Are you planning to boat in British Columbia? BC is peppered with lakes, rivers, and a coastline that’ll keep boaters exploring for years. It’s an excellent place for watersports and festivals on the water, with plenty of opportunities to take your boat out on the water during the season.
Today we highlight some of the best lakes for boating in British Columbia. We’ll also talk about some of the parts in the area and where to go fishing for anglers who love spending time on their boats while catching fish.
Ready to get out on your boat? Check out our guide to British Columbia for boaters!
British Columbia’s 6 Best Boating Lakes
British Columbia has some awesome spots for boating. Whether you love to wakeboard, water ski, or simply lounge on a lake, here are some of the best places to enjoy the water.
- Here are a few quick facts about some of the best lakes: Okanagan Lake spans 130 km.
- Harrison Lake has almost unlimited boating access.
- Cowichan Lake is where the top water-skiing and wakeboarding fanatics have been known to land some tricks.
- Discover Tofino for some amazing shoreline scenery, sunsets, and world-famous surfing competitions – if you’re more of a ‘cruise along the coast’ type of boater.
- Start at Fraser River and work your way up the Sunshine Coast to Desolation Sound for weeks of endless beauty.
Ready to learn more? Here are our thoughts on the best six lakes for boating in British Columbia.
1. Desolation Sound
Known for its breathtaking views, Desolation Sound is a serious destination for boaters. Paddlers love it for its many shallow coves and inlets. Boaters can take in views of the surrounding islands and mountain landscapes.
Due to the shallower areas, the waters of Desolation Sound are also much warmer, creating perfect conditions for swimming and scuba diving.
There are also three nearby Provincial Parks in the area: Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park, Copeland Islands Marine Provincial Park, and Malaspina Provincial Park.
2. Harrison Lake
This 60km long, glacier-fed lake is a must-see for boaters in BC.
Take in the stunning views of Breckenridge Glacier while you boat, water ski, or sail your way across this freshwater beauty. Make a stop at the Harrison Hot Springs to top off your trip.
Just remember that boating safety is especially important on Harrison. Being Glacier fed, the waters on this lake can get extremely cold. Be sure to wear your life jacket, and be aware of cold water survival techniques before you head out.
3. The Sunshine Coast
BC’s Sunshine Coast offers year-round boating.
That’s right, Canada! Year. Round.
This makes it a top destination for boating enthusiasts nationwide. Located just northwest of Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast is easily accessible by ferry. There’s practically no limit to the boating activities available.
Enjoy harbour and sail tours, coastal cruises and tours, and Paddlesports adventures. The opportunities to get out on the water are endless. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot an abundance of marine life, including sea lions, orcas and porpoises.
Check out the Sunshine Coast Boating & Tourism page for trip and activity planning resources.
4. Okanagan Lake
Spanning the length of the Okanagan Valley, this monster lake stretches for 135km, making room for stellar boating and water activities. It’s also easily accessible from some of BC’s most beautiful cities, including Kelowna and Penticton.
There are numerous marinas in the area that can meet all of your boating, docking, and launching needs. Just keep an eye out for The Ogopogo – and be sure to have your camera ready in case you spot it!
5. Cowichan Valley & Lake Cowichan
The town of Lake Cowichan and its namesake, Cowichan Lake, are popular boating destinations in British Columbia. Nestled in the mountains of Vancouver Island, Cowichan Lake is surrounded by stunning mountain views and rocky terrain.
The larger region of Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island’s top tourism destination, spans much of the south end of the island and offers numerous water activities. There are dozens of marinas and nearby restaurants bordering the island’s coast. Docking and grabbing a bite or fueling up for the afternoon is easy and convenient.
Those anchored offshore at night may also get the opportunity to listen to the chorus of orca and otter chatter throughout the night. Or you can book a whale-watching day trip and catch a glimpse of Vancouver Island’s larger-than-life ocean residents.
British Columbia Provincial and National Parks
British Columbia’s residents and visitors have enumerable options when choosing a provincial or national park to visit. Boating and watersports buffs can check out the BC Parks and Parks Canada websites for more information on which of BC’s parks offer boating, but here’s a quick list of the top spots.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
This wonder of nature offers boating, paddling, and surfing opportunities. Soak up the stunning views as you paddle along the Pachena River, or catch a wave off the coast. You’re bound to find an activity that satisfies your inner outdoorsman.
Northern Rocky Mountain Provincial Park
True to its name, this Provincial Park is enveloped by BC’s rocky mountain terrain. While you’re there, check out the turquoise waters of the Tuchodi River. The river is a hot spot for all types of outdoors activities, including boating, paddling, hunting and angling.
MacMillan Provincial Park and Cameron Lake
Cameron Lake is bordered by MacMillan Provincial Park and Cathedral Grove on its West side and Cameron Lake Resort to the East. Cathedral Grove is a centuries-old string of Douglas Firs, some of which are up to 29 ft around! Take a stroll through the trails in this amazing ecosystem, or head to the other side of the lake to Cameron Lake Resort. Enjoy boating, swimming and paddling activities.
Where to Go Fishing in British Columbia
BC’s Coastal geography and numerous freshwater lakes make it a top-fishing destination. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a laid-back day at a local fishing hole or a seasoned angler in search of a deep sea fishing adventure, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for.
For supreme freshwater fishing, within a few hours of Vancouver, make your way to Squamish River – one of BC’s top spots for wild steelhead. You’ll also find a variety of salmon, depending on the time of year.
For ocean fishing, catch the ferry out to Vancouver Island. You can charter a boat straight from Victoria Harbour. Take the opportunity to reel in some serious fish, including halibut and salmon.
Trust us, fishing in BC is where it’s at!
Before you cast a line, be sure to read and understand BC’s Freshwater Fishing Regulations and Offshore Fishing Regulations. British Columbia is an angler’s paradise with freshwater and offshore fishing opportunities for sturgeon, salmon, and trout. So get out there and reel em’ in!
Let a Boater Safety Course Help You Stay Safe When Boating in British Columbia
We hope you’re excited about boating in British Columbia this year, and we hope this information helps feeds that excitement and encourages you to get out on the water.
However, before you go, make sure you have your Pleasure Craft Operating Card so your boating adventure is operated legally. BOATsmart! is here to help you get it and get out on the water. We make it easy to pass the boater education requirements through our online courses. After passing the exam, you can print a temporary card right away and launch your boat while waiting for your permanent card.
Make sure you’re ready to hit the water when the season opens. Get started with our online course, then enjoy your boat in British Columbia!
Content reviewed and updated July 18, 2024.
