Powell River, British Columbia, is a fantastic travel location. Below you’ll find a list of what we believe to be Powell River’s top attractions.
There are many exciting things to do in Powell River, British Columbia, the national historic district, from dining at one of the many excellent restaurants to camping, hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor excursions.
The Sunshine Coast in Western Canada is an incredibly enchanted country region. The picturesque settlement of Powell River may be found close to the northernmost point of the coastline.
We spent some time exploring this more remote British Columbia Powell River region. As a result, we have compiled a list of our favorite things to do in Powell River, British Columbia, hoping that it may assist you in making the most of your time spent here.
From Vancouver, it is possible to visit this region of the globe by taking a few hours on the road and a couple of ferry crossings.
The fact that tourism in Powell River is not yet very prevalent is a positive aspect of the situation; as a result, the city is an excellent location to check out and enjoy some time away from the madding hordes.
If you are looking for ideas on things to do in Powell River, then you are at the right place since we will show you around this beautiful part of the West Coast.
1. Flights to Powell River in British Columbia
Pacific Coastal Airlines is the airline that is responsible for operating flights to Powell River, and the majority of their flights are from Vancouver to Powell River.
It would help if you verified what flights are currently being operated directly by Pacific Coastal Airlines since the timetables are subject to minor adjustments throughout the year.
2. Locations for Accommodations in Powell River
Beach Gardens Resort Powell River – When it comes to hotels, Powell River does not provide a wide variety of possibilities; nonetheless, the Beach Gardens Resort and Marina is likely to be the most suitable option.
It is in a terrific position, just a short drive from the center of town, and it is directly on the lake so you will have beautiful views of the water and the surrounding area.
It is also reasonably priced, much like most of the available lodging in Powell River.
In addition, the city of Powell River is home to several campgrounds, including the Willingdon Beach Campsite, which is located on the very outskirts of the city, as well as the Haywire Bay Regional Park, which is just a short distance away by car.
3. Here are the 15 Best Ways to Explore Powell River
Some of Powell River’s finest attractions and activities are listed below. Summer is the most popular time to visit Powell River and the season in which most of these events occur. It’s when most stores are open, and the weather is beautiful enough to enjoy more time wandering about Powell River.
3.1. Savary Island
Although not technically a part of Powell River, Savary Island is a must-see for anybody travelling to the area Powell River historical museum.
There are two ways to visit Savary Island: salter bay, a day tripper on foot (no automobiles permitted) or an overnight camper!
This adorable tiny island is the ideal spot to unwind, thanks to its sandy beaches, Powell River film festival laid-back culture, and the warmest water north of Mexico.
3.2. Townsite Brewing
Townsite Brewing, located in Powell River, is a coastal microbrewery that produces an excellent beer with a distinctive Belgian character.
Don’t you like beer? Additionally, cider and kombucha are often available.
The structure is stunning, with red brick and even an antique arcade game. You may also get some cans to carry back to your hotel room or house if you plan to get beverages later.
3.3. Finest Dining Establishments in Powell River
There is a wide variety of excellent dining options in Powell River, given the town’s size. There’s mouthwatering Mexican food, flavorful seaside food, and highly recommended Indian food.
It was so wonderful that we returned there again (before and after our kayak adventure)!
3.4. Desolation Sound and Paddle
This is why we came to Powell River! Staying at Powell River is ideal before or after a kayaking adventure in Desolation Sound Marine Park.
3.5. The Copeland Islands
And if you’re looking for somewhere else to take your kayak, the Copeland Islands are another popular choice. Accessible from Lund, a little distance north of Powell River, it is on the Sunshine Coast facing Desolation Sound.
And if you’re looking for somewhere else to take your kayak, the Copeland Islands are another popular choice. Accessible from Lund, a little distance north of Powell River, it is on the Sunshine Coast facing Desolation Sound.
3.6. The Sunshine Coast Hiking Trail
The 180-kilometer-long Sunshine Coast Trail is a hut-to-hut small hill that encircles the Sunshine Coast’s northern region. To complete the entire route, usually climbers need at least two weeks.
However, many path sections are suitable for day walks, overnighters, and shorter multi-day journeys.
There isn’t a more picturesque spot than this cabin, which looks out over the trees and lakes below. Other cottages along the Sunshine Coast Trail are as beautiful, however.
3.7. Rock Climbing
Climbers and boulderers from all over the world go to the Eldred Valley Road because of its isolation and rock quality. Massive granite cliffs await you to be climbed, and the Eldred Camp in the woods is a beautiful place to shop while you do it.
3.8. Explore Powell River’s Ruined Shipyards
A whole fleet of ships has been concrete-reinforced and dubbed “The Hulks of Powell River” for their role as a floating breakwater in the area.
Interestingly, this mill used to be the world’s biggest paper mill.
These vessels were too large to sink, so they were left afloat. You get a unique and exciting perspective from this.
The Top 9 Attractions in Lund, British Columbia 9 Find out what the locals recommend in Lund, BC
Lund, a charming little hamlet only 30 minutes north of Powell River, is worth the trip. Lund is much more of a dead end than Powell River.
Lund is a quick stop to Savary Island, the Copeland Islands, or even Desolation Sound (though exploring Lund itself won’t take long). Whales, seals and other marine life may be seen by taking one of the trips that set sail into the ocean.
3.9. Hike Along the Willingdon Beach Path
Just over a kilometer in length, the Willingdon Beach Trail is a flat and straightforward place to stroll. The path was formerly a railroad line, and remnants of the track, such as a trestle bridge, may be seen along the way.
Since you’ll be strolling down Willingdon Beach, this is a terrific spot to take in Powell River’s sunset.
