Tucked away in the northeast corner of Valdes Island, Wakes Cove Provincial Park is a hidden gem in the Gulf Islands of British Columbia. This scenic and historic anchorage offers excellent boating, kayaking, and hiking opportunities, making it a must-visit for adventurers exploring the region.
Whether you're arriving by sailboat, powerboat, or kayak, Wakes Cove provides a peaceful and picturesque stop. However, navigating into the cove can be tricky, so careful planning is essential. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting and anchoring in Wakes Cove Provincial Park.
The History of Wakes Cove Provincial Park
Established in June 2002, Wakes Cove is named after Captain Baldwin Wake, a retired British naval officer who purchased land here in 1876. The land remained in his family until the 1920s, but Captain Wake himself met a mysterious fate—his sloop was found wrecked, with his belongings washed up on Thetis Island, though his body was never recovered.
Today, the park offers visitors a glimpse into its rich maritime history, along with breathtaking coastal landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Getting to Wakes Cove: Navigating Gabriola Passage
Reaching Wakes Cove requires careful timing and navigation. If you're arriving by boat, you’ll need to pass through Gabriola Passage, where strong currents can make entry challenging.
🛥️ Pro Tip: The passage spits you out directly into Wakes Cove, so it's best to time your arrival with slack tide for a smoother entry.
Anchoring in Wakes Cove
Once inside the cove, you'll find excellent anchoring conditions with a mud bottom, providing good holding for your anchor.
- We anchored right in the middle of the cove for a secure and peaceful stay.
- There’s also a government dock near an old steam donkey, making access to the shore easy.
Things to Do in Wakes Cove
Wakes Cove isn’t just a great anchorage—it’s also a fantastic place for hiking, exploring by dinghy, and spotting wildlife.
Hiking & Exploring on Land
- The park features well-maintained trails that lead through beautiful forests.
- Be mindful of private property on the west side of the bay.
Dinghy Adventures & Wildlife Watching
Exploring the shoreline by dinghy or kayak is a must-do when visiting Wakes Cove!
- Go clockwise around Valdes Island to discover a large sea lion colony—a loud and unforgettable sight! 🦭
- Go counterclockwise to see stunning sandstone formations, caves, and intriguing log booms.
Our Experience in Wakes Cove
We visited Wakes Cove in December 2024, spending one unforgettable night before heading north toward Jedidiah Island. This was one of our favorite spots, and we captured the entire experience in a YouTube video. To watch, search "We Discovered Something Loud and Stinky on this Remote Canadian Island!" on Exploring the World Onboard Tangaroa.
If you’re looking for a peaceful yet adventurous anchorage, Wakes Cove Provincial Park is well worth a visit!
