Twin Islands by boat: swimming and granite on Indian Arm
Twin Islands sit in Indian Arm about 15 minutes north of our dock at Cates Park. Bring towels, a picnic and a plan for cold water.
Twin Islands are the first proper stop you reach heading north up Indian Arm. The two islands belong to Indian Arm Provincial Park, with rounded granite and Douglas fir running down to the waterline and green water that stays clear on calm days.
Getting there
From our dock at Cates Park, head north into the mouth of Indian Arm and keep Belcarra on your right. You’ll see the islands within ten minutes at an easy cruise. Drop your speed as you close in, because kayakers from Deep Cove paddle out here on warm afternoons.
Swimming
Indian Arm collects snowmelt and rain from the Coast Mountains, so the water stays cold into July. Plan short swims and keep a towel ready for each swimmer.
- Stop the engine and take the key out before anyone goes in.
- Climb back aboard on the swim ladder, one person at a time.
- Keep lifejackets on kids and on anyone who isn’t a strong swimmer.
Anchoring or drifting
The fjord drops deep close to shore, so most skippers drift with the engine off and watch the wind. At checkout we mark the spots where the anchor holds and show your skipper how to set it.
Make a day of it
On a half day, swim at Twin Islands and stop in Deep Cove for ice cream on the way home. On a full day, carry on north to Granite Falls and come back to the islands for a second swim once the afternoon warms up.
North Twin Island has a pit toilet at the campsite. For proper washrooms, Belcarra Regional Park sits across the arm.
Leave it as you found it
Twin Islands are parkland. Pack out everything you bring and keep the music at a level the next boat over can’t hear.
Book the boat for a Twin Islands swim day.