Camping, sailing, water sports, rock climbing and kayaking are major recreational activities shared among the locals and the enthusiasts that break away from their everyday lives (around the world or on Vancouver Island) to escape and play among the natural beauty showcased Zeballos.
Zeballos is the playground and home to hundreds of native inhabitants; sea lions, otters, blue herons, swans, geese, sea urchin, eagles, hummingbirds, bear, salmon, shellfish, and deer, to name just a few.
The region became famous from its success during the gold rush era in the 1930's, however, today it is supported by ecotourism, sight-seeing, commercial fishing, and oyster farming.
Population: 235
Highlights:
Zeballos Museum - historical tales and artifacts for the gold mining era
Zeballos River - Fall salmon spawning run
Little Hustan Cave Regional Park
Brooks Peninsula Provincial Park in Kyuguot Sound (guides recommended)
Kayak Rentals
Nootka Trail
Fishing Charters
History:
Historically this small remote community has been home to the early civilizations of the First Nations inhabitants - Ehattesaht First Nation, one of fifteen Nations, separate yet related, known as the Nuu-chah-nulth people who were living in and around the Pacific Northwest. One of the most renowned traditions their culture created was the potlach ceremony.
In the 1700's, Zeballos was named after a lieutenant, Ciriaco Cevallos, who sailed aboard of one of the first Spanish ships to explore the Pacific Northwest. This remote area is a deep-sea port which remained unsettled until the gold rush of the 1930's. It became a historic legend for reportedly exporting over thirteen millions dollars in gold bars.
Climate:
Summer average 18 degrees Celsius
Winter average 5 degrees Celsius