Home to a group of small islands just off Port Hardy, God's Pocket Provincial Marine Park provides some of the best scuba diving, fishing and wildlife viewing on Vancouver Island.
Quick Park Facts
- Features: Wildlife viewing opportunities, in particular, whales and eagles; spectacular scuba diving area
- Park Size: 2,036 hectares (550 ha of upland and 1486 ha of foreshore)
- Trails: There are no developed trails in this park
- Suitability: Only accessible to boaters or by floatplane to the nearby lodge
- Camping: No designated campsites are available; however, wilderness camping is allowed
- Washrooms: None. Please follow the “Leave No Trace” rule
A large pod of Orcas swam by our boat while we were admiring the “Eagle Tree” (shown below).
A Bit of History
When thinking of “God's Pocket,” one thinks of beauty. And when touring around the group of islands, you can see why this name was given to this particular area. However, its beauty isn't the sole reason for the name. The islands also provide a pocket of protection from the harsh weather often blowing down from Queen Charlotte Strait.
The Kwakwaka'wakw First Nations people once inhabited the area, and several known archaeological sites have been found over the years.
Today, the area protects a seabird breeding colony, a Bald eagle habitat, and the known archaeological sites.
It's also home to a lone retreat called God's Pocket Resort, specializing in cold-water diving, kayaking, and wildlife tours.
Fun Fact
The islands are allegedly inhabited by the Sasquatch People, otherwise known as Big Foot. The name Sasquatch comes from the Coast Salish word sasqac, which means a mythical being much larger in stature than humans. It is immensely powerful and has advanced spiritual abilities. Like humans, it is said to walk upright but is covered from head to toe in hair.
So, if you are boating around the area, watch for one of these creatures. 😉
God's Pocket Provincial Marine Park
This undeveloped park comprises a group of islands at the entrance to Queen Charlotte Strait. The group includes Hurst, Bell, Boyle, Crane Islands, and numerous smaller islets.
I can't guarantee you'll see wildlife, but there's a decent chance you will. Orcas (killer whales), Pacific White-sided dolphins, sea otters and harbour seals are commonly seen. Humpback and Gray whales, along with Stellar sea lions, can also be spotted on a more infrequent basis.
As this park protects a Bald eagle habitat, there's a great chance you'll see a few. In fact, on the island's east side, there is a large tree that many of them like to hang out on. I named it the “Eagle Tree” due to how many were perched on the branches. It was an incredible sight to see. Other frequently seen bird species in God's Pocket include auklets, oystercatchers, cormorants, and petrels.
While admiring the Eagle Tree and all its inhabitants, a large pod of Orcas swam right by our boat. The pod included many large females and their young. It was an incredible sight and something we will never forget.
Beach Camping
No designated campsites are available at this park; however, random wilderness and beach camping are allowed. No fee is charged, and no facilities are provided. You must practice the “leave no trace” camping ethics, meaning everything you bring in must return with you!
Fishing
Fishing for salmon, halibut, and rockfish is popular in this park. However, you must be licenced to do so and follow Provincial regulations to ensure the area is open to fishing.
Guided Tours
If you are seeking a guided tour to God's Pocket Provincial Marine Park, check these options out:
- Sea Otter and Whale Tour: This tour leaves Port Hardy on a wildlife viewing boat and goes through God's Pocket PMP to find sea otters and whales.
- God's Pocket Resort Kayaking Tour: This is a 6-day tour that includes lodging at the resort.
Getting There
God’s Pocket Provincial Marine Park is located on the north side of Goletas Channel, approximately 10 km northwest of Port Hardy on northern Vancouver Island. The park can be accessed by boat or floatplane (to the lodge) from Port Hardy. Boaters, please reference marine chart #3549 for more details.
The nearest boat launch is at Bear Cove Park in Port Hardy. There is a free boat launch, parking and day-use area. Reserved slips are available for weekly or nightly moorage for a fee.
If you own a larger boat and looking for an incredible adventure, God's Pocket is the place to visit. We may have gotten lucky during our time there, for the amount of wildlife we saw, including whales, was truly amazing.
More Whale Viewing Opportunities
If seeing whales is what you are after, check out these other great areas and tours.
Have you been to this beautiful Provincial Marine Park? Let us know about your experience in the comment section below.
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A captivating exploration of this marine park’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The post offers vivid descriptions and valuable insights for those considering a visit. The writing is immersive and informative, painting a clear picture of the park’s appeal. The inclusion of images enhances the visual experience for readers. This article serves as an excellent resource for nature enthusiasts and travelers looking to discover the unique charms of God’s Pocket Provincial Marine Park.
It’s very nice as an overnight kayak trip too.
Ooh, I bet! There are two links above to guided kayaking tours for those who don’t want to venture there on their own.