Situated at the northern end of the Strait of Georgia, between Vancouver Island and the mainland, Cortes Island can be reached via a 40-minute ferry ride from Quadra Island. Cortes is an island paradise, with beautiful lakes, lagoons, forests, and white sandy beaches. Known for its abundant wildlife, delicious shellfish, and self-sufficient people, Cortes offers visitors a wide variety of things to see and do.
Cortes was named and mapped by Spanish explorers in the late 1700s. The Klahoose First Nation, with traditional territory stretching from Cortes to Toba Inlet, had winter campgrounds on the island and settled in Squirrel Cove permanently in the 1800s. The island currently has about 900 full-time residents, and most live on the southern portion. Cortes is approximately 25 km long and 13 km wide.
Sunrise over Cortes Island and Coast Range Mountains.
Cortes Island ferry M.V. Tenaka loading in Heriot Bay, Quadra Island.
Those who enjoy spending time in the outdoors have their choice of numerous recreational activities on Cortes. Hague Lake in Manson's Landing Provincial Park has a sandy beach and is perfect for swimming and sunbathing (no motor boats allowed). The island's trails are great for hiking and mountain biking, and there is a campground and beautiful beach in Smelt Bay Park.
Cortes is at the gateway to world-famous boating destination Desolation Sound. The area is a sailing and sea kayaking mecca, and boasts incredible views of the mainland mountains and inlets. Gorge Harbour has a marina, and there are government wharves at Cortes Bay, Whaletown, Squirrel Cove, Manson's Landing, and Gorge Harbour.
Public wharf at Manson's Landing.
Salmon fishing attracts may visitors to the region, and charter boat operators are available for fishing or wildlife viewing excursions. It's easy to catch sight of wildlife on ruggedly beautiful Cortes. Many species of birds and marine creatures live on the island or off its shores, and the observant visitor will no doubt be impressed by the diversity of life. The island boasts many beautiful beaches and lagoons that are perfect for bird watching.
Cortes has a thriving arts and crafts industry. Drum makers, potters, painters, carvers, and other artisans live and work on the island. Cortes Craftshop in Squirrel Cove, a co-op of island artists and craftspeople, showcases local work. Island galleries and gift shops also sell local art and crafts.
The Cortes Waste Management/Recycling Centre is also well worth a visit. This well-maintained site includes a comprehensive recycling depot and a free store.
Shark Spit on adjacent Marina Island.
One of the island's more unusual attractions is Wolf Bluff Castle, located in Cortes Bay. Built by owner/operator Karl Triller, the five-storied structure has a dungeon, dining hall, eight bedrooms, and three turrets. Visitors can tour the castle or stay overnight in one of the rustic yet comfortable bedrooms.
The Cortes Island Museum is situated on Beasley Road next to the firehall.
There are a number of highlight events and festivals on Cortes Island throughout the year. Recent springs have been kicked off in May with the gourmet extravaganza - the Cortes Island Oyster Festival. The Cortes Garden Tour, a fundraiser for the Cortes Island Museum, will be held on the last weekend in June. Cortes Day, an annual festival held in Smelt Bay Park, is a fun event for the whole family with a parade, competitions, games, and food booths. Another event to watch out for is the sandcastle competition held in August. To find out what events are coming up pick up a copy of the Discovery Islander free throughout the islands or check in online at www.DiscoveryIslander.com
Provisions and hardware supplies are available at the island's general stores, and fuel and propane are sold at Squirrel Cove and Gorge Harbour. There is a credit union next to Manson's Hall.
Cortes has a number of cafés and restaurants to suit a variety of palates. To truly soak up the island's atmosphere, it's a good idea to stay a few days. Accommodation options on the island include campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, and resorts.
