Smuggler Cove Marine Park at a glance
Smuggler Cove Marine Park lies 16 km west of Sechelt, between Secret Cove and Halfmoon Bay. The cove is a sheltered bay among small forested islets, and it can be reached on foot from a parking lot or by boat. Walkers come for the forest trail and a picnic. Paddlers come to explore the islets and the quiet water.
If you want to paddle rather than walk, start with our guide to Sechelt Inlet kayak tours and rentals, which covers hire and guided trips on this coast.
Smuggler Cove trail: how to find it and how long it takes
The trailhead is the parking lot on Brooks Road, which leaves Highway 101 between Secret Cove and Halfmoon Bay. From there a trail leads through forest to the cove. Plan on roughly 40 minutes each way at an easy pace, more if you stop for photos or a picnic.
The distance is roughly 2 to 4 km one way. Use the time, not the kilometres, to plan your day. Carry water, wear shoes with grip, and allow extra time in wet weather.
If you also want a longer walk on the coast, hiking near Roberts Creek covers trails at the southern end of the Sunshine Coast.
Kayak tours and boat trips on the Sunshine Coast
Guided kayak tours, boat trips and day tours around Sechelt, with live prices and availability.
Kayak and canoe at Smuggler Cove
Hiking, picnicking, kayaking and canoeing are all possible in the park. If you come by water, you enter the cove by boat from Welcome Passage. Reefs and rocks lie near the entrance, so move slowly and watch the water. Keep sewage in your boat's holding tank, and do not discharge it into the cove.
Fishing is limited because the area includes Rockfish Conservation Areas. Pets must stay on a leash and out of the beach areas.
Park rules and camping fee
The rules are short and apply to everyone, whether you walk in or paddle in.
Pets
Keep pets on a leash and out of the beach areas.
Fishing
The Rockfish Conservation Areas limit fishing. Check the rules for your catch before you cast a line.
Swimming
There is no lifeguard. Water and weather conditions are your responsibility.
Camping
Backcountry camping at Smuggler Cove costs CAD 5 per person per night in 2026. Check what is currently open before you plan a night there.
Halfmoon Bay: the area around the cove
Halfmoon Bay is the area west of Sechelt, and Smuggler Cove lies between Halfmoon Bay and Secret Cove. The shíshálh Nation uses the name xwilkway for Halfmoon Bay. It is not a synonym for downtown Sechelt, and the two are separate places on the map.
You can base yourself in Sechelt and drive out for the day. Our where to stay page compares the areas, including downtown Sechelt, Davis Bay and Porpoise Bay. For a night under canvas, the campground at Porpoise Bay Provincial Park is a short drive away.
Our Pender Harbour and Egmont page covers the next stretch of coast to the north, and weather and the best time to visit helps you choose a month.
Smuggler Cove: frequently asked questions
How long is the Smuggler Cove trail?
Plan on roughly 40 minutes each way. The distance is roughly 2 to 4 km one way, so use the time rather than the kilometres to plan.
Where is the trailhead?
At the parking lot on Brooks Road, which leaves Highway 101 between Secret Cove and Halfmoon Bay. The park is 16 km west of Sechelt.
Can I kayak to Smuggler Cove?
Yes. Kayaks and canoes are allowed. Boats enter from Welcome Passage, with reefs and rocks near the entrance.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, on a leash. Pets are not allowed in the beach areas.
Can I swim in the cove?
There is no lifeguard, so swimming is at your own risk. Check the weather and the water first.
Is this the official park website?
No. This is an independent travel guide to Sechelt and is not connected to BC Parks or to the District of Sechelt.