The Best of Yellow Point and Cedar

Did you know that Yellow Point, a small community located between Cedar and Ladysmith has some of the best kayaking spots?

I love kayaking. There is just something so soothing about hearing nothing but seagulls flying overhead and the crashing of waves as they reach the rocky shoreline. I also never get tired of seeing wildlife in their natural habitat, whether on land or in the water. No matter how many seals, whales or even sea stars I have seen, it never gets old.

Thankfully our kids are equally excited to see an abundance of sea creatures hanging off the rocks as I am. This is why we always make sure to go somewhere that will maintain their interest. And Yellow Point is just the place to do that!

Where to Launch

The best spot to launch kayaks is in the bay of Blue Heron Park, found off of Yellow Point Road between Roberts Park and Yellow Point Park. Watch for the ‘Beach Access’ sign. From the parking lot, there is a short stroll down the steps to the shoreline.

Even though it is a bit more of a walk, I recommend launching the kayaks when the tide is out. This way you have a greater chance of seeing sea life.

The carved sandstone that creates the shoreline of Blue Heron bay holds an abundance of sea creatures. Stay right, and close to shore, and head towards Yellow Point Lodge. Obviously, I can’t guarantee it, but along the way, you should most likely see brightly coloured sea stars, large kelp crabs (long spindly legs, much like a spider), sea cucumbers, kelp beds, and other plant life.

If for some reason you come up short in the sea life department while kayaking along the rocky shores, the towering sandstone landscape set before you will surely keep you interested.

If you don’t have access to kayaks, but still wish to have a water experience, you are in luck! Wildheart Adventures offers kayaking tours of the area.

If you’d rather just stay on land, Blue Heron Park is also just a great place to have a picnic (tables are provided), pick blackberries (seasonal, of course) or stroll along the rocky shore. The unique sandstone formations viewed from the water host some pretty awesome tide pools up on the beach too. These tide pools are created by the erosion of the waves splashing up on shore.

Other Yellow Point Attractions

Another great ocean access in Yellow Point (although not necessarily kayak friendly) is Roberts Memorial Park. A short 15-20 minute (1 km (.6 mile)) walk through a grove of Douglas Fir trees takes you to a rocky oceanfront where you will find unique sandstone ledges and small tidal pools.

Yellow Point Park offers loop trails that are approximately 4 km in length. The location is at 4151 Yellow Point Road.

Yellow Point Farms – For an in-depth farm life experience, book a private farm tour and go behind the scenes at Yellow Point Farms to experience firsthand what farm life on a diverse livestock and produce farm is all about. They also have a farm stand and petting farm on Saturdays.

Yellow Point Cranberries – Starting in the Fall, head here for delicious products all from cranberries grown on Vancouver Island’s finest family-operated cranberry farm.

McNab’s Farm – A family-friendly farm full of Fall festivities! You’ll find a pumpkin patch, corn maze, hayrides and more.

Cedar Yellow Point Christmas Tour – Every year in November artisans and crafters in the area open up their studios. Follow the self-guided tour for great gift ideas!

Places to Camp around Yellow Point

• 4 All Seasons Resort – A family-owned camping facility with over 100 sites in a treed setting
• Mermaid Cove Resort – this one is situated right next to Blue Heron Park
• Tillicum Seaside Resort – also beside Blue Heron Park (their website is extremely limited with information, but has some fantastic pictures of the area) contact #(250) 245-3848
• Zuiderzee Resort – located on Quennell Lake (great fishing lake in Yellow Point)

Although not in Yellow Point, the Living Forest Campground is a very popular campsite and is located in South Nanaimo (only a 15-minute drive to Cedar/Yellow Point).

Approved Accommodations in Yellow Point

If camping just isn’t your thing, these other accommodations in the Yellow Point/Cedar area might peak your interest:

• Fiddick’s Farm Bed and Breakfast (the info about Fiddick’s is at the bottom of the linked page)
• Marshmeadow Farm Bed and Breakfast
• Inn of the Sea Vacations
• Yellow Point Lodge
• Vrbo Properties

Cedar Area

Yellow Point is technically considered part of Ladysmith. Cedar, on the other hand, is part of Nanaimo, yet is often (mistakenly) used to describe the Yellow Point area. (There is literally only one street that separates the two communities). While in the area you may want to check out these other attractions:

Cable Bay Trail – a favourite hike of mine when living in the area. The trail drops down a wide trail to a pretty seashore. If you’re lucky you may see sea lions. Keep following the trail to Joan Point Park. The 23-acre waterfront park provides a great vantage point overlooking Dodd Narrows. The parking lot for Cable Bay Trail is at the end of Nicola Road.

Hemer Provincial Park – The marsh area at this park is a favourite destination for bird watchers. The 11 kilometres of easy walking trails weave through the park along Holden Lake and through the marsh areas. Located off Cedar Road (follow the directional signs to the park).

The Crow and Gate Pub – this authentic English-style pub is a favourite destination point for people who live on Vancouver Island.

For a more upscale dining experience, you absolutely must try The Mahle House – situated in a restored 1904 heritage home in the heart of the Cedar community. The service is impeccable and the food is absolutely delicious!

Cedar Farmer’s Market – This market is a bustle of activity every Sunday morning from mid-May until the end of October. Locals and tourists alike flock to enjoy farm-fresh produce and local homemade products from nearby producers in the area. Open Sundays from 10am – 2pm.

The Cranberry Arms – Founded in 1878 by Michael and Anne Halloran, who won the property in a game of cards! It was then called “The Cranberry Hotel”. It still operates as a pub and hotel.

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What is your favourite thing to do in Yellow Point and/or Cedar? Let me know in the comments below.

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