Fancy a trip to Galiano Island before summer starts? This stunning provincial park should be at the top of your list. Known for its scenic beaches, unique peninsula, and a handful of rich tidal lagoons, Montague Harbour Marine Park is a hidden gem if there ever was one. There’s plenty of natural beauty to take in here, from its dense forest trails to its captivating shoreline. So let’s dive in!
According to BC Parks, the park starts five metres below sea level, climbing 180 metres to a steep, rocky precipice. Those travelling by boat can moor their boats in the sheltered Montague Harbour, or travel via ferry and camp in one of the vehicle-accessible or walk-in sites.
Among the tide pools and hidden lagoons, draws of the park include its wide, open meadows, craggy headlands, and variety of bird life. As well, Gray Peninsula stands as a testament to the area’s history, as it was first inhabited by First Nations peoples before the arrival of Spanish explorers in 1792.
Dating back thousands of years is a spectacular rock ledge, carved into unique patterns by ancient glaciers. What’s more the white shell beach on the north end of the park marks one of several “shell middens” – which reveal fossilized arrows, spearheads, and stone carvings dating back to more than 3,000 years ago.
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Campers can choose from 36 reservable front-country campsites, 16 vehicle-accessible sites, 16 RV-accessible sites, and 28 walk-in sites.
The park is accessible by ferry from Swartz Bay or Tsawwassen to Sturdies Bay, which is just 10 km away from the park’s entrance.
Montague Harbour Marine Park
Where: Galiano Island, BC
Information on Montague Harbour Marine Park is from BC Parks and is accurate as of publication date.
