About Gabriola Island and the Gulf Islands

WHERE IS GABRIOLA ISLAND

The most northerly of the southern Gulf Islands, situated between Vancouver Island and the Strait of Georgia - Gabriola Island has a population of about 5,000.

Gabriola lies approximately 4.9 kilometers east of Nanaimo in the Strait of Georgia . The Island is about 14 Km long and 4.2 Km wide on average and features rocky shores, sand and shell beaches, beautiful forests and pastoral farmland.

Gabriola Island is called the Queen of the Gulf Islands. The many beaches and waterfront parks are wonderful places to explore. Study a tide pool, enjoy the sun or a beautiful sunset, marvel at the natural rock formations like Malaspina Galleries, or just enjoy the views or watch the ships passing by. It is not uncommon to see bald eagles perched at the top of a tall tree or to find a seal poking his head above the water to see what the people on shore are doing. The forest is full of wildlife and deer wander peacefully all over the island.

Gabriola offers mild gulf island climate in both winter and summer, beautiful surroundings, ample shopping, and tremendous recreational opportunities. Golf, tennis, cycling, kayaking, fishing, beach walks, bird watching, swimming, marinas and miles of trails are here for all to enjoy.

GETTING TO VANCOUVER ISLAND

BC Ferries provides ferry service to Vancouver Island (see the How to Get Here map). If coming from the USA or areas south of Vancouver you should take the Tsawwassen to Duke Point Ferry, or if you want to see Victoria first and then drive north, you could take the Tsawwassen to Schwartz Bay Ferry.

If coming from most other locations the most convenient BC Ferry is the one from Horsehoe Bay north of Vancouver to Departure Bay in Nanaimo.

If you are not travelling by car, then the high speed passenger ferry (Harbour Lynx) may be your best choice.

For those who prefer air travel, you can fly by scheduled or chartered seaplane right to Silva Bay on Gabriola via Tofino Air.

GETTING TO GABRIOLA ISLAND

Gabriola is the most accessible of all the Gulf Islands. Almost hourly ferry service (see the schedule ) provides a pleasant 20 minute ride from downtown Nanaimo. It has a capacity for about 70 cars and has ample space for bicycles. Foot passengers can relax in one of four lounges.

THINGS TO DO

Our Island environment provides recreation opportunities for all ages and levels of fitness. Cycling, hiking, fishing, horseback riding and tennis are but a few examples. For the more daring, our local waters are becoming increasing popular to windsurfing, kayaking and diving enthusiasts worldwide. You will also enjoy walking along one of the many beaches, exploring the tidepools.

The marina at Silva Bay provide excellent sheltered moorage, marine supplies, shopping and has a restaurant with a nice outdoor patio..

Gabriola also has a golf course as well as tennis courts. The island boasts many wonderfully talented artisans and craftspeople, many of their studios being open for you to drop in. At Gabriola Village you can enjoy a meal, stroll through the shops or stop to savor a gourmet coffee. The Gabriola Museum tells the story of our rich history. There are petroglyphs to see and the famous Malaspina Galleries (cave-live sandstone formations) are on Gabriola Island.

Berry Point view to the BC mainland	Gabriola Island Golf Course	Sailing the Gulf Islands