Fragmenting from the edge of Vancouver Island into the icy Strait of Georgia, the Gulf Islands are like Canada's answer to the San Juan archipelago of the US. Untrodden and remote, they are a great place to go to escape the fray of city living. There's rock-ribbed Pender Island with its patches of rainforest and solitary trails. There's Saturna Island, the unexpected home of gourmet fine-dining. There's Galiano Island, dressed in meadows and peppered with mountain lookouts. And then there's Salt Spring Island with its Douglas firs, limestone beaches and cozy Gulf Islands vacation rentals.
Historical journeys in this archipelago are easy if you've bagged a Gulf Islands vacation rental on Mayne. That old haunt of miners and prospectors now has the Miners Bay Building on Active Pass, where the exhibits unravel the story of the prospectors who once called the rock their home. Literary heritage and artistic travels are best done over on Salt Spring Island, where the ArtSpring center offers regularly changing shows. For a taste of the great outdoors, the Gulf Islands National Park can't be beaten _ it's got stony shores and fir forests and more.
A vacation to the Gulf Islands is all about getting away from it all. The towns are all small and quaint, with just a few enticing restaurants _ some even run by celebrity chefs. The backcountry, meanwhile, is wild and untrodden. You'll be able to kayak into empty coves, cycle old mining routes around the headlands, and gawp across the cobalt-blue Strait of Georgia. You'll also be able to join local writing and art workshops, enjoy yoga sessions on secluded bays and shop in summer farmers markets in the harbor villages.
Canada's Gulf Islands are an enticing prospect for much of the year. The bulk of travelers starts to come when things begin to warm up in spring. That's around May, and sees the coves peppered with sea kayakers and the forests bloom with wildflowers. Summer is the most popular of all seasons, though _ you'll catch farmers markets, art workshops and excellent hiking conditions between June and August. Others look for Gulf Islands vacation rentals in fall, when fewer people are on the trails and the weather can still remain pleasant.
Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to take in the scenery, Gulf Islands is a great place to get outside. Here are some of the area’s noteworthy features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
Elegant condos, unique treehouses and sprawling homes — everyone's dream place to stay is different. Whatever your style, you're sure to find something that makes your heart skip a beat among these top vacation rentals in Gulf Islands:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect Gulf Islands vacation rental for you.
Punching way above its weight when it comes to character and charm, a tiny house vacation rental in Gulf Islands offers a front-row seat to big adventure. Turn off your laptop and turn your focus to outdoor fun at one of these fun-sized stays:
Whether you're looking for a simple retreat or a luxurious escape, you'll find a nice range of log cabins to rent in Gulf Islands. Experience both comfort and adventure at one of these traveler favorites:
Few things are as exciting as jumping in the car and cruising to someplace new. If you're eager to get away and relax for a couple of days, check out these popular weekend getaways in Gulf Islands:
Easy to keep tidy and with everything you need close by, studio apartments are an excellent choice if you're traveling on your own or with a buddy. If you're looking for someplace small and comfy to call home, consider these studio apartments for rent in Gulf Islands:
Swap the run-of-the-mill hotel experience for the character and comfort of your own digs. Even if you only have several days to spare, you'll find short-term rentals in Gulf Islands that come with all the conveniences of home. Why not try these on for size?:
A romantic weekend getaway in Gulf Islands is sure to reignite your passion. Light some fancy candles, take your sweetie by the hand and send sparks flying at one of these escapes:
If you're planning to take a getaway to remember, don't travel by yourself; take the whole crew. It's always more fun to share your experiences with friends and family. These vacation rentals in Gulf Islands are ideal for larger groups:
Take your pick and dive right in. Here are a couple of top-notch house rentals in Gulf Islands where life is better beside the pool:
Maybe you're organizing a getaway to celebrate a special milestone, or reuniting with loved ones you haven't seen for months. Whatever the reason, you'll likely want a lot of space. One of our large family vacation rentals in Gulf Islands could be just the ticket: