Population: 350

The community of Whale Cove, or Tikirarjuaq (long point), is nestled within a bay surrounded by rolling hills and pristine lakes, along the western shore of Hudson Bay. The cove is located north of Arviat, just south of Rankin Inlet. Beautiful lakes and rivers filled with Arctic char and touladi surround the community; the fishing is fantastic.

As its names suggests, the community is famous for its whales. Each fall beluga whales congregate near the shores of the cove. The Whale’s Tail Monument, a sculpture of rock and concrete overlooking the town, honours Canada’s centennial.

Whale Cove remains a mainly traditional community, with divergent dialects and cultures, originating from both inland and coastal traditions. The abundance of land and marine wildlife has enabled the Inuit of Whale Cove to enjoy a traditional diet and lifestyle. Seal, walrus and beluga are the mainstay of the traditional diet. Seasonal caribou and polar bear hunting, as well as trout and char fishing, are also regular activities. To augment the diet of fish and mammals, highly nutritious berries are collected for consumption.

Every year the hamlet of Whale Cove has a number of festivals. Easter festivities include igloo building and snowmobile racing. In May there is an annual fishing derby. Canada Day and Hamlet Day celebrations include traditional arctic games, inukshuk building, and feasts with traditional delicacies.