Discover Salt Spring Island
In The Southern Gulf Islands of Canada's West Coast
Many who discover Salt Spring Island feel compelled to return again and again. Some, like us (your hosts), feel such a pull from this magical place, they pack up and move here!
What's the big deal?
There are few places on Earth where there is enough stillness to really connect with your surroundings... to smell the forests and breathe fresh, unpolluted air.
To hear the soothing sounds of nature... waves on shores, wind through leaves, a birdcall chorus... and sometimes the splashes of marine life nearby.
Salt Spring Island is one of those places. Rare and sacred.
But it's also a vibrant hub of creative energy!
Full of colourful characters and artists of all descriptions... musicians, painters, sculptors, novelists, academics, etc. Plus a few notable personalities (so keep your eyes peeled while you're here!).
The combination of nature, spirituality, creative energy and a 'back to basics' lifestyle with generous sprinklings of whimsy and free-spiritedness makes a visit to Salt Spring an unforgettable experience.
Make The Most of Your Time on Island Time
'Island Time'
An affectionate phrase which describes the feeling of being on the island.
Things tend to move at a noticeably slower pace. And the typical day's worries somehow aren't as present on the mind.
It's one of the reasons people long to return to the island after going back to real life.
This site provides both the practical information on visiting Salt Spring, and an intimate (although virtual) connection to the island itself.
GETTING HERE
The first and most important step. See details of the different options for traveling to the Gulf Islands.
WHERE TO STAY
If you're staying over for a while, there are some charming B&B's to choose from, plus cozy cottages, Inns... even luxurious spas!
Have a look at our accommodations section for information about rental properties and other lodging.
Camping on Salt Spring is available in a few locations, and reservations are strongly suggested if offered. Some campsites are first-come, first-served.
WHAT TO DO
There are so many options! Here are just a few Salt Spring Island activities...
Get out on the water
Canada's Gulf Islands are a great destination for ocean kayaking, world-class scuba diving, and fresh or salt-water fishing.
Rent a kayak for a unique wildlife viewing experience along the island shores.
Make it an adventurous hiking vacation, or just a few days strolling along the beaches with some binoculars.
Enjoy some of the local events
- live music
- art studio tours
- Saturday market
- organic foods market
- theatre performances
- etc...
There's always something happening here, no matter what the season. Check out details on some of the Saltspring events and attractions that occur throughout the year.
Salt Spring is the ideal destination for a romantic getaway or the ultimate Island wedding! And there are a couple of 9 hole golf courses too, so bring your clubs! (or rent some)
Check out the beaches & wildlife
If you're a birder or a nature lover, you'll appreciate the vast range of birds and wildlife that inhabit the island.
Home to several endangered animal species, as well as rare and protected plants, Salt Spring Island is an absolute haven for naturalists!
Take a hike and witness a variety of landscape treasures at each destination. The terrain on the island changes dramatically from place to place. It's fascinating!
Pack a lunch and stroll the beaches, hunting for crabs and critters along the way. Kids of all sizes love watching the clams spit up through the sand a few feet in the air!
And of course, there are the whales! Learn about the residents pods and, if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of them in their natural environment on a Pacific whale watching trip.
GETTING AROUND
You can head to the island for just a day trip (walk-on to the BC Ferry for fairly cheap and bring just a picnic and/or your bike). There are also bike and scooter rentals available on the island and a new public transit system.
A favored mode of transport for locals and visitors alike is good ol' hitchhiking. People of all ages and from all walks of life can be found dotting the sides of the road, hitchin' their way to 'wherever.' So watch out for them when you're driving!
If you can't see all of the attractions on your first visit, don't worry, this coastal gem has a way of calling people back. Aside from the fact that there's tons to do, it is the feel of the island that wedged it a special place in our hearts.
That is what we want to share with those of you who are considering visiting Salt Spring. And for those of you who've been here (or live here now) and know what we mean, we welcome your contributions and comments about your experiences on the island.
Whether you're seeking solitude, looking to commune with nature, or out for adventure, come and discover Salt Spring Island.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Harbour House Hotel
121 Upper Ganges Rd
Hotel and restaurant with an ocean view. Located just outside of Ganges village, within easy walking distance. Excellent food, with an extensive greenhouse on site where much of the produce served in restaurant meals is grown.
Hastings House
160 Upper Ganges Rd
Small, stately Tudor-style country manor set amongst gardens and cottages, with a fine-dining restaurant and spa on the property.
DETAILS