Discovering Shoal Bay, BC: A Quiet Haven in the Wilderness

Shoal Bay
East Thurlow Island
Desolation Sound
Coordinates Decimal: 50.460, -125.365
Coordinates Degrees Minutes Seconds(DMS): 50° 27′ 36.000″N, -126° 38′ 6.000″W

Nestled on the northeastern side of Thurlow Island, Shoal Bay, BC, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rustic charm that draws in those seeking a true escape from the bustle of everyday life. Our arrival here followed a scenic 58-mile journey through the stunning waterways of British Columbia, leading us to a quaint public dock surrounded by dense forest and towering mountains. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the serenity of the wilderness takes center stage.

A Warm Welcome

Our approach to Shoal Bay took us through the Cordero Channel and Green Point Rapids, with favorable winds and currents pushing us along. When we finally arrived, we found a small, welcoming harbor with a handful of cottages nestled in the trees and a dock that felt like a gateway to adventure. The mountains rise steeply from the water’s edge, their peaks often lost in the mist, creating an idyllic backdrop for this quiet retreat.

Embracing Simplicity

Shoal Bay is a small, close-knit community where simplicity is cherished. The heart of the community is a BYOB happy hour held each evening, where boaters and residents gather on the deck to share drinks, stories, and laughter. This casual gathering embodies the spirit of Shoal Bay – warm, friendly, and wonderfully laid-back.

A Walk Through History: The Goldmine Trail

One of the highlights of Shoal Bay is the opportunity to explore its intriguing history. A well-worn trail leads from the dock up into the hills, where you’ll find the remnants of an old goldmine. This path takes you through lush forests and offers glimpses of stunning views over the channel below. The mine itself is a fascinating piece of local history, a reminder of the gold rush era when Shoal Bay was a bustling hub of activity. The trail is a bit steep in parts, but the journey is worth it for those who appreciate a mix of nature and history.

Comfort and Convenience

For those who appreciate a bit of comfort after a long day on the water, Shoal Bay offers the luxury of hot showers and laundry facilities. These amenities provide a welcome touch of civilization amid the wilderness, allowing boaters to freshen up and feel rejuvenated. After days of cruising and exploring, there’s nothing quite like a hot shower to revive your spirits and prepare you for another day of adventure.

Life at the Dock

The dock at Shoal Bay is a hub of quiet activity. With no hotels or pubs, life here revolves around the simple pleasures of boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. The docks are well-maintained, providing a safe and comfortable spot to tie up and relax. You’ll often find fellow boaters swapping stories and sharing the day’s adventures, creating a unique sense of camaraderie.

A Destination Worth Discovering

Shoal Bay may be off the beaten path, but its charm and character make it a must-visit destination for those cruising the Discovery Islands. It’s a place where you can slow down, connect with nature, and meet like-minded travelers who appreciate the beauty of the British Columbia waterways. Whether you’re looking for a brief stopover or a destination to linger and explore, Shoal Bay offers a unique blend of solitude and community, making it a memorable highlight of any journey through these stunning waters.

In Shoal Bay, the past and present intertwine beautifully, creating an experience that will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and eager for the next adventure.

Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay

Shoal Bay

Nearby Locations

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Waddington Bay
Bonwick Island
Broughtons / Blackfish Sound
Coordinates Decimal: 50.718, -126.616
Coordinates Degrees Minutes Seconds(DMS): 50° 43′ 4.080″N, -127° 23′ 4.200″W

Waddington Bay: A Tranquil Retreat in the Broughtons

Nestled within the rugged beauty of the Broughton Archipelago, Waddington Bay stands out as a quintessential anchorage for boaters seeking a serene and scenic escape. This picturesque bay, though relatively small, comfortably accommodates around ten boats, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate a more intimate and peaceful setting.

A Hidden Gem in the Broughtons

Waddington Bay is a haven for those who enjoy the tranquility of nature and the simple pleasures of anchoring in a secluded cove. The bay is surrounded by lush, forested hills that cascade down to the water’s edge, creating a stunning backdrop of evergreen beauty. The landscape is dotted with rocky outcroppings and small islets, offering a sense of isolation from the busier waters of the surrounding areas.

Navigating into Waddington Bay

Approaching Waddington Bay is straightforward, with clear water and plenty of depth for a variety of vessels. The entrance is wide and welcoming, though it’s essential to keep an eye on the chart to avoid the few rocky patches that lie just outside the bay. Once inside, the water is calm, and the anchorage provides excellent holding in a mud bottom, giving boaters peace of mind during their stay.

Anchorage and Mooring

With space for about ten boats, Waddington Bay doesn’t get overly crowded, allowing for a more personal and quiet experience. The bay is well-protected from the wind, making it a secure spot to drop anchor. The proximity of the boats creates a friendly atmosphere, where it’s easy to strike up a conversation with fellow mariners, yet spacious enough to maintain your privacy.

Activities and Exploration

While Waddington Bay is primarily a place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, it also offers opportunities for exploration. Kayaking and paddleboarding are ideal ways to explore the nooks and crannies of the bay, where you can find hidden coves and observe wildlife up close. The surrounding forests are teeming with life, and it’s not uncommon to spot eagles soaring overhead or seals playing in the water. We even spotted 3 dolphins just off the stern of our boat.

