Gabriola Island

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Boomer Jerritt/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Boomer Jerritt/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island

Discover breathtaking coastline, thrilling adventure sports and magnificent wildlife on one of the most picturesque of Victoria’s Gulf Islands.

Gabriola Island is just a narrow gap of water away from the modern metropolis of Vancouver, yet it couldn’t feel farther removed from city life. Visit to explore dense cedar tree forests and sandstone coastlines carved by the sea. Besides spectacular wilderness, the island also offers theaters, museums and restaurants.

Get an overview of the island in the Gabriola Museum. Stories from the island’s nautical past are complemented by local art displays and outdoor exhibits. Uncover the mysteries of Petroglyph Park, where ancient First Nations symbols are carved into the rock.

The small island has a thriving arts and culture scene. Watch classic movies or plays at the Roxy Lounge and Culture Club and the Gabriola Theatre Centre. Come in August to enjoy the Gabriola Theatre Festival.

Enjoy exploring nature for days. Among the most recognizable sights on the island are the Malaspina Galleries, whose wave-shaped sandstone formations were created by tidal erosion.

Take advantage of opportunities for adventure sports. Rent a kayak and paddle along the coast toward Vancouver Island or hop on a bike and head into the forests and hills of the interior.

Watch for wildlife on the coast and in the hills. The waters around Vancouver Island are home to seals, otters and whales. Head to Whalebone for sightings of eagles soaring over beaches on the Salish Sea.

Catch a ferry from Nanaimo Harbour to reach Gabriola Island. The journey takes about 25 minutes and leads directly into the bay just outside the town of Gabriola. Alternatively, ride the float plane service running from Vancouver. Once on the island, rent a bike to get around or ride the community bus, which is affectionately named Gertie.

Head to Gabriola Island in summer, when the ocean waters are balmy and welcoming. The weather is best during July and August, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring is a good time to see wildlife, while fall is a great time to try fresh produce from local harvests.

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
Gabriola
The price is HK$821 per night from 24 Jul to 25 Jul
HK$821
HK$1,504 total
24 Jul - 25 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this cabin in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free breakfast, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point ...
10/10 Exceptional! (37 reviews)
Peacefull weekend
"Beautiful , well cared for property. Kind hosts and fantastic breakfasts.Nice beaches, and friendly locals."

Reviewed on 24 Jun 2025

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
The Grande Fir Room
The Grande Fir Room
Gabriola
The price is HK$1,176 per night from 18 Jul to 19 Jul
HK$1,176
HK$1,523 total
18 Jul - 19 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this B&B in Gabriola Island. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal are located nearby.
The Grande Fir Room
Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
Gabriola
The price is HK$878 per night from 16 Jul to 17 Jul
HK$878
HK$1,497 total
16 Jul - 17 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this apartment in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free WiFi, furnished patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)
Amazingly Perfect
"Staying in a beautifully decorated, completely clean, fresh suite made our trip so enjoyable! Three adults and two kids fit wonderfully. We fully used and enjoyed the bbq, kitchen had everything we needed, hot tub, outdoor table and chairs. Inside had great water and shower. Chrissy was in contact ..."

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
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.
OCEAN FRONT/BEACH access, RENOVATED House Private Lot, PET Friendly, Short Term
OCEAN FRONT/BEACH access, RENOVATED House Private Lot, PET Friendly, Short Term
Gabriola
Stay at this vacation home in Gabriola Island. Enjoy a garden, laundry facilities, and tennis courts. Popular attractions South Road Community Park and Clamshell ...
10/10 Exceptional! (10 reviews)
"Property exactly as described. Very well equipped, very clean, fabulous outside deck when the weather is good. Very quiet location. Steps/ walkway down to rocky beach, lovely little bay below. Had a great stay would definately go back Owner very responsive to our one inquiry."

Reviewed on 6 Jun 2025

OCEAN FRONT/BEACH access, RENOVATED House Private Lot, PET Friendly, Short Term
Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
Gabriola
Stay at this apartment in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free WiFi, furnished patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (29 reviews)
Amazingly Perfect
"Staying in a beautifully decorated, completely clean, fresh suite made our trip so enjoyable! Three adults and two kids fit wonderfully. We fully used and enjoyed the bbq, kitchen had everything we needed, hot tub, outdoor table and chairs. Inside had great water and shower. Chrissy was in contact ..."

Reviewed on 7 Jul 2025

Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
Gabriola
Stay at this cabin in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free breakfast, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point ...
10/10 Exceptional! (37 reviews)
Peacefull weekend
"Beautiful , well cared for property. Kind hosts and fantastic breakfasts.Nice beaches, and friendly locals."

Reviewed on 24 Jun 2025

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
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.

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