News /
7 Things to Do on Haida Gwaii

The best place to learn about things to do on Haida Gwaii is the Go Haida Gwaii website: https://gohaidagwaii.ca/

However, we have made a short list of our favourite things to do:

1. Go into Gwaii Haanas

There are so many reasons to visit Gwaii Haanas. The wildlife is diverse, pure and abundant, the village sites and human history is profound, and the history of its creation and protection is compelling. Some highlights include SG̱ang Gwaay, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and G̱andll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island).

2. Visit the Haida Heritage Centre

Learn about Haida culture, art, and history at this incredible museum in Skidegate, featuring traditional Haida poles and engaging exhibits.

3. Beachcombing at Agate Beach

Agate Beach is a rock hunter’s dream! Located near Masset, this pebbly shoreline is famous for its sparkling agates, sea glass, and driftwood. With patience and a sharp eye, you can uncover nature’s hidden gems polished by the relentless tides. Low tide reveals tidal pools brimming with colorful marine life, while eagles soar overhead, keeping you company. Whether you’re searching for souvenirs, enjoying the fresh sea breeze, or marvelling at the views of North Beach, Agate Beach is perfect for a day of peaceful exploration. Just remember: one of the values in the Haida Gwaii pledge reads: “Take only what is given to me and leave behind rocks, feathers, sand, and artifacts”.

4. Hike Taaw Tldáaw (Tow Hill)

Taaw Tldáaw is a dramatic volcanic plug rising 125 meters above Haida Gwaii’s North Beach. This iconic landmark is steeped in local lore, including stories of a mischievous supernatural being. A well-maintained boardwalk trail leads to two viewpoints: one overlooking the rugged coastline and another offering breathtaking views of Rose Spit and the endless ocean. On clear days, you might even glimpse Alaska! The hike is short but rewarding, perfect for adventurers of all levels. Whether you visit for the views or the legends, Tow Hill offers a magical experience that feels straight out of a storybook.

5. Hike the Pezuta (Pesuta) Shipwreck

The Pezuta was a wood-hulled steam freighter built in Raymond, WA, during WWI as part of the US Shipping Board’s Emergency Shipbuilding Program. At 264 feet long, it was constructed using 1.8 million board feet of lumber and various durable materials. After being deemed surplus in 1919, the Pezuta was retrofitted in 1927 as a lumber barge, capable of carrying 800,000 feet of logs. However, on December 11, 1928, it ran aground near the Tlell River during a storm. Now known as the “Pesuta,” the shipwreck remains a striking coastal landmark, weathered but still captivating after nearly a century.

6. Explore the local shops and restaurants.

There may be no malls or streets to shop on Haida Gwaii, but there are some fantastic stores and restaurants if you know where to look. Some we recommend are:

Stores

• The visitor center in the airport in Sandspit
• The Coco Cabin (Haida Gwaii Chocolate!) in Tlell
• Sitka Studios in Tlell
• The Crystal Cabin in Tlell
• The Long House Gift Shop in Skidegate

Restaurants

• Gather – Daajing Giids
• Black Tail – Daajing Giids
• Dave Take out – Skidetage 
• Keenawaii’s Kitchen – Skidegate 
• The Haida House – Tlell
• Haida Gwaii Beach Stop – Masset

7. Walk the Golden Spruce Trail

The Golden Spruce Trail is a serene walk through lush rainforest leading to the site of the legendary Kiidk’yaas—a rare, golden-needled Sitka spruce sacred to the Haida people. Though the tree no longer stands, the trail is a powerful reminder of the connection between culture, nature, and conservation. Interpretive signs share the tree’s story and its tragic felling in 1997. Along the way, towering evergreens, moss-draped branches, and the sounds of the Yakoun River create an enchanting atmosphere. This easy, family-friendly trail offers a stroll and a glimpse into Haida Gwaii’s rich history and natural beauty.