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Port Hardy – Live the Adventure
Thursday, February 9th, 2006 by GetawayBC.com
As the largest community on the North Island, Port Hardy is a centre of tourism. Adventure tours are popular and include kayak tours, air and boat tours, diving charters, whale and wildlife viewing, and more. As the northernmost community, Port Hardy is also a terminus for air and marine travel. From here, BC Ferries offers service to Prince Rupert and the Central Coast.
Hardy Bay is a bustling harbour with all amenities. There is plenty of moorage, and a boatyard for those important repairs. Laundry and shower facilities are a boon for boaters. Enjoy a great meal along the harbour front, and watch the boats and float planes come and go.
Its proximity to the ocean offers adventure on both land and ocean. Charter a boat and guide, for fine halibut and salmon fishing. Whale-watching tours take you to view orcas, minke whales, dolphins, porpoises, and more. North Island waters offer some of the finest cold-water diving in the world, and guided tours are available.
Got a need for speed? Stock car races are held at Tri-Port Speedway several times each summer.
Land-lubbers love hiking in the Port Hardy area. Miles of trails and abandoned logging trails let you get away from it all. There is a lovely walk along the seawall and the Quatse Trail leads to the estuary where there are excellent birdwatching opportunities.
The Quatse River Fish Hatchery is dedicated to preserving salmon runs for future generations, and offers tours for the whole family. A new educational facility is scheduled to open in 2009, offering tours and all-new activities for families to do and see.
Port Hardy has an amazing museum which celebrates the history of the area. From 8000-year-old stone tools to early European homesteading equipment, there’s plenty to see. Exhibits that celebrate the history of the North Island are changed regularly.
Totem poles at the mall, Rotary Park, the airport, BC Ferry Terminal, and Chamber of Commerce showcase the work of many fine native artists. First nations have lived in this area for thousands of years, and developed a rich and intricate culture. Art is a large part of that culture, and is celebrated everywhere. Seek out unique artwork, and bring a taste of the coast home with you!