Masset Airport

Wild Pacific gateway to Haida Gwaii's ancient wonders

Masset is the largest community on Haida Gwaii, a remote archipelago off British Columbia's north coast. Sitting on the northern tip of Graham Island, it blends a small Haida Nation village called Old Masset with a former Canadian Forces base, offering an authentic slice of Indigenous culture and rugged coastal wilderness.

Visitors come for world-class birdwatching, old-growth forests, and the living Haida culture that permeates everyday life. The town is unhurried and unpretentious, making it a genuine off-the-beaten-path destination for nature lovers and cultural seekers alike.

• •Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary — prime birdwatching lagoon hosting hundreds of migratory species
• •Old Masset Village — authentic Haida community with totem poles and artisan studios
• •Naikoon Provincial Park — sweeping dunes, shipwrecks, and ancient rainforest trails
• •Tow Hill — dramatic basalt formation with panoramic views of Hecate Strait
• •Agate Beach — long wild shoreline perfect for beachcombing and storm watching
• •Old Masset Cultural Centre — showcases Haida art, history, and traditions

Getting around: There is no public transit system in Masset; a rental car or truck is strongly recommended and can be arranged in advance or upon arriving via the BC Ferries terminal in Skidegate. Taxis operate locally on a limited basis, and rideshare apps do not function here. Cycling is feasible within town, and many visitors use floatplane connections between communities on the island.

Best time: Late spring through early fall (May to September) offers the mildest weather, long daylight hours, and peak wildlife activity.

Local food: Feast on fresh Dungeness crab, halibut, and salmon — ideally prepared by local hands at Masset's small eateries or purchased directly from dockside fishers.

This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.