Quadra Island, largest and most populous of the Discovery Islands, lies between Vancouver Island and the mainland coast of British Columbia, off Canada's west coast. Quadra is home to 2700 year round residents and is a popular destination for visitors from around the world. Campbell River on Vancouver Island is the closest large community (35,000 residents) and port of departure for the 10 minute regular ferry to Quadra Island. Click here for the ferry schedule. Regular ferry service also departs from Heriot Bay, Quadra Island on the 40 minute breathtaking ride to nearby Cortes Island. Click here for the schedule to Cortes Island.
There are three main villages on Quadra Island. Cape Mudge (Yaculta) home to the We Wai Kai band of the Laichwiltach People, part of the Kwa' Kwa' Ka' Wa'Kw First Nation, Quathiaski Cove most populous of the three and the island's commercial hub, and Heriot Bay picturesque gateway to the Discovery Islands & mainland inlets.
Surrounded by breathtaking wilderness scenery and blessed with a mild temperate climate Quadra Island is a healthy and vibrant community which to live in or visit.
Visitors have long been attracted to the island for its natural beauty, unlimited recreation and friendly people. Sportfishing has been and remains one of the prime attractions and Quadra Island is also becoming known for its arts community and as one of the premier destinations in British Columbia for adventure recreation and in particular for diving, hiking, mountain biking, sea kayaking and wildlife viewing. The intricate shoreline is ideal for exploration by sea kayak dotted with beaches, sheltered coves, protected channels and islets.
Bikes, canoes, sea kayaks, power boats and scooters can all be rented locally. Guiding outfitters provide diving, hiking, sea kayaking, power boat and sailing tours to destinations throughout the Discovery Islands and mainland inlets.
The rich waters fed by large tidal exchanges nourish abundant marine life and are world reknowned for their diving. An artificial reef, HMCS Columbia, is also a local diving attraction.
Rolling forested hills are criss crossed with over 200 km of hiking trails and mountain bikers have countless backroads and trails to ride. The nearby inlets provide access to the vast Coast Range, one of the world's greatest mountain wilderness areas.
Quadra's people enjoy a rural lifestyle surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery and a clean unspoilt environment. The First Nations residents and global migrants together create a harmonious community rich in art and culture. The diversity of people, professions, lifestyles and pastimes is what makes Quadra Island a truly great place to live or visit.
For answers to some frequently asked questions check the FAQ page and QuadraIsland.ca
For other information about Quadra Island, Cortes Island and the Outer Discovery Islands and Inlets visit www.discoveryislands.ca
Directory of Quadra Island Businesses PDF