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Glenn Kohaly photos
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Glenn Kohaly photos
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Glenn Kohaly photos
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By Perry Mack
Who knew the ‘wild west coast’ could be so civilized and welcoming. Galiano Island is one of the southern most and least tamed of the gulf islands. It’s also one of the easiest to get to for a day or weekend getaway. Visitors are welcomed as they arrive by ferry, seaplane and most especially, by boat – after all this is an island. The unspoiled charm of the island is most attributed to the fact that up until the 1990’s it was a tree farm for the lumber industry and although they are now privately owned, they remain mostly undeveloped.
There is plenty to do on the island other than enjoy the Mediterranean style temperate weather. If you’re ready to escape your sea-legs there’s hiking, biking, and golf (examples). Tour art studios, enjoy oceanfront dining, or keep your lens to the sky and ocean photographing wildlife. It’s easy when you land by ferry in Sturdies Bay. From here you are within walking distance of restaurants, bakeries and shops. Pick up the Galiano Island Cycling brochure at the Sturdies Bay information booth and stop in at Galiano Bicycle for maps, tips and bike rentals.
If the sea and the seaside are what floats your boat (forgive the pun), you are in heaven. There are 69 shore access points to liberate your beachcombing desires and on the way you’ll be entranced by the ocean wildlife. Seals, otters, whales (best time is May to September) and sea birds know they are in heaven and are happy to share their home with you. Drop your line into the water for some west coast sport fishing for salmon, red snapper and cod (pick up your fishing licence at the marina).
No doubt you’ve found moorage in Montague Harbor perhaps at the Montague Harbor Marina, where you’ve discovered their gift shop, restaurant, boat rentals, fuel and groceries. It’s best to call ahead for moorage as it is a popular spot for boaters – you’re sure to see why. If you’ve moored here, take advantage of the free bus to the iconic Hummingbird Inn for great food and live music.
Mooring buoys are also available in Montague Harbour (you can camp at Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park) or drop anchor further north in Retreat Cove or Whaler Bay in Galliano’s southeast corner.
For a truly pampered and luxurious respite (which we all deserve), stay at the Galiano Inn Oceanfront Inn and Spa overlooking Sturdies Bay. Each of the 20 rooms has a wood-burning fireplace but if you are looking to totally spoil yourselves check out one of the ten beautiful oceanfront one-bedroom villa suites...all with full gourmet kitchens including a wine fridge, large terraces, outdoor wood-burning fireplaces, outdoor baths, outdoor seating and grills.
Their dock is available for moorage from May to October, or call from the Montague Marina for free pick-up for inn stays, dinner or spa. If you choose to arrive on the Island without your car, the Inn has a fleet of the very coolest Smart Cars for rent.
Key Events
- Saturday Market - every Saturday mid-May to mid-Oct
- Canada Day Jamboree – July 1
- Arts Festival – July 29-August 1
- Galiano Blackberry Festival & Saturday Market – October 8