OVERVIEW
Salt Spring Island is a peaceful paradise, offering visitors charming small-town vibes and an abundance of outdoor activities. From hiking scenic trails to exploring local galleries, the island offers a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration. You will often find local musicians and performers bringing their talent to markets, cafes, and community spaces, adding to the island’s vibrant arts scene. Enjoy fresh, local cuisine, visit the farmer’s market, or unwind at the beach.
Visit southerngulfislands.com for more information on the Southern Gulf Islands.
Top things to do
Credit: Destination Greater Victoria
Hike or bike
Hike, bike, or horseback ride along the local trails, and visit Mount Maxwell, Ruckle, and Mount Erskine Provincial Parks.
Credit: Rea Zogia of MoonRay Designs
Explore local art studios
Visit funky local art galleries and unique artists’ studios showcasing everything from paintings, sculptures and prints,
to weaving, pottery, stained glass, basketry and jewellery.
Credit: Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce
Experience the famous market
Eat delicious pastries, breads, organic fruits and vegetables, visit unique cafés and restaurants, check out unique shops
and bookstores and the Saturday farmers market in Ganges, and taste goat cheese at Salt Spring Island Cheese.
Credit: Salt Spring Wild Cider
Taste local wines and beer
Explore the island’s wineries for locally crafted wines, sample beers at Salt Spring Brewing Co., and enjoy fresh cider at Salt Spring Wild Cider House. Each offering take-home options so you can savour the flavours later.
Credit: Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce
Enjoy water activities
Kayak, canoe, windsurf, stand-up paddleboard, beachcomb and swim in the Pacific Ocean. And look out for local marine life, eagles, heron and other birds.
Explore activities
Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off
Experience the best of Salt Spring Island on the Artisan Trail, a scenic 28 km loop filled with handcrafted flavours, picturesque farms, and local charm. This curated route highlights the island’s passion for small-batch excellence and its naturally beautiful surroundings. From creamy cheeses to fragrant lavender fields, each stop offers a taste of Salt Spring’s creative spirit. With convenient hop-on, hop-off access, you can explore at your own pace.
Highlights:
- Visit Salt Spring Island Cheese, a beloved goat farm and award-winning cheese known for its artisanal creations.
- Wander through Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm, a tranquil hillside retreat bursting with colour and calming aromas.
- Sip small-batch brews, wines, and ciders at local craft producers nestled among the island’s forests and farmlands.
- Explore Ganges Village and its bustling market, featuring island-made goods, local art, and fresh fare.
The Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off is available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from May to September.
Places to stay
SALT SPRING ISLAND
The Cottages on Salt Spring
The Cottages on Salt Spring Island offers lakeside or lake view cottages with modern furnishings.
Visit hotel website ❯
SALT SPRING ISLAND
Cusheon Lake Resort
Cusheon Lake Resort offers an away-from-it-all style vacation with lakefront log cabins equipped with kitchens.
Visit hotel website ❯
SALT SPRING ISLAND
Harbour House Hotel
Steps from Ganges Village, this hotel offers airy rooms with stunning Salish Sea views.
Visit hotel website ❯Nearby cities
Galiano Island
Galiano Island is a small oasis brimming with natural beauty, from lush forests to sandstone beaches. Enjoy a relaxing beach day during the warmer months, or explore the island’s artisan shops and farm-to-table restaurants, which create a vibrant foodie scene that sets Galiano apart from the other Gulf Islands. Take a bike ride around the island or discover a scenic trail for an afternoon walk.
Visit southerngulfislands.com for more information on the Southern Gulf Islands.
Pender Island
Pender Island is known for its scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant arts community. With stunning beaches, hiking trails, and kayaking spots, it is a paradise for nature lovers. The island is also home to an internationally recognized disc golf course, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. Pender Island’s peaceful atmosphere and welcoming community make it the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or a creative retreat.
Visit southerngulfislands.com for more information on the Southern Gulf Islands.
Mayne Island
Mayne Island is known for its tranquility and natural beauty. Hike along scenic trails with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Spend the afternoon kayaking on its calm waters or take a trip to a local gallery or heritage site.
Visit southerngulfislands.com for more information on the Southern Gulf Islands.
Saturna Island
Saturna Island is a quiet escape where 44 percent of the land is protected as Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. Watch whales from East Point, hike scenic trails, or join the community at the beloved Canada Day Lamb BBQ, a tradition for more than 75 years. With its rich marine research, wild beauty, and welcoming charm, Saturna Island offers a truly one-of-a-kind Gulf Island experience.
Visit southerngulfislands.com for more information on the Southern Gulf Islands.
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