If you haven’t got time to hit the epic beaches of Cape Scott, decamp to this closer-to-town option mixing urban comforts (picnic tables and parking) with typical north island ruggedness (expect occasional wildlife visits in summer). It’s particularly good at low tide. For a day trip, pack a picnic and walk in from Port Hardy via the Fort Rupert Trail.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
22.34 MILES
This must-see longhouse-like facility proudly displays dozens of culturally priceless Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts confiscated when potlatch ceremonies were…
27.91 MILES
This unique, beautifully rustic barn-like museum is bristling with hands-on artifacts and artfully displayed skeletons of cougars and sea otters, but the…
23.12 MILES
A big draw on tiny Cormorant Island, this hidden nature park consists of a small marsh guarded by a clutch of starkly beautiful dead trees (most of them…
Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre
2.88 MILES
Bring your kids and they'll learn all about the salmon lifecycle at this off-the-beaten-path hatchery attraction. Besides lots of hands-on action (as well…
Culture Shock Interactive Gallery
22.92 MILES
This diminutive gallery shop sells contemporary First Nations crafts, T-shirts and jewelry, all made in and around BC. There's a coffee shack alongside if…
Port McNeill & District Museum
16.52 MILES
Trace the town's logging and First Nations history in a handsome gabled log building that's a short walk from the waterfront.
Nearby Vancouver Island attractions
1. Quatse Salmon Stewardship Centre
2.88 MILES
Bring your kids and they'll learn all about the salmon lifecycle at this off-the-beaten-path hatchery attraction. Besides lots of hands-on action (as well…
2. Port McNeill & District Museum
16.52 MILES
Trace the town's logging and First Nations history in a handsome gabled log building that's a short walk from the waterfront.
22.34 MILES
This must-see longhouse-like facility proudly displays dozens of culturally priceless Kwakwaka'wakw artifacts confiscated when potlatch ceremonies were…
4. Culture Shock Interactive Gallery
22.92 MILES
This diminutive gallery shop sells contemporary First Nations crafts, T-shirts and jewelry, all made in and around BC. There's a coffee shack alongside if…
23.12 MILES
A big draw on tiny Cormorant Island, this hidden nature park consists of a small marsh guarded by a clutch of starkly beautiful dead trees (most of them…
27.91 MILES
This unique, beautifully rustic barn-like museum is bristling with hands-on artifacts and artfully displayed skeletons of cougars and sea otters, but the…