Saturna Island

🏝️ Saturna Island

“A quiet escape to raw beauty and wild coastlines.”

Saturna Island is one of the most secluded and least developed of the Southern Gulf Islands—ideal for those seeking peace, raw natural beauty, and a deeper connection to the coastal environment. Nearly half of the island’s 31 sq. km is protected within the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, making it a standout destination for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

🌊 Getting There is Half the Wonder

Approaching Saturna by boat is a visually striking experience. As we cruise along its rugged coastline, you’ll pass towering sea cliffs, wave-carved sandstone formations, and sculpted honeycomb rocks that seem almost otherworldly. These ancient geological features are the result of thousands of years of erosion and weathering, and many are only visible from the water.

Keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles perched on shoreline trees, harbor seals lounging on sun-warmed rocks, and possibly even orcas or porpoises gliding through the waters. The approach to East Point is especially dramatic, with panoramic vistas and swirling tidal currents at play where the Salish Sea converges.

🌿 What You’ll Discover on Saturna

• 🐋 East Point is renowned for land-based whale watching and panoramic ocean views. It’s one of the best spots in the Southern Gulf Islands to see orcas from shore.

• 🌊 Russell Reef features a natural tidal swimming hole, while Thomson Park offers sandy beaches and a peaceful place to relax or picnic.

• 🍷 The Saturna Vineyard is a must-visit, known for both its wines and its Vineyard Bistro, with outdoor seating and sweeping views.

• 🍽️ Other local favorites include the Saturna Café and the Lighthouse Pub & Restaurant, offering casual fare with island charm.

• 🎨 The island also has a small but active arts scene, with local artisans often showcasing their work at pop-ups or in cafés.

🧭 Rich in History and Culture

• 🪶 The island was first home to Indigenous peoples who called it “Long Nose”, referring to the island’s extended northeastern peninsula.

• ⛵ Its modern name comes from the Spanish ship Santa Saturnina, which explored the area in 1791 under Captain José María Narváez.

• 🏚️ Though European settlers arrived in the 1800s, Saturna’s rugged terrain and isolation kept development minimal—preserving much of its wild character today.

Whether you’re stopping briefly on a longer custom tour or spending an afternoon ashore, Saturna Island is a serene, meaningful destination—rich in ecology, Indigenous heritage, and natural splendor.