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Gulf Islands & Sunshine Coast

Gulf Islands

Leave your stress behind and step into an island paradise where the clocks are set to “island time”. Located on the West Coast of Canada, between Vancouver Island and the BC mainland the Gulf Islands are easy accessible by ferry boats or float planes. Each island has its unique charm and offers a range of recreation choices, from hiking, kayaking, golfing, fishing and beachcombing. The large concentration of artists contribute to make the islands a vibrant place. Visit one of the hundred art studios and watch local artist crafting amazing art work, such as pottery, jewellery, paintings, or sculptors. Drive along winding country roads and see your first glimpses of deers, orcas or bald eagles. Stop at one of the popular farm markets and buy fresh locally grown and prepared products. Each island has a range of accommodation from a luxury retreat to a remote artist’s cabin.

Highlights 

  • The Gulf Islands are an archipelago made up of 225 islands. Most of them are tiny and unpopulated and are only accessible by private boats. 
  • Less than 75cm of rainfall per year
  • Hornby Island - known for its breathtaking hikes through preserved national parks and white sandy beaches. Tribune Bay on Hornby Island with its shallow, temperate water has the reputation as being the “Hawaii of Canada” and a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Salt Spring Island - renowned for its art scene and its local arts, crafts and farmers market. The Island ranks in the top 10 "Best Art Towns" in Canada according to John Villani's Best Small Art Towns In North America. Many artists contribute towards Salt Spring's international reputation for being home to the greatest collection of artists in Canada.
  • Galliano Island – the kayaking paradise and home to the Montague Harbour Provincial Marine park, one of the largest provincial marine parks on any of the Gulf Islands . The Island has truly fascinating rock formations which you can enjoy paddling in a kayak or from a hike along the beach.

Location

The Gulf Islands are located on the west coast of Canada between the Lower Mainland of British Columbia and Vancouver Island, in the protected waters of the Strait of Georgia. The Southern Gulf Islands also include the San Juan Islands in the United States. Most of the Gulf Islands are small and unpopulated and not services by ferry boats or float planes. Salt Spring, Mayne, Pender, Galiano, Gabriola, and Hornby Island are the most accessible and populated ones amongst the Gulf Islands. BC Ferries provides daily scheduled sailings and some of them can also be reached by regular float plane services.

Size & Population

With over 10,500 full time residents and over 180 km² Salt Spring Island is the largest and most populated of all the Gulf Islands. The population of the other Gulf Islands ranges between 900 to over 5,000 year round residents. The sizes range between 20 to 60 km².

Geography & Climate

The Gulf Islands and the surrounding ocean are rich with wild life and diverse plant species. The Arbutus trees and the endangered Garry Oak Ecosystem are unique to this area and cannot be found anywhere else in Canada. The Government of Canada designated a portion of the Gulf Islands as a National Park Reserve to protect the area’s unique ecosystem. The 34 km2 park includes over 16 islands and 30 reefs and islets.

Due to the geographical location, the Gulf Islands experience less rainfall than Vancouver Island and the Lower BC Mainland. The Islands lie in rain shadow protection of both the mountain ranges on the mainland and on Vancouver Island. The result is mild "Sub-Mediterranean” climate with dry summers and moderate winters. Temperatures in the summer usually lie between 20° to 23°Celsius. In the winter temperatures average 5°Celsius, with very few days below 0°Celsius. As a result of the warmer climate, some species of plants normally associated with California are found on the Gulf Islands.

Attraction & Things To Do 

  • Surrounded by sheltered waters, strong tides, and a beautiful coastline, the Gulf Islands are a paradise for every kayaker.
  • On Salt Spring Island you can divide your time between a vibrant market place, established vineyards and local art shows. The famous market takes place every Saturday throughout the summer (April to October) in downtown Ganges and attracts over 5,000 visitors per day.

Whichever islands you choose to visit, Destination 48North can craft you an exploration of these islands to be sure you don't miss the 'gems'.