2025 update: Telegraph Cove is open again for visitors after a major fire on December 31, 2024 damaged several heritage buildings, sections of the historic boardwalk, the Whale Interpretive Centre, and popular spots like the restaurant and pub. Thankfully, the fire happened in the off-season, and no one was hurt, but it was a huge loss for residents, businesses, and regular visitors who love this tiny North Island community.
Since then, Telegraph Cove Resort has been steadily rebuilding. As of the 2025 season, the resort is officially open for business, with hotel rooms and most cabins available, the sewage system repaired, and boardwalk sections already rebuilt past the former Old Saltery Pub site. An adapted dining setup is in place, with a new barbecue area near the office and store, and the general store acting as a relaxed café style space for coffee, snacks, and simple meals.
On the water, the experiences that make Telegraph Cove famous are still running. Seasonal whale watching with Prince of Whales, guided kayak tours and rentals with North Island Kayak, giving visitors the same access to Johnstone Strait’s orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, dolphins, and sea otters that this area is known for.
The Whale Interpretive Centre lost its main building and much of its collection in the fire, but the team is actively fundraising and rebuilding. Several marine mammal skeletons that were stored off-site survived and are forming the core of a new chapter for the centre. For 2025, an interim exhibit called the Whale Shed has been added on the rebuilt boardwalk, giving visitors a smaller but meaningful place to learn about local whales and ongoing conservation work while the full centre is redesigned.
So when you visit Telegraph Cove now, you will see a community in transition. You can still stroll parts of the historic boardwalk, stay in waterfront cabins or hotel rooms, join whale watching or kayaking tours, and support local businesses, all while witnessing how this tiny village is rebuilding itself after a very tough year.
Telegraph Cove is a charming, historic village on the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It is known for its colourful historical buildings, vibrant boardwalk, and stunning natural beauty, and its location offers access to some of the best whale-watching, kayaking, and fishing opportunities on Vancouver Island.
Telegraph Cove offers visitors a unique blend of history and outdoor adventure. Originally a milling and cannery community, it has transformed into a popular tourist destination, attracting nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.
Things to Do in Telegraph Cove
Walk the boardwalk
The historic boardwalk invites you to a leisurely stroll through the village’s original homes and businesses. As you walk, take your time reading the signs that tell the stories of the people who built and lived in these homes.
Stay Overnight
Telegraph Cove is a wonderful base to explore North Vancouver Island, offering overnight stays in the original building or in the newer hotel rooms overlooking the cove. If you prefer camping, stay in the forested campground or the open RV park.
Whale Watching Tours
North Vancouver Island is a stunning place to view whales and wildlife. Take one of the whale-watching tours that operate out of Telegraph Cove.
3hr – Zodiac Whale Watching Tour – May-September
Embark on a small-group whale-watching adventure from Telegraph Cove, venturing into the waters of Johnstone Strait in a Zodiac-style vessel. During your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to spot whales, seals, sea lions, and possibly otters, dolphins, and eagles as well.
Half Day – Comfort Whale Watching Tour – May-September
Stay cozy inside the cabin, where you can purchase snacks and drinks. Enjoy a wildlife-watching tour sharing the waters with whales, orcas, and more. Along with animal sightings, this aquatic adventure provides stunning views of the San Juan and Gulf Islands, as well as Howe Sound.
Kayaking Telegraph Cove
2 hour Evening Adventure Kayaking Tour
Explore the inlets, shorelines, and coves near Telegraph Cove.
Enjoy two hours of comfortable paddling in the world-renowned Johnstone Strait. The magic of the golden evening light enhances the Strait’s natural beauty as your guide helps you discover wildlife along the coastline of Vancouver Island. More info…
Half-Day Guided Sea Kayaking Adventure in Telegraph Cove
The tour route offers our guides the chance to share their extensive knowledge of the area and interpret intertidal creatures and plants. If you’re lucky, you might receive surprise insights about orcas, seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, deer, mink, river otters, bald eagles, and black bears in their natural habitats. More info…
