Barkley Sound · Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Broken Group Islands: not a casual day trip
Over 100 islands scattered across Barkley Sound, reachable only by boat — this is the park's most remote unit, and the one most likely to be badly underestimated by first-time visitors.
- Access
- Boat or kayak only, no road
- Camping
- Permit required, closed Oct 1–Apr 30
- Day use
- Allowed year-round with park pass
- Typical launch
- Secret Beach, near Ucluelet
Why this isn't a day trip for most people
Remoteness is the entire point
Most independent visitors reach the Broken Group Islands by sea kayak, launching from Secret Beach near Ucluelet via a gravel logging road, then navigating open water by compass and chart across days, not hours. Camping anywhere in the park without a valid permit is illegal, and the islands close to overnight camping entirely between October 1 and April 30.
Day visits are possible year-round with a National Park Entry Pass if you already have a boat and the open-water experience to get there safely — this is not a beginner paddle. Most first-time visitors are better served by a guided multi-day trip than attempting self-supported logistics cold.
Keep exploring
Related field guides
Permits & notices
How the reservation system actually works.
Read the permits guide
3–7 day itineraries
Where a Broken Group trip fits into a longer visit.
Read the itinerary guide
Ucluelet guide
The nearest town and most common launch point.
Read the Ucluelet guide