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Galiano Island is a long, narrow Southern Gulf Island lying between the Strait of Georgia and the channels around Salt Spring. Its southern end, near the ferry terminal, holds most of the island's services, while the rest is a quiet mix of forest, farms and rocky shoreline. Ferries threading through Active Pass, the narrow channel between Galiano and Mayne Island, are a common sight from its southern bluffs.
Bellhouse Provincial Park, near Sturdies Bay, offers a grassy headland and smooth rock shoreline overlooking Active Pass, a good place to watch boats and sometimes seabirds or marine mammals. Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park is the island's most popular park, with a shell beach, camping, a walking loop around Gray Peninsula and a sheltered anchorage. At the island's north end, Dionisio Point Provincial Park has sandstone beaches and campsites. Morning Beach and Pebble Beach are quieter spots for beachcombing. Hikers climb Mount Galiano for views toward the San Juan Islands and the Olympic Mountains, or walk the ridgeline of Bodega Ridge. Retreat Cove has striking eroded sandstone formations. Galleries and artist studios are scattered across the island, along with the Kunamokst Mural.
Galiano suits campers, kayakers and travelers seeking peace and nature. Services are limited, and ferry reservations are helpful in summer.
WiserMap travel guideGaliano Island British Columbia Montague Harbour and WhalesPlan a trip to Galiano Island in the Southern Gulf Islands: Montague Harbour, Bellhouse Park, Mount Galiano, whale watching, art studios and ferries.Read the guide
The small hub near the ferry terminal on Galiano Island, with a bakery, cafes, a grocery store, a bookshop and the island's information centre. It is the first stop for most visitors. Pick up a map and supplies here, since services are limited elsewhere on the island.
A seasonal outdoor market near Sturdies Bay where island farmers, bakers and artisans sell produce, preserves, baked goods and crafts on summer Saturdays. It is small and friendly, with a strong community feel. Come mid morning, and bring cash, as not every vendor takes cards.
A small park on a rocky point near Sturdies Bay with mossy sandstone ledges, arbutus trees and views of Active Pass, where ferries squeeze through the narrow channel. It is a great picnic spot. Watch the tides for seals and orcas, and be careful on the smooth, slippery rocks.
A popular park on a sheltered harbour with white shell beaches, forest trails around Gray Peninsula, a campground and a dock for boaters. The beaches face west for sunsets. Book campsites early in summer, and walk the loop around the peninsula to see the midden shell beaches.
A remote park at the north end of Galiano with sandy beaches, sandstone shores and walk in or boat in camping on Porlier Pass, where strong currents run. It is reached by a long road and short trail. Check access rules first, as road access has been restricted at times.
A quiet beach on the east side of the island reached by a forest trail through a nature reserve, with pebbles, driftwood and views across the Strait of Georgia toward the mainland. It is rarely busy. Wear proper shoes for the walk in, and visit at low tide to explore the shore.
The highest point at the south end of the island, about 311 metres, reached by a forest trail with a steady climb. At the top, open bluffs look over Active Pass, the southern Gulf Islands and, on clear days, the Olympic Mountains. Allow about two hours return and bring water.
A long ridge along the west side of the island, protected as a provincial park, with an easy trail along open bluffs giving sweeping views over Trincomali Channel and the islands beyond. Wildflowers bloom in spring. Walk it in the late afternoon for the best light and stay back from the cliff edges.
A small cove on the west coast with dramatic wind and water carved sandstone formations, quiet water and a small government dock. It is a calm place for a short stop and photos. Explore the shoreline at low tide, and be respectful of the private homes and property around the cove.
Active Pass is the narrow, twisting channel between Galiano and Mayne islands used by the large BC Ferries between Vancouver and Victoria. Points along the shore near Sturdies Bay give close views of passing ships, eagles, seals and sometimes orcas. Bring binoculars and check the tide times.
A large community painted mural on Galiano Island that celebrates the island's land, sea and creatures, created by local artists and residents working together. It reflects the island's strong arts scene. Combine a visit with some of the artist studios on the island, many open in summer.
The calm waters of Montague Harbour and nearby islets are ideal for sea kayaking, with chances to see seals, otters, eagles and sea stars. Local outfitters rent kayaks and lead guided tours. Beginners should go with a guide, check the tides and stay inside the sheltered harbour.
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