I’ll put this simply, travel here. Hornby Island sits between British Columbia’s mainland, and Vancouver Island. Getting there involves island hopping from Buckle Bay. Both ferries are short, the vibe is pleasing and as you progress on your trip you slowly kick into ‘island time.’ Unlike the rest of the Canadian Pacific shores, you can swim here. Yes, you can explore these warms waters by either jumping off sandstone, or slowly walking your way into a shallow beach.
Hornby Island runs on scarce groundwater, and the full year inhabitants glow wool-spinning, pottery-making, poncho-wearing traits.
Accommodation
We used AirB&B and were very pleased with the results. All of these locations are close to as shoreline, and are short drives to the infamous white sand beaches.
The Studio B&B: This whimsical Bed & Breakfast is run by a non-intrusive, cultured, friendly couple. Throughout the house is a curious collection of art, photos and souvenirs. We stayed in the green room and found it very accommodating, cozy and enjoyed the breakfast each morning. The greatest feature of this stay was the short walk to the beach where you could star gaze into the night. A mix of purples, blues and green with sparks of white ubiquitous.
The Sea Cottage: Dog friendly, ample space and generous. All of us enjoyed our time here, although it did get quite hot in there without a fan. Aside from constant body steam, we were provided with a full kitchen, bathroom, yard space, two decks and a very comfy bed. Sandpiper Beach is a short 10 minute walk down the road.
The Sea Breeze: We photographed a wedding at Sea Breeze just before high season. It was a beautiful spot for a wedding, the cabins were much like ‘The Sea Cottage,’ with the exception of most being smaller, or less accommodating. This location is in a prime spot to catch an enchanting sunset, and has a delicious menu at hand. When booking with Sea Breeze, they are not the greatest, nicely said. I hear often how many don’t hear back from them, but I chalk it up to them being a busy wedding-destination resort.
Coast
Sandpiper Beach (first image): Slip off the ledge and swim in these calm waters. The view from these bizarre rocks entertained my dog with crab fights and other crustaceans, luring him in for a swim every once and awhile. You may be on the wrong side of the island for the sunset, but your sky will still be filled with pinks and purples, and a far glowing Parksville in the distance.
Whaling Station Bay (second image): Everyone heads to Tribune, but if you are weary of crowds then lay your beach blanket down here. A long walk into the warm, shallow waves will crack a smile on a stern face. Soft, white sand and a ever long receding tide line.
Helliwell Provincial Park (third image): Golden grass meets turquoise waves, married by a horizon of tall peaks and a crystal clear shoreline. Cliffs tower, and lower the closer you reach the point. Cool down afterwards with the cool walk back through the lanky trees and breeze.
Tribune Beach (forth image): A white sand paradise, a place where you can park and swim all day.
Grassy Point (fifth image): A great beach for sunsets, lounging, and best of all, star gazing.
*There are not many places to eat on the island. Prepare by bringing your groceries with you to the island, and lots of water.
Food
Jan’s Cafe: Totally, super awesome and amazing. Maybe it was because we explored Helliwell first, maybe it was the hot sun- but I have never been more happy to have heard that distintive clatter between table and plate. We were served a pile a delicious food at Jan’s Cafe, and we ate it all.
