Did you know that there are more than 40,000 islands in BC? And while you can’t visit all of them, there are dozens you can access by ferry from Vancouver, with plenty of scenic views to take in. So if you’re up for a bit of exploring, it’s definitely worth hopping on a ferry sometime this summer!

So with that in mind, here are 11 breathtaking islands you won’t believe are in BC.

Vancouver Island

Home to our provincial capital and the surf capital of Canada, Vancouver Island is by far the most popular, accessible, and diverse island experience on this list. From the rugged coastline to old-growth forests, there are plenty of city and natural attractions to explore, including the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Victoria’s Butchart Gardens, kayaking in Ucluelet, hiking the famed Wild Pacific Trail, and whale-watching tours.

Bowen Island

One of the most accessible islands on this list, Bowen Island is a great spontaneous day trip destination. Peruse a number of heritage-style buildings, paddle, kayak, or beachcomb your way through Cates Bay and the island’s 40+ scenic beaches, and treat yourself to a tasting at local cideries.

Galiano Island

Galiano Island is known for its many hiking and cycling trails, from Bodega Ridge to the challenging Mount Galiano trail. One of the most popular and scenic options is the Bluffs Loop Trail, which takes hikers on an hour-long journey through rocky terrain to lookouts with panoramic ocean views.

Salt Spring Island

Now we come to one of the largest and most popular of the Gulf Islands: Salt Spring Island. Home to a diverse arts and food scene. Visitors can check out their buzzing outdoor Saturday market with over a hundred vendors (April to October), and hike exciting trails up Mount Maxwell and through the forests of Ruckle Provincial Park. Oh, and fueling up with local cheese at the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company.

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Hornby Island 

islands british columbia
Photo via Shutterstock

Home to BC’s own “Little Hawaii,” Hornby Island is on the east side of Vancouver Island, revered for its sandy beaches and lush forests. Visitors can explore three provincial parks and 70 biking and hiking trails, as well as dozens of hidden coves. Whether you’re looking to do some beach camping, glamping, or stay in a weekend cabin – you’ve got options here!

Gabriola Island

Located just off the east coast of Vancouver Island, Gabriola Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in BC, and has an amazing arts and culture scene. Visitors can check out murals and mosaics, annual cultural events like the Salmon BBQ or Celtic Music Festival, and explore the natural landscape by way of hiking (check out the adorable Gnome Alley trail!), biking, canoeing, and even golfing.

Quadra Island

Accessible by ferry from Campbell River, Quadra Island is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails, kayaking, and whale-watching tours available. Known for its diverse spread of wildlife, Quadra Island is a must-visit for lovers of nature and history alike – with cool heritage sites like the Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre and Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park.

Denman Island

This small island in the Strait of Georgia is known for its quiet, laid-back beaches and vast outdoor recreation opportunities. If you’re looking to slow things down in a calmer, less touristy environment – Denman Island is your pick.

Pender Island

Pender Island is a popular choice among boaters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Visitors can book a range of kayaking tours, golf courses at the Pender Island Golf and Country Club, and swim at Medicine Beach. Its annual events consist of the Pender Island Fall Fair, Lantern Festival, and the Pender Island Blues Festival.

Mayne Island

Also part of the Gulf Islands, Mayne Island is a stunning spot, popular among hiking enthusiasts and beach lovers. Despite its small size of just 21 square kilometres (and a population of 1,000), visitors can see the work of many talented artisans, including at their two most popular events of the year: the Mayne Island Fall Fair and the Mayne Island Music Festival. And if you’re a fan of good wine, even better, because there are several local vineyards and farms you can visit.

Cortes Island

Situated just north of Quadra Island, Cortes Island is a peaceful and remote destination that offers a range of outdoor activities, from kayaking and boating to exploring Smelt Bay Provincial Park and Carrington Bay Park.

And that’s a wrap on some stunning islands to visit in British Columbia this summer! Happy adventuring.

Isabelle Vauclair

Staff Writer, Vancouver – Isabelle is a West Coast native with an appreciation for Vancouver’s natural landscape, patio scene, and community spaces. She loves to discover new hidden gems in her neighbourhood and share them with readers across the city.

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