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Tourism Vancouver Island/Landon Sveinson
Picture Perfect Galiano Island
Sun setting over boats on the calm waters off of Galiano Island
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Les Williams
Picture Perfect Galiano Island
Kayakers at the entrance to Montague Harbor
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Tourism Vancouver Island/Boomer Jerrit
Picture Perfect Galiano Island
Cycling is a popular pastime on Galiano Island
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Tourism Vancouver Island/Boomer Jerrit
Picture Perfect Galiano Island
People watch a BC Ferries pass by from the beautiful shores along Galiano Island
By Steve Fennell
Located between Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, on the west side of the Strait of Georgia, this Galiano Island provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy some of the province’s most surreal, rustic landscapes.
The fact that many artists have been inspired by the island`s majestic nature is best illustrated through the Kunamokst mural, which dominates the lobby of the The Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa . Rather than displaying the work of just one artist, the mural combines the works of nearly 200 who have been greatly influenced by Galiano`s natural surroundings.
You`ll realize the island’s beauty as soon as you cruise into Montague Harbour Marina, located on the lower, south side of the island. Montague Harbour is considered one of the most protected harbors in all of the Gulf Islands, making it an ideal destination point for transient boaters.
A great stop whether you`re coming or going, it offers ethanol-free marine gas and diesel, as well as rest rooms and a grocery store. The store offers all the essential groceries and if you need additional fishing or camping gear, it has that too. Further convenience to explore the island is provided by bike, moped, and kayak rentals at the marina. Similar to any busy, marina, it’s recommended to book a slip in advance. Two other mooring options include the Public Moorage at Montague Harbour Dock with its three floats or Montague Harbour Provincial Marine Park that offers mooring buoys and a dock.
The lure of the island extends well beyond the marinas with its series of Provincial Parks. The oldest, and perhaps the most popular, is Montague Marine Provincial Park. Boaters can access the park by mooring at one of the 35 buoys in Montague Harbour. Once on land, easy access into the park is via the recently built Shell Beach Staircase, located just on the north-west side of the lagoon, south of the boat launch.
One of its natural splendors is the fact that the park starts at five metres below sea level and peaks to an elevation of 180 metres with a steep, rocky precipice. At 102 hectares, the terrain varies with white shell beaches (located on north side of the park), tidal lagoons, open meadows, lush forests and craggy headlands – offering something for everyone to discover. Camping is available and sites can be reserved from May to September.
At the Northwestern tip of the island is Dionisio Point Provincial Park. Accessible only by boat, this 142-hectare park ranges in terrain with rocky headlands, sandy beaches, forested uplands and picturesque bays. If you stick to the shoreline you`ll find unique, sculpted sandstone shelves, pebble sand beaches and sprawling meadows with natural wildflowers – the picking of wildflowers – while tempting – is prohibited).
By taking a look into one of the tide pools, you’ll learn about the park’s intertidal life. There’s an assortment of sea-stars, nudibranchs and chitons. The area is also popular for wildlife viewing, and many activities such as sport fishing, kayaking, even scuba diving.
However, Galiano Island isn’t just for outdoor enthusiasts . If you’re a city dweller, you can find plenty of comfort. Spending a night or two at The Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa is popular among many boaters as it boasts 20 rooms, each with a wood burning fireplace. You can also enjoy fine dining at its Atrevida Dining room that offers vista views of Mount Baker, Active Pass, and Mayne Island. Or, perhaps unwind a little more at the full-service spa with its various treatments and packages. If you really want to live it up, check out one of the ten Oceanfront Villa Suites. Each suite has a King bed, separate living, dining and kitchen areas, plus a private balcony or terrace.
Whether you visit by boat or the ferry services, there`s easy access to restaurants, bakeries and shops with the chance to enjoy nature at its finest. Either way, a visit to Galiano Island will make you want to return for new adventures and experiences season after season.
Key Events
- Annual Galiano Literary Festival - February 23 - 25, 2018
- Galiano Saturday Market – Every Saturday from mid-May to mid-October
- Arts Festival – August 3, 2018
- Galiano Blackberry Festival & Saturday Market – October 6, 2018
- Wine Festival – Mid-August, 2018
For more information visit www.galianoisland.com