Among the most favorable islands surrounding Vancouver Island are the Salt Spring Island, with its artistic atmosphere and farmer markets, the Hornby Island with its beaches and cycling, Gabriola Island with its outdoor activities and kayaking and hiking, Quadra Island with its calm forests and peaceful escapes and Cortes Island with its relaxing forests and calm biking.
The Gulf Islands, like Salt Spring Island (arts, markets), and Hornby Island ("Little Hawaii" beaches), are highly recommended for their relaxed pace and natural beauty. Quadra Island in the Discovery Islands is also popular for its great hiking and kayaking.
Some of the best islands around Vancouver Island include Salt Spring Island for arts and markets, Galiano Island for hiking, Hornby Island for beaches, Quadra Island for culture, and Gabriola Island for scenic coastlines and relaxed small-town charm.
Some of the best islands around Vancouver Island include Gabriola Island for arts and beaches, Hornby Island for its clear waters and hiking, Denman Island for tranquility, Salt Spring Island for markets and culture, and Quadra Island for outdoor adventures and kayaking.
The best islands are determined by your preferences, with Salt Spring and the other Gulf Islands providing arts, markets, and laid-back atmospheres, whereas the northern islands such as Quadra and Cortes are perfect for outdoor activities and experiencing nature.
Top islands near Vancouver Island include Salt Spring, Gabriola, Hornby, Denman, Quadra, Cortes, and Galiano. They’re known for beaches, art scenes, hiking, wildlife, and relaxed coastal charm.