Out and About the Gulf Islands & Discovery Islands

The Gulf Islands ...
Quite, semi isolated, picturesque Gulf Island landscape, accessible only by water, ferry or sea plane the Gulf Islands bask in a mild West Coast (sub-Mediterranean-type) climate. Perfect year round vacations, golfing, and other outdoors activities such as hiking, scuba diving, sailing, fresh and salt water fishing, cycling, kayaking and nature watching. Here you will find easy-to-navigate links to extensive information on the Southern and Northern Gulf islands.

Gabriola Island:
Gabriola Island is known as the Isle of the Arts … and for good reason! The list of artists and artisans that call this southern Gulf Island home is long – from painters to silversmiths! But there is more than just art to enjoy here – be sure to visit one of the many parks, restaurants, or heritage areas.

Galiano Island:
The Gem of the Gulf Islands; Galiano Island combines outstanding wildlife viewing opportunities, a rich history, amazing recreational pursuits, and all the visitor amenities you will need to make your trip as memorable as possible.

Pender Islands:
This small southern Gulf Island has a unique lifestyle that continues to attract visitors and residents alike. The climate of Pender and its other island neighbours is amazing all year long so you’ll want to make sure your visit to the picturesque Pender Island includes some recreational activities like hiking, sailing, and biking.

Mayne Island:
Small, but not to be overlooked, Mayne Island is an adventurer’s destination! With some of the best sailing, hiking, and cycling on the Gulf Islands, you can explore much of this island on your visit no matter what your preferred mode of transport or recreation may be.

Salt Spring Island:
The beauty of this, one the largest of the Southern Gulf Islands, will astound you. From your first glimpse of Salt Spring Island, you will be in love with the Island’s friendliness, natural beauty, and artistic charm. There is much to do so read on and start making up your visit itinerary!

Saturna Island:
Whether visiting for the wildlife, the splendour of a shoreline hike, or a taste of the vintages at the local winery, Saturna Island really has a mix of attractions for every type of visitor. The island has a rich history, friendly locals, and unbelievable wildlife so make sure Saturna is on your island tour!

Bowen Island:
Bowen Island is a boater’s paradise, nestled in the northern Gulf Islands amongst the Coast Mountain Range. Mt. Gardner stands proudly against Bowen’s skyline at 762 meters. Like most Gulf Islanders, Bowen Island residents are proud of their home and enjoy their rugged wilderness home.

Cortes Island:
A Discovery Island. Cortes Island is know as the entry point to Desolation Sound and contains an abundance of spectacular wilderness scenery, wildlife viewing, recreational activities, artisans, and services.

Denman Island:
A Discovery Island. Denman Island is a one hour drive north of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island and a beautiful 10-minute ferry ride from Buckley Bay. However, given its proximity, one would think that this island retreat would feel less removed than it does. But that is certainly part of its charm. Just one visit to Denman and you’ll wonder why you’ve never been here before … and you’ll be planning your next trip while still aboard the return ferry!

Hornby Island:
A Discovery Island. Hornby Island is known as the jewel of the Gulf Islands for two simple reasons: its people and its natural beauty. While the Gulf Islands are generally known to have friendly residents and wondrous wilderness to explore, Hornby is a remote retreat that will earn a special place in your travels. Situated off the south end of Denman Island, Hornby Island is the smaller of the two islands and is famous for its popular, warm, Mediterranean-like swimming beaches at Tribune Bay Provincial Park and Whaling Station Bay. Hornby even has its own 280-metre mountain, Mt. Geoffrey.

Lasqueti Island:
Lasqueti Island, a rural destination in the northern Gulf Islands, is home to a number of lakes, bays, and beaches. The island maintains a rugged mystique and eco-friendly heritage. Lasqueti residents still use solar power, windmills, and water-driven turbines for their electricity. A drive up the island is quiet and stress-free – the roads are still unpaved.

Quadra Island:
A Discovery Island. Quadra Island is best known for its natural west coast wilderness scenery, fishing opportunities, and unique arts and crafts. A quick BC Ferries ride from Campbell River,Quadra is the second largest Gulf Island and contains one of the most extensive pathway systems, as well as the greatest number of freshwater lakes. While the waters surrounding Quadra are known to be some of the most turbulent in the Island chain, there is only beauty and calm awaiting you when you step onto this beautiful northern Gulf Island.

Stuart Island:
A Discover Island. Stuart Island sits at the head of Bute Inlet located between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia where the Strait of Georgia meets Johnstone Strait. This very beautiful and rugged area, with swift tidal passes is a mecca for salmon fishing and for fly-in sport fishermen.

Thetis Island:
This thickly forested Northern Gulf Island off the west coast of the British Columbia mainland is the smallest and least populated of all the Gulf Islands. Covering only 10 square kilometres, Thetis is primarily rural and maintains a community-minded spirit even though it is within close proximity to many major urban centres, such as Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle.