Cortes Island

Travel Guide

A lake surrounded by dense forest and mountains.
A calm sea with a boat in the distance, surrounded by mountains and a clear sky.
A cabin by a calm lake at dusk, surrounded by trees.
A tent by a calm lake surrounded by trees and a rocky shoreline.
A boat at sunset with a mountain range in the background.
Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres

Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres

Strathcona BC
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Cortes Island. Enjoy a beach locale, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Gorge Harbour Government ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (33 reviews)
"If you are looking for a quiet getaway on a remote island, but still want all the comforts of home, Sue's Cortes Beachfront Home is a perfect place to stay. The place was clean, the bed was comfortable and the view was fantastic. The Beach Home is a nice balance between rustic and comfortable convenience. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2026

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Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres
"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes

"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes

Mansons Landing BC
Stay at this cabin in Cortes Island. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Cortes Island Museum & Archives Society and Hague Lake ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (25 reviews)
"The cabin is exactly as presented in the photos. It is a nice place for a couple or small family to gather. It is quiet, with a short walk to two stores and a cafe. A longer walk takes you to trails where you can explore the beach or the lake. The kitchen is equipped with everything needed to cook ..."

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026

Get rates
"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes
The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown

The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown

Strathcona B BC
Stay at this cottage in Cortes Island. Enjoy a garden, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Whaletown Commons and Coulter Island are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)
"The hosts were very friendly, helpful and had great communication. The property was very clean and beautifully rustic. Just a heads up for those travelling with more than two people and those that value privacy- the bathroom doesn’t have an actual door (just separated by curtain) nor does the bedroom. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 7, 2026

Get rates
The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown
See all 224 properties in Cortes Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres

Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres

Strathcona BC
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Cortes Island. Enjoy a beach locale, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Gorge Harbour Government ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (33 reviews)
"If you are looking for a quiet getaway on a remote island, but still want all the comforts of home, Sue's Cortes Beachfront Home is a perfect place to stay. The place was clean, the bed was comfortable and the view was fantastic. The Beach Home is a nice balance between rustic and comfortable convenience. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 10, 2026

Cortes Beachfront Home w/Hot Tub & Kayak on 5 Wooded Acres
"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes

"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes

Mansons Landing BC
Stay at this cabin in Cortes Island. Enjoy laundry facilities and air conditioning. Popular attractions Cortes Island Museum & Archives Society and Hague Lake ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (25 reviews)
"The cabin is exactly as presented in the photos. It is a nice place for a couple or small family to gather. It is quiet, with a short walk to two stores and a cafe. A longer walk takes you to trails where you can explore the beach or the lake. The kitchen is equipped with everything needed to cook ..."

Reviewed on Sep 20, 2026

"Charming Cabin's Retreat: Pet-Friendly Haven with Sauna, Close to Stores, Lakes
The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown

The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown

Strathcona B BC
Stay at this cottage in Cortes Island. Enjoy a garden, patios, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Whaletown Commons and Coulter Island are located ...
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)
"The hosts were very friendly, helpful and had great communication. The property was very clean and beautifully rustic. Just a heads up for those travelling with more than two people and those that value privacy- the bathroom doesn’t have an actual door (just separated by curtain) nor does the bedroom. ..."

Reviewed on Aug 7, 2026

The Garden House - Unique spacious stay in Whaletown
See all properties in Cortes Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Cortes Island attractions

Whaletown Commons

Explore the great outdoors at Whaletown Commons, a lovely green space in Cortes Island.
See properties

Things to do

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

$195
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise
Campbell River: 4 Hour Whale & Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

Campbell River: 4 Hour Whale & Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

$231
per adult
Campbell River: 4 Hour Whale & Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat
Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

$574
per adult
Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet
From Vancouver Island: Grizzly Bear Full Day Tour to Bute Inlet

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

$590
per adult
Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride
Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

$550
per adult
Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch
Grizzly Bear Expedition

Grizzly Bear Expedition

$596
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Grizzly Bear Expedition
See all activities in Cortes Island

Frequently asked questions

Is Cortes Island worth visiting?
Cortes Island is worth visiting for its unique attractions, offering travelers a chance to explore places like Gorge Harbour Government Wharf and the scenic Smelt Bay. These spots provide opportunities to experience the island's distinctive character, making it a great destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway.
When is the best time to visit Cortes Island?
The best time to visit Cortes Island is from May through September, when the climate is most favorable for exploring. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February offer a more tranquil experience, often with cooler weather.
What is Cortes Island known for?
Cortes Island is known for Gorge Harbour Government Wharf, a central point for activity, and Smelt Bay, offering travelers scenic views. The island also features Tan Island, providing more natural beauty to discover.
What is a good itinerary length for Cortes Island?
A good itinerary length for Cortes Island is two to three days to explore key highlights like Gorge Harbour Government Wharf, Smelt Bay, and Tan Island. An extended stay of three to five days allows for a more leisurely pace, enjoying these spots and the island's natural surroundings.
What are the top things to do in and around Cortes Island?
Cortes Island offers travelers natural beauty, from serene lakes to coastal areas:

  • Visit Gorge Harbour Government Wharf, a key point of interest.
  • Explore Smelt Bay, a beautiful natural area.
  • Discover Tan Island, an island known for its nature.
  • Relax at Hague Lake, a scenic lake.
  • Wander through Mansons Landing Provincial Park.

How do I plan a trip to Cortes Island?
To plan your trip to Cortes Island, search for places to stay on Expedia. Consider booking flights and rental cars in advance, especially during popular travel times. Plan to explore attractions like Gorge Harbour Government Wharf, Smelt Bay, and Tan Island. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Cortes Island?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Cortes Island by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Cortes Island with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Cortes Island trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Cortes Island?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Cortes Island can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Cortes Island trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Cortes Island trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Cortes Island trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Cortes Island trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Cortes Island?
If it's your first trip to Cortes Island, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Cortes Island hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Cortes Island hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Cortes Island

A red bridge over clear green water with wooden supports.

Cortes Bay

A calm lake with two small islands covered in trees.

Whaletown

A calm lake surrounded by dense forest and rocky terrain.

Mansons Landing

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