian Tide Tables

Emergency Preparedness

Tell someone your paddling plan including route and expected return time. Cell service can be unreliable on the water. In an emergency, call 911 or use VHF Channel 16. Coast Guard SAR (Search and Rescue) monitors Channel 16 24/7.

Emergency number: 911 or VHF Channel 16 (marine emergency)

Choose Routes for Your Experience Level

Start with beginner routes and build skills progressively.

Beginner Routes

New to kayaking or first time in Campbell River waters.

  • Discovery Passage Waterfront - Perfect introduction to sea kayaking
  • Rebecca Spit (lagoon side) - Calm, protected waters
  • Quinsam River - Gentle river paddling, no ocean exposure

Intermediate Routes

Comfortable with basic skills and some sea kayaking experience.

  • Rebecca Spit (full circumnavigation) - Some exposure to wind/waves
  • Elk Falls to Campbell River - Moving water and mild rapids

Advanced/Expert Routes

Experienced paddlers only with proper training and gear.

  • Mitlenatch Island - Open water crossing, tidal currents, VHF radio essential
  • Quadra Circumnavigation - Multi-day expedition, wilderness skills required

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about kayaking in Campbell River.

Do I need experience to kayak in Campbell River?

Not necessarily. Routes like Discovery Passage waterfront and Rebecca Spit are suitable for beginners with basic paddling skills. However, routes like Mitlenatch Island and Quadra circumnavigation require advanced skills and experience in tidal currents and open water. Start with beginner routes and build skills before attempting advanced paddles.

How cold is the water and what should I wear?

Ocean water in Campbell River ranges from 8-16°C (46-61°F) year-round - dangerously cold. ALWAYS wear a properly fitted PFD (lifejacket). Dress in layers with synthetic or wool materials that insulate when wet. Wetsuit or drysuit recommended, especially for longer paddles or cold seasons. Cotton clothing is dangerous - it loses all warmth when wet.

When is the best season for kayaking?

May through September offers the warmest water temperatures (12-16°C) and calmest conditions. July and August typically have the most stable weather. Early mornings often provide the glassiest water conditions. Winter paddling is possible but requires advanced cold-water skills and proper gear.

Are there strong currents I need to worry about?

Yes. Discovery Passage has significant tidal currents, and Seymour Narrows (near Quadra) has some of the world's strongest. For beginner routes like Discovery Passage waterfront, paddle within 2 hours of high tide for minimal current. Always check tide tables before paddling. Advanced routes require careful current timing and planning.

What safety gear do I need for sea kayaking?

Essential: Properly fitted PFD (lifejacket), paddle float, bilge pump, spare paddle, waterproof bag for phone/wallet, whistle, and appropriate clothing. Recommended: VHF marine radio (Channel 16 for emergencies), navigation chart, compass, first aid kit, emergency shelter, and flares for offshore paddles. For advanced routes, marine radio and GPS are essential.

Can I see orcas while kayaking?

Possibly, but it's not common in Campbell River's sheltered waters. Orcas occasionally pass through Discovery Passage and around Quadra Island. If you encounter orcas, maintain 200m distance (federal regulation), stay together as a group, and avoid getting between whales. Never chase or approach whales. For reliable orca viewing, consider our wildlife boat tours instead.

Explore from a Boat Instead!

Want to explore Campbell River's waters without paddling? Join Captain Jason on a fishing charter or wildlife tour. Comfortable heated cabin, all gear provided, and expert local knowledge.

View Our Charters Call 250-202-8324
// Build trigger 1770115577 // v10 deploy 1770118492