Why Honeymoon in the Gulf Islands
The islands are a lesson in doing less. There are no big resorts, no chain restaurants and very little nightlife. In their place you get quiet coves, forest trails, artists' studios and long evenings watching the sun drop behind Vancouver Island.
The climate is a draw too. The islands sit in the lee of the mountains, which gives them drier, sunnier summers than Vancouver and a mild, almost Mediterranean feel, with Garry oak meadows and even small olive groves.
Couples with different tastes can share a day easily. One can kayak or cycle in the morning while the other browses galleries or naps in a hammock. The two of you meet for oysters and local wine. Wildlife sightings, from seals and eagles to the occasional orca, add a little excitement.
When to Go
June through September is the honeymoon season. Days are usually dry and sunny with highs in the 70s Fahrenheit, the sea is calm for kayaking and the island markets are in full swing. July and August are busiest, especially on summer weekends when ferries fill up, so reserve sailings in advance.
September is a favorite, with warm days, fewer visitors and harvest season at farms and wineries. May and early June are lovely and green, though weather can be mixed.
From November to March, the islands are wet, gray and nearly empty of visitors. Some inns and restaurants close or reduce hours. Ferry schedules are thinner. It can still be cozy for couples who like storms, fireplaces and empty trails, but most visitors come in summer.
Where to Stay
Salt Spring is the largest and busiest island, with the town of Ganges at its center. It has the widest choice of inns, B&Bs and cottages, plus restaurants, galleries and the Saturday Market.
Galiano is long and thin, with forested trails and protected harbors. Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa sits near the ferry terminal with water views and a spa.
Pender, actually two islands joined by a bridge, has Poets Cove Resort and Spa on Bedwell Harbour, a full-service option with a marina and pool.
Mayne and Saturna are smaller and quieter still, with a few inns and rental cottages. For privacy, many couples rent a waterfront cabin with a hot tub. Book early for summer, since the islands have limited rooms.
Romantic Things to Do
- Browse the Saturday Market in Ganges on Salt Spring for cheese, bread, crafts and produce from April to October.
- Kayak around Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park on Galiano, watching for seals and herons.
- Hike to Mount Maxwell on Salt Spring for views over the islands.
- Walk the coastal trails and tide pools of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve.
- Fly in by floatplane for a bird's-eye view of the islands and channels.
- Watch for orcas from East Point on Saturna, a well-known lookout.
- Visit farm stands, cheese makers and small wineries.
- Stroll the Japanese Garden on Mayne Island.
Getting There and Around
Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR), which has nonstop flights from many US cities. From there, it is about an hour's drive to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal, where BC Ferries sails to the Southern Gulf Islands. Ferries also run from Swartz Bay near Victoria. Crossings take roughly one to two hours or more depending on stops.
Reserve ferry space for your car in summer. Popular sailings fill up. Some routes stop at several islands before yours.
Floatplanes fly from Vancouver Harbour and the YVR area to Salt Spring and other islands in about 30 minutes, a quick and scenic option.
On the islands, a car is useful but not essential. Roads are narrow and winding. Cycling is popular, though hills can be steep.
Food and Drink
Island food is farm-to-table by necessity. Salt Spring is known for its artisanal cheese, lamb and fruit. Look for farm-gate stands with honor boxes selling eggs, vegetables, flowers and baked goods.
Seafood is excellent. Order local oysters, spot prawns in season and wild salmon at restaurants and pubs. Small wineries and cideries pour local vintages. Some offer tastings by appointment.
Dining options are limited and many restaurants keep short hours, especially outside summer. Reserve ahead for dinner. Consider staying somewhere with a kitchen so you can cook with market finds. A picnic of island cheese, bread and wine on a quiet beach is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.
Honeymoon Tips
Plan your ferries carefully. Check schedules, make reservations in summer and arrive early. Sailings can be delayed or full on busy weekends.
Bring cash for farm stands and the Saturday Market, as some vendors don't take cards.
Pack layers and rain jackets. Even in summer, mornings on the water can be cool.
If you kayak, go with a guide or rent from an outfitter that briefs you on tides and currents, which can be strong in the channels.
Cell service is patchy in places. Download maps and ferry information before you go. Many services close early, so stock up on snacks and supplies in Ganges or larger villages. Respect private property, since many shorelines are not public.
