Last Updated on July 26, 2023 by Aisha Aslam
While paddleboarding in Vancouver can be fun, I recently discovered this area and can admit if you’re seeking an unforgettable water adventure, Twin Islands is the perfect destination for you!
This location offers a combination of paddling, camping, and stunning ocean views that will leave you in awe and it is definitely worth the trip. This adventure is perfect for beginner paddlers or those wanting to explore the Indian Arm further from Deep Cove by water.
Introduction to Twin Islands and it’s Location
Twin Islands is a breathtaking destination located off the coast of Deep Cove, in the Indian Arm. While it is one island, when the tide comes in it separates the mini part of the island into the small south island. The camping designated area is located on the northern side of the island and you are only allowed to camp in this part. This island is the perfect last minute escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowds on sunny days or weekends in Deep Cove.
With the right amount of effort and time you can safely paddle to Twin Islands for your next camping adventure. This is a great short trip to practice for Granite Falls, which is located further up into the Indian Arm. Whether you’re looking to paddle, camp, or simply soak up the sun, Twin Islands is the ultimate destination for your next adventure.
How to Get to Twin Islands by Kayaking or Paddleboarding
To reach Twin Islands, kayaking or paddleboarding is the best option. You can rent equipment from local rental shop in Deep Cove or bring your own (If you are looking for budget friendly ones check out some here!). We brought our own paddleboards and loaded all our camping gear onto them.
It’s best to start as early as you can so that you can find somewhere to park in Deep Cove as well as make sure there are less boats on the water. We went on a weekend in the afternoon and it was sure as heck busy! We had to drive around Deep Cove for a bit to find parking. We finally found street parking with no restriction signs meaning we could park there overnight. Make sure to check where you park when you go and make sure there are no restrictions or permit only signs.
After you have your paddleboard or kayak ready and your camping gear secured, you can then launch from the beach at Deep Cove. It is better to follow along the shoreline as there are many boats on the water as well as have a map of the area so you know where you are paddling to. The paddle can take an hour and a half depending on your speed, the conditions and the boats on the water.
There is one point where you will have to cross the ocean to the other side where Twin Islands is located. Make sure to be mindful of the boats here and the waves, me and my friend stayed close to each other and tried to do that part fast. It can take a while though if the water is really choppy, which it was when we did it!
Once you arrive to the island, you will see the dock when you paddle into Twin Islands. Make sure to take your paddleboard or kayak up with you as it can get in the way of others if you just leave it at the dock. You can then set up camp and choose to explore the second island if the tide is low as there will be a mini beach there where you can go check out!
Camping Options on The Northern Island
Twin Islands on the northern side has campgrounds throughout the island with designated tent pads and washrooms available. When you walk into the forest you will see some tent pads there and if they are not taken you can set up camp. If you love the ocean view and want a prettier camping spot, then keep following the trail north, you will see tent pads along the trail with a peak of the ocean.
Camp sites #19 and #20 offer the best ocean views on the island so check to see if they are available! We were lucky to snag one of the tent pads there as a group of guys let us take one as they were sleeping in hammocks for the night! We had the perfect ocean view!
Tips for Planning your Twin Islands Adventure
If you plan to make it to Twin Islands as it is one of the best paddling and camping trips in Vancouver, you should be well prepared:
✅ Make sure to plan ahead and get to Deep Cove early as it can be crowded with parking being difficult to find overnight parking, as well as many boats may be in the water by the time you set out.
✅ It is also good to check the tide times as this can help you plan your adventure smoothly, if you need to set out later or earlier to make it back as well as explore the sea caves and beach at the second island.
✅ Make sure to bring plenty of snacks and enough water with you as there are no water sources on the island. So make sure you have enough to hydrate yourself as well as to cook your camping meals with.
✅ It is better to have a maps of the area you are paddling so you don’t paddle the wrong way and know when to cross the ocean to the other side.
✅ While we did this trip on paddleboards I would recommend renting or bringing a kayak instead as you can do the paddling in less time and secure your gear in the kayak.
✅ Bring a dry bag for all your gear or plastic bags to put your stuff in so it does not get wet. I also brought my rain cover for my backpack and used that to keep the bottom of my bag dry on my paddleboard.
✅ Make sure to take a sun hat, proper UV protective clothing and sunscreen. Remember to keep reapplying as the sun’s rays hitting the water can make you get sunburned more easily.
With a little planning, you can ensure that you have the best time when you paddle to Twin Islands in Vancouver! If you are new to paddleboarding in Vancouver then check out my post here for more beginner friendly places to paddle. Happy paddling!
