Beach Day & Island Hiking

This can be a day on the beach(es) where you can either picnic, or swim, beach comb, or just chill. It could also be a day of hiking on different island trails, or a combination of both. It’s your day!
If all you need is transportation to a from a location – perhaps you want to go camping and stay overnight(s) then have a look at our Water Taxi services.

🏖️ Island Beach Days and/or Warm Water Swims

Soft sand, sun-warmed seas, and some of the coast’s most unforgettable swimming spots.

There’s nothing quite like arriving at a quiet island beach by boat — far from the crowds, surrounded by nature, and with crystal-clear water at your feet. Whether you’re looking to beachcomb, hike, swim, or simply soak up the sun, we’ve got favourite spots that deliver it all.

🏝️ Sidney Spit – Sidney Island

Our favourite spot for a full beach day.

Sidney Spit stretches more than 2 km into the Salish Sea — a narrow ribbon of white sand that seems to float between sky and water. It’s part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and accessible only by private boat.

🌾 Walk the 2.3 km Sidney Spit Loop Trail through tidal flats and bird habitat.
🪶 Enjoy amazing birdwatching — shorebirds, herons, and eagles are common sights.
🧺 Bring a picnic — our boat has refrigerated storage for your food and drinks.
⛺ For those staying overnight, 29 walk-in campsites are available seasonally.

It’s peaceful, pristine, and one of the best sandy beaches in the Southern Gulf Islands.

🌊 Warmest Ocean Swimming Spots in the Region

Not all beaches are created equal — some offer warmer, calmer waters perfect for swimming. These are our top picks if you’re looking to take the plunge:

🐚 Tent Island Lagoon

Shallow, sheltered, and sun-warmed — this peaceful lagoon near the Gulf Islands is a favourite for boaters and swimmers looking for a gentle entry and warmer temperatures. A quiet, hidden gem only accessible by boat.

🌲 Dionisio Point – Galiano Island

Located at the north end of Galiano, Dionisio Point Provincial Park combines sandy beaches with warm, shallow bays. It’s ideal for swimming, relaxing, and short walks through coastal forest and open meadows.

🏖️ Tribune Bay – Hornby Island

Nicknamed the “tropical beach” of British Columbia, Tribune Bay has soft white sand and shallow turquoise waters that warm up quickly. Though outside the Southern Gulf Islands, it’s one of BC’s warmest ocean swim spots — and worth the detour for beach lovers.

🌅 Savary Island

Further north but worth the mention — Savary Island is renowned for its sandy shores and warm ocean temperatures. Its shallow waters and sun exposure make it one of the warmest places to swim on the coast.

🥾 Hiking Adventures in the Gulf Islands

Explore scenic trails accessible only by boat

The Southern Gulf Islands offer a variety of hiking experiences, from coastal loops to forested ridges. Many of these trails are best accessed by boat, providing a unique opportunity to combine marine travel with land exploration.

🏝️ Portland Island (Princess Margaret Marine Park)

Accessible exclusively by boat, Portland Island features the 6.5 km Princess Margaret Perimeter Trail, a moderate loop that encircles the island. Hikers can enjoy stunning coastal views, arbutus groves, and secluded beaches. Shorter interior trails offer alternative routes across the island.

🌲 Mount Norman – South Pender Island

This challenging 1.5 km trail ascends 244 meters to the highest point on Pender Island, offering panoramic views of the surrounding Gulf Islands and beyond.

🌿 Roe Lake – North Pender Island

A moderate 1.2 km trail leads hikers through upland forests to Roe Lake, one of the few freshwater lakes in the Southern Gulf Islands. The loop trail around the lake provides tranquil views and opportunities for wildlife observation.

🌄 Mount Galiano – Galiano Island

The Mount Galiano trail offers a rewarding hike to the island’s highest point, with sweeping views of Active Pass and the surrounding islands.

🐚 Wallace Island Marine Provincial Park

Accessible only by private boat, Wallace Island features several short trails that explore its rich history and natural beauty. Visitors can hike to remnants of an old resort and enjoy the island’s secluded coves and beaches.

⚠️ Hiking Guidelines and Safety

• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems and avoid getting lost.

• Fires, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited in all regional parks.

• Leave no trace: carry out all garbage and do not disturb wildlife or natural features.

• Check trail conditions and park regulations before your trip.