Gulf Islands Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

The Gulf Islands are a scattered necklace of jewels in the Salish Sea, resting comfortably between the bustling mainland of Vancouver and the wild coast of Vancouver Island. This archipelago is where the Canadian pace of life slows down to a crawl, replaced by ‘island time’, a rhythm dictated by ferry schedules, tides, and the opening hours of roadside farm stands. It is a place where arbutus trees twist over sandstone cliffs and the air smells of cedar and salt spray.

Visitors here don’t just find scenery; they find a distinct culture. Known as the ‘Galapagos of the North’ for its biodiversity, the region is also a haven for artists, writers, and free spirits who have cultivated a community focused on sustainability and creativity. Whether you are navigating the winding roads of Salt Spring or finding solitude on the shores of Saturna, the islands offer a rare blend of rural charm and sophisticated West Coast culture.

A Haven of History and Creativity

The Gulf Islands have a rich tapestry of history, beginning with the Coast Salish First Nations who have called these lands and waters home for thousands of years. Their presence is felt in the shell middens at Montague Harbour and the deep spiritual connection to the land. In the late 1800s, the islands attracted Hawaiian settlers (Kanakas), Black pioneers fleeing persecution in the US, and later, Japanese charcoal pit burners. This diverse heritage is woven into the place names and local museums found on Mayne and Salt Spring.

In the 1960s and 70s, the islands became a magnet for draft dodgers and counter-culture seekers, cementing the region’s reputation as a bohemian enclave. Today, this legacy lives on in the hundreds of artist studios, organic farms, and craft industries that dot the landscape. It is not uncommon to buy pottery via the honour system at the end of a driveway or stumble upon a world-class jazz concert in a community hall. The blend of rugged pioneer spirit and artistic flair makes the Gulf Islands truly unique in Canada.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Ruckle Provincial Park - Located on Salt Spring Island, this park blends a working heritage farm with rugged shoreline trails. It is 10 km from Fulford Harbour and entry is free (camping fees apply).

Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park - A Galiano Island gem famous for its white shell beaches, which are ancient First Nations middens. It is a 15-minute drive from Sturdies Bay and offers excellent swimming.

Mount Maxwell Provincial Park - Offers the most spectacular viewpoint on Salt Spring Island at Baynes Peak. The road up is rough and unpaved; allows 30 minutes for the drive from Ganges. Free access.

East Point Park - Situated on the tip of Saturna Island, this is the premier spot for land-based whale watching. It is about 20 km from the ferry terminal; bring binoculars and a windbreaker.

Georgina Point Heritage Park - A historic lighthouse site on Mayne Island overlooking Active Pass. It is a prime spot for watching ferries navigate the narrow channel. Admission is by donation.

Planning Your Visit

Getting to the Gulf Islands requires patience and planning. BC Ferries is the primary connector, departing from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) or Swartz Bay (Victoria). Reservations are absolutely critical, especially if you are bringing a vehicle during the summer months or holiday weekends. Floatplanes are a faster, albeit pricier, alternative that drops you right into the harbours of Ganges or Bedwell.

Once on the islands, a car is the most practical way to get around, though cycling is popular for the fit, be warned, the islands are deceptively hilly. Cell service can be spotty in remote areas, so download offline maps. Pack for casual comfort; the vibe here is relaxed, and you will want sturdy shoes for hiking and layers for the cooling ocean breeze in the evenings.

Whether you come for the bustling summer markets or the quiet introspection of a rainy winter retreat, the Gulf Islands offer a restorative escape from the modern world. The magic of these islands lies in their ability to make you slow down, breathe deeply, and appreciate the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.