How to be a Regenerative Traveller in the Southern Gulf Islands

Travelling well means respecting the local people and the natural environments in the destinations that we visit. For those of us who live here on the Southern Gulf Islands, we take our stewardship of these sensitive ecosystems to heart. It’s part of our lifestyle and it’s what makes our islands so unique. It’s important that you take care too, when you visit. In fact, we like regenerative tourism. It means we want you to give back more than you take. That way, we can renew our cultural heritage, support our communities, and sustain our ecosystems so that we can continue to offer a beautiful and thriving destination for both local residents and visitors alike. 

How can you be a regenerative visitor to the Southern Gulf Islands? Here are a few ways you can leave these places better than you found them: 

Fire, Water, Weather

Fire Restrictions

Each Island manages its own fire regulations. Make sure to find out what kind of burning is allowed and when, including cookstoves. Typically, campfires are only permitted when the fire danger rating is ‘moderate’ or less. Campfires must be in an established fire pit with extinguishing water at hand. Remember to never burn in strong wind conditions or to leave a fire unattended. Take care to build fires at a safe distance from combustible materials.

Water Conservation

Our water supply is limited, especially when the weather is warm and dry. Conservation is a good idea any time of year so be mindful and limit your water use to preserve the available drinking water. Reduce long showers, limit flushing, and don’t run water continuously. During drought periods, check for notices by the Capital Regional District for any extra steps that should be taken. Consider that rural wastewater systems are more sensitive and restrict what goes in the drains to human waste, toilet paper, and soaps. Choose biodegradable whenever possible.

Weather

Understand the climate and pack accordingly. Many of our activities are outdoors year-round, including favourite pit stops like Mayne Island Brewing Company and Salt Spring Wild Cider. No matter the time of year, you’re likely to need an extra sweater and a waterproof layer.

Roads & Public Places

Cycling

We love human-powered transportation for its benefits to the environment, it’s a great way to explore and appreciate our landscapes from a different perspective. Be sure to check out our island bike shops or tour operators for rentals, but be wary that our roads are narrow and winding, the hills are steep and corners are sharp. Consider waiting out the ferry traffic so that everyone can make their way at an appropriate pace. Always bike single file, pull over if cars are unable to pass, and follow cycling rules.

Walking

While it may be much more rural and slower-paced than you’re accustomed to, the same traffic rules apply. In many areas, there are no sidewalks so pedestrians should take care to make themselves visible, choose walking routes wisely, and walk on the left side of the road against traffic. Just as you would in a city, use crosswalks properly and pay attention to cars.

Driving

Embrace Sunday driving. Take your time around sharp corners, watch for narrow one-way streets, and be prepared to share the roads. There are many cyclists, pedestrians, scooters, and animals—pass slowly, carefully, and with plenty of space. Opt for parking and walking into busy areas and respect spaces that are reserved for residents. Consider climate-friendly transportation options, including carpooling, shuttles, and local transit.

Outdoors

Consider the surroundings. Many visitors and local residents come to the islands to enjoy quiet time in nature, away from the hustle of urban centres. Excessive noise, uncontrolled pets, and damage to the environment take away from others’ experience and reduce the islands’ appeal. Take stock of what’s around you; maybe earbuds are better than a speaker or maybe other hikers are afraid of off-leash dogs. Always stay on designated trails to preserve habitats, respect closures for preservation, and avoid wandering through private property.

Local Businesses

Get Provisions From Our Shops

Big or small, independent or not, these grocery stores employ island residents year‑round and often stock local food products. Try not to do a big shop before you come to the islands so that you can support these stores’ pivotal role in our communities. You might even find something new!

Enjoy a Local Meal

Many of our chefs source food that is grown, raised, or caught right here on our islands, like Pilgrimme, Woodshed Provisions, and Truss Farm Food. It’s also common that they use ingredients created by local food producers such as Salt Spring Kitchen Co. and Salt Spring Island Cheese. Eating a meal at an island restaurant gives you the opportunity to taste our sense of place while encouraging the innovation of our entrepreneurs.

Embrace ‘Island Time’

One of the biggest draws of the islands is the slower pace of life. Things are generally unhurried and we like it that way. But the rural environment and isolation create real constraints for local restaurants and shops. Sometimes we can’t meet city-type expectations. When you’re here, remember it’s to experience something different－so breathe and relax.

Try Island Products

Pay a visit to our markets and retail stores to enjoy the incredible creativity on display in the form of local potters, woodworkers, artists, and more. Whether it’s a souvenir for yourself or a special gift for a loved one, you’re sure to find a one-of-a-kind item inspired by island life.

Wildlife & Environment

Respect Wildlife

Learn about animals through quiet observation and do not disturb them or their habitats for a “better look”. It’s always better to do this at a distance so they aren’t scared or forced to flee. Never touch, feed, or pick up wild animals. Noise and quick movements are stressful to them. This is especially true in critical habitats like shorelines, wetlands and intertidal areas. When boating, don’t anchor in eelgrass beds and be whale wise. You must stay 400m away from whales and you cannot enter Interim Sanctuary Zones off the east coast of Saturna Island or south-west of North Pender Island.

Pack It Out

Whether on a trail, at a campsite, in a park, or in accommodations, pack out all your garbage and recycling. There are no garbage collection services on the islands and all the waste must be shipped elsewhere. Keep a bag in your car so you can collect and responsibly dispose of garbage when you can. If you spot some litter, contribute to regeneration and pick it up. We all share the responsibility to care for the environment.

Leave What You Find

Leave natural and cultural objects where they are. Sea‑life, flora, and fauna should be left undisturbed. Instead, take photos for your memories and allow others the opportunity to make discoveries, too. When camping or gathering in public places, avoid altering your site, digging trenches, constructing lean‑tos, or puncturing trees with nails.

Our challenge to ourselves and all who enjoy these spaces is to find ways to give back more than we take. Be part of our commitment to regeneration.