Galiano Island - Galiano Island

Galiano Island lies to the northeast of Saltspring Island off the east coast of Vancouver Island.

Whaler Bay as seen from Sturdies Bay Road on Galiano Island

Get in

By boat

Galiano Island is the closest and most convenient to Vancouver (and the U.S. border) of all of the Southern Gulf Islands, and in most cases it is the first stop on the BC Ferries route to the islands, only 50 minutes. In the quiet season there are just two ferries a day from Tsawwassen, the mainland terminal near Vancouver, and in the busier summer months, there may be up to 4 sailings a day. If traveling with a car, reservations are advisable and there is no additional charge for reserving on the Gulf Islands Route.

If you want to, it is very feasible to leave your car behind on the mainland, and travel as a foot passenger to see Galiano.

Galiano is the perfect island for "island hopping":visitors can stay on Galiano, and use BC Ferries (or a summer water taxi) for visits to other islands, returning to Galiano at the end of the day.

Visitors can also travel via Victoria (Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal) on Vancouver Island. There are several sailings a day, ranging from direct 1 hour and 10 minute sailings, to multi-stop "island-hopper" ferries. These sailings are not reservable.

Private charter boats are also available at the discretion and timing of the passengers which affords guests the convenience of their own time table as well as privacy. These are reservable and can fit parties of almost any size, though they are more expensive than taking BC ferries.

By plane

There is an "airport" in Montague Harbour, for float plane service, including regular scheduled service from the dock near Vancouver International Airport, with a connecting shuttle and complimentary parking.

Regularly scheduled service:

Charter service:

Visitors and residents arriving by boat can certainly find lots of moorage space. Montague Harbour has moorage, a gas dock and some limited facilities. A dock at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa is available by the day or overnight (moorage is limited and reservable). Government docks at Sturdies Bay and Whalers Bay, are walking distance to the shops in the Village of Sturdies Bay; all allow transient boaters for a minimal charge, on a first come, first served basis.

In the summer months only (July and August), the school boat becomes an inter-island shuttle. People (and their bicycles, if they wish) can travel on Saturdays only from Galiano to Saltspring, returning in the afternoon. It allows visitors the chance to 'island hop' from Sturdies Bay Village (the Government dock next to the ferry dock) directly into Ganges Village for shopping and the Saturday market.

During the school year, visitors can ride the school boat between Galiano Island and Saltspring Island, Monday through Thursday (space available basis).

Get around

Galiano is the second largest of the Southern Gulf Islands: approximately 27 kilometers long and very narrow. While hiking can take you to many beautiful places on Galiano, it also helps to have a little assistance with transportation. Luckily there are options, if you choose to leave your car behind:

  • Rent a moped ( 1 250-539-0233) Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals [1]
  • Rent a Smart Car or a van ( 1 250-539-3388) Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa
  • Take a Kayak tour or rent a kayak ( 1 250-539-2442) Gulf Island Kayaking
  • Rent a boat ( 1 250-539-0233) Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals

There are no regular buses or taxis on the island. If you are traveling far from the south end, it may be best to bring your own car, or ensure your accommodation will pick you up.

In summer, The Hummingbird Pub operates a free summer bus from the marina and campground during the evenings only. It is a lively ride with an iconic bus driver and music. Free pick-up from the Marina to the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa is available by calling 1 250-539-3388.

Maps of the island are available on BC Ferries or at the Chamber of Commerce Information booth, near the ferry terminas.

Hiking trails are not well marked on Galiano, nor is there adequate signage. But local people are friendly, and exploration is fun and easy and quite safe. Maps of the Island are available at the Chamber of Commerce Tourism booth at Sturdies Bay and at the "bus shelter" at the Marina. There are no dangers on Galiano in terms of wildlife (no bears or cougars) but roadways are narrow with no shoulders, so bicyclists and hikers need to take care.

See

View From Montague & Georgeson Bay Roads

Galiano Island is the most accessible to Vancouver, yet has the most rustic, seemingly untouched places. It is very undeveloped, having had most of its land left as either forest lands or as residential home sites. It is the one island of the Southern Gulf Islands that has beautiful beaches, and they vary from the white shell Indian midden at Montague Beach to the warm sands of Morning Beach, to the hidden sandstone pleasures of Coon Bay and the long stretches of small stone beach at Pebble Beach and Cable Bay.

Hiking trails are everywhere, and the vantage points atop Mount Galiano, Bodega Ridge and Bluffs Park present spectacular views across the other Gulf Islands, all the way to the mountains of Washington state.

Bicycle and mountain biking trails are definitely strenuous, but well worth it. Just ensure that you stock up on water and supplies when leaving the village of Sturdies Bay, or at the Corner Store just 3 kilometers further but still on the South End, as there are no shops or services traveling north on the island.

