Paddle through the coastal waters of Barkley Sound on a fully guided, four-hour sea kayaking tour with Paddle West Kayaking. Ideal for all skill levels, this journey reveals secluded beaches, rich wildlife, and rugged shorelines accessible only by kayak.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness; moderate endurance needed for 2.5 to 3 hours of paddling.
Wildlife
History
The Barkley Sound coastline has been a vital marine resource for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with traditional knowledge reflected in today’s sustainable tourism practices.
Conservation
Paddle West Kayaking emphasizes minimal-impact travel and educates guests on protecting fragile marine ecosystems, supporting local conservation efforts.
Paddle West Kayaking
Paddle through the coastal waters of Barkley Sound on a fully guided, four-hour sea kayaking tour with Paddle West Kayaking. Ideal for all skill levels, this journey reveals secluded beaches, rich wildlife, and rugged shorelines accessible only by kayak.
Paddle West Kayaking operates out of Tofino, British Columbia, offering guided sea kayaking experiences across Clayoquot Sound, Barkley Sound, and Ucluelet Harbour. The company runs small-group tours including the Tofino Clayoquot Sound: Lemmens Inlet Kayaking Tour, Clayoquot Sound: Viva Las Vargas! Kayaking Tour, Tofino Rainforest Kayaking Tour, Ucluelet Harbour Kayaking Tour, Ucluelet Coast Kayaking Tour, and Tofino Islands Kayaking Tour. Trips range from 2.5-hour outings to four-hour excursions that combine coastal paddling with beach breaks, island hopping, and cultural interpretation.
Experienced guides lead each tour, emphasizing safety, local ecology, and Indigenous history. Participants paddle through calm inlets and open coastal waters to observe wildlife such as seals, sea lions, bald eagles, and black bears. Several tours visit notable sites including Lemmens Inlet, Meares Island and the Big Tree Trail, Vargas Island, and secluded shorelines in Barkley Sound.
Paddle West Kayaking focuses on accessible sea kayaking for all skill levels. Introductory options like the Ucluelet Harbour Kayaking Tour suit families and first-time paddlers, while longer expeditions offer deeper exploration of the region’s ecosystems. Groups are kept small to enhance learning, reduce environmental impact, and provide personalized instruction.
Booking details, departure location in Tofino, recommended clothing, and trip durations are provided during reservation. Paddle West Kayaking presents factual itineraries and trained guides to help visitors safely experience the natural and cultural highlights of coastal Vancouver Island. Schedules vary seasonally with peak months in summer; reservations are recommended to secure spots on popular outings and to confirm guide availability before arrival each day.
Location
Tofino, BC
Gateway to Clayoquot Sound
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Sea kayaking around islands and inlets
Trip Lengths
2.5–4 hrs
Short to half-day adventures
Group Size
Small groups
Personalized guiding and safety focus
Spaces fill quickly during summer — book a 2.5–4 hour guided sea kayaking tour with experienced guides.
Dress in layers
Weather can shift quickly; wear synthetic or wool layers that dry fast and pack a rain jacket.
Bring sun protection
UV reflection from the water increases exposure, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Footwear choice matters
Wear sturdy sneakers or sandals that can get wet as feet may contact saltwater during paddling.
Pack light and use provided dry bags
Only essential gear should come on the kayak; valuables risk water exposure without waterproof bags.
Synthetic or wool base layers
Retains warmth and dries quickly if wet, essential for comfort on the water.
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Waterproof rain jacket
Protects from wind and rain, crucial for coastal weather variability.
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Sun hat and polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare and protects from UV, improving visibility and eye comfort.
spring|summer|fall
Closed-toe water shoes or sturdy sneakers
Keeps feet stable and comfortable when paddling and during shore stops.
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