Island
Everything you ever wanted to know about Mayne Island
Beachcombing, forest wanderings, and good eating are the heart of Mayne Island. This little corner of the Southern Gulf Islands remains quiet and uncrowded for most of the year, and even in the busier summer months, there are plenty of places here to unplug and get away from it all. What do you need to know before you head off on your first Mayne Island adventure? From how to get to here to island amenities to camping, let this [...]
Everything you ever wanted to know about Saturna Island
Does Saturna have a grocery store? What is there to do on Saturna? If you're planning a visit to this peaceful corner of the Southern Gulf Islands, chances are you’ve got a few questions before you go. While Saturna may be one of the less-travelled islands, it still offers plenty of essentials (and even more surprises). From ferry logistics to food options, transportation, and things to do, this guide answers all your burning questions to help you plan a [...]
How to get to Saturna Island
Saturna is one of the quietest of the Southern Gulf Islands, with just a few hundred year-round residents. Even in the busy summer months, and during the world-famous Saturna Island Lamb BBQ, it's one of the Gulf Islands that always stays decidedly off the beaten path. All of which tends to translate into fewer ferries than the rest of the islands. Which is why you've landed on this guide — how do you get to Saturna Island, anyway? Whether [...]
How to get to Mayne Island
Wondering how to get to Mayne Island for your next Southern Gulf Islands adventure? As one of the smallest and quietest islands in the region, you'll be happy to discover that there are plenty of routes here, whether it's pedal-powered, ferry-assisted, or cruising in on a boat of your own. Consider this your definitive guide to getting to Mayne Island. Whether it's navigating the Mayne Island ferry schedule (including both the Victoria ferry and Vancouver ferry routes), cycling Mayne [...]
Everything you ever wanted to know about Salt Spring Island
Salt Spring Island is teaming with life, love, and creativity. As arguably one of the most famous Southern Gulf Islands, it has become internationally known for its legendary Saturday Market, arts community, and forward-thinking farms. Yes, Salt Spring Island is just a few hours from Vancouver, but it can feel impossibly different from big-city daily life, which is probably why you have so many questions. How do you get here? Do you need to get groceries beforehand? What about [...]
How to get to Pender Island
Planning your first visit to Pender Island and not quite sure how to get here? Tucked between Vancouver and Vancouver Island in the Salish Sea, Pender Island may seem remote, but it's surprisingly accessible by ferry, floatplane, or even your own boat. Whether you're arriving on two wheels or four or by foot, there's a route that will get you to Otter Bay and fired up to explore the rest of the island. This guide covers everything you need [...]
Everything you ever wanted to know about Pender Island
If you've ever dreamed of a weekend escape to Pender Island but got stuck in the logistics, don't worry—you don't need to pack everything and the kitchen sink to survive here. This Southern Gulf Island is well serviced, rich in food, culture, and adventures in the great outdoors. From ferry details and grocery runs to local transportation and creature comforts, here's everything you need to know before you go. Where is Pender Island, BC? Pender Island is one [...]
What to do on Pender Island: Trails, forests, and shorelines
With 360-degree views of the Southern Gulf Islands, the San Juan Islands, and the snow-crested peaks of the mainland, the hikes on Pender Island offer some of the best opportunities to explore the natural beauty of the region.
How to get to Galiano Island
If you're wondering how to get to Galiano Island, whether you're travelling from Vancouver on the mainland or from Victoria on Vancouver Island, you've come to the right place. Galiano is one of the most popular weekend getaways near Vancouver and is just a short ferry ride from both major cities. But navigating the BC Ferries schedule can be confusing, especially for first-time passengers. So, let's take the time to break it all down: ferry routes, walk-on options, reservation [...]
Hikes on Salt Spring Island
British Columbia is well-known for its stunning nature and in many destinations, it shows. Trailhead parking lots overflow with visitors and vistas are lined up with people, clamouring for the perfect Instagram picture. Not so on Salt Spring. While it isn’t touted as a hiking destination, the number and the variety of accessible trails is truly one of its greatest features, and its best kept secret! The vast, undeveloped areas and the unique rainshadow climate make it all the [...]
George Hill – Prettiest Place on Pender
story and photos by Hans Tammemagi An old school friend from the east, who had never been to our little island before, visited last year. “I’m going to take you to my very favourite place on Pender Island,” I told him happily. I was looking forward to chatting with my buddy, who I had not seen for a long time. And, of course, I never tire of visiting George Hill. We parked the car at the trailhead at the northern [...]