The best way to experience the island is by water: rent a kayak or take a sunset kayak tour, it is so easy in the sheltered waters of the Island and the islets that surround Galiano. Gulf Island Kayaks is experienced with new kayakers or experts, and gears their tours to every level. Or take an eco tour with Saltspring Tours that does summer pick ups to and from Galiano Island, and visit bird colonies and sea lion rocks and, hopefully, spot the Orca whales for which the island is famous: "J" pod is very active in Active Pass, separating Galiano from Mayne Island. While they range great distances following the salmon, they are frequently seen in the Pass, from the shores of Galiano.

For people wanting to explore the island on land, there is no substitute for doing it the old-fashioned way: by foot. The hiking trails and beaches are endless pleasures to explore, the views incredible and the wildlife all friendly. If you want to travel further afield (literally), rent wheels from Galiano Mopeds or a "Smart Car" from the Galiano Oceanfront Inn. From Bodega Ridge on the north end to Bluffs Park and Mount Galiano and Mathews Park Beach, there is much to explore.

For a gentler experience, relax on Cain beach, or go for a picnic, with the whales and boats passing almost within reach, at Bellhouse Park, or rest in the Gardens at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa.

And Galiano is not all about the outdoors...with the many wonderful artists and crafts people on the island ... a studio tour is a "must-see". Be sure to see the famous, and massive, "Kunamokst Mural" at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa.

Do

Galiano Island has as many amenities as larger centres, but they are smaller, more one-of-a-kind. There is as much to do on the island (and its surrounding waters) than other vacation places in British Columbia, but without the crowds or signs of urbanization. Many world-class artists make their home on the Gulf Islands, and Galiano is no exception. Be sure to combine the outdoor activities with a visit to an artist's studio, a visit to the spa, and a glass of wine with some live music at a local watering hole.

  • Island-hopping - Galiano is the Gateway to the Gulf Islands, with easy first-stop ferry access from Vancouver, and many travel options via inter-island ferries to explore the other islands.
  • Spa - Take time out from all of the outdoor activities and enjoy a spa treatment in a full-service oceanfront Madrona del Mar Spa [2] ( 1-877-530-3939)
  • Art Tour - Take a tour around the island (pick up an Art Tour guide at the Tourism Information Booth or one of the local businesses) and visit some of the great art studios in the forest homes of the artists, or see several of them at Art and Soul Gallery in the Village. Many are walking distance from the ferry, in the Village. Or take a drive to visit artists in their studio galleries throughout the island. Marcia de Vicque Glassworks, Bodega Studio, Cedar Grove Pottery and Bill Boyd Studio are just some of the highlights.
  • Kunamokst Mural. Do not miss the chance to see this famous mural, seen on-line at www.kunamokstmural.com. The collaborative work of over 180 artists created this mural of West Coast sea life. Original works by Robert Bateman, Roy Vickers, Wyland, and many Galiano and British Columbia artists. Daily, at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa. 
  • Hiking - Explore the best of the west coast with beautiful wooded trails, ridges or beaches. Friendly wildlife abounds, such as Orcas, Bald Eagles, and deer.
  • Whale watching - The beautiful Orca (killer) whales are at home in the waters off Galiano Island, following the food source (salmon and other fish) in pods through Active Pass. Try Gulf Islands Whale-watching ( 1-888-656-9878)
  • Cycling - Challenge Galiano's famous hills and take your bicycle (there are no bicycle rentals on the island, but a bicycle repair shop is walking distance from the Village. ( 1 250-539-9906)
  • Kayaking - See the islands as they should be seen, from the water: take one of the Gulf Island Kayak tours or rent a kayak ( 1 250-539-2442). Explore the islets and inlets, see seabird cliffside colonies and come up close to the seals and whales. Or pack a picnic lunch and paddle to nearby James Bay(Prevost Island), part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. There are no services at James Bay (Prevost Island) so bring plenty of drinking water with you [3].
  • Boating - It does not take any particular skill to rent a boat and maneuver the islands: so easy even for the beginner and you will see so much more of the island ( 1 250-539-0233). Explore hidden bays and beaches that are to be found in Trincomali Channel or spend an afternoon at Ganges on Saltspring Island or a shell beach for a picnic. A trip to Wallace Island for an afternoon is a must. J Pod can often be seen as they pass through Active Pass, or view the seal colonies on Collinson Reef or Gossip Island. Salish Sea Charters will custom build a trip for you 1 604 518-8946.
  • Play golf. Galiano Golf and Country Club is a challenging and picture-perfect golf course with an easy attitude. ( 1 250-539-5533) 
  • Moped - Renting a scooter/moped will allow the island visitor to travel the many back roads and experience the many look out points, beaches and secluded spots away from the summer crowds. Contact Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals ( 1 250 539-3443 or 1 250 539-0233) for availability and directions to the island highlights.
  • Wildlife viewing - All the wildlife on Galiano is of the mostly friendly variety (no bears or cougars or wolves here); deer abound in the forests, seals and whales offshore, and the bird life brings birdwatching enthusiasts from around the world (over 150 species of birds have been sighted);
  • Fishing - Join an authentic fisherman in his troller for a day on the water and bring home your supper (or catch-and-release) with Salish Sea Charters 1 604 518-8946.
  • Music - In summertime especially, Galiano's little pubs and restaurants feature some great music by local and international musicians; try the Galiano Grand Central Grill, Atrevida Restaurant (in the grounds of the Galiano Oceanfront Inn) or the Hummingbird Pub; the local community hall also hosts classical concerts.

