Cortes Island, Coastal island in British Columbia, Canada.
Cortes Island is located within the Discovery Islands off the British Columbia coast, featuring forested hills, rocky shorelines, and protected coves. The landscape is shaped by dense woodlands that extend to the water's edge and frame the settlements scattered along the shore.
The island was named in 1792 during a Spanish exploration expedition, honoring the conquistador Hernán Cortés. This naming reflects the period when Europeans were mapping the Pacific Northwest coast.
The craft hub in Squirrel Cove displays pottery, textiles, and wood carvings created by island residents who have chosen to live here. Many of these makers draw inspiration from the surrounding nature and the quiet pace of island life.
Access to the island is typically by ferry from Campbell River on the mainland, which takes about an hour. Once there, local roads connect the main settlements and the compact size makes exploration straightforward.
A tidal lagoon in Squirrel Cove creates a remarkable water flow reversal where seawater rushes inward during high tide and flows outward during low tide. This natural feature draws visitors curious about coastal dynamics.
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