Sunday, July 13, 2014

Quadra Island Getaway

We just got back from a wonderful weekend getaway at a nearby island called Quadra Island.  Friday afternoon we made a short 45 minute drive then ferry ride over to our rustic cabin on the ocean.  All we wanted was some rest, ocean time, kayaking and to get away from our business for a couple of days.  We got far more than that.  It was truly a memorable summertime experience, with hot 30 degree celcius sun filled days and lots of wildlife to see and the ocean to explore.

Quathiaski Cove Ferry terminal, Quadra Island

That little ferry just rounding the bend is the one we took from Campbell River, only a short 15 minute ride away.  Part of what drew me to this resort is I was looking for someone we could go kayaking and this resort included use of them free with the stay.  We went both Saturday and Sunday for a couple of hours each day.  We were in a protected harbor made up of several smaller islands so lots of close shoreline to explore.  I left my big digital camera at home and opted for my small waterproof camera and iphone camera for this trip.  We saw a racoon, sea otters, seals, herons, eagles and lots of other creatures.




Underwater shot - starfish

A new creature spotted on this trip was a 4 inch nudibranch which happened to be swimming right where we launched the kayaks.  I have never seen one outside of aquariums or on TV.  They are very much like a snail without a shell and come in dozens of colours and shapes.  So neat to watch it swim away.

Giant Dendronotid Nudibranch spotted on Quadra Island

One of my favorite pictures this trip was when we were sitting on the dock, dangling our feet in the water to get some relief from the heat.  This spider had built a web between two boards on the dock.  That is the sun and clouds reflected off the water in the background.

This was the view to the front of our cabin.
Seascape Resort Marina

View from our upper cabin bedroom
 We only left the resort once, to check out the local farmers market.  We got there late in the day just before closing.  It was so hot, it looks quiet but was much busier earlier in the day.



Both evenings after making scrumptious BBQ dinners we sat out on the dock with a cocktail and enjoyed the sunsets.  Such a lovely weekend away - days like these make you happy to be alive!













16 comments:

  1. Looks like a fabulous way to spend a weekend!

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    1. It was one of my favorite weekends in a really long time.

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  2. We've never been to Quadra as Salt Spring is our heaven. What a great trip! So glad you were able to get away and have some well deserved down time. Great pictures!!

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    1. Salt Spring is more populated but equally as beautiful, I can totally see why you love it.

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  3. looks like a beautiful weekend, so glad you enjoyed yourselves xx

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    1. We had a blast - and it was very relaxing, just what the Dr ordered.

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  4. Replies
    1. It was the most relaxing weekend ever - I want another!

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  5. Looks and sounds wonderful! Love the spider in the sky!

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    1. Thanks - I thought that shot was pretty neat and taken with the iphone too! He really was pretty lazy though, just sat there the whole time modelling for me.

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  6. Your photos are beautiful. What an idyllic escape!

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    1. Thank you - it was pretty easy to relax and enjoy nature there.

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  7. Great pics - weekend getaways are the best!!

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    1. I really want to book another one but our schedule may not cooperate - where there is a will there's a way!

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  8. Sounds wonderful. We have just bought two lightly used kayaks. I love how it allows for getting up close and the quietness of it.

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    1. I would love to buy a couple but for now we will just be renting. Maybe next summer!

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