The Best Canadian Islands You Can Visit
With over 30,000 islands for you to explore, this is an adventurer's dream. For anyone looking to hop on a boat and disappear off the grid, these islands are the perfect place for you. You can easily get lost in the beautiful landscapes that they have to offer and avoid all the usual crowds in the process.
From red sandy beaches to perfect surf spots, these islands have everything covered. Why not explore one of the mountain bike trails during your exploration, or tuck into some of the best seafood you would have ever tasted at one of the small restaurants along the coast?
We’ve made up a list of some of the best islands you can visit in Canada and what they have to offer any explorer who is keen to have an adventure.
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island is one of Canada’s oldest remaining settlements and is the best place to go if you’re interested in Canada's history. Known mostly for the story Anne of Green Gables, the island still comprises descendants of the Celtic, Anglo-Saxon and French.
The Island has a very laid-back feel to it, making it the perfect vacation spot for anyone trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy city. With plenty of towns and beaches to explore you’ll never get bored. You can get to the island via the famous Confederation Bridge, the longest bridge globally covering such a vast expanse of icy water.
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Voted Canada’s second-best island, Vancouver Island is known for the relaxed way of living, fantastic scenery and pleasant climate. A common attraction for hipsters, peace-seekers, and artists means that the island rarely sees anyone with high blood pressure or a stressy personality.
If you’re after a romantic getaway, this island is the place for you. No one will rush or bother you, and you’ll have plenty of gorgeous hotels to choose from during your stay. The best way to get there is by plane, helicopter, the BC ferry, or even your own boat, and by water is definitely the more scenic option.
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Island is known for its Celtic charm, and the island wins over any visitors simply through the music, food and the kind-natured inhabitants. The island also features the most fantastic road-trip opportunity, the Cabot Trail and some of the most amazing fortresses and historical sites for you to explore during your stay.
Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
Fogo Island is well known for a strong artist and travellers community. The island was initially settled by English and Irish travellers in the 17th century and strongly resembled the settler’s respective countries, thanks to local traditions and culture.
From the beautiful folk music to the lovely artistic feel the island exudes, this is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a bit of creative inspiration on their travels.
Manitoulin Island, Ontario
Known as the world's largest freshwater island, Manitoulin has a colourful community and rich history. With over 160 kilometres of lakes, forests and streams to explore, this is any hiker, mountain-biker and runner’s playground.
Why not explore the meadows and never-ending shorelines and learn about the historic fur trade that has been around since the ice age?
Magdalen Islands, Quebec
You’ll find this island at the heart of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence. The locals are known as “Maggies” and are super friendly and always happy to show you around. They love their food, nature and crafts, and the people themselves have an intricate heritage made up of different cultures, such as the Acadian and Mi’kmaq people.
Explore the beautiful red sandstone cliffs and drive along the famous dunes that stretch on for what feels like forever.
Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
The Queen Charlotte Islands, also known as Haida Gwaii, can be found along the north coasts of British Columbia. Haida Gwaii means ‘Island of the People’, and that’s precisely what it is.
The Haida people have lived on the island for over 13,000 years and present a strong community spirit. Over 450 islands make up Haida Gwaii, most of them being protected lands that attract tourists for their rare wildlife, fishing and exciting culture and heritage.
To get to Haida Gwaii, one must first fly to Sandspit or Masset Airport and then take a BC ferry from Skidegate and onwards.
Canada is rich in culture and history and has some incredible wildlife and landscapes in the world. These islands, which can be found all along the coast, have barely been touched by tourism and are a magnificent sight to behold.
Exploring one of the islands will expose you to unforgettable experiences and connect you with nature and its beauty.