The Perfect Place to Unwind

Waddington Bay is the kind of place where time slows down. The quiet lapping of water against the hull, the gentle sway of the boat, and the distant calls of seabirds create an ambiance of total relaxation. Evenings in the bay are particularly magical, with the setting sun casting a golden hue across the water, reflecting the surrounding hills in a mirror-like surface.

As the stars begin to twinkle in the clear night sky, the bay transforms into a peaceful refuge where you can enjoy the stillness and solitude of the Broughtons. It’s the perfect way to end a day of cruising, with nothing but the sounds of nature to lull you to sleep.

Final Thoughts

Waddington Bay may not be the largest or most well-known anchorage in the Broughton Archipelago, but it is certainly one of the most charming. Its modest size, stunning natural surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal destination for boaters looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded anchorages. Whether you’re seeking solitude, a connection with nature, or simply a quiet place to unwind, Waddington Bay is a destination that promises to deliver a memorable and restful experience.

Waddington Bay

Waddington Bay

Nearby Locations

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Claydon Bay

Broughtons / Blackfish Sound
Coordinates Decimal: 50.938, -126.891
Coordinates Degrees Minutes Seconds(DMS): 50° 56′ 16.800″N, -127° 6′ 32.400″W

Video

Discovering the Tranquil Beauty of Claydon Bay, BC

Tucked away in the picturesque Grappler Sound within the Broughton Archipelago, Claydon Bay, British Columbia, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect escape into nature’s untouched beauty. This secluded bay is a haven for boaters, kayakers, and nature enthusiasts looking to experience the tranquility of the Pacific Northwest in its purest form.

A Serene Anchorage

Claydon Bay is renowned for its calm, protected waters, making it an ideal anchorage for those navigating the intricate waterways of the Broughton Archipelago. Surrounded by lush, forested hills, the bay provides a stunning backdrop for a peaceful retreat. The stillness of the water, often broken only by the gentle ripple of a passing boat or the splash of a curious seal, creates an atmosphere of serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.

Nature at Its Best

The area around Claydon Bay is rich in wildlife, offering visitors the chance to witness the raw beauty of British Columbia’s marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Humpback whales, porpoises, and sea lions are frequent visitors to the bay, providing spectacular sightings for those lucky enough to be there at the right time. On land, the dense forests are home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, making it a great spot for birdwatching and photography.

Exploring the Surroundings

For those looking to explore beyond the bay, Claydon Bay serves as an excellent base for kayaking and paddleboarding. The surrounding inlets and coves offer plenty of opportunities to venture into quieter, even more secluded areas where the natural beauty of the region truly shines. Paddling through the misty morning waters or under the long summer twilight is an experience that connects you deeply with the environment.

Practical Information

Despite its remote location, Claydon Bay is accessible to boaters navigating the Broughton Archipelago. The bay’s protected waters offer safe anchorage, though visitors should come prepared with all necessary supplies, as there are no facilities in the immediate area. The isolation is part of the charm, offering an unspoiled, peaceful retreat that allows you to disconnect and fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

Why Visit Claydon Bay?

Claydon Bay is the epitome of what makes the Broughton Archipelago so special—a blend of rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, and tranquil seclusion. Whether you’re an experienced sailor looking for a quiet anchorage or a nature lover seeking the solitude of the wilderness, Claydon Bay offers a unique experience that embodies the essence of British Columbia’s coastal charm.

If your travels take you through the Broughton Archipelago, be sure to include a stop at Claydon Bay. It’s a place where the pace of life slows, and the natural world takes center stage, leaving you with memories of a serene, unspoiled paradise.

Claydon Bay

Claydon Bay

Nearby Locations

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Dent Island Lodge

Discovery Islands
Coordinates Decimal: 50.405, -125.187
Coordinates Degrees Minutes Seconds(DMS): 50° 24′ 17.208″N, -126° 48′ 45.612″W

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Nestled in the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s Discovery Islands, Dent Island Lodge is a haven for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest, the Lodge offers a luxurious retreat where guests can immerse themselves in nature’s embrace.

Known for its world-class fishing experiences, Dent Island Lodge caters to anglers of all levels, providing unrivaled opportunities to catch a variety of fish in the fertile waters nearby. Guided by experienced local captains, visitors can explore the richness of the area’s marine life, making each fishing expedition both exciting and rewarding.

But fishing is just the beginning of what Dent Island Lodge has to offer. Guests can also indulge in relaxing spa services, gourmet dining, and a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Each guest room is elegantly designed to reflect the natural surroundings, providing comfort and refinement in a rustic setting.

Whether sitting by the fire, enjoying a sumptuous meal, or venturing into the wild landscapes, visitors will find Dent Island Lodge to be more than just a destination—it’s a genuine Desolation Sound experience.

With attentive staff, top-notch amenities, and a setting that combines luxury with wilderness, Dent Island Lodge is a unique escape, providing the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. It’s a place where memories are made, and the soul is refreshed, all against the breathtaking backdrop of British Columbia’s coastal splendor.

Dent Island Lodge

Nightime at Dent Island Lodge.

Nearby Locations

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