Everything you ever wanted to know about Galiano Island
Galiano Island, sitting on the eastern edge of the Salish Sea, is a home away from home for many Vancouverites, a quiet retreat for creative types, and one of the best destinations for getting away from it all.
Although it’s less than an hour by ferry from Vancouver, Galiano Island still feels like a wild adventure. And with that adventure comes plenty of questions. What’s the best way to get here? Are there bears? Does Galiano have a grocery store?
Whether you’re planning to head here for a weekend or laying the groundwork for a more permanent move, here’s everything you need to know about Galiano Island.
Where is Galiano, British Columbia?
Galiano Island is a member of the Southern Gulf Island archipelago that lies just off the coast of Southern British Columbia. As the closest Gulf Island to Vancouver, it’s only 22 kilometres from Tsawwassen by ferry.
How big is Galiano Island?
Galiano Island is long and narrow, about 27.5 km from tip to tip, and 1.6 km at its narrowest point. It’s roughly 58 square kilometres.
What is there to do on Galiano Island?
Compared to the mainland, Galiano can feel like a world away from city life, and that’s part of its charm. Everything moves a little slower here, offering space for creativity and solitude. But don’t let the laid-back vibe fool you; there’s much more to see beyond simply relaxing with a nice view.
Why not take a hike up Mount Galiano, wander across Bodega Ridge Provincial Park, or take in the epic views from Bluffs Park Lookout? Or explore more of the island by renting a moped or a boat from Galiano Adventures, or an e-bike from the Pink Geranium at Bodega Ridge.
In the sunnier months, schedule a morning at the Galiano Farmers market and the many, many artist studios that open to the public. Art and creative spaces are an equal part of the island’s magic and a must-see on your next visit.
And you absolutely cannot miss out on the local foodie scene. Some of the region’s most renowned restaurants call Galiano home, including Lola’s and pilgrimme.
How do you get to Galiano Island?
There are two main ways to get to Galiano Island: BC Ferries or via floatplane.
But generally, most end up on board one of the many daily ferry sailings from Swartz Bay (near Victoria) or Tsawwassen (near Vancouver). All BC Ferries routes are open to vehicles, walk-ons, motorcycles, and cyclists, as well as to larger vehicles, including RVs and trailers. Reservations are available (and highly recommended) from the Vancouver side.
Want to save time? Skip the traffic and the ferry by booking a flight with one of the many local floatplane operators. Get more information about flying to the Gulf Islands here.
How do you get to Galiano Island from Vancouver?
Galiano is the easiest Gulf Island to get to from Vancouver — at least if you take the direct ferry from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) to Sturdies Bay. It takes just 55 minutes, and there are typically two or more direct sailings daily to Sturdies Bay.
Can’t make the direct sailings? Ask about the Thru Fare option that takes you to Swartz Bay, then to Galiano on a second ferry. This is the scenic route, and can take over 3 hours.
If you’re bringing a vehicle, reservations are strongly recommended, especially in summer and on long weekends, to avoid multi-sailing waits. From Vancouver, you can book online or call 1-888-223-3779 for assistance.
How long is the ferry ride to Galiano Island?
From Vancouver, the direct sailing from Tsawwassen Terminal takes just 55 minutes. The Thur-Fare route (first to Swartz Bay, and then on to Sturdies) is more meandering, taking three hours or more.
If you’re travelling from the Vancouver Island side, the ferry to Galiano from Swartz Bay can take anywhere from 1.5 hours to over three, depending on the schedule.
Can you drive on Galiano Island?
Yes! In fact, this is how most people explore Galiano. The island stretches over 25 km, and it takes about 30 minutes to drive from Sturdies Bay to the north end. While more cyclists and bikepackers are tackling the island on two wheels, having some form of motorized transportation is the easiest way to see it all.
Is Galiano Island walkable?
Technically, you can walk around the island’s south end, but it would take a lot of dedication to walk the full length (25km) to reach anywhere on the north end. But keep in mind that to reach Montague Harbour from the ferry terminal, it’s nearly a two-hour walk along roads that don’t have sidewalks or sizable shoulders.
It’s generally recommended to arrive with your own mode of transportation, arrange a pickup through your accommodation, or, in the summer, catch a ride on the Community Bus.
Are there taxis on Galiano?
At the time of writing, Galiano Island does not have a taxi service. In the summer months, the Community Bus operates a daily southern loop and a northern route. The fare is just $5, with routes and schedules posted on Facebook.
Email galianobus@gmail.com for more information.
Where should I stay on Galiano Island?
If you’re planning your next escape to Galiano Island, you have plenty of accommodation options to choose from.
From oceanfront campsites at Montague Harbour Marine Park to luxury suites with spa services at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn, the island offers accommodations for every style and budget.
Need more inspiration? Head to Bodega Ridge and Bodega Cove for a distinctly Galiano-styled experience, complete with a cute cafe and seasonal restaurant. Book a stay at Driftwood Village Suites, the Cabin at Swallow’s Keep, or a room at the Woodstone Manor Inn.
Where should I eat on Galiano Island?
Don’t tell the other Gulf Islands, but Galiano boasts some of the most celebrated restaurants in the region. You’ll find farm-to-table sprinkled everywhere in the Salish Sea, but Galiano seems to have a special knack for it.
Foodies won’t want to miss a chance to experience pilgrimme for locally produced and foraged fare. And make sure you schedule a pit stop at Oxyeye, which serves up café and bakery classics with a coastal focus. If you can get the timing right, a reservation at Lola’s at Bodega Ridge is an incredible journey through a uniquely Southeast Asia and Gulf Islands menu.
For more casual affairs, grab lunch from Babes in the Woods, happy hour with ocean views at The Crane and Robin Restaurant, and the always-entertaining Friday night at Hummingbird Pub & Family Restaurant.
Does Galiano Island have a gas station?
As you disembark the ferry in Sturdies Bay, take the time to fill up at Galiano Garage, Groceries & Liquor Agency (gas, diesel, propane). There are no gas stations north of here.
Driving an eclectic vehicle? There is also a public charging station at the Galiano Community Hall (141 Sturdies Bay Rd). Some accommodations also offer charging stations; ask in advance to confirm.
Does Galiano have a grocery store?
Yes! If you have forgotten a key ingredient for dinner, swing by The Corner Store & Galiano Liquor Agency, The Market, or Galiano Garage, Groceries & Liquor Agency. Small but mighty, these shops stock a wide variety of groceries, including fresh meat, produce, snacks, non-perishables, alcohol, and more.
All season long, you’ll also find baked treats, seasonal produce, and other locally made goodies at the many farm stands that dot the island. In the summer months, check out the local Farmers Market, held every Saturday at Galiano Lions Park on Burrill Road.
Does Galiano have a pharmacy or clinic?
Galiano Island does not have a pharmacy or a walk-in clinic. If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
Are there bears on Galiano Island?
Long ago, before settlers arrived on Galiano in the mid-1800s, many larger creatures called Galiano home, including bears, cougars, and wolves. But these predators have been wiped out, save for the occasional cougar who may swim over from a neighbouring island.
