quadra
 

We're planning a trip to vancouver island in july. Will spend 4 nights in tofino at the long beach lodge resort, and then to quadra for 5 nights - 3 nights at a cabin owned by friends and then 2 nights not yet decided - there's one room available (upstairs, main bldg) at the tsa-kwa-luten and rooms available at april point. We're an active couple in our 50's - like to hike, bike, kayak etc... Would be grateful for any input.

We stayed at Tsa-Kwa-Luten a few years ago and loved it. On their website there's a link to some outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, etc. - we also did a boat tour to see Seymour Narrows, which was amazing.

Do you remember if you stayed in a room in the main lodge or in a cabin?

We stayed in a room in the main lodge. It was spacious and pleasant, with a balcony overlooking a creek, I think, or something equally scenic.

We spent a couple of nights at Tsa-Kwa Luten Lodge in September of ' 02.... upstairs, main building. The rooms are not especially large, but they offer private balcony views of the water. The restaurant is a real treasure and the lobby area expansive. At that time you could use, not rent, kayaks & bikes if they were available. Walk along the rocky beach area to see first people carvings in the rocks above. Haven't returned to this area, but would stay at this property again.

Can I ask about cars on Quadra? Are they allowed on the island? Is it worth driving? We'll be staying a couple of nights at Painter's lodge just across the river but we'd like to spend the day on Quadra. Can you get everywhere on foot?
BTW we are also going to Long Beach resort in Tofino but after you so I hope you post and tell us if it's nice!

Painter's Lodge is on the east coast of Vancouver Island, and its sister lodge is on the west coast of Quadra (April Point). You cross Discovery Passage by B.C. ferry from Campbell River to get to Quadra. Yes, there are cars on Quadra and the ferry transports vehicles. It is quite a large island so you definitely need to take a car if you want to view the island at all.

Make sure you visit the First Nations Museum near Tsa-kwa-luten Lodge, it is well worth it.