4 kayaking day trips from Vancouver, BC

A mecca for all things outdoors, Vancouver has a lot to offer when it comes to taking short day trips by kayak. Check out these great options for exploring the areas surrounding an amazing city by kayak before taking in the rest of Vancouver.

• With 3,400 km of coastline to explore, you could spend months kayaking Vancouver Island and never tire of it.
• Sticking close to the shore affords you the chance to see sea lions, sea otters and dozens of different types of birds that love the beach life.
• Paddling out further from the coast puts you in orca territory. If you can make the trip during mating season, you can witness these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
• If open water isn't your thing, head to the interior of the island and paddle one of the many lakes surrounded by incredible old-growth forests.

• A short drive from the centre of the city, Indian Arm Provincial Park is a fun place to explore a coastline dotted with gorgeous vacation homes and stunning scenery.
• Paddling up past Croker Island, you'll find yourself near Granite Falls, the water source that feeds the lake.
• It's a great place to get out of the boat and explore or set up camp for a weekend.

• If heading out of the country for the day doesn't sound too intimidating, hop in the car and head south to Bellingham, Washington, where you can get a ferry to the San Juan Islands National Monument.
• A world-class destination for sea kayaking, this set of islands is home to seals, sea lions, orcas, starfish, anemones, sea urchins, and octopi.
• It truly is nature at its finest, and whether you'd like to explore once for a few hours, stay for a few weeks or make it a monthly trip, you'll find something amazing every time you make the trip.

• An hour outside of the city is British Columbia's second largest body of water, Pitt Lake.
• A very popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, the lake offers great views of the mountains and the beauty of Widgeon Falls is just a short hike away.
• Because of the traffic both on the road and in the water, this is a great option for a mid-week paddle, when you're less likely to run into people.
• These easy day trips are the perfect way to showcase the natural beauty of the West Coast of Canada, and the perfect way to get a great workout before doing some urban exploration through the streets of the city.