When I sit down to plan a bit of a family escape, my mind has always wandered toward the west side of Vancouver Island. With all of its tide pooling, surfers and sea life, the West Coast has its beauty. But, lately, I’ve been dreaming spending some serious time on another island.

The northern islands – Quadra, Cortes to name a few – are hot on my list to do some serious exploring of this year. First stop – Quadra Island.

I’ve been hearing rumblings, since we moved here, about the hidden gems tucked away along the coastline there.

In September, we finally took the plunge and discovered April Point Lodge.

I had heard the dinners there were yummy and romantic. But, hadn’t really thought family-friendly.

Boy, were we in for a pleasant surprise.

You don’t even have to worry about the ferry with this homey family lodge that caters to just about any outdoor fun a family could have (and some indoor relaxing too).

Pick up the water taxi from Painters Lodge just north of Campbell River and head on over to April Point’s rustic (which is not code for unkept) setting. At the dock, you’ll find sports fishermen heading out to some of the hottest angling in North America, seaside life-sized games of chess and checkers and trails that head out into some gorgeous country.

Exploring tide pools and checking out sea life is definitely on the schedule after you get settled in to your seaside cabin accommodations with amazing views. And, after dad spends some time fishing, mom can hit the spa (right at the point) for some indulgent relax time.

Dinners in the evening are tasty and reasonably priced, with options for the kids. I have to say, we were totally into it. April Point is a seasonal lodge, open from May to October.

Our next stop on Quadra this year will most definitely be Taku Resort on the east coast of the island. I’m already planning on renting a beachfront A-frame cabin (or maybe the tree house). There’s also camping or you can take the RV.

You can rent canoes or kayaks and bikes, play tennis or basketball (even bocce) and they’ve created some artificial tide pools for kids to check out all of the amazing sea life close-up.

We haven’t had the chance to check Taku out yet. But, whoa am I game. They are open year-around and shoulder season (until July) is a great time as it’s less expensive, less crowded and lots of fun (I’m thinking low tides and lots of trails)

I suspect we’ve found two amazing retreats – super close to home – that will become family favourites for years to come.

Yay Quadra!!!