Islands to explore before before the fall rain hits
Photo by Jasper Garrett via Unsplash.
So you think you’re an “islander” just because you live on Vancouver Island? Well, say goodbye to your malls, fast food, and amenities. Hand over some cash to BC Ferries because it’s time to explore the wondrous world of the Gulf Islands.
The Georgia Strait, which is part of the Salish Sea, runs between Vancouver Island and the mainland. There are hundreds of islands and islets here, but only a handful are inhabited and accessible without a personal watercraft.
There are two distinct groups of Gulf Islands: north and south. So, let’s get into them.
Southern Gulf Islands
Saltspring
Saltspring (also called Salt Spring by people who are wrong) is the most populated of all the Gulf Islands, with more than 10 000 permanent residents. While most of the restaurants here aren’t anything special, it is pretty much the only Gulf Island with more than a few options for dining and grocery shopping.
The Saturday market in the summer is truly a sight to behold, with tons of farmers, buskers, and artisanal merchants to give your money to. You might want to skip it though if you don’t enjoy endless crowds of tourists.
Saltspring has three ferry terminals, but the easiest way to get there is by a 35-minute ferry ride from Swartz Bay.
Pender
If Saltspring is just a little too busy for you, but you still want the artisanal scene, then Pender may be the place.
With just a few thousand permanent residents, Pender has the feeling and privacy that Saltspring did 15 years ago, while still having vineyards and restaurants to keep you busy.
There is a tons of nature to spend your time in, and Magic Lake is worth the visit for a swim.
Galiano
If you’ve ever taken the ferry from Victoria to Vancouver, you’ve gone through Active Pass, the small channel of water between Galiano and Maine. Active Pass is so amazing because of how deep the water is for such a small area.
Galiano itself is a humble island with very few permanent residents. Montague Harbour is one of the nicest beaches in the southern Gulf Islands, and has a large campground worth checking out.
If you enjoy fine dining, Galiano is home to the farm-to-table experience Pilgrimme. Be warned though, it’s beyond a normal student’s budget.
Northern Gulf Islands
Hornby
The northern Gulf Islands are much more of a trek to get to from Victoria, but the trip is more than worth it. Getting to Hornby requires taking two small ferries and driving across Denman Island.
The welcoming culture on Hornby is wonderful, and attracts many young people throughout the summer.
Each beach on Hornby feels completely different from the last, and it’s shocking to be able to swim in the ocean comfortably without a wetsuit.
Lasqueti
If you’re a rebel or just a fan of counterculture, Lasqueti might just be the place for you. This small island is just off the much larger Texada, and the only ferry to it is passenger only.
Lasqueti is the only one of these larger Gulf Islands not connected to the BC Hydro power grid. If you’re self-reliant enough to tough it out here or just love raves and parties, it’s worth a visit.
Quadra and Cortes
Technically part of the Discovery Islands, visiting Quadra and Cortes both require driving all the way to Cambell river, and then taking a ferry.
Quadra is much more accessible, being only a ten-minute ferry away. The campground in Rebecca Spit is breathtaking. One side of the spit is a bay that warms up in the summer and is perfect for swimming, while the other side looks out into the freezing open water.
Cortes is extremely isolated, with fewer amenities, and requires a lengthy ferry ride from Quadra to get to it. That being said, Hague Lake is possibly the nicest watering hole I’ve ever had the pleasure of swimming in.
So, whether you take the quick trip over to Saltspring or drive the three hours up island to explore, each Gulf Island has something unique to offer.
My most important piece of advice? Get to your ferries early — much earlier than you think.
