Texada is the largest of the Gulf Islands, but only has a population of about 1100 people. By car, the island can only be accessed by a 35 min ferry ride from Powell River’s Westview Terminal; therefore, it will take you 3 ferries from Vancouver to Texada (unless you fly). As it’s not the easiest place to get to, the crowds don’t reach the numbers they do on other Gulf Islands, yet it is one of my favourites. Here are 10 fun things to do on Texada Island.
1. Nature Trail through old growths
Located right by Shelter Point Regional Park, this short and easy 2.6km loop will take you through a beautiful old growth forest with some stunning ocean views. There are also side trails down to the beach for an ocean swim or beachcombing in the sunshine.
Shelter Point Campground is about 20 min from the ferry and is a mix of ocean front and forest sites for $25 per night. Except for the two group sites, it is first come first serve for the other 52 sites and they tend to fill up quick. If you are lucky enough to snag an ocean front site, it truly feels like you are in paradise! Popular with families, I was lucky enough to grow up camping here every summer. Amenities include flush toilets, showers ($2), drinking water, boat ramp, firewood ($6), and concession stand for food and ice cream.
2. Shingle Beach
Shingle Beach Rec Site is about 40 min from the ferry and is located right beside a pebble beach. At $15 per night, there is a mix of 19 sites, some looking out over the water, and the rest within the forest. They are both reservable and first come first serve, but keep in mind it is cash only. Amenities are more limited here with outhouses only.
3. Bob’s Lake
Bob’s Lake Recreation Site is about an hour drive from the ferry and has seven free sites you can camp at on first come first serve basis. Due to it’s location, this Rec Site tends to be a little quieter. There are a couple sites right on the lake which is a beautiful place to relax or go for a refreshing swim, and the rest are in the shaded forest. There is a trail around part of the lake as well that is worth doing if you would like a private spot to swim or enjoy the views.
Nearby is the smaller Angel Lake, but there is not a lot of room for more than one group of people to camp at or enjoy the lake.
4. Swim at Quarry Lake
Closed due to being on private property…
The quarry used to be a limestone mine, which is what gives the lake it’s brilliant emerald colour.
5. Go for a snorkel
We had a pretty sweet time swimming in the warm sea at Shelter Point! With the perfect rocky island just off the beach to snorkel along, the water is full of a wide range of biodiversity. We even spotted cacti growing on Dick Island (yep that is it’s official name). We also saw a ton of pipefish, which are in the same family as seahorses.
6. Go for a kayak or SUP
With plenty of sheltered bays on the island, you can take a paddle along the coastline. We saw a ton of harbour seals out on the calm waters. Highly recommend going at sunset as well for some spectacular views.
7. Wildlife viewing
With no natural predators on the island, there are plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, both on land and in the water – but please remember to remain a respectful distance. You may see painted turtles, black tailed deer, otters, whales and more. There are over 250 species of birds on Texada, including an abundance of impressive looking bald eagles, turkey vultures and blue herons.
8. Find a flower rock
This Karmutsen formation volcanic star porphyry is about 185 million years old! Texada is one of the few places you can find one along the beaches.
9. Enjoy a sunset
Relax on the beach, or skip some rocks. Your jaw will drop when the sky begins to look like fire.
10. Explore!
Explore the logging roads, you never know what new trails, waterfalls, or beaches you will find! Some to keep in mind include Mount Pocahontas hike, Stromberg Falls trail, Anderson Bay Provincial Park (diving and fishing), and Marble Bay/Eagle Cove Trail Network. While a lot of the island is gravel road, four wheel drive is not necessary for the most part.
If you’re looking for more Gulf Islands to explore, check out my posts on Things to do on Denman and Hornby Island, as well as a Guide to Gabriola Island!
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