Events

  • Galiano International Wine Festival. A very popular event, held the second Saturday of August each year, the wine festival is a benefit for the island health care centre and is a wonderful way to learn about wines, enjoy local appetizers made by the supporters of the health care society, and relax in the sun (it's all outdoors!). 
  • Galiano Fiesta - A family friendly event held annually on the August long weekend. A variety of entertainment, food, booths selling local crafts and foods, games of chance (gum boot toss, anyone?), and fun activities for everyone. One day only.
  • Galiano Arts Weekend - The August Long Weekend is a weekend of Fiesta, and many art openings and studio showings: a must see. Galleries and Studios are all open for the tour.
  • Galiano Literary Festival a winter event in February that sees dozens of British Columbia artists read from their work and participate in workshops on literature and writing. Created by Galiano Island Books and held at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa.

Buy

Galiano is home to world-class artists and artisans. You can view their work year-round at the galleries or in the artists' studio homes. A map and guide to the Art is available through the various galleries. Most shops and galleries are in the Village, most artist's studios are in the interior of the island) Highlights of any visit should include a walk to the local galleries near the village, a drive to mid-way up the island, where there are three great galleries together:

Artist's Studios

  • Marcia DeVicque Glassworks
  • Cedar Grove Pottery
  • The Yellowhouse Art Gallery
  • Blackbird Studios

Artisan Shops and Retail Gift Stores

  • Art & Soul Craft Gallery in the Village, has a variety of Galiano Island artists on display and for sale.
  • Kunamokst Mural Mosaic[dead link] at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa, near the Village.
  • Ixchel Shop
  • Galiano Island Books(in the Village)"World's best little bookstore"
  • Loose Leaf Tea and Papery (in the Village at the Post Office)
  • Madrona del Mar Spa for gifts for you or your home
  • Now and Zen (in the Village)

Eat

Budget

  • Daystar Market - A funky food market offering a small but interesting deli selection. Pick up "to-go" fresh organic fruits and juices and cheeses, breads and beverages 3 km from the Village and ferry terminal. Weekends they have latte coffees and baked goods.
  • Sturdies Bay Bakery - Breakfast and lunch place in the Village; known for its pies, cinnamon buns and breads.

Mid-range

  • Wood-fired Oceanfront Pizza Terrace - On the waterfront in the grounds of the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa, it has a Tuscan-style wood-fired oven holding pride of place; draft beer; best views; walking distance from the ferry, so park your car and "wait until your boat comes in". Opening May through to the beginning of October, with later evenings in the summer.
  • Grand Central Emporium and Grill and Scoops - Originally the landmark old Burrill Brothers store, the owners have transformed the antique building into a popular local hangout. Service is "island-style" with a full menu. Open for breakfast and lunch. Weekends for dinner. Licensed. Frequent "open mike" nights and live music on Galiano. Walking distance from the ferry. In the Village
  • Crane and Robin Cafe - Montague Marina's restaurant, open for a taco menu for lunches and dinners beveragesa. Fresh baking and specialty coffees daily at the Marina store in the same building. (Seasonal restaurant only).
  • Galiano Golf Club - Great food outdoors on the patio, overlooking the prettiest little golf course anywhere. Check for hours during your visit, as they vary.
Hummingbird Pub Shuttle Bus
  • Hummingbird Pub - This Galiano icon has been around for many years, its trademark red bus transporting people from the marina for pub-style fare of fish and chips, burgers and more. Karaoke night and sometimes live music, pool table. 3 km from the Village and ferry terminal. Open daily. The pub's shuttle bus[dead link] runs from the Victoria Day long weekend to the end of September with pick-ups and drop-offs at the pub, Marina junction and Montague Park gate.

