Welcome to the Inn on Stephens Bay Oceanfront Retreat
Reserve Your Escape
The enchantment of Stephens Bay awaits.
Here, otters share their treasures with the sea birds, stellar blue jays eat from your hand, and flowers bloom well into December. Escape to the Inn on Stephens Bay — a place where tides whisper, whales wander, and quiet coastal beauty untouched by haste surrounds you.
We are now welcoming reservations for the 2026 season. Our rooms are few, and the enchantment is timeless — reserve your stay today or call 250-902-7102 to claim your place by the sea.
"...We can therefore highly recommend Stephen's Inn - but it is important to be out very well in advance with the reservation, because there are others besides us who have found out what a find this is. " (Hans, Denmark)
An Enchanting Oceanfront Nautical Inn
Where we are
Tucked along the quiet shoreline of northern Vancouver Island, The Bay Inn overlooks the peaceful waters of Stephens Bay, in the small fishing village of Coal Harbour. Just twelve minutes from Port Hardy and fifteen from the BC Ferry terminal to Bella Coola and Prince Rupert, we’re close enough for easy travel — yet far enough to feel like a world apart.
This is a place where the ocean meets the forest, and where the pace of life still follows the rhythm of the tide. From here, you’re perfectly placed to explore the island’s wild and beautiful north: San Josef Bay, recently named Canada’s #1 beach and one of the top 40 beaches in the world, lies just down the road. Along the way to Coal Harbour, you can wander through the scenic coastal communities of Old Quatsino, Port Alice, Port McNeill, Sointula, and Alert Bay — each with its own charm, stories, and sea-salted air.
Coal Harbour itself holds a quiet literary claim to fame — it’s home to Primrose Squarp, the spirited heroine of the award-winning novels Everything on a Waffle and One Year in Coal Harbour. It’s a place where imagination and history live side by side — and where visitors, like characters in a story, find themselves drawn in by the simple beauty of it all.
"The Inn should be on the bucket list for those with discerning tastes and a penchant for natural beauty." Jason, Canada
On the Oceanfront with a View
Perched at the edge of the Pacific, the Inn on Stephens Bay is a sanctuary where the pace of the tides becomes your own. Here, unspoiled nature and quiet comfort meet in perfect balance — a place to breathe deeply, rest fully, and rediscover the simple wonder of being by the sea.
From your private deck, each day brings its own unfolding story. Whales glide through the bay, their misty breath rising in the morning light; seals and sea otters drift playfully in the waves; eagles circle above, and sometimes a deer or bear appears along the forested shore. When the moon rises, its reflection spills across the water, turning the bay to silver.
Within the inn, you’ll find warmth and welcome — elegant oceanfront rooms and suites designed for peace and connection. Whether you’re sharing a glass of wine beneath the stars, savoring fresh coastal fare, or simply listening to the hush of the tide, life here slows into something rare and real.
Guests often describe the Inn on Stephens Bay as “magical,” “enchanted,” or “a small paradise.” But what you’ll truly find is something deeper — a feeling that you’ve come home to a gentler world, where sea, sky, and soul are perfectly aligned.
"Each room had its own balcony overlooking the bay and we even woke to six orcas passing by one morning. Access to free double kayaks was amazing and the Michelin quality breakfasts were incredible. " Vivian, CA
Enjoy Your Stay at the Bay Inn
Whether this is your first visit or you’ve stayed with us many times before, we’re truly glad you’re here. We want your time at The Bay Inn to be comfortable, memorable, and just a little magical. If there’s anything you need, please don’t hesitate to ask — we’re always happy to help.
Step outside for a moment and you might hear the deep, steady breath of a whale out in the bay, or see sea otters at play along the shore. Let yourself slow down, breathe in the salt air, and feel the quiet wonder of this place. There’s something special about this coast — it has a way of opening your heart.. Please read the Inn's Rules and Policies prior to booking.
"Michelle and Stephen were great hosts and delightful to meet." (Martina, Germany)
Amenities
We offer a range of thoughtful amenities to make your oceanfront stay as relaxing and comfortable as possible. Each room features a private deck with spectacular views overlooking the bay and wildlife, where you can enjoy your morning coffee or watch the sun set across the water.
Every room is equipped with cable TV, Netflix, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected and entertained throughout your visit.
Guests are also welcome to make use of our outdoor barbecues, or to explore the shoreline with our complimentary kayaks — a perfect way to experience the tranquil beauty of Stephens Bay and Holberg Inlet. Stephens Bay Inn also offers free charging for you electric or hybrid vehicle.
"We were able to use kayaks to explore the unspoiled nature from the water on Holberg Inlet - eye to eye with seal and otter! " (Andrea, Germany)
"The home is beautifully decorated, the view is amazing, breakfast was incredible, and all the little details were provided -- forks, spoons, knives, plates, bowls, a cutting board, wine goblets, drinking glasses, binoculars, a local map, coffee, tea, real cream, a refrigerator in our room, a flashlight, a fan, and a welcome appetizer and dessert." (Carol, USA)
Nautical Breakfast
Enjoy a chef prepared complimentary 2 to 3 course breakfast such as Stephens Bay Dungeness Crab and Artichoke Eggs Florentine with Potato Pancakes and Fresh Berries in our Fantasia dining room. Lighter fare is also available so please let us know if you have any special dietary requests.
