Port Alice Travel Guide: Things to Do, See and Eat traveling in Port Alice, BC

Port Alice is a small village located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is situated on Neroutsos Inlet, a scenic body of water that provides access to some of the most beautiful natural scenery on the island.

Port Alice was established in the 1910s as a company town to support the operation of the local pulp and paper mill. The mill was the main employer in the area for many decades, and the village grew to accommodate the workers and their families.

Today, the village has a population of around 600 people and is home to a range of small businesses and services, including a grocery store, post office, gas station, and several restaurants. The mill is still in operation, but the economy of the area has diversified in recent years to include tourism, fishing, and forestry. Port Alice is known for its natural beauty, and visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities in the surrounding area.

Port Alice Travel Guide: Things to do in Port Alice, BC including visiting the Welcome To Port Alice sign

Port Alice City Guide: A Brief History Of Port Alice, BC

Port Alice has a rich and interesting history that dates back over a century. The village was established in the early 1900s as a company town to support the operation of the local pulp and paper mill. The mill was built to take advantage of the abundant timber resources in the surrounding area, and it quickly became the main employer in the region.

The town was named after named after Alice Whalen, whose family operated three local pulp mills in the 1920’s.

The mill and the town grew rapidly over the next few decades, and Port Alice became a hub of activity in the area. The mill employed thousands of workers and provided a range of products, including pulp, paper, and chemicals. The village grew to accommodate the workers and their families, with a range of amenities and services, including housing, schools, a hospital, and recreational facilities.

In the 1960s, the mill faced challenges from changing market conditions and environmental concerns, and it underwent a major restructuring. Despite this, the mill continued to operate and remained a significant employer in the region.

In recent years, Port Alice has faced additional challenges, including the closure of the local school and a decline in population. However, the village has also experienced a resurgence of interest in tourism, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Today, Port Alice remains a unique and interesting place with a rich history and a strong sense of community.

Port Alice scenic views down by the water in British Columbia

Port Alice Top Attractions and Best Places to Visit in British Columbia

Port Alice is a charming village located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The town was established in the early 1900s as a town to support the operation of the local pulp and paper mill. Since then, Port Alice has become a hub of activity in the area and offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Vancouver Island.

One of the top attractions in Port Alice is Alice Lake Provincial Park. The park is situated just outside the village and offers visitors plenty of opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The park has a network of trails that wind through forests and along the shoreline of the lake. Alice Lake is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Another popular attraction in Port Alice is Neroutsos Inlet. The inlet provides visitors with an opportunity to enjoy kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The calm waters are perfect for paddling, and visitors may spot eagles, seals, and other marine life. A trip to the inlet is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.

The Port Alice Community Centre is also a great place to visit. The centre offers a range of recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, sauna, and gym. It’s a great place to get some exercise or take a break from exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Guided tours of the pulp and paper mill are also available. Visitors can learn about the history and operation of this important local industry. Port Alice has a long history of logging and forestry, and visitors can learn about this important industry by visiting local sawmills and logging operations.

The nearby Robson Bight Ecological Reserve is home to a population of killer whales and is a popular spot for whale watching tours. Port Alice Marina is also a popular spot for boating enthusiasts and offers a range of services and amenities, including boat rentals and moorage.

Finally, there are several hiking trails in and around Port Alice. The Little Nahwitti River Trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get some exercise at the same time.

Port Alice offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Vancouver Island. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or just relaxing, Port Alice has something to offer everyone. A trip to Port Alice is a great way to experience the natural beauty and history of this beautiful area.

Port Alice eagle totem pole

Top 10 Things To Do in Port Alice, Canada For Visitors

  1. Explore the rugged wilderness of Northern Vancouver Island by hiking the famous Cape Scott Trail, which is renowned for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and challenging terrain.
  2. Visit Alice Lake, which is located just outside of Port Alice and offers a range of outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and hiking, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  3. Take a scenic drive along the North Island Highway, which winds its way through the spectacular forests, mountains, and coastline of the region.
  4. Go fishing for salmon, halibut, and other seafood in the pristine waters of the region, which are home to some of the best fishing spots in the world.
  5. Enjoy the beaches and swimming areas at nearby Nimpkish Lake and other nearby lakes, which are perfect for water activities like swimming, boating, and fishing.
  6. Take a boat tour of the surrounding area to see the abundant marine life, including whales, seals, and sea otters.
  7. Visit Gooding Cove, which is located just south of Port Alice and is known for its stunning scenery, wildlife, and hiking trails.
  8. Go camping or RVing at one of the many nearby campgrounds, which offer a range of amenities and activities for visitors.
  9. Visit Side Bay, which is located just south of Port Alice and is known for its beautiful beaches, tide pools, and hiking trails.
  10. Visit the nearby community of Port Hardy, which offers a range of cultural, recreational, and shopping opportunities, as well as access to the stunning Cape Scott Provincial Park.

