Haida Gwaii 2022 Family Travel Guide
PLAN THE PERFECT Summer HOLIDAY WITH Us!
Comprised of 150 islands grouped within a protected archipelago off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada, Xaayda Gwaay.yaay Haida Gwaii's dramatic landscape looks like a fairy tale. Filled with lush plants, majestic animals, and remnants of ancient Haida Indigenous villages, this remote part of the world is the perfect destination for families seeking a back-to-nature, culturally educational and unforgettable vacation adventure.
Continue reading our Family Travel Guide for the top attractions and family activities on Haida Gwaii!
Your Journey to Haida Gwaii
Let the Adventure Begin!
Many people reach Haida Gwaii by air, catching a 1.5-hour round trip flight from Vancouver International Airport (South Terminal) to Sandspit or Masset. However, families might prefer taking the more adventurous (and economical) car and ferry journey, with round trip boat service between Prince Rupert and Skidegate. The ferry trip takes eight hours and allows families to stretch their legs while experiencing BC Ferries’ many family-friendly amenities, including buffet dining, video arcade and play areas, and a retail shop filled with locally sourced finds.
EXPLORE YOUR HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME
HAIDA HOUSE MAIN LODGE
Once you’ve arrived in Haida Gwaii, check-in at Haida House at Tllaal, a great base camp for families seeking a cozy home-away-from-home.
These 10 updated warm and welcoming guest rooms offer picturesque views of the winding tidal Tlell River or lush evergreen forest. Enjoy complimentary in-room amenities, a modest private 3-piece ensuite with shower, and convenient access to on-site dining and conference facilities. Main Lodge guestrooms can be booked by the night for Bed and Breakfast stays.
Restaurant dining on-site
You won’t need to wander far for fantastic dining either. Our casual restaurant offers fresh farm-to-table food whose ingredients are sourced from the land, forest and sea (an ideal opportunity to teach the kids about sustainability!). But don’t forget to make a reservation for dinner - the Dining Room is very popular with locals!
THE CABINS AT HAIDA HOUSE
If you are looking for more upscale and private accommodations, look no further than our beautiful new-for-2022 oceanside cabins.
Designed to blend harmoniously with the landscape and honour traditional Haida architecture, these stunning 2-bedroom cedar cabins are ideal for a family getaway. Each unit boasts dune, ocean or forest views and features a minibar kitchen and great room with flatscreen TV, private decktop hot tub and outdoor shower.
Guests can book a cabin for overnight Bed and Breakfast getaways or as part of an all-inclusive three-, four- or seven-night eco-cultural package.
IMMERSE YOURSELVES IN HAIDA CULTURE
Rich in Indigenous culture, Xaayda Haida language, art and architecture are preserved and celebrated throughout the region.
The Haida Heritage Centre at Kay Llnagaay is a treasure chest of Haida history. On-site is the Haida Gwaii Museum, which houses a comprehensive collection of archaeological artifacts, historical photographs, contemporary art and an archive of rare documents. It also comprises the Performance House (where traditional song and dance displays are not to be missed!) and the Canoe House, offering a glimpse into time-honored modes of Haida travel, transportation and resource gathering.
WAVE TO THE WILDLIFE
Haida Gwaii’s sky, ocean and land are home to an abundant variety of wildlife. Highlights for many include Taan Haida Gwaii black bears, Kun humpback whales, SGaana orca (killer) whales, Guud bald eagles and more. Guests with families love to check out a region highlighted with wildlife, especially when tours are part of a convenient adventure package. Depending on the itinerary, this may include marine-based day trips for opportunities to whale watch, forays into old-growth forests, and beach excursions to explore fascinating tidal pools.
Unforgettable Family Excursions
By choosing a 3, 4 or 7-night all-inclusive package, you and your family will enjoy an array of excursions led by our local Haida guides. With itineraries including tours of nearby Indigenous artist studios, interpretive nature treks, kayaking, rainforest hikes, ancient village site expeditions, the iconic Pesuta shipwreck and many more, we’re confident your family will enjoy this unique experience together!
START PLANNING YOUR UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY ADVENTURE ON HAIDA GWAII
Xaayda Gwaay.yaay Haida Gwaii is filled with family-friendly activities that will keep your loved ones engaged throughout your holiday.
Start your journey by browsing our getaway packages and Haida House accommodation options.