Quadra Island Tidal Rapids

Surge Narrows
(Class I-III)

The secondary tidal passages of Surge Narrows are a great, relatively safe place to learn basic whitewater and sea kayak skills in moving water. These rapids are a good place to learn to ferry across current, cross eddy lines, and surf small standing waves in a sea kayak. The best sites are located within an area locally known as Canoe Pass, along Quadra’s east shore, but there are others. These are fun for beginner to intermediate paddlers. You will need an 8 knot or greater tide for it to be worth paddling.

For the sea kayaker, use the sites mentioned above but limit activities to tides not exceeding 6-7 knots. Sea kayaks are easy to surf on smaller waves. Another great spot for sea kayaks is a major back eddy on the north west side of Sturt Island near a small island locally known as Hairy Island, thus named because of the thick brush growing on it.

Regardless of the style of boat you want to paddle, stay away from Beazley Passage, It is the primary passage for power boats and is not a very interesting place to paddle. Canoe Passage is sometimes used by local small boat traffic. Be sure to keep an eye out for fast boats when paddling there.

How to get to Surge Narrows

You can get to the Surge Narrows Rapids by paddling about 3/4 km from the public access at the end of Surge Narrows Road, on Quadra Island or from Discovery Islands Lodge (35 minute drive from Heriot Bay). Note: At the public access, do not drive down to the ocean. The road is very steep and barely 4-WD accessible. Park at the top and carry your boat down.

Quadra Island Tidal Rapids Include:

Surge Narrows

Upper Rapids, Okisollo Channel (Okisollo Wave)

Photo above with the permission of Sterling's Kayaks

Warning: Tidal rapid Kayaking can be dangerous. KAYAK.im, or any third parties mentioned on this page cannot and will not accept liability for death or injury which may occur to those visiting the locations described on this page. Non of the information provided here should be used to plan paddles by inexperienced kayakers, and without expert help and appropriate equipment. In no way should any person assume that any information contained on this site is a recommendation of the safety of the location.

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