49°N · Sightseeing & Activities
What is Desolation Sound known for?
Desolation Sound is a warm-water fjord two days north of Vancouver, known for some of the Pacific Northwest's warmest ocean swimming, waterfall-fed lakes, and boardwalk villages.
Quick facts
- Where
- ~2 days north of Vancouver, BC
- Best season
- June–September (warmest swimming)
- Known for
- Warm-water swims, waterfalls, boardwalk villages
- Getting there
- By boat; gateway village is Lund
Desolation Sound is warm-water fjord country: mountains straight out of the sea, some of the warmest ocean swimming in the Pacific Northwest, and hundred-year-old boardwalk villages tucked into the coves.
Warm-water swims
Short hikes lead to warm freshwater lakes — a waterfall pours into the bay at Teakerne Arm, with a lake above it warm enough to swim. Prideaux Haven is the summer social heart of the Sound.
Villages & shore life
Lund is the gateway village, famous for its bakery. Refuge Cove is a century-old boardwalk community with a seasonal café; Squirrel Cove holds a Sunday market.
Before you go
The famous coves fill early in summer, and fresh water is scarce region-wide, so crews provision and arrive ahead. Every passage on the water is timed and judged by the captain — routes, weather, and anchoring are always the captain's call.
Common questions
Why is the swimming so warm here?
Shallow sun-warmed basins and freshwater lakes ashore make Desolation Sound some of the warmest ocean swimming in the Pacific Northwest — often above 20°C in summer.
Do I need my own boat?
No. Most people come on a chartered day; the captain handles the route and timing.