North Thormanby Island

North Thormanby Island near Halfmoon Bay isn’t your classic forest hiking trail, so set your expectations accordingly. This 8.7 km out-and-back route with about 184 m of gain is really the main back road that runs between cabins and homes, with a few side paths leading down to the shoreline and beaches.

The walk itself is easy, mostly flat, and straightforward, making it more of a relaxed island stroll than a destination hike. You’ll get short stretches of trees, glimpses of the water, and the real payoff comes when you drop down to the beach areas, where the views open up over the Sunshine Coast and surrounding islands.

Recent visitors are clear: the “trail” portion isn’t exciting, but the beaches on North Thormanby Island are worth hanging out on if you’re already staying or visiting by boat from Halfmoon Bay. Plan this as a casual walk to stretch your legs, not a wilderness adventure, and bring what you need since services are limited. It’s accessible most of the year, though winter can be wet and muddy, so dry spring and summer days are the most comfortable time to explore.