Splurge

  • Atrevida Restaurant - in the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa, the only waterfront casual fine dining on the island, featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine with an extensive British Columbia Wine list. Wood-fired Pizza on the Patio in the summer. In the Village.
    Restaurant in the evening, in the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa
    Walking distance from the Village and the Ferry; Marina guests can call for pick-up.
  • Pilgrimme's Restaurant (near the marina, in the former home of La Berengerie), award-winning restaurant with a focus on local farmed produce and different uses of foraged ingredients like bull kelp.

Drink

Galiano has only one pub and one lounge on the island:

  • Hummingbird Pub – The only Pub on the Island. If you are at the marina or the campground, you can take the famous red Hummingbird Pub bus (it runs seasonally) to the pub for libations. Beer on tap, pool table, big screen television and the ubiquitous lottery screens. Also a full menu. Open daily until late, music many weekends.
  • Orca Lounge at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa – The only licensed lounge on the island, perfect for waterside relaxing. Big fireplace, huge windows overlooking the Bay, famous for their Galiano Island Blackberry Martini, as well as Best British Columbia wine list and B.C. wines-by-the-glass list at the British Columbia Wine Festival Awards. Patio in the summer. Perfect place to have a drink and wait to see your ferry come in and still have lots of time to walk down.

British Columbia’s relaxed liquor laws mean you can also have a drink at these restaurants: the Patio Grill at the Galiano Inn is oceanfront, an outdoor summer terrace with drinks and a view of boat traffic; Grand Central Emporium and Grill, in the Village, has a pub-like atmosphere, with big screen t.v., frequent live music jams. Or have a drink on the Marina’s deck at Montague Harbour and survey the boats. The Golf Course has a relaxed atmosphere and outdoor patio for a few rounds before or after a round.

Sleep

Galiano has a wide range of accommodation for any style of travel:

  • Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa. – The most beautiful and complete resort on the island, easy walking distance to the ferry, no car necessary. All suites are Oceanfront: 10 Spa Suites in the Inn (complete with wood-burning fireplaces, custom cabinetry with hidden massage tables, luxury ensuites with spa tubs. 10 Villa One Bedroom Suites (in a new building) with outdoor bathtubs, wood-burning fireplaces and full living/dining rooms, kitchens. Madrona del Mar Spa is one of the best spas on the coast: unique island-based products and treatments. Atrevida Oceanfront Dining. Summertime wood-fired pizza on the Terrace. Dock for boats and floatplanes. Beautiful Gardens. Higher end luxury accommodation with great deals in off season or in packages. 134 Madrona Drive, in the Village. 1-877-530-3939 www.galianoinn.com 
  • Bodega Ridge Lodge – A large lodge & seven cabins located on the north end of the island, high on the ridge overlooking the islands. Seven charming log cabins perfect for families or couples. Perfect for groups, retreats and weddings, you can take over the main lodge gathering place and the cabins and have the 22 acres to yourselves. Each cabin has three bedrooms, its own kitchen facilities, woodstoves. Bicycles available and access to lots of trails for hiking. Additional accommodation at sister property on Porlier Pass Road "Madrona Lodge on the Cove" 1-877-604-2677. www.bodegaridge.com
  • Driftwood Village Cabins: walking distance to the Village shops and cafes, this small resort is a long-established island family business. Basic accommodation of cabins with wood-burning stoves and kitchen facilities. Hot tub.

Bed and breakfast

Galiano has lots of lovely Bed and Breakfast homes, most are in the true tradition of a B and B: the bedrooms are part of the living area for the hosting family. There used to be many more, but over time the owners have discovered the island lifestyle and chosen to just rent out cottages. Some best bets for value, style and location are:

  • Rocky Ridge: Beautiful home overlooking the water. Hot tub. Great hosts. Good value. www.cedarplace.com/rockyridge 1 250-539-30387
  • Morning Beach Waterfront B and B Great location on the beach, good for families. Separate cottage also. Great hosts. Good value. 1 250-539-3053 [4][dead link]
  • Salish Sea B and B South end location with easy access to Village restaurants. On the water, with lovely views, great hosts. 1 250-539-3361
Sunset viewed from Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park's Shell Beach

Camping

  • Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park Located about 10 km from the ferry terminal. Campsite reservations are accepted and there are also some first come, first serve sites (non-reservable). Some of the walk-in sites (great for those traveling on the island without vehicles) have waterfront views. Enjoy trail walks, watching sunsets from Shell Beach, exploring intertidal life during low tides, and more. [5]

Go next

This city travel guide to Galiano Island is a usable article. It has information on how to get there and on restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please feel free to improve it by editing the page .