Pacifica Staff Picks of the Best Paddling Destinations around the Saanich Peninsula

Day Trips Accessible from Canoe Cove Marina

Pacifica Swartz Bay is a Gateway to the Gulf Islands, and an ideal launch site for paddlers. We offer rentals here, and charge a small launch fee for paddlers with their own kayaks/ SUPs/canoes. 

Map of Swartz Bay and surrounding area marked with best routes for 2-3 hour trips.

Inter-tidal meandering

Plan your time on the water around low tide to see incredible marine life. There is abundant variety by the islets Harlock and Kolb, and the little channels between them. The other favorite is between Johnston and Fernie; it’s too shallow for motor boats to go through, so it’s ideal for kayakers and paddle boarders to drift through slowly. Bring a camera, phone in a waterproof case, or a go pro, so you can get a snapshot of marine life. We have lots of bull kelp, iridescent seaweed, sea stars, orange sea cucumbers, moon snails, and much more. ~Andrew

Dock Island as it is a beautiful and isolated spot where I like to practice level 2 skills, the current and crossings make up a dynamic area where I can test myself and enjoy the wildlife. ~ Jack

Portland Island

Whether going for half a day, or looking for an easy overnight destination, Portland Island is a winner. Within a 2 hour paddle from Pacifica Swartz Bay (Canoe Cove), this gem boasts beaches, bluffs, walking trails, and an old apple orchard. We’ve done some staff outings here, and enjoyed a picnic dinner at Shell Beach, sitting on the driftwood, watching the ferry pass, and being surrounded by islands. Although reaching this island requires crossing a ferry path, it can be an easy crossing, when going between Coal Island and Pym Island. ~ Pacifica crew

Rum Island 

When I have a day off, and want a refreshing escape, I love kayaking through the scenic Gulf Islands, and sitting on a quiet little beach with my picnic lunch. Rum island is in Haro Strait, east of Sidney Spit, attached to Gooch Island by a cute little beach that almost disappears at high tide. I’ve been camping here a few times, and thoroughly enjoyed the peacefulness of the island (aside from the energetic group of youth I was guiding). As part of the Gulf Islands National Parks Reserve, it has a few tent pads and an outhouse. ~ E-J

Sidney Spit

Looking for the classic sandy beach experience? Sidney Spit is the place to be. Walk the beach and feel the sand between your toes, or lace up the shoes and explore the walking trails around the north half of Sidney island. Within a couple hours of paddling from Canoe Cove, it’s a fun destination if you plan the currents right. Look for a day with the ebb in the morning, and the flood in the afternoon, and calm winds. 

*Safety note: the open stretch of water between the Little Group and the tip of Sidney Spit can get choppy, when there is wind opposing waves (currents).   

Most of these places can be seen in a day each, with some routes encompassing many of these locations in one go. What if you are going out for a multiday though? Circles around Coal Island isn't our idea of a good time. Below is a map for multiday routes!

Day trips Accessible from Brentwood Bay

For those with their own boats, there is a public beach launch at Verdier Park, to the left of the ferry terminal. To the right of the ferry terminal, Pacifica offers kayaks/SUPs/Canoes, and we send guests with maps of the area, and suggested routes. 

Tod Inlet

A classic route for a gentle adventure, Tod Inlet is an easy 1.5-2 hour there and back loop. It’s our favorite place to share with new paddlers, or new to the area paddlers. Soak in the sights, sounds, and peacefulness of the inlet surrounding you, and let yourself be nurtured by nature. With tree covered hills rising above you, this inlet is sheltered from wind, and currents are negligible. 

Spectacle Falls

This is one of our favorite winter routes, when the rainy season has set in, and the waterfall is gushing. Tucked into Finlayson Arm, you’ll find Spectacle Falls on the Malahat side, just south of the Malahat Skywalk. There’s a rocky outcropping, with basic benches around a firepit, and the creek flowing out from the waterfall. Sitting here in the middle of a fjord, it feels like a world away from Victoria, set in a remote wilderness. Funny thing though, it takes less than 2 hours to paddle here from Brentwood Bay! 

McKenzie Bight

Our go-to for a combo workout day - paddle for an hour and a bit, have lunch on the beach, hike up along the creek, and paddle back to Brentwood Bay. 

We hope you have enjoyed our insight on great paddle spots and we are open to answer any questions via email at customerservice@pacificapaddle.com.

Until next time,

Pacifica Paddle