Thormanby Island

sx̱welap

Thormanby Island (sx̱welap) is located near Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove. The island is located within the traditional territory of the shíshálh Nation and is accessible by boat or water taxi. It’s known for its beaches, a large bay that provides safe anchorage for boats, and provincial parks that offer backcountry camping opportunities. 

Although the island is just a short distance from the mainland Sunshine Coast area, there are no shops, restaurants, or facilities here—so it’s most popular with day trippers looking to visit the beautiful beaches. Make sure you bring adequate supplies with you (including a supply of drinking water) before embarking on a trip to Thormanby. And remember to be respectful of this beautiful place—be Wildsafe and practice the principles of Leave No Trace.

Things to Do

Thormanby Island is a great place to relax and get away from it all. At Buccaneer Bay Provincial Park and Simson Provincial Park you can walk along the pristine shoreline, swim in the water, cast a fishing line (you can purchase a license online), and savour a delicious picnic lunch. Bring a book or some games with you and settle in for a carefree day.

Thormanby also makes for an excellent paddling day trip. Experienced sea kayakers can launch from Secret Cove & circumnavigate the island. Check with local operators for rentals and tours. Be sure to check the tide tables and current information—navigating Welcome Pass can be a bit tricky.

Where to Stay

Thormanby Island is a popular place for day-use, since there are no accommodations on the island and there are only a handful of backcountry camping spots available. 

Buccaneer Bay Provincial Park offers 5 backcountry camping sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Note that there is a self-registration process, with instructions posted at the fee station, and that there is a pit toilet available in the park. Backcountry camping is also available at Simson Provincial Park. There are no facilities in the park.

If camping isn’t your thing, consider staying in nearby Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove. You can make a water taxi reservation and plan a day trip to the island instead. 

Food & Drink

You won’t find any shops or restaurants on Thormanby Island! Make sure you bring enough drinking water with you, and enough food to last the duration of your trip. Note that there are a handful of corner-store grocery and dining options in Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove.

Getting to Thormanby Island

Thormanby Island is accessible by boat or water taxi. 

The island is a short distance from marinas in Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove, for those planning to visit by boat. Buccaneer Bay Provincial Park offers a large, sheltered bay that provides safe anchorage in most summer conditions, and the shoreline is accessible by dinghy. 

For those planning to drive or take transit to Halfmoon Bay & Secret Cove, you can reserve a water taxi to drop you off on Thormanby Island and pick you up. Both Thormanby Transportation and Buccaneer Marina offer water taxi service from Secret Cove. 

  • 5535 Sans Souci Rd
  • 604.885.7888

Buccaneer Marina has been a family-owned and operated marina for over 50 years. We offer: Water taxi service to Thormanby Island Boat repairs Boat engine repairs Fishing tackle Live bait Launching ramp for boats Outboard motor sales Aluminum boat sales Premium gas for boats…

  • 5718 Anchor Road
  • 604.885.2948

Halfmoon Sea Kayaks provides sea kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard lessons and tours with Paddle Canada certified instructors, high-end, reliable marine equipment and professional service to assist with your unforgettable outdoor experience. Exploring the Beautiful Sunshine Coast…

  • 4864 Eagleview Road
  • 604.885.1212

Thormanby Transportation provides water taxi and barging service from Secret Cove to neighbouring islands - primarily to Merry and Thormanby Islands.

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