Haida Gwaii's 150+ islands hold more biomass per square yard than anywhere else on Earth, with half the population being Haida First Nations. Photo credit: Destination Canada
Quick Summary
Named one of National Geographic Traveler's 20 must-see places and AFAR's 18 places to go, the remote Haida Gwaii region is one of the most unique and spectacular destinations in Canada. Home to the Haida First Nations people, the area includes over 150 islands, the most diverse marine wildlife in Canada, and more biomass per square yard than anywhere else on the planet.
Quick Facts
- Location: Northern British Columbia (150+ islands)
- Indigenous Culture: Haida First Nations (half of population)
- Nickname: "The Galapagos of the North"
- Wildlife: 200+ bird species, 50% of BC's sea lions, most diverse marine wildlife in Canada
- Key Distinction: Gwaii Haanas: First area protected mountain top to sea floor (2010)
5 Must-See Experiences
1. Gwaii Haanas National Park
A trip to Haida Gwaii would not be complete without a visit to its spiritual center, Gwaii Haanas National Park. Established in 2010, it's the first area in the world to be protected from mountain top to sea floor. Visitors travel the area to experience the remote rainforest, surrounded by thousand-year-old trees and wildlife abound. You can't help but immerse yourself in the colorful history of the Haida First Nations people as you discover ancient carved Haida totem poles and fallen longhouses. Head to the seashore and you might see black bears catching salmon, whales breaching in the distance, and wildlife species exclusive to the region.
2. Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay
It's impossible to truly appreciate Haida Gwaii without understanding the living culture of the Haida First Nations people and the rich heritage of their relationship with the land and sea. You'll want to dedicate a good chunk of time to get through all 50,000 square feet of the Haida Heritage Centre—from the breathtaking hand-carved Haida totem poles in the Carving House, to the fascinating Canoe House and the stunning Haida Gwaii Museum. Purchase original, authentic Haida artwork at the Gift Shop before you leave.
3. Naikoon Provincial Park
If you're looking to experience some of the most stunning wilderness and ocean landscapes in British Columbia, you'd be hard pressed to find somewhere more perfect. The 280 square miles of Naikoon Provincial Park boast a diverse array of geographic wonders—from lush coastal rainforest to a vast shoreline and unique wildlife. Popular attractions include unmatched ocean views from atop Tow Hill, blowholes that shoot 7 meters high along Blow Hole Boardwalk, beachcombing on North Beach, and the popular 6-mile hike to Pesuta Shipwreck.
3. Whale Watching & Kayaking
Sitting on the northernmost coast of British Columbia, Haida Gwaii is often referred to as "the Galapagos of the North"—home to more than 200 bird species, half of British Columbia's sea lion population, and the most diverse marine wildlife in Canada. For both a relaxing and exhilarating experience, book a whale watching tour during your stay. Orcas frequent the area year-round, humpback whales arrive in February staying until fall, gray whales visit from March to June, and if you're lucky, you might even spot a blue or fin whale off the west coast. Feeling adventurous? Book a kayak tour instead!
5. Hotspring Island
Hot water is once again flowing in the sacred hot springs of Gwaii Haanas, 3 years after a 7.8 earthquake struck and mysteriously emptied the pools. Historically used by the Haida people for their healing properties, there are over a dozen warm pools where visitors can enter and experience this natural wonder. Access to the site is by permit only—we recommend booking as part of your Gwaii Haanas tour.
Weekend Itinerary Highlights
Day 1: Drive Highway 16 to Naikoon Provincial Park. See Haida House at Tllaal, hike 6 miles to Pesuta Shipwreck, then north to hike Tow Hill for ocean views and blowholes. Evening stroll on North Beach, dinner at Charters in Masset (elk burger, homemade pie), then 2-3 hours at Haida Heritage Centre (open until 8pm Saturdays).
Days 2-3: Breakfast at Jag's, then 2-day boat tour exploring northern Gwaii Haanas National Park with whale watching.
Final Evening: Dinner at Kay Bistro or Keenawii's Kitchen for seafood feast. Oceanside walk and stargazing.
Getting There
- By Air: Air Canada daily flights from Vancouver to Sandspit; Pacific Airways from Vancouver to Masset; Inland Air from Prince Rupert to Masset
- By Ferry: Year-round from Prince Rupert
- Note: Rent a car upon arrival—you'll need it to get around
Follow-Up Questions
- How do I book a tour of Gwaii Haanas National Park?
- When is the best time to see whales in Haida Gwaii?
- Do I need a permit to visit Hotspring Island?
- How long is the hike to Pesuta Shipwreck?
- What authentic Haida artwork can I purchase at the Heritage Centre?
Associated Entities
Haida Gwaii, Haida First Nations, Gwaii Haanas National Park, Haida Heritage Centre at Kaay Llnagaay, Carving House, Canoe House, Haida Gwaii Museum, Naikoon Provincial Park, Tow Hill, Blow Hole Boardwalk, North Beach, Pesuta Shipwreck, Hotspring Island, Highway 16, Haida House at Tllaal, Skidgate, Masset, Charters restaurant, Jag's, Kay Bistro, Keenawii's Kitchen, Moon Over Naikoon, Vancouver International Airport, Sandspit, Prince Rupert, Air Canada, Pacific Airways, Inland Air, National Geographic Traveler, AFAR, Hello BC, British Columbia, Destination Canada
Sources & Registry
- Destination Canada – A quick guide to Haida Gwaii: https://travel.destinationcanada.com/en-us/things-to-do/quick-guide-to-haida-gwaii