BC Ferries connects the Lower Mainland to tiny islands scattered around the province, offering the perfect escape from the bustle of city life. Small communities are around the islands in B.C., each with its own local businesses, unique charm, and natural beauty.
From the sandy beaches of Hornby Island to the quaint farm stands of Salt Spring Island — there’s a lot to see out there. If you’re making your 2025 travel plans then don’t skip out on weekend getaways spent exploring some of the most beautiful islands that B.C. has to offer.
Here are five tiny islands that you need to check out in the new year.
Bowen Island
A 20-minute-long BC Ferries ride from West Vancouver will get you to this little island. It’s the ideal spot to go if you want a day trip away from the city without a long journey.
The ferry ride over is beautiful, with views of the mountains in the distance and little islands scattered around the ocean. The views continue while on the island, with a picturesque harbour, hiking trails, and charming storefronts.
There are cute cafes and shops, and some restaurants right next to the water. You can walk right off the ferry into the town, so you can enjoy a laid-back day without a car.
Salt Spring Island
Salt Spring Island is a bit longer of a journey, ranging from an hour and a half to three hours depending on the crossing you choose and if it has stops along the way.
It’s worth the trip here though, to visit the largest of the Gulf Islands. It’s known for its local farmers — who set up stands alongside the road that you can stop in at — and the artisan producers. There’s the same coastal beauty that you can come to expect on the Gulf Islands, with a thriving and creative community.
You can spend the day touring around art galleries, wandering the fields of lavender, or exploring local vineyards.
Hornby Island
Hornby Island is famed for its breathtaking beach, Tribune Bay. With crystal clear waters and stretch of white sand, it’s definitely a bucket-list spot. The beach is perfect for swimming, with shallow waters that warm up to a comfortable temperature in the summer months.
The island makes for a perfect beach vacation but is also filled with other activities like hiking, a farmers market, and even sailing tours.
It’s somewhere you’ll probably want to stay for a while, especially since it’s a bit of a journey from Vancouver. It involves taking three ferries — first to Nanaimo, then to Denman Island before reaching Hornby.
Galiano Island
This island is about an hour-long ferry ride from Vancouver, if you get a direct route, and is known for its beautiful sandstone caves. Here you can explore the unique caves and stunning golden cliffs right alongside the sparkling ocean.
There are lots of natural wonders here though, with hiking, whale watching, and beautiful beaches to visit.
Saturna Island
About three hours away from Vancouver on BC Ferries, this island has dramatic coastal scenery that will leave you breathless. From the many hiking trails on the island, you can get uninterrupted views of the ocean stretching out into the horizon and other surrounding islands.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife here, as eagles are often soaring in the sky and orcas are swimming offshore.
If you want beauty and adventure on the West Coast, you’ll find it on these stunning islands.
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