Indian Arm Communities

Location & Accessibility

A Remote Waterfront Paradise

Unlike most communities in the North Shore Edge, Indian Arm is primarily boat-access only, making it a rare and exclusive place to live.

Access Points – The two main access points for Indian Arm are Deep Cove and Cates Park (Whey-ah-Wichen), where residents launch boats and kayaks to reach their homes or explore the fjord.

Water Taxis & Private Boats – Many residents use private boats, water taxis, or kayaks as their primary mode of transportation.

Closest Road-Access Community – Woodlands, just north of Deep Cove, is the only Indian Arm community accessible by road, offering a blend of remote living with some modern conveniences.

Despite its secluded nature, Indian Arm is within 30 minutes of downtown Vancouver, making it a unique retreat that balances accessibility with a deep connection to the wild.

Community & Amenities

Embracing the Wilderness with Modern Comforts

Life in the Indian Arm communities revolves around the natural beauty and serenity of the fjord. While many homes are accessible only by boat, this adds to the charm and exclusivity of the area. For those without their own watercraft, Indian Arm Boat Charters offers private charters, ensuring convenient access to the various communities scattered along the inlet while Deep Cove Kayak offers paddling adventures to the Say Nuth Khaw Yum/Indian Arm.

Residents and visitors alike enjoy the unique amenities of the area:

Recreational opportunities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming, perfect for adventurers seeking an immersive nature experience.

Seasonal retreats and community gatherings, creating a strong sense of connection among residents despite the remoteness.

Stunning natural landmarks, including pristine beaches, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.

The Indian Arm communities may feel remote, but the combination of natural wonders and accessible services ensures that life here is both tranquil and fulfilling.

Indian Arm Boat Charters

Deep Cove Kayak Regional Interactive Map

Homes & Lifestyle

Waterfront Living Like No Other

The communities of Indian Arm offer an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, history, and seclusion. From rustic off-grid cabins to luxurious waterfront homes, these neighbourhoods provide a unique lifestyle deeply connected to the wilderness.

Key communities include:

Woodlands – The first settled community in Indian Arm, offering year-round residences accessible by road and steeped in history as a pioneer settlement.

Brighton Beach & Frames Landing – Originally known for summer cottages, these areas now feature year-round homes with private docks.

Lone Rock (Teepoorten Island) – A privately owned island transformed by Julius Teepoorten into a lush summer retreat, known as “Samarkand,” meaning “heart’s desire.”

Camp Jubilee – Established in 1913 as Orlomah Beach, this site became a community-run retreat and now operates as a vibrant outdoor camp and retreat centre.

Cascade & Sasamat Lane – A former rock quarry turned into a small year-round community with private access roads and serene surroundings.

Gray Rocks – Accessible only by boat, this secluded area offers unmatched tranquility and a true escape from the hustle of urban life.

Lion’s Nose – Recognized for its distinctive rock formations and First Nations pictograph sites, preserving dreams and visions recorded by the Tsleil-Waututh People.

Best Point (Point Beautiful) – A picturesque spot with a colourful past, boasting breathtaking waterfront views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Silver Falls – A privately owned area of great cultural importance to the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, respected for its spiritual significance and natural beauty.

With its secluded charm, pristine waters, and deep cultural ties, Indian Arm is an idyllic haven for those seeking a lifestyle of peace, adventure, and connection to nature. Residents and visitors alike cherish the area’s timeless serenity and awe-inspiring surroundings.

Echoes Across Seymour – Chapter 14

Camp Jubilee

Eve Lazarus – The Wigwam Inn at Indian Arm

Vancouver’s Kayaking Gem: Indian Arm

Notable & Historical

A Legacy of Resilience and Community Spirit

Indian Arm’s history is steeped in cultural heritage, natural wonder, and the contributions of remarkable individuals who have shaped its story.

Indigenous Heritage

The inlet, known as Say Nuth Khaw Yum (“Serpent’s Land”) in the Tsleil-Waututh language, holds profound cultural significance for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. For millennia, these lands and waters have been a vital source of sustenance, spirituality, and community for the “People of the Inlet.” Sites like Lion’s Nose and Silver Falls preserve sacred traditions and stories that continue to resonate today.

BC Parks – Say Nuth Khaw Yum Park

Early Settlements

Woodlands, established in the early 1900s, is the earliest settled community in Indian Arm. Its roots as a summer resort for prominent Vancouverites evolved into a charming enclave of year-round residences, retaining much of its historical charm.

Frames Landing also holds a rich legacy, having welcomed notable visitors like artist Emily Carr. Its secluded charm and ties to artistic history remain a unique aspect of Indian Arm’s cultural fabric.

Jimmy Watt: A Modern-Day Steward of the Inlet

One of Indian Arm’s most cherished figures is Jimmy Watt, who tirelessly served this boat-access-only community for over 30 years. Known for his dedication to both the land and its people, Jimmy operated a water taxi service and served as a Seatow affiliate, assisting countless residents in navigating the challenging waters of Indian Arm.

His work extended beyond transportation. Jimmy’s generosity shone through in stories like his care for an elderly widow living alone in a remote cabin. From delivering groceries to arranging medical appointments—all free of charge—Jimmy embodied the spirit of community and compassion.

A long-time volunteer with the Deep Cove Search and Rescue Lifeboat, Jimmy’s contributions saved lives and brought comfort to those in need. His son, Jason Watt, recalls his father’s profound dedication to the people of Indian Arm, a testament to his enduring legacy. Jimmy Watt passed away in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, service, and love for this unique community.

West Coast Powerboat Handling – Jimmy Watt

Preserving the Natural Legacy

Today, Indian Arm remains an awe-inspiring haven, thanks in part to the co-management efforts of the Tsleil-Waututh Nation, BC Parks, and Port Metro Vancouver. The 2010 Say Nuth Khaw Yum/Indian Arm Provincial Park Plan marked a turning point, ensuring the preservation of its natural and cultural treasures while fostering collaboration and reconciliation.

Indian Arm’s history is a mosaic of resilience, stewardship, and community spirit—a legacy that continues to inspire residents and visitors alike.