What To Eat and Drink at Restaurants in Port Alice, BC

Foggy Mountain Coffee Co. is your go-to coffee shop in Port Alice. They offer a range of coffee and tea drinks, as well as light meals and snacks. The coffee shop has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

McWilkies Fast Food is where you’ll want to head to satisfy your fast-food cravings in Port Alice. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors looking for a quick and easy meal. They offer a variety of fast-food items.

Hungry for pizza? Head over to Port Alice Pizza to enjoy as many slices as you can handle. They offer a range of pizzas, as well as other Italian dishes and sides. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Head on over to Calm Waters Cafe cafe if you’re in the mood for coffee tea and snacks.

Day Trips From Port Alice, BC

f you’re looking to explore the surrounding area, there are several day trips you can take from Port Alice. Here are some suggestions:

  1. Cape Scott Provincial Park – This park is located about a 2-hour drive northwest of Port Alice and offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and camping opportunities. It’s a great place to go for a day hike or to spend the night camping.
  2. Port McNeill – This town is located about a 1-hour drive northeast of Port Alice and offers a variety of amenities like restaurants, shops, and whale watching tours. It’s a great place to go for a day trip to explore the local area.
  3. Telegraph Cove – This historic fishing village is located about a 1.5-hour drive northeast of Port Alice and offers a range of activities like kayaking, whale watching, and fishing. It’s a great place to spend a day exploring the local area and learning about the local history.
  4. San Josef Bay – This bay is located northwest of Port Alice and offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and camping opportunities. It’s a great place to go for a day hike or to spend the night camping.
  5. Nimpkish Lake Provincial Park – This park is located about a 1-hour drive east of Port Alice and offers beautiful lakeside camping, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. It’s a great place to go for a day trip to explore the local area.
  1. Quatsino Provincial Park – This park is located west of Port Alice and offers beautiful coastal scenery, hiking trails, and camping opportunities. It’s a great place to go for a day hike or to spend the night camping.
  2. Sointula – This small community can be visited by taking a ferry ride from Port McNeill and offers a unique Finnish-Canadian culture, local artisans, and beautiful coastal views. It’s a great place to go for a day trip to explore the local area.
  3. Broughton Archipelago – This group of islands is located northeast of Port McNeill and offers opportunities for kayaking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the local marine environment. It’s a great place to spend a day exploring the local area and spotting marine life.
  4. Elk Falls Provincial Park – This park is located south of Port Alice and offers beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, and a suspension bridge. It’s a great place to go for a day hike and explore the local scenery.
  5. Mount Cain Ski Area – This ski area is located southwest of Port Alice and offers downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. It’s a great place to go for a day trip during the winter months and enjoy the local winter sports.

Overall, there are plenty of day trip options from Port Alice that offer a variety of outdoor recreational activities and scenic views. Whether you’re looking to explore the local area or venture further afield, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of British Columbia.

Rental car is a good option for transportation in Port Alice

Village Of Port Alice Transportation Guide

While it is a remote area, there are several transportation options available for getting around the village and the surrounding area.

  1. Car – The most convenient way to get around Port Alice and the surrounding area is by car. There are several car rental companies available in nearby towns like Port Hardy and Port McNeill. You can also bring your own car on the ferry to Vancouver Island and drive to Port Alice.
  2. Taxi – There is a local taxi service available in Port Alice that can take you to nearby destinations like the ferry terminal or the airport in Port Hardy. However, this service may not be available at all times of the day or night.
  3. Bus – There is a bus service that runs between Port Alice and Port Hardy several times a week. This service is operated by Tofino Bus and offers affordable transportation for travelers.
  4. Ferry – The closest ferry terminal is located in Port Hardy, which is about a 1-hour drive from Port Alice. BC Ferries operates regular services from Port Hardy to other destinations on Vancouver Island and the mainland, including Prince Rupert and Bella Coola.
  5. Airplane – The closest airport is located in Port Hardy, which is about a 1-hour drive from Port Alice. Pacific Coastal Airlines operates regular flights between Port Hardy and other destinations on Vancouver Island and the mainland.

Overall, while Port Alice is a remote community, there are several transportation options available for getting around the village and the surrounding area. It’s important to plan ahead and make transportation arrangements before your trip to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Views of Alice Lake in Port Alice, BC

Village Of Port Alice Travel Guide: Final Thoughts

Overall, if you’re looking for a peaceful and secluded getaway with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, Port Alice is definitely worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing and enjoying the natural scenery, this charming village has something to offer everyone.

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