Tucked along the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island, Port McNeill is a small town with a big role in outdoor adventure. Known as the “Gateway to the Broughton Archipelago,” it is the jumping-off point for whale watching, grizzly bear tours, kayaking, and exploring the wild north end of the island.
While often overshadowed by nearby Telegraph Cove or Port Hardy, Port McNeill has its own charm and is a great base for travelers looking for nature, wildlife, and fewer crowds.
This guide covers the best things to do in Port McNeill, how to get there, and why it should be on your Vancouver Island itinerary.
Where Is Port McNeill?
Port McNeill is located on northern Vancouver Island in British Columbia, about 200 km north of Campbell River.
- From Nanaimo: About 4.5 to 5 hours by car
- From Victoria: Roughly 6.5 hours by car
- From Port Hardy: Only 30 minutes south
Ferries also connect Port McNeill to nearby islands such as Alert Bay and Sointula, making it a hub for regional travel.
Why Visit Port McNeill?
- Wildlife: Whales, bears, sea lions, dolphins, and eagles are all common sightings.
- Adventure base: Perfect for launching kayaking trips or marine tours.
- Local culture: A working logging and fishing town with authentic character.
- Ferries to islands: Easy access to the Broughton Archipelago, Cormorant Island, and Malcolm Island.
- Less touristy: Compared to Telegraph Cove, it has a quieter, more local vibe.
Top Things to Do in Port McNeill
Whale Watching
Northern Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world to see whales.
- Orcas: Resident pods frequent Johnstone Strait in summer, especially July to September.
- Humpbacks: Common in late summer and fall, often breaching dramatically.
- Tours: Several operators in Port McNeill offer half- or full-day whale watching trips.
Whale watching here often means fewer boats and a more intimate experience compared to southern Vancouver Island.
Grizzly Bear Viewing Tours
From Port McNeill, you can join a grizzly bear tour to the mainland coast of British Columbia, particularly the Knight Inlet area.
- Season: Typically May to October, when salmon runs attract bears.
- Wildlife: Alongside grizzlies, you may also see black bears, wolves, and bald eagles.
- Why from here: Tours from Port McNeill are less crowded than those from more famous departure points.
Kayaking the Broughton Archipelago
The Broughton Archipelago Marine Provincial Park is a maze of islands, channels, and inlets perfect for sea kayaking.
- Multi-day trips: Paddlers can camp on remote islands while spotting seals, porpoises, and eagles.
- Guided tours: Outfitters in Port McNeill offer guided expeditions and rentals.
- Best time: Summer months when waters are calm and wildlife is abundant.
Visit Alert Bay (Cormorant Island)
Just a short ferry ride from Port McNeill, Alert Bay offers rich Indigenous culture and history.
- U’mista Cultural Centre: Preserves and shares the traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw people, including repatriated potlatch masks.
- Totem poles: The island has one of the largest collections of totem poles in the world.
- Community feel: A chance to experience local life beyond the tourist trail.
Visit Sointula (Malcolm Island)
Another ferry ride takes you to Sointula, founded as a Finnish utopian settlement in the early 1900s.
- Heritage: The town name means “place of harmony.”
- Attractions: Colorful houses, peaceful trails, and Co-op stores with a historic twist.
- Wildlife: Good spot for orcas and humpbacks passing through.
Hiking Around Port McNeill
Several trails are accessible near town:
- Port McNeill Forest Loop Trail: Easy walk through coastal forest.
- Ripple Rock Trail (near Campbell River if heading south): More challenging, with views of Seymour Narrows.
- Other local trails: Short hikes lead to viewpoints and quiet beaches.
Logging and Maritime History
Port McNeill is still a logging and fishing town at heart. You will find murals, small museums, and local stories that reflect its working heritage.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (June to September): Peak season for whale watching, kayaking, and bear viewing.
- Spring (April–May): Good for birdwatching and quieter travel, but some tours may not yet be running.
- Fall (September–October): Salmon runs attract bears, and whale sightings remain excellent.
- Winter: Quieter, with fewer tours, but still scenic for those seeking solitude.
Where to Stay
- Hotels and motels: Port McNeill has several modest but comfortable options.
- Guesthouses and B&Bs: Local hospitality adds charm.
- Camping: The area has campgrounds and RV parks, including waterfront spots.
Nearby Telegraph Cove offers more tourist-oriented lodging, but Port McNeill tends to be less expensive and more low-key.
Food and Dining
Options are limited but include local cafés, pubs, and restaurants serving seafood and Canadian fare. Many travelers self-cater, especially if camping or heading out on multi-day tours.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Port McNeill
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent base for whale watching, bear tours, and kayaking | Fewer tourist services compared to Port Hardy or Telegraph Cove |
| Easy ferry access to Alert Bay and Sointula | Remote location requires long drive from Nanaimo or Victoria |
| Quieter and less crowded | Limited dining and nightlife |
| Authentic working town atmosphere | Not as picturesque as Telegraph Cove |
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Port McNeill, explore town, and enjoy a local dinner
Day 2: Full-day whale watching or grizzly bear tour
Day 3: Take the ferry to Alert Bay, visit the U’mista Cultural Centre, return in evening
Day 4: Kayak in the Broughton Archipelago or ferry to Sointula for a day trip
Day 5: Hike local trails before heading north to Port Hardy or south toward Campbell River
Conclusion
Port McNeill may not have the tourist polish of some other Vancouver Island towns, but that is part of its charm. It is a working community that doubles as a base for some of the best wildlife and adventure experiences in British Columbia.
Whether you are coming for whale watching, grizzly bear tours, or kayaking through the Broughton Archipelago, Port McNeill makes a perfect hub. Add in side trips to Alert Bay and Sointula, and you have a well-rounded northern Vancouver Island adventure.
FAQs
Is Port McNeill worth visiting?
Yes. While small, it is one of the best bases for outdoor adventures on northern Vancouver Island, including whales, bears, and kayaking.
How do you get to Port McNeill?
By driving north from Nanaimo (4.5–5 hours) or Victoria (6.5 hours). The nearest airport is in Port Hardy, 30 minutes away.
What is Port McNeill known for?
Logging, fishing, and serving as a hub for marine tours, including whale watching and grizzly bear trips.
Can you see whales from Port McNeill?
Yes. Orcas and humpbacks are common in nearby waters, especially in summer. Whale watching tours depart directly from town.
What islands can you reach by ferry from Port McNeill?
Alert Bay (Cormorant Island) and Sointula (Malcolm Island). Both make excellent day trips.
