Vancouver Island

Gulf Islands

Imagine a chain –a necklace, really– of islands located between Vancouver Island and BC’s mainland. Where sheltered waters make ideal sailing, scuba diving and fishing locales; languorous beaches beckon swimmers; and ecologically protected forests welcome hikers.

Where the mild climate –almost Mediterranean– nurtures the many wineries, holistic farms and artisanal foods found here. And where the mystical light has inspired so many artists to settle. Welcome to BC’s Gulf Islands.

• Gulf Islands Facts
• Gulf Island Communities
• Outdoor Activities
• Food and Wine
• Artists and Artisans

Gulf Islands facts

• The islands lie between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland.
• They number over 200, with the larger ones accessible by BC Ferries from both Vancouver Island and the mainland. Others are reached by private boat or float plane.
• Salt Spring is the most populated and most popular island.

Gulf Island Communities

Denman Island

Denman Island offers visitors scenic parks and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
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Gabriola Island

A laid-back, artsy attitude awaits you on Gabriola Island.
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Galiano Island

Galiano,the driest of the Southern Gulf Islands, lies just east of busy Salt Spring Island and southwest of the BC Mainland.
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Hornby Island

Hornby Island boasts a large arts community, scenic parks and beaches.
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Mayne Island

Mayne lies about midway between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland. The island is best known for the collection of turn-of-the-century buildings and the superb kayaking conditions.
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Pender Islands

Once joined by a peninsula, the Pender Islands are densely forested and the coastline is dotted with the kind of small, secluded beaches that attract a lot of wildlife.
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Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring Island's easy-going lifestyle, rich cultural scene and serene beauty have made it a top BC tourism destination.
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Saturna Island

Saturna Island is the least developed and most sparsely populated of the Gulf Islands. Highlights of the landscape include interesting sandstone formations, a long stretch of undisturbed, old-growth forest and Mount Warburton Pike.
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Outdoor Activities

Be lured by the easy access to outdoor activities.

• Swim and fish in the protected waters.
• Scuba dive for treasure.
• Camp and hike in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve – an ecological paradise of pockets of land on 15 islands, plus numerous small islets and reef areas.
• Cycle everywhere: as the islands vary in size from small to even smaller, this is an ideal way to get around.

Food and Wine

Be seduced by the exquisite foods and wines.

• Salt Spring and Saturna Islands have established thriving wineries, most of which welcome the public for tours and tastings.
• The islands have long been a haven for organic farming; farmers’ markets abound during the summer months.
• Salt Spring is also home to a cluster of exquisite food artisans, particularly cheesemakers.

Artists and Artisans

Be inspired by the art.

• Many artists have settled in the islands, drawn by the calm beauty and exquisite light. More than 40 artists and artisans live on Salt Spring alone.