Saturna Island - Southern Gulf Islands, British Columbia, Canada

Saturna Island, Capital Regional District, BC, Canada

Southern Gulf Islands, Capital Regional District, BC, Canada

Saturna Island Guide

Saturna Island is one of the Southern Gulf Islands found off the coast of Vancouver Island. While this remote island has limited amenities, it makes up for it with an abundance of secluded and untouched nature.

The key word is remote, making places to stay on Saturna Island limited. While there are no official hotels, there is a collection of Lodges, B&Bs, Campsites, and the famous Wild Thyme Vintage Double Decker Bus.

Please follow the link below to Airbnb to book

Tiny homes in Saturna · ★4.93 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 bath 

Chances are you will see many of the signs (photo above) dotted all over the island. They mean exactly what they say. Public access to a beach. While I couldn't pinpoint them on the map here, if you see one I suggest stopping and checking out. You never know what hidden beach lies beyond. I only stopped at 2, and each time I was blown away. It was such a fun way to explore.

- Bikability?? If you plan on biking, expect steep hills and no shoulders on the roads. One nice thing about this island is there are hardly any people on the roads.

Important Note: Not all places are open year round or everyday of the week. It is important to check their websites for times open etc.

I'd recommend staying a MINIMUM of one night. However, I highly suggest staying  2 nights. This way you will not feel rushed to get to the ferry and you can fully enjoy all the magnificent spots this island has to offer.

Accessible only by ferry, private boat, or private float plane. The best and most affordable way is to take BC Ferries. They offer multiple trips to Saturna Island from Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal on Vancouver Island. If you are coming from Vancouver, for most sailings you'll have to transfer ferries in Victoria. Example:

- There is no gas station, so be sure to come will a full tank.

-  The General Store is the only place on the island to buy groceries or other small general items if needed. Again it has limited hours so be sure to check their website.

As I mentioned above I recommend staying a minimum of one night, two nights is best. I suggest 2 nights so you can fully enjoy everything this island has to offer.

Please check the BC Ferry website for the schedule. The price for one person and one vehicle from Victoria to Saturna Island is around $55 (round trip). This is as of 2024 and is subject to change. If leaving from Vancouver you'll have to factor in that ferry cost (around $75 extra). You can calculate the cost with the BC Ferries Fare Calculator on their website.

Vancouver (Tsawwassen)>> Victoria (Swartz Bay) >> Saturna Island (Lyall Bay)

Fare Calculator | BC Ferries

- Pack in what you pack out. There are limited resources on this island, including garbage disposal. To limit your impact, pack out your garbage and recycle. It is a big help.

Saturna Island, like all the Southern Gulf Islands are home to many artists. A great way to support the locals is by buying their art. Here are some I recommend. I suggest checking their websites for hours of operation.

I recognize these lands and waters that encompass these islands I’ve been home to indigenous since time immemorial part of the unceded territories of the coast, Salish peoples, including WSÁNEĆ First Nations and  Hul’quimi’num  Treaty Group 

It's important to show up early. This ferry is non bookable. Meaning you cannot make a reservation. It's first come first serve. Showing up early can save you from having to wait hours for the next one.

Saturna Island Guide

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