The most accessible clusters of trails are at the island’s northern and southern tips. Head north up Whistle Road to Whistle Beach, and you’ll find both the Northwestern Coastal Trail and the Seven Day’s Work Trail, both of which track along the rocky shoreline. Near the low lighthouse and towering radio antennae at Southwest Head (follow Route 776 to the end), trails radiate out along cliffs topped with scrappy forest; the views are remarkable when the fog’s not in.
ON THE WATER
A fine way to experience island ecology is to mosey offshore. Several outfitters offer complete nature tours, providing a nice sampling of the world above and beneath the sea. On an excursion you might see minke, finback, or humpback whales, along with exotic birds including puffins and phalaropes. Sea Watch Tours ( tel. 877/662-8552 or 506/662-8552), run by Peter and Kenda Wilcox, operates a series of 5-hour excursions from July to late September, with whale sightings guaranteed or your money back, aboard a 13m (42-ft.) vessel with canopy.The rate is C$75 (US$60) for adults and C$55 (US$44) per child age 12 and younger.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
