Gulf Islands

Travel Guide

A calm sea with a small island covered in trees during sunset.
A ferry docked at sunset with cars parked on the deck and a mountainous landscape in the background.
A sunset over a calm lake with a forested hill in the background.
A sunset over a calm body of water with several boats and a distant shoreline.
A calm lake with a person rowing a boat, surrounded by mountains and a rocky shoreline.

Spend time in the Gulf Islands to hike through parks, visit museums, and relax on beautiful beaches.

Gulf Islands is ideal for those who appreciate outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. You can explore Ruckle Provincial Park, which offers opportunities for hiking and nature walks. Nearby, Pender Islands Museum provides insights into the local history. For natural beauty, consider visiting South Pender Island and North Pender Island, both known for their beaches and outdoor tourism. You can also enjoy various activities at nearby locations, such as Garry Oaks Winery for wine tasting and Salt Spring Island Cheese for local products.

You can also explore nearby areas that enhance your experience of the Gulf Islands. Fulford Harbour and Salt Spring Island are known for their outdoor and scenic experiences, featuring Ganges Marina and Salt Spring Island Visitor Centre. Another nearby place, Long Harbour, is recognized for its beach experiences, providing a relaxing environment for visitors. Each of these areas offers unique attractions that contribute to the overall charm of the region.

The best time to visit Gulf Islands is during July and August when the weather is mild and mostly dry. This period is often sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Demand tends to increase slightly from June to August, leading to busier conditions, while the months of October to December are typically quieter, offering a more relaxed experience for those who prefer fewer crowds.

Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress

4.5 out of 5
721 Government St Victoria BC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$192 nightly
The price is $223 total per night from Dec 14 to Dec 15
$223 total
Dec 14 - Dec 15
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Victoria. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (2,972 reviews)
"Stayed here the first weekend of November and it was magical. The Christmas decor wasn’t up yet, but we were serenaded daily by bagpipes. Super convenient location it is walking distance from the Clipper, as we traveled from the Seattle ferry. Do the tea service and definitely check out the spa. ..."

Reviewed on Nov 13, 2026

Fairmont Empress
Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
740 Burdett Ave Victoria BC
$117 nightly
The price is $136 total per night from Nov 15 to Nov 16
$136 total
Nov 15 - Nov 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 bars/lounges, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our reviews. Popular ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (2,961 reviews)
"Central and great location but no harbour view. Rooftop restaurant with beautiful views. Swimming pool and hot tub is new and very clean."

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Chateau Victoria Hotel and Suites
Hotel Grand Pacific

Hotel Grand Pacific

4 out of 5
463 Belleville St Victoria BC
$147 nightly
The price is $170 total per night from Nov 29 to Nov 30
$170 total
Nov 29 - Nov 30
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a health club. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (3,983 reviews)
"Very nice and welcoming stay. 100% recommend!"

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Hotel Grand Pacific
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Parkside Hotel & Spa

The Parkside Hotel & Spa

3.5 out of 5
810 Humboldt Street Victoria BC
Book a stay at this spa aparthotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3,664 reviews)
"Excellent place to stay. Convenient to everything"

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

The Parkside Hotel & Spa
The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

3.5 out of 5
315 Robinson Road Salt Spring Island BC
Stay at this cottage in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Salt Spring Island Golf Club and Salt ...
9/10 Wonderful! (390 reviews)
"This accommodation was perfect for us. Just a couple minutes drive into Ganges and quiet and peaceful. The view of the little lake is perfect. The king beds were super comfortable, linens clean. The only negative is they could do a deep clean. Needs dust and cobwebs off the lights and the walls washed. ..."

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island
Cusheon Lake Resort

Cusheon Lake Resort

3 out of 5
171 Natalie Lane Salt Spring Island BC
Book a stay at this beach cabin in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Cusheon Lake and Garry Oaks Winery ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (256 reviews)
"I absolutely love how peaceful and quiet this property is. The beautiful lake view makes it even more special. It’s such a relaxing place to stay and enjoy the surroundings."

Reviewed on Nov 12, 2026

Cusheon Lake Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Gulf Islands attractions

Cities near Gulf Islands

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