Gabriola Island
Gabriola (population: 4,500) lies just off the coast of the Vancouver Island community of Nanaimo. Spanish explorers who "discovered" it in 1792 (Aboriginal people had been living in the area for thousands of years before that date) gave it its lyrical name. Like most Gulf Islands, it has a laid-back, artsy population that likes to live in harmony with nature. Many Gabriolans are retired and able to pursue their passions (for art, birding, hiking, golf, etc.) year round. The island contains many lush, forested parks and quiet, sandy beaches. "Must-see/dos" include the Malaspina Galleries, the Aboriginal petroglyphs and the Thanksgiving Weekend Studio and Gallery Tour.
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Gabriola is 20-minute BC Ferries ride from Nanaimo. You can also travel there by seaplane or private boat.
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