7 Summer Watersports to Put On Your B.C. Bucket List

The perfect ways to spend a hot summer day—no matter where you are in the province

Who says trucks are just meant for construction? Summer is in full swing—and what better way to enjoy the beauty of B.C. than by getting out on the water?

To reach the best spots (and haul the best toys), you’re going to need the right vehicle. You can easily load up a Toyota Tacoma or Tundra with water sporting essentials to make the most of the sunshine. Since this province has a wide range of watersports to choose from, here’s a rundown of what (and where) you should add to your summer adventure bucket list.

1. Windsurfing in Vancouver and Squamish

Secure your boards and head out to one of the many beaches in Vancouver to get some real air. Spanish Banks and Acadia Beach are the most popular, with waves reaching over two metres on really windy days. For those who want to invest in new gear for the season, be sure to check out Windsure Adventure Watersports, located at Jericho Beach West. If you really want a challenge, drive up to the Squamish Spit where some of the best windsurfing conditions are found in the summer.

2. Paddleboarding in Deep Cove

Skip renting a paddleboard at Deep Cove and load up your own for a scenic North Vancouver excursion. Regardless of your experience, anyone can navigate the waters along the Indian Arm to view rich marine life. Dubbed a “paddler’s paradise,” Deep Cove is but a drive away; one more reason to upgrade to the new Tacoma or Tundra so you can visit as much as you like. For the best times to paddleboard, check out the tidal schedules of the day.

3. Kayaking in Tofino

Those who’ve been to Tofino before know that it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Cruise and paddle between small islands with a day of sea kayaking, where the calm waters offer picturesque conditions for taking in the natural beauty of B.C. Spend a day paddling to Meares Island (we recommend going with a group if you’re new to the sport) and plan to stop at any of the coastline’s sandy beaches along the way.

4. Flyboarding on Lake Okanagan

For those who want a bit more of an adrenaline-inducing watersport, flyboarding in the Okanagan region is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Load up the truck, drive to Lake Okanagan, strap on a flyboard and propel yourself through the air using only a jet of water. Best time to hit the water? Avoid long weekends when busy crowds flock to the interior to get the most of your warm-weather Okanagan experience.

5. Fishing Around Vancouver Island

A weekend fishing trip to the island is as idyllic as it sounds. Seeing as how Vancouver Island is home to two of the most iconic fishing areas (Campbell River is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and the Cowichan River as the “Fly-fishing Capital of Canada”), if you cast your line in either of these rivers, you’re likely to get a nibble.

6. Jetskiing at Cultus Lake

One of the most pristine lakes in B.C., Cultus Lake is a go-to for jet ski lovers. The Cultus Lake Marina is a hot spot for watersport rentals, but if you already have your own equipment, you can try scoping out a spot elsewhere in Cultus Lake Park. With a truck like the Tacoma, you can easily get your jet ski to and from the water using the Sunnyside Boulevard and Campground boat launches.

7. Wakeboarding on Kamloops Lake

There’s nothing more exhilarating than a day (preferably a weekend at the height of summer) spent wakeboarding at Kamloops Lake. Once you have your wakeboard out on the lake, it’s only a matter of how high and fast you can go. This river-fed lake is an outdoor adventurer’s dream, as its waters are warm enough for swimming and the hills surrounding it are home to plenty of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep!

Those who want a satisfying summer can rejoice in the fact that Toyota’s two pickup trucks, the Tacoma and Tundra, can perfectly supplement any watersport adventure. With so many outdoor opportunities in picturesque parts of our province, you’ll want to enjoy the journey just as much as your time on the water.

CREATED BY BCLIVING, IN PARTNERSHIP WITH TOYOTA