Sea Lion & Seal Viewing on Vancouver Island

Harbour seals are found in the same locations all year, while migratory bachelor male California sea lions and Steller sea lions gather around Vancouver Island during winter and spring to feed on late salmon and herring runs. From September to May, keep an eye out for Steller and California sea lions swimming and basking along the coast, especially where points of land jut out into the sea and around river mouths during salmon migrations in the fall.

Just listen for the barking of California sea lions or roaring noises of Steller sea lions, and hone in on the sound. If you are lucky you may even see a pod of transient orcas stopping nearby.

Know before you go: Marine mammal regulations stipulate that boaters must not approach or exhibit behaviours that disturb marine mammals. "Disturb" is construed as anything that causes the animals to change their natural behaviour.

Where to See Sea Lions & Seals on Vancouver Island

French Creek Marina

French Creek Marina is one of the best places to see them up close, especially during herring season. Why not expand your seal-watching experience at French Creek? This marine community also features water-focused fun like fishing and kayaking. This spot is also home to Ocean EcoVentures Whale & Wildlife Adventures—a marine tour service. | Location: 1055 Lee Road, Parksville, BC

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is brimming with panoramic splendour, where you can see offshore parts of the Winchelsea Islands—a group of 19 islands that form the Ballenas-Winchelsea Archipelago on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Marvel at breathtaking views of the local ecosystem. Uncover a variety of unforgettable things to do at Rathtrevor Beach here. | Location: 1240 Rath Road, Parksville, BC

Wall Beach Dive Site

This beginner-friendly diving spot is also home to a nearby colony by the Northwest Bay logs. Along with sea lions, vibrant sea urchins, Puget Sound King crabs, Octopus and Wolf eels, and a variety of fish can be found in the waters of this dive site. For more information, explore the map of the Wall Beach Dive Site with our guide. | Location: Nanaimo, BC

Beachcomber Regional Park

This ecological paradise offers sweeping sights of tranquil waters and a horizon that's dotted with verdant greenery. There is no shortage of fascinating sea creatures nestled between the rocks and along the shore, but we recommend taking a three-minute walk to Cottam Point for more views of the sea lions. | Location: 1330 Marina Way, Nanoose Bay, BC

Deep Bay Harbour

Nestled in Lighthouse Country, Deep Bay Harbour is also a stunning marina, where you can take in spectacular views of the Salish Sea and mountainous terrain in the distance. Keep your eyes peeled for the bobbing heads of sea lions or seals, or listen carefully to barks or roars coming from the water. | Location: 170 Burne Road #160, Nanaimo, BC

Sea Lion & Seal-Watching Tours & Excursions

Elevate your sea lion-watching adventures to new heights with guided services traveling across Vancouver Island's eastern coast, including Ocean EcoVentures, Haida Gold Ocean Adventures, Campbell River Whale Watching, and Adventuress Sea Kayaking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to see seals on Vancouver Island?

The Parksville Qualicum Beach area and surrounding communities feature a variety of areas to see seals on Vancouver Island. Popular spots include the French Creek Marina and Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park.

What time of day are sea lions most active?

Sea lions are typically most active in the early morning hours. If you're looking to capture pictures of napping sea lions, we recommend visiting their most populated areas after sunset!

How much time do California sea lions spend on land?

Male California sea lions are able to spend 27 days at most on land, while females can stay out of the water for 10 days after giving birth.

What are the differences between California and Steller sea lions?

California sea lions weighing up to 900 pounds and are identified by the large bump on their foreheads and their dark brown colour. They come from California and Alaska, following the paths of their ancestors to this traditional spring feeding ground.

The Steller sea lions weighing up to 2000 pounds are the largest and are distinguished by their reddish brown coat and roaring sounds rather than the barks of the California sea lion.

What is the different between a sea lion and a seal?

While seals and sea lions are both part of the "pinniped" marine family, these two species have multiple distinct characteristics and behaviours. Sea lions have ear flaps, while seals do not have external ear flaps. Additionally, sea lions have bigger flippers and tend to be more social, gathering in herds. Seals traverse across land in worm-like movements, jumping on their stomachs, while sea lions are able to walk with their hind flippers. Seals are able to communicate with grunts while sea lions tend to be louder with shouts and barks.