It is a trek that is not too difficult to complete, and it can be done as either a day trip or a short overnight excursion.
We strongly suggest you remain at Tin Hat in Powell River if you have the necessary gear since the breathtaking sunset view from up here is breathtaking. You will have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the nearby lakes and mountains, and you will even be able to make out Texada Island and other distant landmarks in the distance.
The usage of the huts is free, or you can bring a tent with you since there are a few areas just next to the hut where you can pitch it up.
3.10. Powell River’s Hulk
The Hulks are a collection of concrete-reinforced ships anchored together to form a floating breakwater off the shore of Powell River.
In 1930, a log pond was constructed with the help of this breakwater for the benefit of the pulp and paper factory. At one time, this paper mill was the biggest in the world and had a workforce of around 2,500 people.
Due to the depth of the sea, it was impossible to sink the ships; thus, they had to be floated. Many people consider this the immense floating breakwater that exists anywhere in the globe.
Stopping at the Townsite Viewpoint along Marine Avenue will provide you with a birds-eye perspective of the Hulks, which is the ideal way to take in this one-of-a-kind floating edifice.
There is no need to spend more than a few minutes at the viewpoint, although it is highly recommended that you do so.
3.11. Do Some Stand-Up Paddling
Lakes and other bodies of water abound in the Powell River area.
Mitchell’s Canoe, Kayak & Sup is where you should rent a paddleboard if you don’t already have one.
You should check out I Rocker if you’re looking for a paddle board.
You may paddle in the ocean at Willingdon Beach or kayak inland to lakes like Inland Lake and Sliammon Lake. Spending a lovely day on the sea is like nothing else.
Powell River boasts many breathtaking coastlines, and although they may be appreciated from the land, they are much more stunning when seen from the sea. Stand-up paddleboards may be rented or brought along, so you have two options.
Mitchell’s Canoe, Kayak & SUP, Sales and Rentals is the place to go in Powell River if you are interested in renting a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or a kayak.
You may also go canoeing or kayaking on one of the numerous lakes in the region, such as Powell Lake or Inland Lake if you don’t enjoy paddling in open water as much as other types of water.
We take every opportunity to go out on the water and kayaking in Powell River is one of our favorite ways to soak in the city’s breathtaking scenery.
3.12. Explore Inland Lake Provincial Park
One of the most stunning lakes in the Powell River area is Inland Lake. You may go for a swim, paddle out on the lake, run, or ride your bike around the lake.
There are several bridges and boardwalks along the 13-kilometre circuit around the lake. You may take in scenic vistas of the lake and the scents and sounds of the forest while you walk.
If you only have time to explore a tiny portion of Powell Lake, we suggest paying a visit to Haywire Bay Regional Park.
The lake itself is enormous. Spend a few hours here exploring the lovely Powell Lake, or even better, overnight at the campsite on the water’s edge. Both options are accessible from this location.
This is a massive campsite with spots offered on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the year.
In the center of the campsite is a reasonably pleasant day-use area offering a sandy beach where guests may sunbathe and a roped-off swimming area ideal for children.
If you have a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard, you may take to the water and go a little farther away than if you were walking.
There aren’t many activities that compare to spending the day at the lake when the weather is nice during the summer.
Even if it starts to rain, a shelter nearby has a fire pit, so you can keep warm there even if the weather isn’t ideal.
We were taken aback by how peaceful it was out here, and given how few people we encountered, it gave the impression that this was one of Powell River’s best-kept secrets or hidden treasures.
3.13. Coffee Shop
Powell River’s Base Camp café has a charming, rustic vibe and serves up delicious, substantial breakfasts and brunches in addition to excellent coffee and adorable locally made souvenirs.
You’ll fit right in with the locals here, and if you’re looking for any adventurous advice, the other visitors and employees will be more than happy to provide it!
You can also stop by for lunch to get one of their beautiful sandwiches, making it a great place to hang out.
It is well worth your time to visit this establishment, even though it has a reputation for being somewhat crowded, particularly on the weekends.
Take a seat on one of the picnic seats in front of the restaurant, get a cup of coffee and a bite to eat, and enjoy people-watching as the day unfolds.
On Marine Avenue is where you’ll find Base Camp Coffee. It’s impossible to miss since many people usually hang around in front of the shop.
We particularly enjoyed the coffee and cookies at 32 Lakes.
3.14. Get Out on The Sea walk
The Sea walk is a gravel route that runs parallel to the seashore at the southern end of town.
You may sit on the benches and take in the sights of the Powell River ferry from Vancouver Island and Texada Island.
The Willingdon Beach Trail may be found on one side of town, while the Sea walk can be found on the other.
You may walk or ride your bike along this route since it is simple and level the whole way. As you go farther down this route, you will have unimpeded views from the adjacent islands of Texada and Harwood.
This will be possible because you will stroll beside the harbor, where you can see all the boats and watch the ferry arrive.
The paved portion of this path is just one kilometer in length in either direction, making it a straightforward hike.
A little dirt track goes on for a while and finally brings you to an open beach if you are interested in continuing your journey.
If you want to take in some more of the beautiful views out over the Georgia Strait and the islands in the area, this is another good route for families.
3.15. The Coast of the Sun (Costa Del Sol)
Costa Del Sol is another fantastic hangout area along Marine Avenue. They have done a fantastic job of transforming their little dwelling into a tranquil haven in the middle of the action.
The restaurant has a great terrace that wraps around the front and side of the building.
They’ve done an excellent job of beautifying the outside area, and there are fire pits and patio heaters for use when the weather cools down.
The margaritas are delicious, and there are a variety of flavors to choose from. You can get some food here, but if you’re in a hurry, at least get a drink.
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