Yellow Point is a small community between Cedar and the town of Ladysmith. With a mix of forest, farmland and ocean, this area has a little something for everyone. This includes some spectacular kayaking spots.
I love kayaking. There is something so soothing about hearing nothing but seagulls flying overhead and waves crashing as they reach the rocky shoreline. I also never tire 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 go somewhere that will maintain their interest. And Yellow Point is just the place to do that!
Where to Launch your Kayak in Yellow Point
The best spot to launch kayaks is in Blue Heron Park, found off Yellow Point Road between Roberts Park and Yellow Point Park. Watch for the ‘Beach Access' sign. There is a short stroll down the steps from the parking lot 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. Especially those clinging to the sandstone ledges.
The carved sandstone that creates the shoreline of Blue Heron Bay holds an abundance of sea creatures. Stay right, close to shore, and head towards Yellow Point Lodge. Obviously, I can't guarantee it, but along the way, you should see brightly coloured sea stars, large kelp crabs (with long, spindly legs, much like a spider), sea cucumbers, kelp beds, and other plant life.
If 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 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 also host some pretty awesome tide pools up on the beach. 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 and the Ecological Reserve offer loop trails approximately 5 km long. The location is at 4151 Yellow Point Road.
Shop in the quaint farm store at Yellow Point Farms for local produce, pastured meat, honey, wool, and more. While there, visit the farm animals.
Yellow Point Cranberries – Head here for delicious cranberry products 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 Summer and Christmas, 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
Although not in Yellow Point, the Living Forest Campground is a popular campsite 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 pique 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. Conversely, Cedar 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 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 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 flock to enjoy farm-fresh produce and local homemade products from nearby producers in the area. Open Sundays from 10 am – 2 pm. Located at the Woodbank Primary School (1984 Woobank Road).
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.
What is your favourite thing to do in Yellow Point and/or Cedar? Let me know in the comments below.
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I suggest a couple of edits: Blanket and Spoon have retired and the Sunday market changed locations.
You are quite right, Debi. This is an older post and definitely needs an update. I will try to get to that ASAP. Thank you for the updated information.
Seaside Spa!! (A day spa)
🙂
I didn’t know there was a spa in Yellow Point. Thank you for the information!