Southern Gulf Islands Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get there in Southern Gulf Islands with this comprehensive tour guide.
- Introduction to Southern Gulf Islands
- List of Places to Visit in Southern Gulf Islands
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Gulf Islands
- Best Things to Do in Southern Gulf Islands: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Gulf Islands
- Food and Drink Scene of Southern Gulf Islands
- Where to Stay in Southern Gulf Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Southern Gulf Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Southern Gulf Islands
- Best Time to Visit Southern Gulf Islands
- Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Gulf Islands
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Southern Gulf Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Southern Gulf Islands
- Where to Go Next from Southern Gulf Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands is a scenic archipelago located in Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The islands are surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Salish Sea and offer a year-round temperate climate. With its charming small communities, rich history, and diverse range of outdoor activities, Southern Gulf Islands remain a popular tourist destination.
List of Places to Visit in Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands offer a plethora of attractions to explore, including the following:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
- Salt Spring Island Historical Society
- Pender Islands Museum
- Mayne Island Museum
Natural Attractions of Southern Gulf Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Mount Galiano - hiking trails
- Ruckle Provincial Park - hiking, picnic, beach activities
- Active Pass Lighthouse - scenic views
- Dionisio Point Provincial Park - swimming, hiking, kayaking
Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands offer many hiking and biking trails, each giving you a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes, flora, and fauna of this region. Some popular trails to explore include:
- Mount Maxwell Provincial Park - hiking
- Ruckle Provincial Park - hiking
- Pender Island’s Mount Norman - hiking
- Saltspring Island Trail - hiking
Best Things to Do in Southern Gulf Islands: Activities and Tours
Southern Gulf Islands offer exciting and exhilarating activities that will make your trip unforgettable. They include:
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Fishing
- Whale watching
- Sailing tours
- Horseback riding
Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Gulf Islands
If you plan on staying for a week in Southern Gulf Islands, here is an ideal itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrival and relaxation |
| 2 | Pender Island Exploration |
| 3 | Saltspring Island Exploration |
| 4 | Galiano Island Exploration |
| 5 | Mayne Island Exploration |
| 6 | Hiking and kayaking at the Gulf Island National Park Reserve |
| 7 | Shopping and farewell dinner |
Food and Drink Scene of Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands are renowned for their farm-to-table cuisine and local products ranging from cheeses to wines. Here are some local delicacies to enjoy:
Must-Try Dishes
- Salt Spring Island lamb
- Fresh seafood
- Venison stew
- Apple pie
Local Beverages
- Salt Spring Coffee
- Island-made wine and organic beer
- Local cider and fruit wine
Where to Stay in Southern Gulf Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Southern Gulf Islands have numerous options for accommodations that cater to all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the top places to stay:
- Hastings House Country House Hotel
- Island Home Bed and Breakfast
- Harbour House Hotel
- Driftwood Village Resort
What to Buy in Southern Gulf Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Southern Gulf Islands have a thriving arts and crafts scene, and visitors can find unique items to take back home, including:
- Handmade pottery
- Local wool and crafts
- Organic produce and local artisan cheeses
- Island-grown lavender products
Local Culture and Customs of Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands have a laid-back lifestyle, and its people are friendly and welcoming. Visitors are required to respect the island’s traditional customs, such as its Indigenous culture, wine-making, and organic farming. It’s also important to follow responsible travel practices, such as reducing plastic waste, respecting wildlife, and supporting local businesses.
Best Time to Visit Southern Gulf Islands
The best time to visit Southern Gulf Islands is between May and September when the weather is warm and dry.
Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Gulf Islands
Do:
- Respect the locals and their customs
- Explore the islands on foot or by bicycle
- Try local delicacies and wines
- Take advantage of outdoor activities
Don’t:
- Litter or pollute the surroundings
- Disturb local wildlife
- Ignore traffic and safety signs
- Engage in illegal activities
Safety and Health
Safety in Southern Gulf Islands
Southern Gulf Islands are generally very safe. Visitors should be careful when hiking and ensure they wear proper footwear and clothing. They should also take precautions when engaging in water activities, such as wearing a lifejacket.
Health in Southern Gulf Islands
Visitors should bring their medical insurance, and any necessary medications before arriving in Southern Gulf Islands. Pharmacies and clinics are available in some of the major towns.
Getting to Southern Gulf Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics
Visitors can arrive at Southern Gulf Islands via ferry or seaplane. Here are some of the transportation options:
Airports Near Southern Gulf Islands
- Vancouver International Airport
- Victoria International Airport
Bus Stations Near Southern Gulf Islands
- Victoria Bus Station
- Nanaimo Bus Station
Other Options
- BC Ferries
- Harbour Air Seaplanes
- Kenmore Air Seaplanes
How to Get Around in Southern Gulf Islands
The easiest way to explore Southern Gulf Islands is by car rental, bicycle, or hiking. Public transportation is also available in some areas.
Where to Go Next from Southern Gulf Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Southern Gulf Islands’ ideal location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring nearby destinations. Here are some nearby destinations to visit:
- Victoria, British Colombia
- Vancouver, British Colombia
- Seattle, Washington
Conclusion
Southern Gulf Islands is a breathtaking natural paradise with a relaxed and welcoming local community. Its unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture ensures that visitors will have an unforgettable experience, whether they are looking for relaxation or adventure.
Southern Gulf Islands Image Gallery
Active Pass between Galiano and Mayne Islands
Map of the South Gulf Islands and ferry routes
View from Baynes Peak, Saltspring Island
Portland Island in the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Boot Cove, Saturna Island