Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park
Hwy 101, Sunshine Coast, BC
With its lush evergreen forests, rugged coastline, and towering mountain summit, Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park epitomizes British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. Admire the clear waters and coastal cliffs as you ride across Howe Sound on your way to the park’s marina, or catch panoramic views of nearby islands and mountains by hiking to the top of Mt. Artaban.
The basics
Halkett Bay Marine Park is a popular recreation site on the UNESCO–listed Howe Sound. While it’s primarily known as a boating destination, you can also hike, swim, and even dive to see the HMCS Annapolis, a former destroyer that’s now an artificial reef. It’s possible to visit on your own, but going as part of a guided tour of Howe Sound can help you streamline logistics, spot wildlife like whales and bald eagles, and see more of the Sunshine Coast.
Things to know before you go
Halkett Bay is a rustic destination. The park has one pit toilet available for use, but plan to bring your own water and pack out all trash.
Fishing is limited due to efforts to conserve the park’s living glass sponge reef—an environment that was long thought to have gone extinct 40 million years ago.
The park is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) from Vancouver, making it a feasible day trip for many boaters.
Marine backcountry camping is allowed at one of three boat-access campsites. Check the park website for fees, details, and restrictions.
How to get there
Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park is on the eastern side of Gambier Island and only accessible by boat. Drive your own boat across Howe Sound, charter a ride, or take a water taxi to Fircom. Experienced kayakers can access the park from Gibsons Landing Harbour, but be prepared for the return trip to take anywhere from 4–9 hours.
When to get there
While the park is open year-round, the best times to visit are late spring or early fall, when you’re most likely to experience mild weather and minimal crowds. In the summer, the area is subject to strong winds that can affect boating conditions—be sure to check the weather in advance.
Scuba diving at Halkett Bay Marine Provincial Park
Halkett Bay offers unique opportunities for diving and snorkeling. In addition to being the site of the HMCS Annapolis, the park is one of the only places in the world where recreational divers can view a glass sponge reef—a rare and ancient environment believed to be between 6,000 and 9,000 years old. There are no developed dive facilities at the park, but if you’re interested, look for tours that leave from Horseshoe Bay or Vancouver.
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