Galiano Island
South shore of Galiano near Sturdies Bay.
POPULATION: 1,100
FERRY TERMINAL: Sturdies Bay TOURIST INFO: 2590 Sturdies Bay Road; 539-2233.
ATM MACHINES: Galiano Garage, Corner Store and Hummingbird Pub
Galiano Island is a small and beautiful island temptingly situated between the B.C. mainland and Vancouver Island. Arrive at Galiano by ferry, private boat or air and you will discover a paradise.
Though “paradise” can be an overused word, in the case of Galiano, it is an accurate description. This island has the ambience of a small town; the natural beauty of a place very far away from anything remotely urban; and the sophistication of the cultural arts. There is a feeling when you get to Galiano that you have arrived somewhere necessary. You have arrived somewhere that is good for the soul.
Galiano Island has a population of approximately 1,100 people. There is a balance of long-time islanders and those who have moved here more recently. Both groups have much to offer to each other and to the island. As one long-timer said, “We know who the newcomers are because they still have the city shine!”
The population grows substantially in the summer months with weekenders coming to their island getaways and visitors ready to experience either a quiet weekend away or the many activities that the island has to offer.
Along Galiano’s 19-mile length there are parks and beaches to explore. Montague Harbour Provincial Marine Park offers a beautiful campsite area and boat launching ramp. There are campsites overlooking Montague Harbour and sites tucked inland. Fire pits, toilets, walking trails and beaches make this campground an ideal spot for families and groups.
A walk through Bellhouse Park is perfect for watching boating traffic as it passes through Active Pass. Whale sightings are not uncommon here, and sea lions and seals are abundant.Pack a lunch and enjoy an afternoon in the sun. If you like a good hike and breathtaking views, Bluffs Park, Mount Galiano and Bodega Ridge Park Reserve should be on your list. They are definitely worth the hikes to the top!
The forests of Galiano showcase Douglas fir, Garry oak, cedar, hairy manzanita, beautiful maples and hip-high salal. Deer and raccoons can be sighted on hikes and trails.
The ferry arrives at Sturdies Bay on the southern tip of the island. Within a short walking distance are cafes, a bakery, a bookstore, galleries, a library and a tiny “downtown” full of characters and items to please your appetite. Don’t forget to stop at the visitors information booth where you can gather all kinds of information.
Galiano Island boasts many fine artisans in the visual, literary, musical and theatrical arts. A visit to a local exhibition or show is always a treat.These events have the expertise of urban fare and the passionate pride that is unique to small locales.
The island has a very active volunteer fire department, a medical centre and a quaint, rural church. There are festivities throughout the year that are eagerly anticipated and well attended. In April there is the Seafood Fest hosted by the Lions Club. The north end hosts the Canada Day Jamboree on July 1. The south end organizes the Fiesta in August and the Galiano Wine Festival celebrates fine wines, also in August.
And for golf lovers, there is a scenic nine-hole golf course with a licensed clubhouse. And those deer you see standing on the fairway are not decorations!
If you have arrived by foot, Galiano has a taxi service that would be happy to take you to your destination. If you are a biker, be prepared for some hills!
Galiano offers some of the finest cruising waters. The shoreline is spectacular with sandy and shell beaches, far-reaching cliffs and cozy inlets. Tie up at Montague Harbour, the most sheltered natural harbour in the Gulf Islands, where there are public mooring buoys, floats and nearby services, or anchor in a quiet cove along the island’s length.
Public floats are also available at both Whaler Bay on the south end and Retreat Cove on the western side. The island’s shorelines are perfect for exploring by kayak and offer many worthwhile diving opportunites.
Coon Bay and Dionisio Provincial Park at the north end are marine access only areas and should not be missed. Their sheltered waters and sandy beaches are among the most beautiful in the Gulf Islands. Hire a charter after you’ve hiked and biked and see the island from the water.
Galiano Island has ample accommodations choices. There are fine inns and dining rooms, comfortable cabins, beautiful B&Bs and exquisite vacation rentals. Whatever your budget and your taste, choose between oceanfront, farm, woodland or view settings. Decide which experience you are looking for and custom design your vacation. There are rentals for mopeds and kayaks to help you tour the island. The Galiano Chamber of Commerce can help with many queries.
Just a 50-minute ferry trip from Tsawwassen on the mainland or a slightly longer trip from Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island, Galiano awaits you. Enjoy the solitude and relaxation or spend time exploring. Have a coffee or a meal at one of the local stops and get to know an islander. Ask them about life on the island. You may never want to leave!