Southern Gulf Islands

Spread through the Strait of Georgia between mainland British Columbia [1] and Vancouver Island [2] are a group of islands with a mild, almost Mediterranean climate; beautiful scenery; driftwood-strewn beaches; quaint towns; and wide ranging choice of accommodations that combine to make them popular in summer, when laid back locals share their home with flocks of visitors.

Still, there’s plenty of room to get away from the hustle, with mile after mile of remote coastline and easily reached peaks beckoning to be explored. After kayaking, biking, or hiking, the best way to end the day is at one of the many island restaurants, feasting on salmon and crab brought ashore that morning.

Five of the islands—Salt Spring [3], the Penders [4], Galiano [5], Mayne [6], and Saturna [7]—are populated, and each is linked to the outside world by scheduled ferry service.