Things to do

With urban centres close by, the Gulf Islands are an easily accessible natural oasis. Sail or paddle a kayak on sheltered waterways through a scenic maze of islands thriving with wildlife from seabirds to whales. Explore the reserve’s 15 islands amid history and wilderness chiming with songbirds, hiking to mountaintop views of snowy ranges. Visit on a self-guided day-trip or stay for longer camping or kayaking adventures.

Featured

  • Sea Lions perched on rocks.

    ​Get close to nature and take in the wildlife

    Skies and shorelines bustle with birdlife while the waters of the Salish Sea surrounding Gulf Islands National Park Reserve teem with marine life from otters to orcas - a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

  • Kayakers paddle in front of a sunset near Pender Island.

    ​Paddle in Paradise in the protected Salish waters

    Paddle a kayak amid the Gulf Islands’ sheltered labyrinth of islands and islets, exploring rocky shorelines and hidden coves, spotting birdlife and marine creatures before camping on a beach you have all to yourself.

  • Sailboats and powerboats moor at Sidney Spit.

    ​Sail the Salish Sea’s maze of islands

    Sail or cruise amid the labyrinth of small and large Southern Gulf Islands, past serene bays and rocky shorelines, stopping for a beach picnic, a woodland hike or to visit an historic Hawaiian homestead.

All activities

Sailboating Boating
Geocaching Geocaching
Picnic area Picnicking
Wildlife viewing Wildlife viewing
Camping Camping
Hiking Hiking
Interpretation Russell Island Host Program
Bicycles Cycling
Kayaking Kayaking & canoeing
Swimming Swimming