8 hidden coves to discover in BC before summer’s end

Want to explore some beautiful beaches and coves before the end of the summer? BC is home to some of the most stunning coastlines in the country, which offer plenty of paddling, beachcombing, hiking, and swimming opportunities. So with that in mind, here are 8 hidden coves to discover in BC.

Porteau Cove Park

Known for its stargazing potential, Porteau Cove is situated just minutes away from Squamish, renowned for its windsurfing, hiking, and fishing options. And if you want to stay overnight, the campground has just over 100 waterfront campsites to choose from.

During the day, visitors can check out the popular day-use area, which features a rocky, pebbly beach with crystal blue water to swim in. And those on a scuba adventure can explore a series of man-made reefs and two sunken vessels!

Where: Squamish-Lillooet

Pender Island

As far as BC islands go, Pender Island is one of the most fascinating to explore, complete with pristine lakes, secret coves and beaches, and rolling meadows – what more could you ask for?

Visitors can book a range of kayaking tours or wildlife-watching excursions, rent canoes, go snorkelling, golf at the Golf and Country Club, or swim at Medicine Beach – and that’s just for starters.

Where: Between Vancouver and Victoria, BC

Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove 

Some of the most unique shorelines in BC await at the Sunshine Coast’s Halfmoon Bay, where visitors frequently kayak, hike, fish, and swim. Located on the traditional territory of the shíshálh Nation, the beach and secret cove are situated near Thormanby Island, Smuggler Cove Marine Park, and Buccaneer Marina.

Note that the Secret Cove Marina and pier at Halfmoon Bay have public docks available for docking your boat or launching kayaks and paddleboards when you come ashore.

Where: Sunshine Coast

Smuggler Cove Park

Naturally, we had to include the picturesque Smuggler Cove Park, which boasts an all-weather anchorage on the south side of the Sechelt Peninsula. The small cove offers visitors plenty to do by way of kayaking, canoeing, and snorkelling.

To access the park by land, visitors can hike 4 km from a parking lot off Hwy 101.

Where: Sunshine Coast

Raft Cove Park 

This isolated, peaceful park is situated on the northwest coast of Vancouver Island, attracting wilderness adventurers looking for a good day hike or backpacking trip to set up on the long crescent-shaped sandy beach. The long spit and sandy bay is at the mouth of the Macjack River, and warrants extra rain and waterproof gear if you want to stay dry during your visit!

Where: 65 km southwest of Port Hardy

Desolation Sound 

With over 60 km of shoreline to explore, it’s no wonder that Desolation Sound got its name. The warm waters are perfect for swimming and scuba diving, and there are multiple islands and snug coves that kayakers can paddle to and explore.

Where: North of Powell River, nearby Lund

Hot Springs Cove 

This remote and rustic spot can be accessed via the Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, which is northwest of Tofino. Upon arrival, visitors can walk along the 1.5 km boardwalk trail through old-growth forest until they reach the hot springs, where seven natural geothermal rock pools await.

Where: Tofino

Roche Cove 

At this regional park, temperate rainforest surrounds a sheltered cove, offering visitors a mossy slope of seclusion to unwind at. It’s also conveniently located along the gamed Galloping Goose Trail, which extends 7 km through beautiful cedars. There are also the Matheson Creek and Cedar Grove trails to explore before or after relaxing at the protected cove – where visitors can spot sea stars, little-neck clams, barnacles, and more.

Where: Near Sooke

And that’s a wrap on some beautiful hidden coves to discover in BC before the summer ends.