WHY PORT MCNEILL?
Gateway to the Broughton Archipelago
Known as the entry point to the Broughton Archipelago's breathtakingly beautiful islands, protected areas, and winding waterways, Port McNeill is a grade-A first step towards outside exploration. The second-largest settlement on Vancouver Island North coexists peacefully with the abundant marine and terrestrial natural resources. Its proximity to the best island gems on the east coast, four hours' drive from Nanaimo's ferry terminals, and its two hours' drive from Campbell River make it a regional hub for ecotourism, which includes whale watching, grizzly bear safaris, diving, sea kayaking, and fresh and saltwater fishing.
COMMUNITIES
Visit Nearby Communities
Telegraph Cove
From a fishing and canning community, Telegraph Cove developed into a major ecotourism destination that welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists each. Telegraph Cove is a little community with only approximately 20 year-round residents, but it packs a lot of charm. Take a trip to the historically significant Whale Museum, go kayaking, rent a boat and fish the breathtaking waters, or see the abundant animals. There is something for everyone in this picturesque part of the island, which is filled with breathtaking beauty everywhere you turn.
Port Alice
Port Alice offers an extensive array of top-notch outdoor recreational activities within and surrounding the neighborhood, such as fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Part of Quatsino Sound, the Neroutsos Inlet has excellent saltwater fishing as well as a number of sheltered coves and inlets that are ideal for diving and kayaking. Situated near Highway 30, the Marble River Trail offers a trekking path that leads to the magnificent Bear Falls.
Port Hardy
At the northern tip of Vancouver Island, Port Hardy and the surrounding area are rich in tradition and deeply ingrained in culture. They are situated within the traditional territory of the Kwakiutl First Nation and are home to two neighboring First Nations bands, the Quatsino and Gwa’sala–‘Nakwaxda’xw. In Port Hardy and the nearby settlement of Fort Rupert, totems and large buildings stand towering and weathered, revealing stories of the indigenous people's long history dating back more than 8,000 years.
GALLERY
My photos from Port McNeill
