The Perfect Spot to Spend Spring on Vancouver Island
Peacefulness. Connection to nature. Outdoor adventure. Easy access to town. That’s what visitors to Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina, named after the beautiful area it’s located in, can expect.
As both a marina and an RV resort, visitors can fish, hike, bike and have a picnic with the view of the calm, turquoise-blue ocean. The bay is significantly warmer than the open ocean and doesn’t get the same wild waves you’d expect from the rugged West Coast of Vancouver Island. You’re likely to spot seals, sea birds, otters, sea lions and even humpback whales in the mouth of the harbour. Fishers can catch salmon, halibut, rock fish, ling cod and crab, depending on the season.
One of the best ways to spend a sunny spring afternoon is by renting a kayak ($25 per hour for a single; $40 per hour for a double) and paddling into the protected inlet that leads out to the Central Juan de Fuca Strait.
“Our purpose is to create unforgettable experiences on the ocean,” says Robin McKeown, operations manager at Pedder Bay.
When you’re done playing in the salty ocean, you can hike or bike one of the surrounding trails. A local favourite is the Galloping Goose Trail, a cycling path that runs into Victoria. Originally a railroad, the 55-kilometre trail passes beneath towering Douglas fir forests and near translucent waterfalls, accompanied by calming birdsong. If you pedal in the opposite direction, you can reach the abandoned ghost town of Leechtown in about three hours.
More nearby locations call to adventurers: Taylor Beach, only five minutes away, is ideal for swimming; Matheson Lake offers a beautiful loop trail to explore.
Of course, there’s always the temptation to stay at the resort all day, relaxing in the natural environment and sitting around a campfire at night. There are 78 fully serviced RV sites along with four dry camping spots. Ocean views are optional, but every site is private, surrounded by hedges or a wall of cedar. Rates start at $38 per night.
Each site is equipped with a picnic table and campfire pit; RV sites have a hydro hookup and sewer connection. There are laundry and shower facilities on site, as well as a general store and outdoor café with a view of the ocean.
You can now book a unique form of accommodation, ideal for those that prefer a more comfortable camping experience, or those who don’t have all the necessary camping/RV gear. These high-quality mini cabins called “Bunkies” feature a twin bunkbed and a loft with a queen bed. You can rent a gear kit that includes a camping stove, BBQ, dishes and everything you need for a comfortable night or two. Rental fees start at $95 per night.
Pedder Bay enjoys a cozy community-feel, with groups of friends returning every long weekend as getaway “regulars.” It’s an easy commute from Victoria—only 40 minutes by car—so local Islanders should check out the spot this spring.
“[Spring] is a great time to come out and take a break after being cooped up all winter, enjoy the nice weather and start to get active before summer,” says McKeown.
Book your stay at pedderbay.com.
This article was sponsored by Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina
Welcome to Vancouver Island’s premier RV resort and Marina located just 40 minutes from downtown Victoria. Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of the area against a backdrop of the Olympic Mountain Range and the Race Rocks Marine Reserve. Pedder Bay offers a variety of marina facilities including a fuel dock, a three-lane boat launch ramp, boat rentals, and guided fishing charters, gear rental, a tackle shop, and lots more!
