Where are the best places to go boating in BC? British Columbia’s coastline is rich with natural wonder. When imagining Canada, most people picture snow-capped mountains, acres of forestry, and clear waters — and those waters are excellent spots to enjoy boating, fishing, and other water activities.

If you’re planning a boating trip to BC this season (or next), check out our top picks for the best places to boat in British Columbia.

A lake showing the reflection of nearby trees on the water's surface.

Okanagan Lake

This beautiful, hidden lake spans over 110 kilometres and features some of the clearest waters in BC! Picturesque views, isolated beaches, and the elusive mystery of Ogopogo make this a top destination for BC boaters.
 
When planning your trip, you’ll find several nearby cities bordering the lake. These include Kelowna, Vernon in the north, Penticton in the south, and Kelowna. You’ll also be near the municipalities of West Kelowna (west of Kelowna), Lake Country (north of Kelowna), and Peachland (south of West Kelowna).

Don’t forget to visit Summerland, northwest of Penticton. 

View of a lake with mountains in the background, boating in BC concept.

Atlin Lake

Atlin Lake is a lake in northwestern British Columbia. However, its northern tip, as well as Little Atlin Lake, is in the Yukon.

The lake is British Columbia’s largest natural lake, covering 300 sq mi (780 km2). Most of the lake is in the Atlin District of British Columbia. It’s believed that Atlin Lake is the source of the Yukon River, although it is drained via the short Atlin River into Tagish Lake.

Boats on a lake a a dock near a mountain, boating in British Columbia concept.

Princess Louisa Inlet

Princess Louisa Inlet takes up six kilometres (3.7 mi) on the British Columbia Coast. You’ll find it at the north east end of Jervis Inlet.
 
Riddled with waterfalls, massive fjords, and intricate waterways, the Princess Louisa Inlet is a must-boat destination in BC. This historic waterway has enough scenery to fill a month’s worth of exploring!

A lake with small islands and mounts in the background.

Desolation Sound

Desolation Sound is a deep water sound nestled at the northern end of the Sunshine Coast in BC. Flanked by Cortes Island and West Redonda Island, the sound’s spectacular fjords, mountains and wildlife make it a global boating and sea kayaking destination.
 
A beautiful family destination, Desolation Sound boasts over 60 kilometres of coastline on the Northern end of BC’s Sunshine Coast. Don’t miss out on warm summer waters (ideal for swimming), and the best saltwater cruising in British Columbia!

Overhead view of small islands surrounded by water, boating in BC concept.

Gulf Islands

Last but not least, the Gulf Islands in the Strait of Georgia (also known as the Salish Sea or the Gulf of Georgia) are between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia.

These islands are a popular coastal destination in the heart of the Salish Sea. With hundreds of tiny islands to explore, don’t be surprised if you see the casual sunbathing sea lion or breaching orca on your getaway!

A big lake with boats on the water in the distance, boating in BC concept.

Get Your Boating License Before Boating in BC

With these amazing places to go boating in BC, you’re probably anxious to plan a trip and get out on the water. However, before you go, make sure you have your boating license (or Pleasure Craft Operator Card). 

It’s easy to get one, and BOATsmart! can help. Take our online boater education course for Canadians, pass the exam, and then get your card! Our course is fun and engaging, making it easy to learn and retain the information for the exam — and while on the water — so you boat safely every time you hit the waters in British Columbia. 

Originally published in July 2018. Content most recently reviewed and updated for accuracy and relevancy October 3, 2024. 

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