"Best breakfast on planet earth" (Daniel, Germany)
The Fantasia Dining Room
Welcome to The Fantasia Dining Room — an enchanting haven where even the soufflés reach for the sky and hesitate to fall. Here, you can experience a free flowing composition of original and unique culinary creations. The chef composes a daily symphony of imagination: a prix fixe menu of two or three inspired courses, crafted from the freshest ingredients drawn from the ocean bay, the surrounding forest, and the inn’s own fruit, vegetable herb gardens.
Each day unveils creations from a seemingly endless repertoire of culinary artistry — delicate Dungeness crab, sweet spot prawns, and an abundance of other treasures from the pristine bay; wild berries gathered from nearby woods; and vibrant produce. Freshly baked creations emerge from the kitchen infused with the essence of the region’s bounty often "la forestiere"— wild blackberries, wild blueberries, wild huckleberries, salmonberries, and more.
Every dish is crafted to reflect the beauty of its surroundings — fresh, wild, and deeply local.
Dining here feels both intimate and otherworldly — a reminder that true luxury is not excess, but authenticity. Each course invites you to slow down, savor, and rediscover the joy of food that tells the story of where you are.
"We've traveled extensively throughout Canada, including Vancouver Island and this is the only place where the cuisine meets or exceeds European standards." (Ute, Germany)
"We were able to use kayaks to explore the unspoiled nature from the water on Holberg Inlet - eye to eye with seal and otter! " (Andrea, Germany)
Breakfast in the Fantasia Dining Room
Perhaps you’ll begin with a glass of freshly pressed juice followed by a wild blackberry and kiwi zabaglione parfait. Then, embark on a voyage with the Viking Ship Croissant — its golden hull filled with softly baked eggs, quattro formaggi, and garden-sautéed vegetables. Billowing above are sails of eggplant parmesan, anchored by a mast of fresh oregano, with rigging of cherry tomato, red pepper, and sea asparagus. Along its sides gleam roast potato shields, while artichoke and prawn figureheads stand proudly at the bow. The ship sails upon a tranquil blue sea of lavender Gruyère sauce and fresh tomato coulis, finished with a flourish of seasonal fruit.
Or perhaps your palate longs for something more conventional — a comforting dish prepared with the same imagination and care that defines every creation in The Fantasia Dining Room.
"This chef creates culinary masterpieces from the nearby land and sea...." (Sara, Portland, Oregon)
"This inn has set a new standard for breakfast..." (Joseph, Toronto, ON)
Soufflé al Formaggio with Fresh Bay Prawns
Prelude: A delicate zabaglione, whipped to airy perfection and infused with the bright, tart sweetness of fresh raspberries.
Entree: Next, a golden, cloudlike cheese soufflé crowned with tender prawns, fragrant chives, crisp bacon, and a dusting of aged Parmesan. Accompanied by a trio of vibrant tricolore sauces basil green, tomato red, and saffron gold—and garnished with fresh seasonal fruit.
"Probably the best breakfast we’ve had anywhere. Marvellous sea food mixed soufflé and eggs " (David, U.K.)
"Best breakfast on planet earth" (Daniel, Germany)
Eggs alla Fiorentina — Coastal Reverie
Prelude: A symphony of the forest and orchard — layers of wild blueberry and sun-ripened plum folded into a silken parfait, bright and ephemeral, a whisper of cool morning sweetness before the warmth of the day.
Entree: To follow, a coastal variation on a Florentine classic: a tender architecture of poached eggs resting upon a seasoned focaccia rusk stacked with Black Forest ham, wilted spinach, greenhouse tomato, and creamy avocado. Draped in golden hollandaise and crowned with freshly shelled Bay Dungeness crab — a marriage of sea and garden. Accompanied by herb touched pan-fried potatoes and spice, and a flourish of fresh fruit .
" The breakfast was off the charts! Dungeness crab eggs benedict beautifully prepared followed by a lovely cheese soufflé the following day, better than any hotel I’ve been to. " (Renee, B.C. Canada)
Blackberry Bear Claw Streusel Toast
Prelude: The morning begins with a glass of freshly pressed juice, bright and refreshing, alongside a parfait of ripe strawberries layered with smooth cream.
A simple, graceful beginning that awakens the senses and sets the tone for the meal ahead.
Entree: A golden-baked bear claw toast, layered with streusel, crisp on the edges and tender within, scented with cinnamon and layered with a seedless blackberry sauce reduction and a touch of crema anglaise.
Finished with caramelized walnuts, wild blackberries, fresh fruit, and a hint of mint for a balanced harmony of sweetness and spice.
"VERY HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, 10/5 ⭐️ " Katharina, Austria
Early Morning Room Service or Takeout
At The Bay Inn, we like to think of this corner of northern Vancouver Island as a vast playground — a place of endless discovery and adventure. We understand that many of our guests begin their days early, setting out to catch ferries, join wildlife tours, hike, kayak, or explore the island’s many remarkable destinations.
For those early departures, we’re pleased to offer a lighter fare available through room service in the early morning hours, or as a convenient takeout upon request.
"The breakfast was the best of our whole trip. Even though we had to leave before breakfast time, we were provided with a delicious breakfast. I would love to return! " (Stefanie, Germany)
Complimentary Fresh Seafood Platter and Dessert in the Evening
" Bonus points for the fresh crab and prawn plate with a nice frozen grand marnier dessert the night we arrived. We loved it there! " (Renee, B.C. Canada)
For Ocean Eco and San Josef Bay Tours Visit the Link Below
Hospitality Awards
