The Pacific Northwest has a long history of human habitation-up to ten thousand years in a region of dense forests, indigenous peoples traveled nautical pathways.

These inhabitants crossed bays and island-hopped by dugout canoe; they followed shoreline river routes and coastal corridors, plied the island strewn waterways of the Gulf, and up the coastal inside passage of British Columbia and Alaska. Using small craft, they gradually established routes in search of food and commerce, even warfare, developing a network of favorite haul-out points and areas offering shelter or other camping amenities along the way.

Today, the human powered recreational traveler usually does so by easily beachable kayak-purely for pleasure. Pulling out to rest or set up camp, they find sites by experience, guidebook or even serendipity.

From Tofino to Hot Springs Cove you can paddle either side of Vargas and Flores Islands, depending on your sea kayaking capabilities. On your way, you will pass Meares Island, take time out to explore it. Both Vargas and Flores Islands have lovely sandy beaches. To explore this region it can take from six to twelve days, and with beaches everywhere there is no camping problem.