REGION History
Originally named Port San Juan, the settlers changed the name to honour Lord Renfrew who planned to settle crofters there. Port Renfrew’s bay is still called Port San Juan. Like many coastal Vancouver Island communities, Port Renfrew has a rich history in forestry and fishing. Port Renfrew rates among the best salt and freshwater fishing in the world. For the sport fisher, three distinct locations vie for attention: the mouth of Port San Juan, the Carmanah/Nitinat waters, and the Swiftsure Bank. The San Juan River is home to hefty steelhead, as well as northern coho which averages twenty pounds.
High
20
Low
5
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temp. | 6 | 8 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 20 | 17 | 12 | 8 | 5 |
High
68
Low
42
| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temp. | 43 | 46 | 50 | 54 | 59 | 63 | 66 | 68 | 64 | 55 | 47 | 42 |
Places to Stay
Accommodations range from unique West Coast B&Bs to cottages, lodges, hotels and RV campgrounds. There are two local marinas available in Port Renfrew to meet your moorage or launch requirements. It is also the home of Vancouver Island’s best BC charter fishing, whale watching and sightseeing operators.
Botanical Beach
Wild Beauty
“Rich tide pools, a shoreline full of life and fantastic geological features impress visitors to Botanical Beach Provincial Park. The abundance of wildlife was what drew researchers to study the area. The area became a Class “A” Provincial Park in 1989; the highest level of protection to a park area. ”
Photo © James Wheeler
Take a Closer Look ›
From Victoria
Best Tide pool viewing
First Research station
Biological Habitat
More to see
“Breath taking panoramic ocean and mountain views with fishing, surfing, kayaking, hiking, biking, whale watching and more. The Sooke – Port Renfrew region, on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island has it all. Dozens of adventure operators and outfitters offer activities that can be affordably packaged with accommodation that offers the vacationing visitor options for every taste and budget.”
Port Renfrew
Fishing
The best salt water fishing can be found around the Port Renfrew area in the Juan de Fuca Strait. Salmon are plentiful all year round, and also available is excellent bottom fishing of large halibut, ling cod and rock fish. While you’re on the water, keep your eyes wide open for eagles, seals, dolphins, Orcas and waterfowl. Charter fishers are available at great rates. They provide tackle, bait and (for additional charges) freezing, smoking and shipment of your catch.Take a Closer Look ›
Parkinson Creek
Marine Life
Parkinson Creek trailhead provides access to begin or end a long (ten kilometre) hike to Botanical Beach or a nine kilometre hike to Sombrio Beach. This moderate section of trail takes hikers through regenerating logged areas and old growth forest fringe and along the beautiful rugged shoreline and mature forest. Watch for marine mammals that frequent this area.Take a Closer Look ›
Big Trees
Avatar Grove
Avatar Grove is a phenomenal stand of giant old-growth red cedar and Douglas fir alongside the Gordon River. It is approximately fifteen minutes away from Port Renfrew and is within the traditional territory of the Pacheedaht First Nation. The area was recently declared off limits to logging through a new Old-Growth Management Area in February, 2012 after a two year campaign to protect it. It’s now quickly becoming the ‘Cathedral Grove of Port Renfrew’ due to the forest’s massive red cedars with huge twisted and contorted burls which are found in large numbers throughout the stand, including one that’s been dubbed “Canada’s Gnarliest Tree” – a giant red cedar with a huge burl nearly twelve feet in diameter!
Ancient and Wild
“We have more than just Avatar Grove; there are several other old growth areas to see in this region where you can visit the gnarled trees. Some, such as the Red Creek Fir near Port Renfrew, are the largest of their species in the world! Growing as tall as skyscrapers and as wide as living rooms, these ancient trees can live for thousands of years and inspire wonder and awe in people around the globe.”
Handsome Dan’s Wild Coast Guest Cottages
Bed & Breakfast
Handsome Dan’s features cozy cottages in Port Renfrew, all within walking distance of each other, the Pacific Gateway Marina and the ocean. Five cottages are pet friendly and two are hypoallergenic. All our cottages sleep four except the “Port O Pierre” that can accommodate up to seven people when booked with the bunk house. All are comfortable and fully furnished with kitchen facilities, TV, DVD, WIFI, nice decks, BBQ and the most important, outdoor fire pit. Whether you come for fishing, hiking or simply relaxing, Handsome Dan’s is serious cozy!
Kayaking
Oceans & Rivers
Kayaking in ocean waters when the weather is calm can be a good way of exploring the West Coast and the caves and arches near Port Renfrew. Or Paddle the sheltered waters of the San Juan and Gordon River or Sea Kayak the outside waters of Port Renfrew. Another world awaits. Tranquil tree lined rivers and inter tidal wetlands to coastal old growth along the ocean.
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